Friday, September 28, 2007

Seconds

For the second time this month of September, I brought my best friend to the airport. First it was Keyce, first week of September, and a few days ago, it was Irene, who was looking excited as ever. She's on her way to London to take her Masters in Education. She is truly an inspiration! I think her brief stay here in Manila had a cosmic purpose. To remind me not to sit on my a** to wait for things to happen. To be decisive and deliberate in my actions and decisions. If you want something (or someone), you do everything you can. You don't just wait around, waiting for life to happen to you. I told her that I am not doubtful about how much I want it. I do. I really, really do. I wouldn't be as confused and ready to compromise everything if I wasn't. I'm just scared. Scared of what's happened in the past.

Anyway, Irene sort of went through the same thing with Rip. Hehe. So she can very much relate. I am soo envious of her new (and free) Zara trench coat. I will wait for the year end, post-Winter sale for my share of the great coats. Might be perfect for April. Hehe!

I posed a question earlier this month if it's harder to be left behind or to be the one leaving. Lately, I've been left behind, and that's been pretty sad. This second time, it wasn't as hard. Maybe because I've been used to seeing Irene just once a year (in the past 4 years). The last 4 months have been pretty awesome! We've made up for lost bonding time.

Speaking of seconds....

Second chances. So given my renewed courage (and a discounted paranoid state of mind), I brave to find out the unknown which has eluded me for the past year. Hehe. Let's see. There have been windows, which I've turned a blind, shy eye to. I just hope my second chance does come up.

Wrathatouille is back to being Ratatouille. He sent a rather nice email today and we're friends again. Haha.

Second long weekend ahead. Sydney holiday on Monday! Yipee. However, it's also my second long work day in the office. Yesterday, I was here from 2pm till 5am. Today, it ain't so bad. 3pm and still counting (it's about 130am now).

Thursday, September 27, 2007

Wrathatouille

I think it was wrong of me to check my work email at 12MN. Argh. I am sooo not liking where Ratatouille is going. I am not liking him at all!

Tuesday, September 25, 2007

Long Day Today

Taking a day off (from the office) is asking for it. "It" being a ton of emails and a boat-load of backlog tasks. A record high of backlog emails. 159, when I first opened my computer. It was just emailing and conference calls left and right. I had lunch a little around 3pm. And left the office past 10pm. I could feel the "L" on my forehead, whilst eating my green tea loaf at Starbucks for dinner, while sipping the freebie black currant green tea frap sampler (in cute, small cups).

A nice ending to this long day...

** Listening to Kings of Convenience's "Stay Out of Trouble" and Tahiti 80's "Heartbeat", great musical discoveries courtesy of my friends, ANJelo and Bibay. It's great how a song can bring you back in time, remind you of a feeling or a moment in your life. I was listening to "Better off Alone" on my way home and I could easily remember our 2000 vacay in the US. Fun! Fun!

** Playing with Jianna! Super cutesy.

** Catching "My Best Friend's Wedding" on HBO. Movie that immortalized, "A Say A Little Prayer" and "The Way You Look Tonight" on the wedding song book. Schmenten is a sucker for best friend movies. When I first saw this movie, I didn't like it very much. Probably because Jules didn't get the guy. It was a sad ending, but I think as I grew older, I've found a greater appreciation for movies with not so happy endings. Probably because they're more real. I saw this movie a few months ago, and I think I just bawled like a baby (at the parts where Lery brought out the Kleenex). That part where Michael danced with Jules, and when he says, "You have to say it out loud. Otherwise, the moment just passes you by." And at the end where Michael and Kimmie's car drives off. And when Jules lends their song. And when Jules was running after Michael who was running after Kimmie. Haaaay. At least the token gay best friend's there to make things a little easier. Jules is actually pretty evil. Hehe. George giving it to her point blank was what made me cry the first time I saw this movie, "Nodody! (is chasing you) You are not the one, Jules. Get it?" It's hard to be jello most of the time.

Monday, September 24, 2007

[Music From the Baul] Walnut Tree

I've been listening to Keane lately, and I was reminded of how much I love this song. First heard it from The O.C. soundtrack. There's a sadness about this song.

Walnut Tree
by Keane


Once there was a great storm,
Pushed my head beneath the waves,
I was gone.

Underneath the walnut tree,
Where you said you'd wait for me,
And I waited a long, long time

I waited a long, long time,
I waited a long, long time,
I waited a long, long time,
I waited a long, long time.

Why, why do I come here?
Seeking out the memories I hold dear,
'Cause you put your spell on me,
Made me live in memory,
And im frozen in just the wrong time.

I waited a long, long time,
I waited a long, long time,
I waited a long, long time,
I waited a long, long time.

[Music From the Baul] High and Dry

They played this song when Chuck was having a girlie moment with Alex. Jamie Cullum has a version of this song too.

High and Dry
By Radiohead


Two jumps in a week, I bet you think that's pretty clever don't you boy.
Flying on your motorcycle, watching all the ground beneath you drop.
You'd kill yourself for recognition; kill yourself to never ever stop.
You broke another mirror; you're turning into something you are not.

Don't leave me high, don't leave me dry
Don't leave me high, don't leave me dry

Drying up in conversation, you will be the one who cannot talk.
All your insides fall to pieces, you just sit there wishing you could still make love
They're the ones who'll hate you when you think you've got the world all sussed out
They're the ones who'll spit at you. You will be the one screaming out.

Don't leave me high, don't leave me dry
Don't leave me high, don't leave me dry

It's the best thing that you've ever had, the best thing that you've ever, ever
had.
It's the best thing that you've ever had; the best thing you've had has gone away.

Don't leave me high, don't leave me dry
Don't leave me high, don't leave me dry

[Movie Schmovie] I Now Pronounce You Chuck and Larry

Finally breaking my movie hiatus! Irene and I saw "I Now Pronounce You Chuck and Larry" today. I am a big fan of all Happy Madison movies (can watch them over and over again), and this one is classic. From the Rob Schneider cameo, to the often offensive jokes. Hehe! This movie is about friendship, and what two great friends will do for each other. Jessica Biel is sizzling hot! Ving Rhames is super funny! Especially when he sang, "I'm Every Woman." Nothing new from Adam Sandler. He's played this character several times, and I love 'em all! Hehe!

The Weekend

What a weekend. A classic manifestation of my obvious weak spot as well as my crazy head. Argh.

Saturday, I didn't have the best sleep and I had Friday left overs for lunch. I rushed to Philway Travel lunch time to get the Contiki brochures Tita Chit left for me. Woohoo. I'm pretty excited about the trip we're planning for next year. Mental note to self... Confirm with Rommel about his academic calendar for April next year. Saturday afternoon, I met up with the girls at Beadholic. Darnit. It was just beading and bonding from there. I had merienda, dinner, and my midnight snack at the girls' home in Agana. When I'm with the girls, it's just sooo hard to leave.

Sunday was play day with the Dela Ramas. We later had dinner at Fish and Co. Yes it was Yummy. Haha. We all had Fish and Chips. Tsalap. I heard the last mass at our church and although I had arrived during the homily, I think I got what I came for. Some guidance and probably a couple of "signs". Hehe. The priest shared, "You cannot serve two masters."

More random thoughts from the weekend...

I took this picture last Wednesday, when I met up with Irene, Karina, and Rommel at the Powerplant mall. When we passed by this structure, I felt melancholic. This is actually the beginnings of that big Christmas Tree beside the mall, which last year, was orange, I think. The sadness was out of the realization that the holidays were approaching again. I love Christmas, don't get me wrong. Maybe it's that thought that it will be a Christmas like any other, rather than a Christmas like no other. Hehe. Or maybe I remember the feeling I had when I saw it last year, November 6, 2006.



Beads and more beads. We now know why one can be a "beadaholic". I'm a huge earring fan. And making these cute stuff is actually pretty relaxing. Ate Love and I have decided to go into business together. Haha. For the first time in about three years, Schmenten will be joining the St. James Bazaar. What's for sale this year?? Accessories! Will be getting some stuff in BKK this November, but we'll be making most of the others on the inventory. The girls are pretty excited! Ina will be making more bracelets, while Camille will be making the brochures about the semi-precious stones. Ate Love is our designer and my partner. Hehe! We've asked Tita Alda if she's interested to join. She'll think about it. Hehe. This year will not be about making money. Of course, we'd like to get the rent back. Hehe. It's more for fun! Kinda missed the bazaar scene.



I was pretty excited about our next enterprising endeavor, when I went home last night. Popsicles was his practical self and asked me, "How will you find time to study?" OK. Good question. I'm pretty tied up as it is (with work and all). Then there's Rosan's wedding this November. I maybe digging myself a deeper hole. I can't help but wonder why I'm doing this to myself.

At mass today, I was reminded that I should take charge of my life, and quit letting things happen by themselves. I think I've had that complacent attitude for the past year. I looked up what "complacent" means and I just had to smile: "Contented to a fault; self-satisfied and unconcerned" (from Dictionary.com)

And so with a renewed feeling of purpose, I went to Santana Grove and christened the Mocha Blends there with some study time. I reviewed from 915 till about 1145. The first few questions I had tried out, from this reviewer I got from Riza, were as tough as Sadako's nails! Dengit. I felt more stupid than when I was blanky staring at the ABAP screen back when I was a developer. I could hear the words, "why am I doing this to myself?" inside my head. And a couple of, "do I really want this?" Argh. I remember how much I disliked math. And then I reminded myself that perhaps all this attitude is not helping me to become more productive.

The coffee I had at Mocha Blends... wasn't all that great. Hehe. I chose it over Starbucks, which was a coupld of doors away, precisely because it wasn't Starbucks. I wanted something different for a change. Oh well. I had my back on the door and my iPod on (playing classical music).



At the end of this Sunday, I felt good, that I at least spent some time doing something productive. I realized that i also need a study plan. I need to cover the basics first before diving into the tough questions.

Haaaaay Schmenten. So confused pa rin.

Avenue Q!

Thank you Suzie DLR for getting me a ticket to see Avenue Q! Suzie's been raving about this musical ever since she saw it on Broadway. She even included Avenue Q songs on the mixed CD she gave me more than a year ago. Anyway, I enjoyed the show! It's like.... Sesame Street for adults. NOT for kids! Although there are puppets, the content of the songs and the puppet on puppet action clearly say that this show is for a more mature audience. Here's a quick summary of what the play is about...



"AVENUE Q is the story of Princeton, a bright-eyed college grad who comes to New York City with big dreams and a tiny bank account. He soon discovers that the only neighborhood in his price range is Avenue Q; still, the neighbors seem nice. There's Brian the out-of-work comedian and his therapist fianceé Christmas Eve; Nicky the good-hearted slacker and his roommate Rod -- a Republican investment banker who seems to have some sort of secret; an Internet addict called Trekkie Monster; and a very cute kindergarten teaching assistant named Kate. And would you believe the building's superintendent is Gary Coleman?!? (Yes, that Gary Coleman.) Together, Princeton and his newfound friends struggle to find jobs, dates, and their
ever-elusive purpose in life." -- Source: http://www.avenueq.com/about.html

The cast was really good! I've never been a fan of Rachel Alejandro, but she was pretty great as Kate Monster and Lucy the Slut. Hehe. The guy who played Brian, Rycharde Everley, looked very familiar. Alas. I think he's the Aussie guy in "Ang Cute ng Ina Mo". Hehe. Aiza Seguerra, oh so talented Eat Bulaga alum, is Gary Coleman. Felix Rivera (Princeton / Rod) and
Joel Trinidad (Nicky / Trekkie Monster) also voiced two characters each, which is pretty tough!



Random thoughts post-Avenue Q...

** I too ask about my Purpose. Hehe. Still pretty hazy at 27... Ok fine at 28.

** I was half-kidding Suzie when I told her, where I am right now, I think I'm somewhere between Kate Monster and Nicky. Mwahaha. Oh well. At the end of the day, I think I'm more of a Princeton, still figuring out what to do with his life.

** I like the last song, "For Now". Here's a snippet...

Don't stress,
Relax,
Let life roll off your backs
Except for death and paying taxes,
Everything in life is only for now!

Saturday, September 22, 2007

Pier One and Krispy Kreme with Focus Peeps

It was just lamon and laughing last Friday night with the Focus peeps (originally just the L3 support peeps, but some of us piggy-backed and joined the fun). Almost all the teams were represented!

We saw a lot of Ceasar's ngalangala. The Middleware team's Eeyore and Pooh.



I'm not a beer drinker (everybody knows that), but I finished my first bottle of beer last night. Of course, the effect of that was about four trips to the bathroom and my tummy slightly sticking out (I'm sure Ceasar will easily contest to "slightly").



ANJelo is just C.R.A.Z.Y.! He and Ceasar combined is like watching a comedy show. Sarap lang tumawa. They kept us entertained with their antics. Pasqui had a few tricks of his own!











Buddy En Sol!




Friday, September 21, 2007

A Quasi-Epiphany

I've been dilly dallying with deciding what I really want to do in the next two years for a little over 13 months now. I think I've attributed it to the fact that life has gotten so comfortable and familiar, that I'm scared to move out of my comfort zone. Both my options have unknowns attached to them. I like both. I'd like to pursue both. But my recent run-ins with the review sloth has revealed that I'm not really focused.

Apart from Paolo, Irene has been my career voice of reason lately. She's pursuing her own dreams, and she's become an inspiration to me. I was talking to her yesterday and I had a mini, quasi-epiphany (mini na nga, quasi pa). We were moving from one topic to another. She was saying, "You need to decide. And stick to that decision. And commit. If you really want it bad, make it work. Commit to it. Do all that you can to rid yourself of the what ifs and the maybes. Deng. There it was. I am afraid of commitment.

Mwahaha. Used to be super sure that I'm not the commitment phobic type. But lately, not just with work and with studying, I haven't totally committed myself. It's hard to commit when there are so many uncertainties about something or someone. On my part, most of it is unconscious, I guess. Although I do know for a fact, that if I do finally commit (as I am with my great friends and fabuloso family), I do everything I can to make it work.

Grouchy said I am not afraid of commitment. I'm just scared of stepping out of my comfort zone. Maybe I'm not a risk taker either. Hehe.

What I have learned though, in the past 13 months, is not to take things too seriously. I've had a lot of great expectations last year which didn't exactly fall through as I had hoped. Today, I continue on with a new mindset. Sort of along the lines of "Que sera, sera." Not really too conscious or expectant. More putting myself out there and just being comfortable. I don't think I've lost anything.

One thing may change everything. Haha. Keyce and I share this sentiment. IT does trump everything.

So for those who are wondering where I'll be a year from now... Honestly, I do not know! And I'm kind of worried that I don't.

Monday, September 17, 2007

Welcome Zaina Clarisse!

ERP5 mini-reunion!



Zalggy's little one, Zaina Clarisse Eusebio, was Christened today at Mary Mother of the Church in BF Resort Las Pinas. As usual (and as expected), I was fashionably late (Aileen in tow). When we arrived at the church, they were taking family pictures. Hehe. Reception followed at the Tancinco-Eusebio home also in BF Resort. Although Aileen and I were pretty stuffed with our Recipes lunch, I had to sample all of the culinary delights prepared by the Tancincos. Honestly! Who says "no" to lechon?!



My godchild, Zoie, has gotten big! She looks a lot like Mommy Precious. Hehe. As for Zaina, I'm not sure who she looks like yet. :-)



After mingling and some catching up, Aileen and I left with Greg. We brought him home (which was about 15 minutes away from Zalggy's house). I was supposed to hit the books that afternoon, but then hanging out with Aileen was the better option. I took her to Westgate and we had crepes at Cafe Breton. We also tried recalling the names of our NA and EUR counterparts. We even called Chae when we couldn't remember Olivier's surname.

What a Sunday. After hearing mass, I went home and had a little dinner. Then I hit the sack for my weekly massage. What a perfect evening. Still no reviews this weekend though. Oh no.

Saturday Beadaholics

I just agreed to joining this Beading session because I wanted to spend some quality bonding time with my girls.




I was pleasantly surprised that I genuinely enjoyed myself! I'm more of a consumer than a creator. So I wasn't exactly sure if I'd be good at making these beaded creations. Alas. from 3pm till 7pm, I was just making earrings like there was no tomorrow. I was drawn to deep blue, purple, green, and white. Ina and I hung around some more.






Famished beadaholics went to Conti's for dinner! Ina had the Mango Salad and the Beef Salpicao, and I had the Baked Prawns. It was really nice, just the two of us! I've known these girls since they were very little, and I feel like I'm getting to know them all over again. Ina entertained me with her kwentos about her crazy friends and her dreams of getting a LV bag when she turns 18.



We later went back to their Casa Marias home where I had another slice of bitter chocolate cake and a cup of coffee (my second cup of the evening).



Ate Love grew very excited of my vacay plans for next year and started showing me stuff she was going to ask me to buy for her. Hehe. We ended the evening with a film showing. We watched the girls' current favorite movie, "Anastacia". Us condo girls love this movie! Maan bought a VHS tape in the US and we'd watch it and just giggle over Dimitri (voiced by John Cusack).

It was a pretty wholesome weekend! I slept with a smile on my face. My friends know how much I love my girls. They're all growing up pretty fast, and I still want to be part of their lives. I pray for someone who'd be more than happy to make them a part of his life as well.

Some random thoughts...

Me love the earrings. I can't say accessories in general, but just earrings. Designing and making them is a learning process! I think the bazaar dragon in me is slowly waking from its 3 year slumber. Mwahaha. Maybe just one weekend? Not for the sake of earning money, but just for selling stuff I find pretty, and stuff which I make. The business mill is really running in my head right now. I have the earring carousels to display the stuff I'll be selling. I can most likely buy some stuff from "Downtown", and a few unique pieces in Bangkok. Hmmm.... I'm soooo tempted!

Okie. I'm putting this ad out there... Anyone interested in going to Bangkok later this year? Maybe sometime November? Please let me know! I am close to being desparate!

Parking

This entry is for Paui.

I will not take full credit for this analogy. It was one late Saturday evening when Karina and I were going around the parking lot in Eastwood when this train of thought came to be.

Looking (and keeping) love is like looking for a free space in a parking lot. As a driver, you're not always sure if it's better to go around in circles, looking for a free space, or just staying put and waiting for someone to leave. There are times when you've gone around and around when alas! A car leaves and finding the free slot is a pleasant, unexpected surprise.

This scenario is also very possible... You see someone who's potentially leaving, so you position yourself (to take the parking space), make the signals (hazard light on). The free space is in sight, when suddenly, out of nowhere another car pulls a fast one on you and takes your space. A space which you've claimed rightfully yours.

Some parking slots differ in sizes. Some slots are the perfect fit for standard sized cars. There are big a** cars that try to fit themselves into smaller parking spaces, with so much difficulty. In Tagalog, "Pinipilit ang hindi kasya."

Most often, the longer you stay in a parking space/lot the more expensive the parking rate (I haven't taken into consideration those parking lots with flat rates).

Finding the parking space isn't the end of the journey. It is a prerequisite to the real purpose of travel. When you've tried your best to look for a space in a lot, but could not find any available space, transfering lots is an option worth considering. Perhaps the lot across the street (or two blocks away), might have some available space.

And finally, regardless of the size, shape, color, brand, make, or model of your car, all is fair in parking space. The sleekest BMW and the crappiest 1976 Toyota both have equal opportunities to look for a space. Sleeker, classier cars might get more attention or be given special care, but in the end, all is fair. Everyone needs a space.

Saturday, September 15, 2007

[Music From the Baul] Grace Kelly

First heard this song over the radio (over at 88.3). Super catchy! The whole albums pretty fun!! Some Mika quick facts (courtesy of Wikipedia) Mica Penniman (born 18 August 1983), known as Mika (IPA [ˈmikə]), is a Lebanese-born, London-based singer who has a recording contract with Casablanca Records and Universal Music, and rose to fame around the end of 2006 and the start of 2007. He was trained by Alla Ardakov (Ablaberdyeva) a Russian opera professional and his public performances and jobs have varied from classical performances in the Royal Opera House, writing in-flight music for British Airways and creating an Orbit chewing gum jingle. His debut radio appearance was on Dermot O'Leary's BBC Radio 2 show in September 2006, Later with Jools Holland and on The Friday Night Project on 19 January 2007.[citation needed] While he is rumoured to have a vocal range of five octaves,[4] he actually claims that it is closer to three and a half octaves.[5]
He slightly altered his given name, Mica, changing the "c" to a "k," because he was frustrated by how often people would mispronounce it


*****
Grace Kelly
By Mika


I wanna talk to you.

The last time we talked Mr. Smith you reduced me to tears.
I promise you, it won't happen again.

Do I attract you?
Do I repulse you with
my queasy smile?
Am I too dirty?
Am I too flirty?
Do I like what you like?
I could be wholesome
I could be loathsome
Yes I'm a little bit shy
Why don't you like me?
Why don't you like
me without making
me try?

I try to be like Grace Kelly
Mmm Mmm
But all her looks
were too sad
Ahh Ahh
So I tried a little Freddie
Mmm Mmm
I've gone identity mad!

I could be brown
I could be blue
I could be violet sky
I could be hurtful
I could be purple
I could be anything you like
Gotta be green
Gotta be mean
Gotta be everything more

Why don't you like me?
Why don't you like me?
Why don't you walk
out the door!

Getting angry doesn't
solve anything

How can I help ya
How can I help it
How can I help
what you think?
Hello my baby
Hello my baby
Putting my life on the brink

Why don't you like me
Why don't you like me
Why don't you like yourself?

Should I bend over?
Should I look older?
just to be put on your shelf?

I try to be like Grace Kelly
Mmm Mmm
But all her looks
were too sad.
Ahh Ahh
So I tried a little Freddie
Mmm Mmm
I've gone identity mad!

I could be brown
I could be blue
I could be violet sky
I could be hurtful
I could be purple
I could be anything you like
Gotta be green
Gotta be mean
Gotta be everything more
Why don't you like me?
Why don't you like me?
Walk out the door!

Say what you want
To satisfy yourself
Hey
But you only want what
everybody else
says you should want...
You want

I could be brown
I could be blue
I could be violet sky
I could be hurtful
I could be purple
I could be anything you like
Gotta be green
Gotta be mean
Gotta be everything more
Why don't you like me?
Why don't you like me?
Walk out the door!

I could be brown
I could be blue
I could be violet sky
I could be hurtful
I could be purple
I could be anything you like
Gotta be green
Gotta be mean
Gotta be everything more
Why don't you like me?
Why don't you like me?
Walk out the door!
Ooooooooooh Ooh Oooooooh
Waaa

Humphrey, we're leaving.

KACHINGAAAAA!!

Disguised on a Friday Night

Note to self... Take more pictures with people in 'em.

I always look forward to Fridays. Last day of the week, the beginning of the weekend. Unwinding, unloading. This Friday, I wasn't as excited. My Friday gimik bud's in Minnesota and I didn't have any particular gimik planned. At 9:30 pm, I sent a couple of messages out to friends who I know would be out. My saving grace? Macky, Bibay, and Erik! I joined them for their late dinner at Grappa's Reposo. I was absolutely famished! Here's what I had! Grilled chicken with tomatoes and cheese and a glass of red.




I was so hungry that I even finished the garnish on my plate. Mwahaha. These guys are pretty awesome. We just laughed and laughed. I met Erik's new beau, Chris. Later, Macky, Bibay and I went to M Cafe, where we ran into Alexi. He eye-balled this dude from Malaysia. "Athletic bod, in a blue long sleeved office attire" was how he described himself. And then we spotted this Chinese looking guy wearing a blue long sleeved button down shirt, wandering. He was pretty cute! He joined us and we started talking about Malaysia, his travels, his work. Deng. This guy didn't look gay at all. And he was cute!!! Bibay and I were in agreement, "Sayang naman." Makes me wonder how many other cute guys are out there who are disguised as straight guys. but are totally NOT straight.

So Keyce. My most expensive meal of the week minus our katakawan! Hehe. Feels a little weird still, not having you around. Anyway, I hope you and your roomie are not smoking, not drinking, not wearing jeans, and not judging each other. Mwahaha.

Random thoughts...

** My first time ever! Paid my Citibank Bill through the Metrobank ATM. My first thought, "Pede pala yun?!" For years, I've been withdrawing my payments and driving to Citibank to deposit them. Thank you Metrobank.

** Erik and Bibay are going to BKK this October!! I'm on the prowl for peeps who would like to go to BKK this end of November! Please holler and we'll talk itineraries!

** You know, all you have to do is ask.

** I think I've found what will make Robert Langdon tear his hair off. Haha. My conversations with Irene and Keyce last night were pretty enlightening. Irene shares that perhaps not doing all that you can, giving it all you've got, prevents someone from really moving on. I realized last night what she meant. I'm the type who'd rather live with a "what if", and perhaps that's the reason why I hold on to certain things, people, and possibilities, longer than I should. I maybe making excuses for myself. Maybe I'm scared. Maybe I think I have it all figured out. Maybe I should have a different approach. Shared this proposal with Keyce and she asked me, "Kaya mo ba?" Mwahaha. Robert Langdon! SOS! I'm giving this some more thought this weekend.

** Paui! I will have another entry about the parking lot analogy. I've shared this analogy with so many people already. I dunno if I'll be able to explain it well without my gesticulations. Hehe. Will try!

** So sayang these great, good looking guys (who are into music and movies) who are gay. Classic example: Alexi's Malaysian Eyeball boylet. It's hard to call them out these days. One woman's loss, another gay guy's treasure. I have a handful of gay friends. They're all fabulous and we just go well together like espresso and steamed milk! I wonder how Grace Adler (of Will and Grace) feels, when she fell in love with Will right before he realized he was gay. Haha. But I guess what that show teaches us, is that in the most adverse, complicated situations, emerge the best friendships.

[Survey Schmurvey] 50 First Reactions

Grabbed from Tere's blog...

50 first reactions ...before you start, erase my answers so that you're not influenced by my answers. Okay this is called 50 FIRST REACTIONS... type what comes to your mind FIRST whenever you hear these 50 words. Don't think and don't go back and change. Doesn't matter how random just type it!

1. Beer: San Miguel!
2. Food: Pasta and Tandoori
3. Relationships: Needs work
4. Your CRUSH: Unexpected :)
5. Power Rangers: Sooo 90s!
6. Life: is like a box of chocolates
7. The President: Let her finish her term, please
8. Yummy: Paolo and Suzie! Mwahaha
9. Cars: Pixar
10. Movie: Hairspray!
11. Halloween: Trick or treating sa AAV with the girls
12. Sex: with someone you love and trust
13. Religion: respect everyone's beliefs
14. Hate: this dow manager. hehe.
15. Fear: being left behind
16. Marriage: in the distant future. but in the future nonetheless.
17. Blondes: have more fun
18. Slippers: at home and the beach
19. Shoes: brown and pink kate spades
20. Asians: family-oriented
21. Pass time: blogging
22. One night stand: about last night...
23. Cell Phone: samsung rules this year
24. Smoke: YBs
25. Fantasy: Coldplay concert with Phoenix as the front act
26. College: the best years of my life
27. Highschool Life: "and now as we all move along, remember the time we once sang this song"
28. Pajamas: soft and comfy
29. Stars: when they align....
30. Fitness Center: Gold's. Was a member a long, long time ago
31. Alcohol: red wine's my best bud
32. The word love: sparks a lot of interesting conversations
33. Friends: are treasured
34. Money: i don't have much!
35. Heartache: mostly courtesy of Miguels
36. Time: does heal most wounds
37. Divorce: americans. haha
38. Dogs: Labradors
39. Undies: cute designs
40. Parents: I love 'em both
41. Babies: Iya!
42. Ex: Y, Z.
43. Song: "This Modern Love" by Bloc Party
44. Color: Green
45. Weddings: My specialty. Ate Abi's was the most memorable!
46. Pizza: Yellow Cab
47. Hangout: Karina's house in BF
48. Resto: Grappa's. Had dinner there last night
49. Goal: Find what I've been looking for.
50. Inspiration: Irene's go getter attitude

Wednesday, September 12, 2007

Yummy with the De la Ramas

I had dinner with the De la Ramas today! At Pasto Eastwood. Yours truly was late... as usual. I tried a new route from Pioneer to Eastwood, which was kind of a mistake. I didn't realize how horrible the traffic could be along Ortigas Avenue. Never again!

Anyway, when I finally managed to go to Eastwood, I met up with the newly weds and we had pasta and pizza. Oo! Yummy sya. Mwahaha.




The Dela Ramas and I share the love for reading other people's blogs. We keep each other updated through these online diaries. As usual, Paolo had a ton of things to say which make me think. Some of my hunches he agreed with. I dunno if his radar is better than mine, but a voice inside my head says he might be mistaken. Then again, just like the movie "Memento", maybe I'm leading myself to believe in a certain something. Haha. Oh well. Who knows for sure anyway?

Awesome converstaions as usual, about raising kids, people who think they're cool, and a few other random things. I might be going with them to see Avenue Q! Whoppeee. I'm keeping my fingers crossed for available tickets.

Tuesday, September 11, 2007

Second Week Sans Keyce

I'm on my second week without my gimik buddy. Keyce and I YMed yesterday. We had a few laughs and a couple of dramatic moments (so typical of us girls). Nakakamiss. I feel like I just broke up with someone. I need to be anticipate changes in my routine... among other things.

Irene, Arief (pronounced as "Reep" by the loving gf), and I went to Serendra yesterday. They accompanied me to dinner at Hossein's, where I ordered the Cielo Kebab with Saffron rice. The platter, which I normally share with lamon bud Keyce, was half-finished. Tsalap. It was perfect for a very late lunch/dinner. We walked around Bonifacio High Street. I think I ought not to be skipping meals because on my way back to my car, I had forgotten where I parked!

Random thoughts for the day...

**Ceasar and I had a conversation yesterday about how you like the person who doesn't like you, and how such a situation tells you that you should probably consider changing something about yourself. I of course gave him my "love is like looking for a parking space" analogy. He got what I was trying to say. But maybe some guys just think differently.

Monday Eye Candy

I'm loving Mondays because of back to back episodes of Entourage (Season 3) on HBO. I end up sleeping way past 12MN because I'd be thinking about the cute Vincent Chase (played by Adrian Grenier). First caught sight of him in Melissa Joan Heart's "Drive Me Crazy". Love the unkempt hair and that really boyish, charming smile.




"Entourage" is like Sex and the City... Only it's set in L.A., and it's about four guys. Nothing serious about relationships. Just guys. Having the time of their lives. Although Ari's sort of an a**, I like him! Jeremy Piven is great as Ari. Drama, Turtle, and Eric are all great.

Sunday, September 09, 2007

Happy to be blue!

Ateneo seized another victory today over the Green Archers. What a game! I only saw the last quarter and it was super exciting! Meirhoffer's last shot did not count and the blue eagles won! Whopeee!

Third Inuman Weekend

Three times in a row baby! Three weekends straight that the cousins and I bonded over drinks. Last night though, we found out that Central and Laiya BF temporarily closed. I texted Rosan and she said it was a long story (which involved jealous homeowners, hehe). Anyway, we tried this low key new place close to Ate Abi's clinis. The L.A. Armada Resto. Mwahaha. Not the sossiest of places, but the beer was cheap. Food wasn't too good though. But the company's always awesome.




First time Ate Abi joined us for a "gimik"! We also reminisced about those good ole days when Ate Love would organize our bi-monthly night outs. Just us girls, a band, and ladies drinks. One time, Ate Cynthia had a Zombie which went staight to her head! Mwahaha. Classic. Our girlie barkada has been disbanded (most of the girls have flown abroad), and we've joined forces with the boys and the younger ones. Kakamiss rin ang mga balikbayans, Kurims, Sheryl, Majo, Milet.... well... ang buong tropa. Sa uulitin!

At the beginning...

Didn't just come here to enjoy my tall double shot espresso White Chocolate Mocha and Cinammon Swirl. Before I officially hit the books, I just have to blog a little. Hehe. I've been tired and uninspired lately, and I hope this move will start the juices pumping. I think what I've lost over the years is the discipline to do what I set out to do, to shut out everything else, and to concentrate on achieving a goal. Everything's come relatively easy for the past few years (relatively). Challenges at work have been aplenty recently. We've somehow attributed it to lack of good leadership and help which actually matters. I honeslty do not know how I will do two things at once. Ate Gret told me last night (after our laugh fest which lasted till about 530am!) to decide and to just choose one. Wish I could. But I can't. At this point. It's difficult when nothing seems absolutely sure and when I want to keep all my bases covered. Difficult when I want both badly and if it goes either way, I know I'd be happy. The rantings of an undecided girl. Complicate the mix with a little something else which might ultimately make me decide which is which. Haha. But that's been hanging in the air for far too long, I don't know what to think anymore. So I've decided to stop thinking about it at all.

How cryptic can I be?! With the wifi meter running and my coffee waning. You guys know what I'm talking about. Haha.

I'm at the beginning actually, of what should have been the end if things turned out a little differently from last year. My deadline's fast approaching (a little over a month left) and Irene has told me to postpone it a little more so I can have more time to prepare.

Crickey. Blogging isn't helping. So I better hit 'em books.

Saturday, September 08, 2007

[Movie Schmovie] Jerry Maguire

Maan loves this movie. I remember her grad write up. Ideal man? Jerry Maguire. I saw this movie when it first came out waaaay back 1996. i saw it with my blockmates at SM Megamall, and Lery and I had to ask everyone not to leave just yet because our eyes were swollen from crying. Haha. This movie immortalized the sentence, "You complete me", to which a lot of the romantic ladies swooned to, and a lot of single independent ladies protested to. On a lazy Saturday afternoon, after a filling dinner of chicken and pork adobo (and brownie ala mode for dessert), I was sprawled on the bed, watching Jerry Maguire. The movie ends with the viewers smiling. So nice.

I'm amazed at how you can watch a movie, which you've seen a dozen of times, with fresh eyes and find a new appreciation for it. Dorothy believed and loved Jerry first. For the "man he wants to be, and the man he almost is." Just today, I really love this line, "On the surface, everything seems fine. I've got this great guy. And he loves my kid. And he sure does like me a lot. And I can't live like that. It's not the way I'm built." At least Dorothy didn't settle.

How I spent the Sydney Holiday...

Quite thankful for the holiday today. I've been extra attentive to my phone in case someone from the CNUM team or Yas calls me. I didn't really sleep well. Prolly because I had thoughts of work. Deng. Not good.

Anyway, happy for the very filling lunch. I asked Melissa to make chicken ala king (which was chicken in creamy sauce with carrots and potatoes). I then hung in front of the telly to watch "Glory Road", this movie about the first all-African American NCAA basketball team. It was pretty good. Anyway, I had to haul a** to the bathroom to take a bath to do a couple of errands. Accomplishment for the day... Settling my American Express bill. Now I'm left to ponder over by Citibank bill. Hey! I also had a pedicure, which I've been meaning to get since last July. Mwahaha. The toes are looking hideous.

I met with Irene a little before 6pm and we had early dinner at Max's. Then we went to her favorite store, CD R King. I think we walked around Park Square, Glorietta, and Greenbelt for about 3 hours. But we did manage to accomplish a couple of things. We got the UK adapters she was looking for. We got the bag hangers from the Japan Home store for 88 bucks each. Nice!



We ended our day with a cup of Xocolat Latte (in Katipunan). I also had the big brownie (which i did not finish, as expected). I was close to having a headache when we were in Makati, and the cup 'o joe did the trick.

Irene was her hilarious self. Cracking me up with her formal hirits ("... but have you heard of it though?") and her booboos ("Happy treef, Rip!", which should have been 'Happy trip, Rief' ). We also did a run down of the restos in Katipunan we frequented as college students, our crushies back then, and the cast of Ang TV. Mwehehe. We did forget to discuss "Pride and Prejudice." Arief will be arriving in Manila this Saturday and we are taking him out tomorrow! Should be fun!

Random Thoughts today...

My skin's gotten pretty dry. Most noteworthy is my face. I dunno if it's because of the overexposure to airconditioning (at home, inside the car, in the office), or dehydration. Must be both. My face feels "mahapdi". I dunno if I just haven't found the moisturizer which works best with my skin. I've been looking for my small half empty bottle of Clinique Dramatically Different moisturizer, but I haven't seen it. Bad trip. Looks like I need to make a bee-line for Rustan's to get a new bottle. Argh. I should start drinking more water during the day.

Irene shares she took to heart what I told her last week, "You are where you're supposed to be." This occurred to me last year (most likely while i was driving and thinking my happy and not-so-happy thoughts) and I shared my sentiments with Irene. Nice thought actually. It calmed me down when I was anxiously asking so many questions about certain situations.

How do you do two things passionately at the same time? Argh. I've been struggling with my review sessions. Too tired from work.

Anyone interested in a Canon Ixus iZoom? 5MP. One year old. Pristine condition. Let me know!

Friday, September 07, 2007

Ma Boys

I love listening to great music which may not necessarily be mainstream. Lately, my favorites include these two great all-male bands.

PHOENIX The band formed in 1991[1] in the semi-affluent Parisian suburb of Versailles, in the same culture that produced late-90s bands such as Air and Daft Punk; Laurent Brancowitz was actually part of Darlin' with Thomas Bangalter and Guy-Manuel de Homem-Christo, who eventually became Daft Punk. The name of the band wasn't chosen until 1997.[1] Phoenix started as the backing band for a remix of Air's "Kelly Watch the Stars" single. Soon after, Phoenix released their 2000 debut album United.

My favorite Phoenix tracks... "If I Ever Feel Better", "Funky Squaredance", "Summer Days", "On Fire", "Honeymoon", "North", "Lost and Found", "Long Distance Call", "Consolation Prizes", "If It's not with you", "Congratulations", "Victim of the Crime", "Run Run Run", "Everything is Everything", and "Love For Granted"

They're pretty awesome. I didn't expect to like ALL their albums. "It's Never Been Like That", their third and latest album has been on my car's CD player for a few weeks now. The entire album is quite good. On my wish list... to see these guys in concert.


BLOC PARTY Bloc Party are a British indie rock band. In February 2005, the band released their critically acclaimed debut album Silent Alarm, which the magazine NME later made their Album of the Year. Bloc Party's second studio album, A Weekend in the City was released on February 5, 2007 in the UK and February 6 in the US. Kele Okereke (Vocals/Guitar) Russell Lissack (Guitar) Gordon Moakes (Bass/Backing Vocals) Matt Tong (Drums/ Backing Vocals)

MY favorite Bloc Party Tracks... "This Modern Love", "Helicopter", "Banquet", "So Here We Are", "Blue Light", "Uniform", "I Still Remember"

These guys remind me of Franz Ferdinand and The Killers a lot.

Let me know if you're a fan of either group. I'm looking for fellow groupies!

Thursday at Friday's

April's back in Manila from New Zealand! She's been here a couple of months and she called a dinner meeting with the girls! I was uber late! Had to go through my 80++ unread emails before the long weekend (Thank you Sydney holiday!) It was Lery, April, Joyce, and myself. The girls had dinner at Friday's Serendra (and I mooched off their left over fries).

Joyce was about to leave and call it a night (the babies had to go to bed). But she had to say a couple more minutes to fill us in with the latest chika.




Us condo girls stayed a little longer and we chatted until it rained. We all laughed at our common office styling movies. Lery shared her story about watching "A Love Story" and crying her eyes out (despite starting it in the middle). Teehee. Classic banana eating Lery.

[Music From the Baul] So Here We Are

Another great track from the "Silent Alarm" debut album of Bloc Party. Not much spoken during the song though. But it's worth listening to.

*******
So Here We Are
By Bloc Party



I caught a glimpse, but its been forgotten
So here we are again
I made a vow, to carry you home... home

I really tried to do what you wanted
It all went wrong again

I made a vow, to carry you home
If you fall sick, if you pass out

I figured it out, I can see again

Thursday, September 06, 2007

My Favorite Things

Tenten's busy scale has been off the charts lately, hence the limited blog entries. I'll try and make up for my delinquency. Hehe. Anyway, I remember getting this email before about life's simple pleasures. I also bought this book before about 1000 things which make you happy. Simple things, really. So anyway, I'd like to share a few stuff which makes me smile.

My year's supply of Green Clover and Aloe Body Lotion and Body Spray. Lery first introduced me to this fab Bath and Body Works scent. My wonderful cousins in the US (Ate Svet and Ate Gret) have been so good and generous to me! I love them Ates!



Chocolate covered espresso beans. First tasted in Sydney. Then Aileen sent a small tube of them when Chris came over. More recently, Mike gave me a small tin can from his US vacay. Yummy. This one came in three different varieties. Caramel, Amaretto, and Irish Creme. I think I need to be more conscious of what I've been eating lately. I've grown very fond of chocolates in the past few weeks. Sarap eh! Coffee, I already love. Marrying chocolates and espresso beans. Genius.



Hanging out with the cousins. I will miss having the balikbayans around. All the shopping, family gatherings, mini-Manila brownbags. Haha. The Kurims, Majo, Sheryl and I have been bonding more lately because of Lola's beeday and because of inuman sessions with Noel and Aileen.