13 hours straight

I'm on my second day of 13 hours straight spent in the office. Just as we've predicted, the first two days of this very long two weeks have been... Lemme think of the suitable adjectives... Chaotic, frustrating, irritating. Hehe. The weekend's implementation actually went smoothly. Yesterday and today though. Not good. Probably qualified to be in the list of the top five worst days ever in the history of the project. Slows and time outs because of long running SQLs, because of this SRF change (mwo-mwo-mwo-mwo...). I can't help but feel guilty, wondering if I could have done something to prevent it. Haay.

It's been one email on top of another. People from Singapore, Sydney and Manila, calling and emailing! Follow-ing up all their "high priority" defects and issues. Deng. I've always been the loves-to-talk-over-the-phone person, but I have to say. Tis the first time I dread picking up the phone.

Highlight of my day though (silver lining) is this simply ingenious snack. My cereal mixed with a single serving of Nestle yougurt. Funny man Angelo, who's been as busy as I am, made this suggestion and we happily shared.



Surprisingly, my workday gimiks have lessened these past few weeks. I think work has taken up so much of my time and energy. Props to our trusty coffee press and the ground Cafe Verona. Just what I needed this morning.

How boring is this entry?! Hehe. All about work. I must say though. Although it's super exhausting, there is a sense of accomplishment after a day of doing so many things. I just wish I had more time to do other things (not relating to work).

Random thoughts for the day...

** Been on a gastronomical trip down memory lane. Last weekend, I was sooo happy to find a place close to our house where they sell Magnolia Ice Cream (which in my opinion, is the best local ice cream!). I bought half a gallon of Mocha ice cream and Tonton has appreciatively finished a third! I remember happy memories with my Dad in the Magnolia Ice Cream house. Today, for dinner, I asked our helper to prepare Maggi noodle soup for my dinner. I remember always having Maggi noodles for merienda back in grade school. Sarap lang. And quite amazing how food (or the taste of food) reminds us of things/memories/people good and bad. Just like songs.

** Happy Anniversary! You were right. It wasn't the end. It was just the beginning. Took me my surprise. I've learned a lot about myself. Some things I'm now more sure of. Thank you.

** Thanks Citibank! I got my credit card bill today and I was floored when I saw the finance charges. Dengit. I called Citibank and they've agreed to reserve the charges. I've been with Citibank for 6 years now, and I've never requested for finance charge reversal. Haaay. I should try leaving my card at home. I've been trying to save lately. No shopping sprees for the past three weeks!

** Irene is flying back to Manila before the weekend. Woohoo!

A Very Long Saturday

Friday night stretched to early Saturday morning for me. I was having a jolly time chatting with Ate Gret and Ate Mylene. All three of us were in different time zones. How cool is that? Anyway, I woke up Saturday morning (not 8 hours of sleep) at the sound of Mama's voice asking me if I was busy today. I've been a tad bit delinquent with the preps for Lola's 85th birthday. Work has consumed so much of my time lately, and going out with friends and sometimes just lazing around resting have been logical and seemingly deserving breaks.

I ended up just resting a little in the afternoon. I headed out to visit Ate Lovely at the hospital sometime 5pm. She just had her hysterectomy. The girls and Bettina (Ate Love's best friend) were there, and I brought Red Ribbon empanada (Ate Love's request). Garsh. It's quite harder to be a woman. Having a uterus and all. She's doing ok, by the way! She will be returning home this Tuesdsay. She asked if I could bring Camille home. Of course, kelan naman ba ako humindi sa kanila? Hehe.



Camille, Yaya Ester and I passed by South Supermarket first before going back to their Casa Marias home. I had to buy the Focus weekend implementers their snacks for the evening.

After dropping Camille and Ester off, I swung by the office to say hello to the implementers and to give them their food. They were having this Siebel issue (which later turned out to be a non-issue) just before I left. 15 minutes later, I was parking at Robinson's Galleria. I felt ashamed for being monumentally late! Give me a big scarlet letter ("L") for being an hour and a half late for my ERP5 dinner/movie. Marchae and Nica already left when I arrived. So it was just us four girls. Haha. They went to Pancake House with me, and I had the Spanish Omelette for dinner.

I'm so proud of my girl Aileen! She now drives! Woohoo! Although she did candidly share that on her way to Galleria, she missed the turn and was going over the Ortigas bridge and to Corinthian's. Haha.




Aileen couldn't join us for our movie, so it was just Rachelle, Mark, and me. We saw "The Simspons" (movie review later). Love Spider Pig! Hehe.



After the movie, I asked the girls if they wanted to have some coffee. We went to Bo's Coffee in Katipunan where we dished out great upcoming movies and the last Harry Potter. Mark was reeling with laughter recalling some of the scenes from Blades of Glory, which I've been waiting for. I think it may not be released here in Manila.

The girls took a cab home and I went back to Cybergate to show support to the weekend Implementers. The semaphore issue still remains for the new domans (mwo-mwo-mwo-mwo... to the non-techies). Chad, Angelo and I drew out the plans for the next two weeks and it's looking bloody. I went home at 430, feeling dead beat. I could only imagine what the others must feel. Alex's been in the office since Saturday morning and he needs to stick around till Sunday. Wow. Again, another miracle that I got home safely at 5.

You know how it feels when you feel you're dead tired, you know you need to rest, yet your body still in working mode. Hasn't shut down completely. I woke up at 10 today. Feeling restless still, and trying to figure out how I can be productive this Sunday. I knew deep down I needed to rest. So I lulled myself to sleep by reading two chapters of "Pride and Prejudice". Worked like a charm. Camille's phone call broke into my slumber. I had a good two hours of nap time, so I felt a little refreshed after.

Haaaaay. What a long, long weekend. And it seems it's going to be a long two weeks as well. How I wish to be somewhere else... Gallavanting the busy streets of another country, lining up for my Lion King $150 seats. Haha. You who you are!! And we are dead envious!

[Movie Schmovie] Ratatouille

Pronounced Rat-a-too-ee. Pixar does it again! Another great animated feature for both kids and adults. This movie is about a rat named Remy who dreams of becoming the best chef in Paris. Although the a colony of rats making gourmet French dishes ain't a pretty (nor sumptuous) sight, they're pretty endearing! The movie was able to capture some restaurant/chef-ing realities. The supporting characters were pretty subtle, no one really stood out or overshadowed the lead. But all were equally lovable. After reviewing the cast of characters, I was pretty surprised that most of the voice talents are American actors who donned French accents! Of course, this movie being a Pixar flick, John Ratzenberger had to be in it (He was the Maitre D'). What I like about these movies, there's always something about self-discovery and going beyond people's perceptions. Brad Bird also directed The Incredibles and Iron Giant (under-rated animated flick which had so much heart!). Paris is always lovely (even in cartoons).

What a day

Argh. I am just happy this day is finally over. Close to hellish. The people from the other project (from Manila, Singapore, and Sydney) have been pulling us left and right, over and above. My other projectmate just couldn't take it. She just started crying in front of the monitor! I had to calm her down and tell her that we can help her out if she feels harrassed.

This project is truly something else. And I think we will hit the climactic apex of hell in the next two weeks, just before the RFS date of our neighboring project. Pressure just brings out the best and the worst in people. We're doing a million things all at once, and I think we're being spread too thinly. It's just frustrating at times, knowing that if you were two able persons (two versions of your self), you'd get everything done. But then you're just one person, so we gotta make the most of what we have.

I was ranting about work to Keyce again (sorry Keyce and you've become my sounding board). And we were saying that now that we have more responsibilties as AMs, we're more accountable for the performance of the team. The intention to make things better is there, but then when you're doing a million other things, it just becomes hard. Haaay. I'm just glad today's over.

I had lunch at around 430pm! And then another round of meetings. I kept Mike's passport hostage the entire day. And made fun of his evolution passport pics. He will be away on vacay for two weeks and we're all envious. Perfect timing.

Haaay. I want a vacay myself. I'm still pondering on my vacay plans this October. It makes better sense if I move it to late November (just in time for Thanksgiving weekend). But I'm not sure if I'll have enough to make the trip worthwhile.

Anyway, the day ended on a good note. I met up with Keyce and we had dinner at Fish and Co., where we ordered New York Fish and Chips and Grilled Porkchop Basilico. We then saw Ratatouille (separate entry later).




It's nice to know that although bad days seemingly drag on till forever, they don't. The bad day ends, and in comes a new day (which could go either way).

The Only Basketball Games I Watch

I'm not big fan of basketball. Several reasons. My brothers are just crazy about basketball. Head. Over. Heels. If they're not playing NBA Live on their PS2, they're watching an NBA basketball game, playing basketball in our auxiliary house's half court, or talking about the latest basketball news (trades, stats, awesome plays)... Ugh. Never really understood why they need to watch the game in its entirety when the best part (and the part that matters), is the fourth quarter. I think if two guys who don't know each other (strangers) meet for the very first time, basketball is always an effective ice breaker.

But every year, I make an exception. The only basketball games I watch from start of finish are the UAAP games, DLSU versus Ateneo. I've only seen one game live where Ateneo won over La Salle. And the feeling was nothing short of euphoric! For the games I've seen on TV, my hands are always clammy, my heart is beating wildly, and I'm cheering like there's no tomorrow.

My brothers mentioned that today's the first DLSU-ADMU UAAP game and I sort of stashed that thought away (so many stuff happening in the office). It was only after Bebet texted me, "Go Ateneo" when I remembered the game. Rommel confirmed that we won! Wooohoo! Overtime pa!

So when I got home, they were replaying the game on Channel 33 (God bless you Sky Cable).



I love watching these games. Checking out the new basketball cuties (DLSU has this cute new player), seeing some familiar faces when the camera pans over the spectators and fans, and chanting "Go Ateneo" along with the crowd. At the end of the game of course, hearing "Song for Mary" always uplifts my spirits. Fun! Victory makes it sweeter.

This is the first game Ateneo has won over La Salle since 2004. Imacheen?! The Green Archers are the hungry team this year. They've had a year to think about how much they want to win the championship. Hehe. And they're awfully, awfully good.

Game synopsis from Inquirer.net:

Ateneo defeats La Salle in overtime, 80-77

INQUIRER.net
Last updated 08:56pm (Mla time) 07/26/2007
MANILA, Philippines -- The Ateneo de Manila University Blue Eagles has defeated arch rival, the De La Salle Green Archers, in overtime, 80-77 at the UAAP men’s basketball Thursday.

The Archers forged the overtime on the efforts of JV Casio who almost single-handedly brought his team back into the game late in the fourth quarter.

With the win, Ateneo has tightened its hold on second place, with a 4-1 slate, behind the undefeated University of the East Red Warriors who dealt the Eagles their only loss so far in the tournament.

Meanwhile, the Archers dropped to third with 3-2, with their losses coming from the Eagles and the Red Warriors.

I remember how intense the alums (from both DLSU and ADMU) are during the UAAP season. Some of them are waaay too passionate (close to unreasonable) for their own good. Hehe. I wonder how this rivalry began! It's always been Ateneo vs. La Salle.

Tired Lately

i think I've been ranting about work these past few blog entries. I think I spend an average of 12 hours in the office. 30 minute lunch breaks, with the occasional logical breaks. Just today, I received 190 emails in total. So many things to do left and right. Ugh. And I received an email about my deployment extension... to 2008! Haha. Panalo. This set-up, where we work during our clients' business hours, is actually very challenging. The turnaround time for most tasks should be quicker. Hence the flow of work is steady. Most of the time lately, uncontrollable. The pressure is on. And we can all feel it. I wish I can clone myself to do more things.

There are times when I ask myself if I made the right decision to stay on. I know logically, in the long run, for what I want to do, this seems to be the better learning experience. I just need to set clearer boundaries of my time. Avoid those long work days, if they can be avoided.

I guess I'm feeling a little down lately because my usual lakwatsa buddies have gone or will be going MIA. I like the predictability of routines. But then there are times when I just want a drastic change to shake things up.

Keyce and I made bold predictions at the start of the year. I think she's catching her break very soon (very happy for her, and quite sad for movie/lamon buddy-less me), and I'm just wishing I could fast forward to March 2008. I was chatting with Ate Gret today (my co-DIYOSA). I was telling her how I wish I could skip August 2007 till about Feb 2008. I sort of know how the months ahead will be playing out anyway. A birthday and Christmas like any other.

In other news, Pesem was telling me that there is a John Mayer concert close to where he lives. And get this. Ben Folds?! The front act. ANOBEH. Here's Mr. Fate again, dangling these great great musical events in front of my face. Basta (with clenched fist raised)! I will see Coldplay in concert before I turn 30.

Had a pleasant ride home with Papa. We just chatted about stuff. Keyce called while we were weaving our way through South Super Highway. Darnit! It's been two weeks since we last daw each other and we need a major lamon event. Anyway, I realized lately how much I enjoy coming home and living with my family. I would like to experience being independent (maybe sometime next year? Hehe). But for now, spending time with family is tops.

[Survey Shmurvey] Random Things

Out of boredom (and because Mac Mac II has gone MIA for today), here's a survey!

****
1.elementary, high school or college lyf?
* College, hands down. Ateneo was so good to me. Xavierville condo life was the bestest.

2.Mcdo or Jollibee?
* Jollibee. Especially their chocolate sundae.

3.Globe,Smart or Sun?
* Globe. Been with Globe since 1998!

4.SM, Robinson's or Ayala malls?
* I don't remember what day it was... I love you more today than yesterday!

5.coffee, milo, milk or juice in the morning?
* Addictus sa kape

6.hugs or kisses?
* Hugs.

7.friendster or myspace?
* Friendster

8.pants or shorts?
* Pants please. To cover my huge legs.

9.stay at home or go to the mall?
* Depends on my mood. :-)

10. emo,rnb,hiphop,or house music?
* RnB and Hiphop ewww. Haha. Emo pede pa. House siguro.

11.people are people or f&h?
* People Are People

12.eat or sleep?
* EAT! My credit card bills, my empty wallet, and my figure can attest to this. Haha.

13.empi or redhorse?
* Empi? Ano yun?

14.morato/timog, libis, the fort or baywalk?
* The Fort of course.

15.night or day?
* Night.

16.math or english?
* English (Best in English ata ako!)

17.tell everyone that ur good looking or let others tell u that?
* Anobeh?

18.to be single or to be in a relationship?
* Hmmm...

19.summer or rainy days?
* Rainy Days. And Coldplay.

20.kapamilya or kapuso?
* Kapamilya

21.shopping spree or eat all you can?
* Shopping spree! Tapos lamon after!

22.cats or dogs?
* Not a big animal fan

21.to say 'i love you' or 'mahal kita'?
* Haha. Kahit alin.

22.nokia, sony ericsson or motorola?
* Samsung

23.brawns over brains or brains over
brawns?
* Brains!

24.credit card or cash?
* Mwahaha...

25.red ribbon or goldilocks?
* Red Ribbon

26.friends or lovers?
* Friends! Tapos friends who become lovers. Mwahaha.

27.mtv or myx?
* MTV.

28.USA, Paris or just the Philippines?
* USA for shopping. Paris for the sights. Pinas for everything else. :-)

29.angel locsin or katrina halili?
* Sino si Katrina Halili?

30.plain or printed?
* I like plain better. Easier to mix and match

31.black or white?
* white.

32.starbucks or seattle's best?
* Starbucks. Stronger coffee. Good service (most of the time).

33.movie or dinner date?
* Both! I love movies. But a dinner date? :-) Nice rin yun. Great convo and good food.

34. fx or jeep
* FX syempre.

35.sing or dance?
* Sing. Ako raw si Bossa Nova Villa.

36.church or garden wedding?
* Church. Para Catholic. Mwahaha.

37.giver or taker?
* More of a giver.

36.to have siblings or be the only child?
* Sibs!

37.kim-gerald or shaina-rayver lover team?
* Kim-Gerald siguro. Hehe.

My Harry Potter Weekend

Didn't realize how much of a Harry Potter fan I was... until this weekend!




Here's my Harry Potter weekend...

** Thank you Suzie for meeting me in Fully Booked Serendra at 630am, Saturday! Super kaaliw to see excited kids and adults rush through the doors. We later had breakfast at Italianni's, which I must say, is super sulit! I love love breakfast and the spread the guys have there is pretty amazing. Value for your money. Kisses to Suzie!

** Spent most of my Saturday reading the first half of the book. I had to stop because my eyes were too tired. I woke up late Saturday afternoon, realizing I needed to hear mass (if I wanted to spend the entire Sunday finishing the book).

** Sunday was all about getting it done. At exactly 1030pm, after about 15 cumulative hours of reading , I finally finished the book. WOW. J.K. Rowling answered all my questions. The book as a whole was super exciting. Engaging. Made me cry. I had to call someone. Thank God Tere texted me to say she finished the book, too. We talked for about 15 minutes. Excited. Beside ourselves. I was crying a little while we recalled our favorite scenes. Haaaay.

** I will miss Harry Potter. I think that's what saddens me a lot. Knowing that there won't be any more new magical books.

** I'm quite happy and relieved I finished reading it! I cut myself off! Didn't go on line, fearing I might stumble upon any spoilers (which i did! By reading Mark's blog where he quoted one of the characters). Inspires me to finish reading Pride and Prejudice (which I realize is a pretty funny book!).

** Darnit. I wonder how they'll make the seventh and final book into a movie. Maybe in 2 parts. To get all the juicy, important stuff in. I hope all the original actors will still play their parts.

Turning Japanese

Today, my Friday gimik bud was Macky. We met up at Serendra and had dinner at Tatami, this Jap resto (same owners of Sakura). I love hanging out with this Mina jewel. We can talk for hours and hours (about our bad spending habits, movies, tv shows, life). I ordered spicy tuna maki, which I realized has become a favorite of mine lately. Macky had me laughing at his French accent impression. He and I share a common liking for Neil Patrick Harris.

After dinner, we met with Karina and Irving. A good amount of time was spent talking about Transformers and other vintage cartoon shows from our childhood. We were all surprised Karina didn't know "Jem and the Holograms".

Random Thoughts...

** While waiting for Macky, I hung around in Fully Booked. I saw unopened boxes upon unopened boxes of the Deathly Hollows book. A sign outside the store indicated that they'll be opening at 7 AM! I figured, I'll get get my HP Book 7 at the National Bookstore closest to my house (Jaka Plaza). On my way home, I decided to pass by aforementioned bookstore. Because of my busted car alarm and a few dubious bystanders, I quickly got back in the car. I just took note of the opening time (10 AM). I wanted to see if there were any unopened boxes. At home, I convinced Suzie to go with me to Fully Booked tomorrow morning! I love you Suzie! And breakfast is on me tomorrow!

** Been pretty busy at work! I've been away for two days, but it seems I can actually charge those two SL days to actual work hours! I was in the office till 11:30 pm yesterday. From 7:30am. I just took at 30 minute lunch break. That was it. Today, another 30 minute lunch break. Lunch was courtesy of Nanay Q. Eating BBQ is always a treat. Anyway... I digress. Some people admittedly are not built for the corporate world. They actually don't like it. As for moi, after six years, I must say, I like the corporate world. Although it's never always kind, I can defintely see myself pursuing a long term career in the setting of the corporate world.

** While I'm on self-imposed VA, Macky pointed out that I should be on WV (Word Vomit). Haha. He asked me about it today, while we were having coffee. Told him, it's been a while. It's not really confusing. Pretty clear now. Macky was saying it's kind of sad. Oh well (that's me trying to be nonchalant).

** Mariless's beeday tomorrow. Pot luck. I've been tasked to bring pasta. Ooo... I'm going behind the stove again tomorrow! I'm thinking maybe Pesto Cream with chicken. My specialty ba?

** Changes in the horizon. Waaaaah. Don't want to jinx it though. :-) Good luck to you, my sweet! Kahit na the thought of you leaving makes me sad (close to tears even!). Will be posting, "Wanted! Movie and Eating Buddy" on the classified ads soon.

What is my perfect significant other composed of?

Kindness Kindness is most important in a boyfriend/girlfriend. You want someone who will go through everything with you - the best moments and the worst, and all of those other moments in between. You love to be able to say anything to your partner, and have them say anything to you. You are able to be extremely close with your partner for that reason. Take this quiz at QuizGalaxy.com

Perfect timing. I've been having some thoughts about this "significant other". I used to have this long list of "must haves", my non-negotiables. Mostly around the guy's personality. Common interests. Must be a fan of Sting. Must make me laugh until my sides hurt. Must be a hit with my friends and family. Must love watching movies. I was telling my cousin Sheryl that and she said, "That guy doesn't exist. Either that, or he's gay."

Given recent events, I realize that there are other things, other qualities, which matter more. Irregardless of personality, I think I'd like someone who's responsible, educated, loyal, mature, well-mannered, and kind. Everything else will be a bonus. Hehe. I think my personality can make up for whatever he lacks. Hehe. Common interests, I've come to realize, is a great big bonus. But if you are interested in different things, perhaps it might be an opportunity for me to discover new things or share old things.

[Music From the Baul] Kingdom Come

Kingdom Come
By Coldplay

Still my heart and hold my tongue.
I feel my time, my time has come.
Let me in, unlock the door.
I've never felt this way before.

The wheels just keep on turning,
The drummer begins to drum,
I don't know which way I'm going,
I don't know which way I've come.

Hold my hand inside your hands,
I need someone who understands.
I need someone, someone who hears,
For you, I've waited all these years.

For you, I'd wait 'til kingdom come.
Until my day, my day is done.
And say you'll come, and set me free,
Just say you'll wait, you'll wait for me.

In your tears and in your blood,
In your fire and in your flood,
I hear you laugh, I heard you sing,
"I wouldn't change a single thing."

The wheels just keep on turning,
The drummers begin to drum,
I don't know which way I'm going,
I don't know what I've become.

For you, I'd wait 'til kingdom come,
Until my days, my days are done.
Say you'll come and set me free,
Just say you'll wait, you'll wait for me.
Just say you'll wait, you'll wait for me.
Just say you'll wait, you'll wait for me.

Gastritis and thoughts

I've been sick these past two days. Gastritis, I think. Yesterday at 4 am, I woke up with the worst feeling. My stomach was rumbling and it was just plain excruciating pain. Mama was super nice and she stayed at home with me the whole day yesterday. I slept mostly. Today, I'm feeling a little better. Mostly dreading the hundreds of emails sitting in my inbox. Ugh. That won't be pretty.

The telly has been my companion these past two days. Rediscovering a few things I've come to love these past few years. "Back to the Future" was on this morning, and although I've seen it a million times, I just had to see it again. Love that scene where George McFly finally stood up to Biff.

Some TV shows which I tire not of watching...

** Friends. Caught one episode where Monica proposed to Chandler. I always liked Richard. But falling in love with your best friend. Haha. Nothing beats that. I remember Chae (my super seatmate) and I used to memorize a lot of quotable quotes from that show. "I know!"

** The O.C. Darnit. I started The O.C. hype in ERP5. Haha! They're also playing reruns on Star World every morning. I miss the Cohens and Ryan. And all those witty quips from Sandy and Seth. Season One, the best.

** Sex and the City. Fashion, food, friends, and relationships. What's not to love?

The other day, I caught an episode of "How I Met Your Mother". And this show's pretty good!! Neil Patrick Harris is really really funny as Barney! I wonder if they have this show on DVD.

Random Thoughts on these sick days...

** Work, or having something to do for the entire day, provides a sense of purpose. I've been just sleeping and resting these past two days, and I somehow feel guilty about not being as productive as I should be. Two days out of the week I think is pretty fair for rest (Saturday and Sunday). Ironically, when I'm at work, I wish I'd be somewhere else. Hehe. There's no use satisfying a confused girl. Haha.

** I did do something productive today. Finally set a hard deadline for myself (worth $250). This should give me a real reason to start things up.

** A few sullen thoughts swimming in my brain. Is it ever too late? Haaay.

[Music From the Baul] Birthday Song

Heard this song in one of the One Tree Hill trailers on TV. Then on Wins and Ave's AVP. It's quite a difficult song to find! Haaay. Such a sweet song. Super fitting my mood (and my "Stuff" entry). I wikipedia-d Ben Lee and he's an Aussie musician!

Birthday Song
By Ben Lee

Hey there I said it
I'm in love
With you

There's an ocean between us
Just like me
Deep and Blue

And I, at times have had nothing
But tonight I want nothing but you
You're the only thing I want
The only thing I want
The only thing on my mind
All the time

Staying up 'til dawn won't take its toll
'Til we get old
And drinking is just the way
We keep away the cold
And you, you know what it means
To be true and searching like me

You're the only thing I need
The only thing I need
The only thing on my mind
All the time

And you gave me a reason
To give you my soul
I'll give you it all

You're the only one I want
The only one I need
The only one on my mind
All the time
All the time
All the time
All the time

Wins and Ave's Wedding AVP

Wins sent me the link to his wedding AVP. Soooo cute and funny! Bob Nicolas (the videographer) is on to something here. Enjoy!

Stuff

My mind wanders today in the alleyways of relationships and love. I think for a single 27 year old, such trips are often taken. Hehe.

Lately, so many of my friends tied the knot. I love weddings where I know both the bride and the groom personally. Seeing how they've grown, how their relationships progressed from nothing to something. There's a finality about marriage. The end of one's single days. Yet, it's clearly a beginning of a new life together. Ten years ago, I told myself I wanted to get married to my third boyfriend at age 25. Fast forward to today, I'm still still counting 0 for the ex-es. Hehe. Honestly, it would be nice to meet the one and spend the rest of your life together. I don't think I'm strong enough to survive a break-up anyway, and well. From all the waiting I've been doing, I'm sensing it may not be picture perfect, but it will surely be wonderful and worth it.

There are times though, when I miss having someone. Someone who knows little, seemingly insignificant stuff about me. Someone who I can share how my boring day went, and who listens to my never ending stories about friends and family. Someone who in his own little way, shows that he cares and he pays attention. Someone who I can share my food with and who willingly shares his. Or just having inside jokes and laughing out loud.

Someday. Someone. Hehe.

I'm in no hurry to get married. I'm pretty excited about what comes before that. There are still a couple of things I want to do for myself. I think these past 27 years have been wonderful, exciting, and meaningful. I'm just waiting for what's coming next. Maybe a surprise in the next turn.

People say I'm picky. I don't think I am. Or maybe I'm in denial. Haha. I just know what I want, I guess. I'm the type who knows for sure if I like someone or not. No confused days of "Do I like him?" "Don't I like him?" "What is this I'm feeling, I just can't explain?" Haha. All the time. I am able to explain. Irene often tells me that we are not getting any younger and maybe I should just give other people a chance. Haha. Fine. Maybe I AM just picky. But I know one thing for sure. I am loyal. Haha.

Why all the drama? I honestly don't know. Haha. Maybe it's all the weddings. And the split-ups. And the foul-ups. Old and new couples. Ahaa... Whatever.

IMAX, Gumbo, and Lots of Laughs

Made a trip to the Mall of Asia yesterday to see "Harry Potter, The Order of the Phoenix" on IMAX! Thanks to Tere for the free tickets!

We were pretty hungry when we first arrived MOA. I was surfing the net earlier that day, to look for In-MOA-only restos. "Gumbo" has been getting a lot of positive feedback, so I asked Tere if we could eat there. And ate there we did! She told me Burgoo and Gumbo had the same owners. The resto was pretty spacious and at an early dining hour (it was prolly around 6:45 then), the resto was pretty full. They served New Orleans food! Which was pretty interesting. Lotsa spices!




I was pretty hungry so I started with the New England Clam Chowder. Yum. Liked the bread bowl.



Our food came rather quickly! After ten minutes or so, our orders of Seafood Jambalaya and a Half Slab of Baby Back Ribs came. The Ribs were most satisfying! It was tender and the meat fell off the bone.




Fast forward to thirty minutes later, we were in line for the IMAX screening. Grabe! The screen was huge. And we were so close to it. Daniel Radcliffe is cuter up close. Hehe.

Later we had dessert at Cafe Breton! I had Butter and Sugar with a scoop of Mantecado ice cream.




Us girls just chatted and chatted. Keyce and I shared our Bangkok stories with Tere and I think she was ready to buy a plane ticket. Haha. Next time, she will join us in our BKK adventure.

Classic laugh out loud moments... The beach and snorkelling. Haha. Idol.

Random Thoughts...

** I was supposed to jump start on my October project, but napping and chatting got in the way. Hehe. I need to be more disciplined in managing my time. I manage to convince myself that I deserve the lazy break because of all the busy activities during the work week. I think I need to make that reservation on Monday to really get things started.

** Goals! I've set out a few goals before the end of the year. And I need to start working towards achieving them. The year is past the half-way mark. Ugh.

Harry Potter Flashback

From Amazon.com! Some Harry Potter highlights

Why We Love Harry
Favorite Moments from the Series
There are plenty of reasons to love Rowling's wildly popular series--no doubt you have several dozen of your own. Our list features favorite moments, characters, and artifacts from the first five books. Keep in mind that this list is by no means exhaustive (what we love about Harry could fill ten books!) and does not include any of the spectacular revelatory moments that would spoil the books for those (few) who have not read them. Enjoy.

Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone
* Harry's first trip to the zoo with the Dursleys, when a boa constrictor winks at him.
* When the Dursleys' house is suddenly besieged by letters for Harry from Hogwarts. Readers learn how much the Dursleys have been keeping from Harry. Rowling does a wonderful job in displaying the lengths to which Uncle Vernon will go to deny that magic exists.
* Harry's first visit to Diagon Alley with Hagrid. Full of curiosities and rich with magic and marvel, Harry's first trip includes a trip to Gringotts and Ollivanders, where Harry gets his wand (holly and phoenix feather) and discovers yet another connection to He-Who-Must-No-Be-Named. This moment is the reader's first full introduction to Rowling's world of witchcraft and wizards.
* Harry's experience with the Sorting Hat.

Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets
* The de-gnoming of the Weasleys' garden. Harry discovers that even wizards have chores--gnomes must be grabbed (ignoring angry protests "Gerroff me! Gerroff me!"), swung about (to make them too dizzy to come back), and tossed out of the garden--this delightful scene highlights Rowling's clever and witty genius.
* Harry's first experience with a Howler, sent to Ron by his mother.
* The Dueling Club battle between Harry and Malfoy. Gilderoy Lockhart starts the Dueling Club to help students practice spells on each other, but he is not prepared for the intensity of the animosity between Harry and Draco. Since they are still young, their minibattle is innocent enough, including tickling and dancing charms.

Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban
* Ron's attempt to use a telephone to call Harry at the Dursleys'.
* Harry's first encounter with a Dementor on the train (and just about any other encounter with Dementors). Harry's brush with the Dementors is terrifying and prepares Potter fans for a darker, scarier book.
* Harry, Ron, and Hermione's behavior in Professor Trelawney's Divination class. Some of the best moments in Rowling's books occur when she reminds us that the wizards-in-training at Hogwarts are, after all, just children. Clearly, even at a school of witchcraft and wizardry, classes can be boring and seem pointless to children.
* The Boggart lesson in Professor Lupin's classroom.
* Harry, Ron, and Hermione's knock-down confrontation with Snape.

Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire
* Hermione's disgust at the reception for the veela (Bulgarian National Team Mascots) at the Quidditch World Cup. Rowling's fourth book addresses issues about growing up--the dynamic between the boys and girls at Hogwarts starts to change. Nowhere is this more plain than the hilarious scene in which magical cheerleaders nearly convince Harry and Ron to jump from the stands to impress them.
* Viktor Krum's crush on Hermione--and Ron's objection to it.
* Malfoy's "Potter Stinks" badge.
* Hermione's creation of S.P.E.W., the intolerant bigotry of the Death Eaters, and the danger of the Triwizard Tournament. Add in the changing dynamics between girls and boys at Hogwarts, and suddenly Rowling's fourth book has a weight and seriousness not as present in early books in the series. Candy and tickle spells are left behind as the students tackle darker, more serious issues and take on larger responsibilities, including the knowledge of illegal curses.

Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix

* Harry's outburst to his friends at No. 12 Grimmauld Place. A combination of frustration over being kept in the dark and fear that he will be expelled fuels much of Harry's anger, and it all comes out at once, directly aimed at Ron and Hermione. Rowling perfectly portrays Harry's frustration at being too old to shirk responsibility, but too young to be accepted as part of the fight that he knows is coming.
* Harry's detention with Professor Umbridge. Rowling shows her darker side, leading readers to believe that Hogwarts is no longer a safe haven for young wizards. Dolores represents a bureaucratic tyrant capable of real evil, and Harry is forced to endure their private battle of wills alone.
* Harry and Cho's painfully awkward interactions. Rowling clearly remembers what it was like to be a teenager.
* Harry's Occlumency lessons with Snape.
* Dumbledore's confession to Harry.


Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince

* The introduction of the Horcrux.
* Molly Weasley asking Arthur Weasley about his "dearest ambition." Rowling has always been great at revealing little intriguing bits about her characters at a time, and Arthur’s answer "to find out how airplanes stay up" reminds us about his obsession with Muggles.
* Harry's private lessons with Dumbledore, and more time spent with the fascinating and dangerous pensieve, arguably one of Rowling’s most ingenious inventions.
* Fred and George Weasley’s Joke Shop, and the slogan: "Why Are You Worrying About You-Know-Who? You Should Be Worrying About U-NO-POO--the Constipation Sensation That's Gripping the Nation!"
* Luna's Quidditch commentary. Rowling created scores of Luna Lovegood fans with hilarious and bizarre commentary from the most unlikely Quidditch commentator.
* The effects of Felix Felicis.

Focus Friday

Two weeks in a row, I spent my Friday with my projectmates. For this Friday, we were fortunate enough to piggy back on the Reitz' movie premiere team building. Hehe. Adrienne (whose name I am loving by the way), took care of buying the tickets, the food, logistics, everything! I just gave our share and went to Robinson's Galleria, cinema 4. 23 Focus peeps came! Our seats were not too shabby (as Mike describes them). Funny lang how I kept on insisting that the scary creatrures sucking the happiness out of their victims are "Death-eaters". Of course, we were later reminded that they were called "Dementors". Hehe!

After the finishing the movie (literally to the very end of the end credits), we went to the newly opened Seattle's Best in Serendra for some coffee. Of course, being the slob that I sometimes am, I spilled some coffee on my white blouse. We talked mostly about work, on shore assignments, and other manifestations that Mike and I are in fact "fossils" in The Firm. Haha. Karina dropped by! It was nice seeing her this week (after our foiled dinner a few days ago). I asked Ceasar to be funny on the spot. Haha.




Haaay. Happy lang for the weeekend. It's been sort of a crazy work week, trying to get so many things done, answering emails left and right, and doing follow-ups with people on shore and off shore. Jen and I have a silent understanding. Haha. We share a common frustration, which we hope to iron out maybe next week. I'm a little worried about implementation weekend. Dunno if we're going to pass PRAM. Ugh.

Nelson's last day today =(. A huge hole in the MW team. We took pics earlier today. "Bounce na!" We will miss him! And for our last Friday together, he, Angelo, Mike, and I had lunch... at the Cybergate grocery! Haha! I had the super sulit 50 bucks lunch with pork sisig and pork binagoongan. Oink oink oink.




More lamon tomorrow! Haha! Will be seeing HP again at MOA with Tere and Keyce!

[Movie Schmovie] Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix

I think it helps if you have really low expectations of a movie. Hehe. Keysi told me she didn't like this Harry Potter movie. Didn't have as much action as she wanted. First of all, I have to say, I am not a big fan of Book 5. For me, "The Order of the Phoenix" is the worst of the 6 books (I'm torn between book 3 and 6 as my favorite). When I saw the movie though... I was pleasantly surprised that I liked it! It was ... mature. Haha. After what happened in "The Goblet of Fire", the film was able to capture the sense of the characters growing. Harry seemed to be always angry and frustrated. My hats off to Daniel Radcliffe, who I have to say, has improved (acting-wise!). And it's pretty cool how some of the flashbacks they used were from the earlier films! It's pretty cool, seeing how the three main characters have grown right before our very eyes. The movie wasn't too long. It didn't have a lot of complicated subplots. Although, the viewer needs to have a good idea of the backstory. I silently and discreetly shed a tear when Sirius disappeared through that vortex of sorts. I love Sirius. And Gary Oldman fit the role just right. This movie's director is David Yates. He did mostly work for television. And he's directing "The Half Blood Prince"! Wow. Hope he does the book justice.

My new crush

I don't usually sleep early (although I do want to!). Lately, while surfing the telly, I've caught a few episodes of Jamie Oliver's cooking show. And he is cute! Haha! And he can cook! It's funny how his guests look, while he's plating their food. Practically hypnotized by the food. I wikipedia-d Mr. Oliver and found out he is best known for his fresh and simple dishes. Not a lot of fuss. Just good food. I like it.



Jamie is fun to watch! He moves quickly and he's quite the talker. Deng... That last dish he did. Baked chicken. Mashed potatoes. Spinach. And classic English Bread Pudding. Okeh... Enough is enough. It is 12:30am. Will dream of Mr. Oliver. And maybe that pudding.

Galileo Magnifico!

After a long, tiring day at work, I welcomed this dinner as a breather! Exactly what I needed after one episode of snapping at someone ("This discussion is pointless! Let's move on to the next topic!" Hahaha!).

My lamon buddy Keysi and I went to Galileo, this super nice Italian deli along Pasong Tamo. I have to say! This place is one of Makati's best kept secrets! The resto was just about to close, but the peeps were able to accomodate us. There was a wall of wine bottles and a lot of Italian food for sale. Keyce and I had the Galileo special, which was basically a glass of wine, a small plate of cheese and coldcuts, soup, a pasta dish, and our choice of coffee or tea. Super sulit!

We had the sparkling red wine (which kinda reminded me of Novellino's. But only better. And with a kick. Some discoveries for the day. Toasted bread with jam and cheese. Yum. Haha. Dunno if it's one of my eccentric food combos (like bananas dipped in fish sauce).



Keyce looked relaxed! She has been spending most of her time Macbooking! Haha. She loves em widgets and freeware.



Cheese is always yummy. Eaten with wine and cold cuts. Divine.



Cheers! We ordered a bottle of the sparkling red wine, but didn't finish it. Hehe. Hmm... drinking session tomorrow? Hehe.



Random Thoughts for today...

** Griped about work today. Haha. Keysi said she didn't mind hearing my rants. I've been on the receiving end of her rants for a couple of months now. Hehe. Although I have to say. Our deployment to CON today fills me with a sense of accomplishment. Considering it was kinda my fault why we had to rush everything. I hope we didn't break anything. Haaay. Will found out tomorrow for sure.

** I told Keyce about Irene's comment about my not being lazy. Irene's right. I think I spend most, if not all, my energies at work. I dunno if I can be called a workaholic. It's kind of comforting to know that I'm not lazy. Hehe. Perhaps these past few years, I've just been complacent and focused on work. I can't seem to find the time to start doing other things ('cept for weddings and other special events).

** Yesterday, I spoke with my cousin over the phone. He was listening intently on what I had to say about relationships (the things I know about relationships are from my observations and the sharing of friends). He said I ought to be a guidance counselor! Haha! Why not?

** You know how you have "what if"s in your head? You don't exactly totally think of them as real possibilities. Just what ifs. And then comes the time when they're striken through. It's kinda sad. How some possibilities become non-possibilities. Haaaaay. I did shed a tear. Just a small one. But the news did merit my sending SMSs to my closest female friends. Hehe. Di naman super affected. Pramis. Haha.

[Music From the Baul] Warning Sign

Tis the rainy season, and the best songs to listen to this time of year are Coldplay songs! Compliments the rain quite nicely. This is one of my favorites. I wanted to indulge myself one last time and end my sad-love feeling tonight. Hehe.

Warning Sign
By Coldplay

A warning sign,
I missed the good part then I realized,
I started looking and the bubble burst.
I started looking for excuses.

Come on in,
I've gotta tell you what a state I'm in,
I've gotta tell you in my loudest tones,
That I started looking for a warning sign.

When the truth is,
I miss you.
Yeah the truth is,
That I miss you so.

A warning sign,
You came back to haunt me and I realized,
That you were an island and I passed you by,
You were an island to discover.

Come on in,
I've gotta tell you what state I'm in,
I've gotta tell you in my loudest tones,
That I started looking for a warning sign.

When the truth is,
I miss you.
Yeah the truth is,
That I miss you so.

And I'm tired,
I should not have let you go.

So I crawl back into your open arms.
Yes, I crawl back into your open arms.
And I crawl back into your open arms.
Yes, I crawl back into your open arms...

From Paolo DLR's Blog

I just have to share this! Yes, Paolo. Kailangang i-broadcast. Haha. So the world will now what a sweet guy you are!

This is right off my friend Paolo's blog. For his wife, Suzie. Made Suzie, me, and Ate Gret cry! Damn you Paolo and your gift with words.


First Class: 7.4.7
Posted by: tropikalye, in Personal

I’d describe my life to be uneven up until this point. I don’t consider myself as one who has suffered greatly, nor do I consider myself as one who is truly blessed. I am pretty sure that I have not lived up to my potential yet, and I confess that I am not sure if I will ever live up to my own great expectations.

But… I believe that this day is an affirmation that I probably am doing a good job so far. Because God would have never sent you my way had I been walking on a wrong path. I can never imagine God not taking care of a person as wonderful as you.

How do I feel? I don’t think that much has changed. If I divide my life into two halves, one being the time when I lived without you, and the time when I found you, then this is but a natural progression of the second half (the more meaningful half?) of my life.

I would describe our relationship as comfortable. It is as comfortable as waking up in bed early in the morning. Waking up a few minutes early, finding it far too bright outside and being far too awake to go back to sleep, you find yourself in bed at it’s most comfortable.

I’m happy to know that I don’t have to get off this bed for the rest of my life.

Thank you for saving me from the heartache of heartaches. I apologize for not saying it as much as I should. But given the context above, it is fitting to say it now. Thank you. I love you.

“Am I too obvious to preach it? You’re so hypnotic on my heart.”
- Gavin DeGraw


Awwww... Ain't it such a blessing to find someone to thinks you're wonderful? Haaaay. Someone who knows what he's got when he has you? Someone who's absolutely sure about the way he feels? Okie. I'm still riding on my usual post-wedding high/low. Haha.

Winston and Ave's Wedding

My first time at Mary the Queen! It's the well-known church right smack in the middle of ICA and Xavier. My first time to see those schools as well. Haha! The church was quite nice! It was blue and white mostly. Kinda reminded me of Ateneo. Dunno why it had a Jesuit feel to it (whatever a Jesuit feel maybe. Hehe).



Anyway, Lea and I arrived at the church to find the Panganibans at the back. Mike reported he and Pia took on the special role of offerors! Haha!





Highlights of the ceremony... the priest pronouncing Averyl's name like "April". Winston and Ave's "You may now kiss the bride" kiss ... or non-kiss rather. Hehe. For a super kalog couple, these two are actually pretty shy when it comes to public display of affection. Haha. Ave kinda ducked when Wins leaned forward for a kiss. Haha. It was sweet.

Of course, my favorite part was when Ave carried Winston! Yes, she is super physically fit to pull this one off!



Jan was the very helpful MoH. The entourage's gowns were stunning! Love the different styles. Love the colors! Love the jewels!



Reception followed at La Pavillion, along Roxas Blvd. My first time here as well. The set-up was beautiful. Indoor oriental garden. We all happily partook the lauriat feast (catering by Gloria Maris). Yum yum yum. Food was awesome.



The program was super fun too! I liked the shoe and the kissing game. Mental note to my coordinator self... do this at the next wedding.



More pics of the Gang and a very special guest, fresh from Singapore and on a boylet high, Paui! She has had a lot of Vitamin E! Haha!



Lea and I were just laughing all throughout the night. There's the afternoon where we simply had to give in our craving for pizza. So to Shakey's Blue Wave we went in our immaculate wedding outfits. Then there's the part where the ushers asked us to sit at Table 48. To which I replied, "Umm (according to the diagram), eh hanggang table 47 lang yung andito eh". Then there's our interesting tablemates. MIS shiftees. Haha.



Marian and Boom stopped by to chat. Hmmm... Next Attraction na ba to sa D Gang weddings? Haha!




Our pics with the couple before we left. Deng. Looks like we're in some rave, with the smoke and all. I dunno where the smoke came from. Sayang naman. Oh well. It was nice having everyone together ('cept for Keyce!). I can't imagine Ave and Wins with anyone else. Their AVP was super nice and funny! Overall, the entire evening reflected the couple's personalities. Fun fun fun!




Wow. 11 years of togetherness. Amazing. Through thick and thin! I recall talking to Wins prior to his proposal. He had asked me, "Ten, do you do wedding proposal coordination rin ba?" Aww... So sweet how Wins put "Will you marry be 'Mam Abi?" on the Parao sail in Bora. Winston is one of the nicest guys I know, and Ave's one of the nicest girls ever. I'm just happy for both of them.

Random Thoughts...

** As I've always said, the overall success of a wedding, really depends on the couple and the guests. I particularly enjoyed this wedding because the bride and the groom I've known for a very long time. I realized that it's been about eleven years when I first met Wins, and about ten when I first met Ave. This was such a riot, and yet it was super elegant and organized!

** Garlic and cheese pizza is tops. Haha. Lea and I shared a regular G&C Shakey's thin crust pizza. It was nice. My shout out to April Isla for introducing this to me!

** Lea and I got to talking about relationships. She shared a few thoughts about how you can never really tell if something will work out or not. She was not a believer of long distance relationships. But she and Jesse somehow made it work, and they're getting married next year (with the cutest Save The Date cards!). Bottom line. If it's worth saving, you'll do everything in your power to just make it work.

** I would someday like to be in the place where someone will tell me, "Your call". Not to say that I want to dominate my future partner (Hello naman?! Ako pang Miss Kaladkarin). It's just nice to know that you think matters. Or that whatever's ok with you, is ok with me. Haaay... I think I kinda get this way after attending a great wedding. That familiar feeling of longing. I've no doubt that that "someday" is just around the corner.

Winston and Ave's Wedding

Last Sunday was another momentous event in D Gang history! Winston and Ave exchanged "I Dos" and are now Mr. and Mrs. Chua!

It was a beautiful and super fun wedding!!! We had such a great time. I've pics of my own to post, but the very nice Jan Sy sent us pics from her camera. Here's my favorite photo. Keyce is MIA!



I'll do another post for the wedding later today with pics from my camera and my random thoughts.

Congrats Wins and Ave!!