Blue Aficionado

A day with the Iron Ladies

2009-02-05T19:38:00.000-08:00

Are you familiar with those peeps on top? Never mind the cute lass on the rightmost - in brown colored tee, lol (it’s just me..ok?). That above photo was taken the day I attended the New Generation Conference spearheaded by the Rotary International District 3830. The badge on my shirt that says “Lipad Noypi” was the theme of the event, in which invited speakers were Filipinos who triumphantly achieved daunting tasks and have proven outstanding determination being admired worldwide. So, got figured out who they are?

If you got the same thinking as mine, yes, you are right! *giggles* I got the chance to rub elbows with the first ASEAN women to reach the highest point of earth – The Mount Everest. I feel so fortunate seeing them in flesh and hearing their own success stories supported with gallery of pictures and videos. I was carried away to the extent of feeling I was really one of them. It was truly remarkable having them showed the distinct qualities of women empowerment of our country. From the bottom of my heart, I commend Noelle Wenceslao, Carina Dayondon and Janet Belarmino and the rest of Kaya ng Pinay Team Everest for this historic feat. You have proven another national pride. Congratulations!

From weekly to day-timer

2009-01-31T19:09:00.000-08:00

The year 2008 left a huge mark on me when it comes to organizing my day to day schedule. As I am flipping the pages of my last year’s weekly pocket planner, it reminded me of how my year was; flabbergasted by the pages where I scribbled my to-do lists, deadlines, meetings and appointments that dominated my days; record of my billings and payments that were to be found inserted at the backpage of its cover. I just can’t believe that I have written and kept those stuff intact! I can vividly remember my morning routine at work, checking my priorities with the ever present mug of coffee on the side - that gives me a feeling more in command. Honestly, I have never been this “serious” (if you’ll consider it) in getting organized. But really, being a note taker helped me a lot in saving time and managing my daily tasks, thus, lessened my inclination of forgetting things. See how it improved me? :)

I've switched, for better

And for this year, I have armed myself with another one – same as my old. But the good news is, a kindhearted officemate of mine gifted me with an extra one which made me clapped in delight. I remember that he used to tease me whenever he sees me trying to compress my writings on the limited blank spaces of my pocket planner. Big thanks, Romy. His Christmas present was a day-timer organizer which I think far better than my previous planner. Though it is not handy and brand-coded; color is not my fave one, and yet, I just loved it! With its week at a glance and time added features, I could say that this will make most of my time productive and more proficient in planning. I know each time I will spend filling out its pages, is a piece of life that I once spent and worth-looking back. This day-timer planner will forever serve as my permanent record of activities as I head on with my life --- taking each day and time of this year to the fullest.

Happy Year of the Ox everyone!

My first tag for 2009

2009-01-28T20:13:00.000-08:00

My friend Juliet gave me my first assignment for the year 2009. So I'm posting it now to get a good grade. :) Thanks sis!

“The rules are simple. Use Google Images to search for the answers to the questions below. Then you must choose a picture from the first page of the results and post it as your answer. After that tag 7 people.”

Age of my next birthday

A place i'd like to travel to

My favorite place

My favorite thing

Favorite food (eggplant omellet)

The city i was born in

My nickname

My college major

Name of my love

My bad habbit

My hobby

My wish list (max of 3)

weight loss

healthy and happy family

savings for the future

Im passing this tag to seven (7) special people in my blogroll: Anna, Wena, KCee, Imelda, Enday, Joy and Alex. Have fun in doing so ;)

Holiday Quick Recap

2009-01-08T00:14:00.000-08:00

Happy New Year everyone!. Pardon me, I got full of activities lined up during the past long vacation. But here, I am putting in my picture again to share the highlights of my holiday happenings.

It was indeed December 2008 was one of my busiest months. I was really stressed out completing the list of family and friends that I need to get a gift; frazzled finding the perfect present while squeezing oneself in the bulk of shoppers; and enduring the heavy flow of traffic that zapped my energy to nil. Added to this, I got load of work deadlines to beat that’s been hanging in my head aside from attending mandated lavish parties. And oh, before I forgot, I also took advantage of the Christmas season and made profit from selling mouth-watering assortment of cakes, cookies and other sweet treats of Tipas Bakery. Well, getting orders and deliver it at their expected dates was really demanding for a newbie-seasonal-entrepreneur like me, considering I had to do these simultaneously with my clothing dealings. So far, all ended well. I may have earned not that big to suffice my time and effort, but the lessons I learned from doing so was incalculable.

But, you know what made my long holiday more brilliant? It was the good food and good company that my entire family shared and enjoyed as we altogether kicked off 2009. There’s really no place like home. I’m so thankful that I was given the best family in the world.

Below are random shots that made my holiday worth-spending:

celebrated Blue Christmas

December 24, 2008 - morning scenario while waiting for bus at Pasay terminal

My techie buddies - Icey (lappie toppie), Teamy ( 1G handy flashdrive) and Sonya (newly bought portable hard drive - christmas self-gift)

had a wonderful time with them

Feeling Monday when it’s not

2008-12-02T00:37:00.000-08:00

*Laughing out loud while on the floor* -- that’s for myself for wearing the wrong color of uniform today!. I don’t think that my closet needs organizing. With vast ideas on clutter-free-environment readily available over the net, I can say that I was able to adopt some of the inexpensive tools to tidy up my closet. One of these is arranging my well pressed office uniforms according to its schedule. But how come I still landed on the wrong one? Heh, I have mistakenly arranged them the usual way. It never came to me that Tuesday would be my first day in the office for this week. Whew..What a day! I think I should start working on my calendar. *big grin*

Paint-a-smile trip this Christmas

2008-11-27T20:23:00.000-08:00

Donations are all ready, carefully labeled, sealed and packed. At exactly 2:00AM tomorrow, members and volunteers of the Rotaract Club of Sampiro will take the road to BAGUIO via Victory Liner (Pasay Terminal) for our annual Christmas gift giving project. And from Baguio, another six hours of grueling trip to Sagada. Hold on to your best grip along the way guys! Bring out all the fun and laughter and surprises we’ve got for them. I just wish on May 2009 (BALIK ESKWELA MONTH), no excuse can ever get in my way not to join you again.

And oh, a bottle of persimon wine when you get back, please? Sorry, I like it more compared to the taste of their famous rice wine. :P

Got excess?
Sunday Outreach
Balik-Eskwela '08 - The Return
Eskwelang Kwela '07
Prayer granted- It isn't my last glance

hypokalemia

2008-11-25T06:30:00.000-08:00

After hearing mass last Sunday, my cellphone beeped. It was a message from my youngest sister that my father was brought to hospital due to potassium deficiency, or hypokalemia. I wasted no time and phoned momsy to know how popsy was. I really don’t have any idea of its cause and the effect of it to a diabetic person like him. I’ve search over the net and landed with this health article at wiseGeeK:

Potassium is a mineral necessary to good health. It maintains the water and acid balance in blood and tissue cells, assists in muscle building, and transmits electrical signals between cells and nerves. Early symptoms of hypokalemia, or potassium deficiency, include dry skin, muscle weakness, fatigue and slow reflexes. If the deficiency develops rapidly, heart problems may result. Left unchecked, a condition known as hypokalemic paralysis may develop, in which the entire body goes stiff. This is a very serious condition requiring immediate medical attention.
Known causes of potassium deficiency include excessive diarrhea and vomiting. The treatment in these cases should be for the diarrhea and vomiting, and ensuring there continues to be sufficient potassium in the diet. Mineral supplements may also be necessary. If the vomiting is self-induced, as in bulimia, psychiatric treatment may be indicated.

Hyperthyroidism, an illness of the thyroid, the main hormone producing gland, is also known to cause potassium deficiency. It, in turn, may be caused by an imbalance in other minerals similar to potassium such as magnesium, sodium and calcium. There are numerous treatments available for hyperthyroidism, all requiring some level of medical supervision.

Medications known to increase the likelihood of potassium deficiency include diuretics, cortisones and drugs for controlling high blood pressure. Alternate medications and/or treatments can be explored with a medical professional. If changing medications is not feasible, it may be necessary to supplement with potassium or mineral tablets.

To date , papa is still at the hospital receiving medical care in the hope of lowering his complication rates. I believe in the possible factor behind the benefits associated with prayers. So, to those who made their time scrolling down to read this post, I humbly ask for a simple prayer for healthy recovery of my deareast papa. I'l be more glad also if you can share your life encounter or any knowledge related with hypokalemia.

Kickin' at 59

Got excess?

2008-11-23T17:49:00.000-08:00

I am not referring to any excess fats you’ve got on your body but on excess blessings you’d like to share this Christmas. This year will never be complete for us, rotaractors, (young Rotarians as they call us) not to paint a smile on kids’ face especially this coming holiday season. The members of the Rotaract Club of Sampiro under the term of Ms. Cristina Espinueva and some volunteers from our would-be daughter club (composed of nurses from Makati Medical Center) will press on with our continuing project for our three-year-adopted barangay in Sagada, Mountain Province. We’re through with our Eskwelang Kwela last May; an annual BALIK ESKWELA project wherein day care kids including their teachers benefited school supplies in line with the smooth opening of class 2008-2009. And before the year ends, the much awaited annual pre-christmas gift giving will be our last strike. The final trip shedule is set on November 28 – December 01, 2008. Sad to say that only on this event, I won’t be able to join them on their worth-butt-aching trip and on the day of gift giving due to prior commitment. But inside of me, I’m clapping in delight knowing the project that we have started during my term as president way back 2006, became a continuing program. Big thanks for the unfailing support of our long-time-bighearted sponsors. We assure you of club’s feedback report and supporting pictures as soon as the group got back from their grueling trip. Their donations have gone a long way in carrying our club mission to keep the kids of Sagada happy by letting them experienced city life-like activities away from the real urban zone.

Here let me take you from the past.

2006: (1) Bringing ICT closer to the people of Barangay Ankileng, Sagada, Mountain Province (2) Sagada Pre-Christmas Gift Giving

2007: Eskwelang Kwela: A Balik Eskwela Project for the children of Barangay Ankileng, Sagada, Mountain Province

2008: Eskwelang Kwela 2: A Balik Eskwela Project for the children of Barangay Ankileng, Sagada, Mountain Province

So, nowhere to put in your excess? The Rotaract club of Sampiro is accepting any form of donations: old clothes/toys, books, slippers/shoes, monetary contributions, etc. Feel free to leave your comment/s or email me at cyankyle@yahoo.com on how can you be of help.

Be merry by sharing your excess.

Sunday Outreach
Balik-Eskwela '08 - The Return
Eskwelang Kwela '07
Prayer granted- It isn't my last glance

Missing you, friend

2008-11-22T13:46:00.000-08:00

Now that Christmas is just around the bend, I can’t help but missed a very dear friend of mine. Seven months have gone by since the day she left for JAPAN. She’ll be staying there for a year as representative of our local government and might (based on or last online communication) be requested to extend due work exigency. The first few months not seeing her physically especially at work, were kinda odd. Though we belong in one department, we are separated by working floors. She’s up at the fifth floor and I’m at the fourth. She usually visits me for a quick chat and kulitan over whatever foods we’ve got to share with. She’ll either crack the day with me by covering my eyes with her doll-like hands or hit my both ears with fingers while she stands at my back. I just loved being with her, talking anything under the sun, laughing at certain things, arguing over small things and ending the conversation with compliments and agreement. She really inspires me a lot - having someone like her listen to my sentiments, experience, insights and ideas without criticizing my beliefs and principles in life. Respecting the way we value each other’s existence is our irreplaceable friendship foundation. We may be separated no longer by floors now, but by miles and miles in distance, we never neglect to pause from our busy working days, and find our way to nurture our friendship though online and telephone conversation (she just called this morning, thanks for waking me up dear) Hearing her voice for one hour while I was still on my bed, was like talking to her as if she just got out of my bed also. Back then, we were night crawlers and usually share the same bed in my pad or hers, whichever place is closer from the gimikan area we’ve been. And I have to admit, my night life has been deprived since the day she took her flight. And that I chose not to go out. Well, I am setting it aside for now, but definitely will recommence as soon as she got back. Uhm, I am in the stage of polishing some of my dance moves :P. We’ll see if these will go with the rhythm on the dance floor by then, lol

Nevertheless, this upcoming Christmas will never be the same Christmas as last year. Our annual activity together will not come to pass for this year: midnight madness schedule at Marikina Riverbank, the joy of ours while jointly wrapping our Christmas presents for our loved ones and the delight of visiting our adopted children in Sagada for their much awaited pre-Christmas celebration (but I’m not worried actually, the event will push through without us, our club headed by TIN-TIN and some volunteers will be there to continue what we have started) These are actually some of the things we enjoyed doing when its nearly Christmas. But despite our physical distance, life is still good having her aound-my sounding board across the miles. Miss you, ANNA. Take a peep at some of our recent bonding shots.

Doing sideline together as teambuilding facilitators held at Montemar Beach Resort, Bataan

Sagada and Baguio: Our last glance together

Sayonara for now

When darkness prevails on Halloween

2008-10-26T18:05:00.000-07:00

Dark forces once again will take over this coming Halloween. For the faint-hearted this isn't the day for you. So go find a secret place to hide in for they will never stop haunting you. But never worry,I'm just pulling your legs.*big grin*

So what now? Halloween is just a few days ahead. What popular fancy dress costume have you got to wear on that day? I'm sure a lot of stage moms will be seen dragging their cute lil' darlings dressed in their spine-chilling outfit for the Halloween treat or trick event.

What about me? Ahh, don't have someone to dress-up yet. I'l have to stick myself seeing them on stage admiring their moms-taught-winning-moves. :) Well, that will definitely put a smile not just on me but on everyone's face.

So for those who'll be chasing commercial centers this coming Halloween, you might see me there celebrating all the fun and scary sweet treats with you. I'm planning to wear a ghostbuster outfit to fight you off, lol. So see you around. :)

ready to run for supernatural investigations

Beating the clock

2008-09-28T21:11:00.000-07:00

" when do you need it? now? now-thirty? quarter-to-now?"

Yay, in an attempt to finish my work deadline which is due by tomorrow, I had to pause for a while from updating my blog. But the thing is, I’m still having a short supply of free time managing my target date. I did increase my daily productive time but here I am crossing my fingers to be on the dot. I just thought that reporting for work during weekends would be of great help; well it worked somehow but definitely won’t still make me on time. I knew it from the day they’ve set the deadline. I was too honest when I told them that it was really impossible to beat knowing professionally, the project is too big for the timeline. But, they were adamant to give it a shot and see how far the pushing will go, only to find out in the end - I’m absolutely right. The very main reason was I’m in no control of how fast my computer can simultaneously retrieve data (thousands and thousands of it were still on the row waiting for its turn to be searched) from a voluminous content of our database before I could actually convert each file *sweating* into system-understandable-format and finally saved it to its assigned folder. I could say that the large portion of my “wasted” time was on searching the file – an average of FIVE (5) minutes on a single data. Whew! Enough of the deadline stress - I've done my fair share. Tomorrow will be soon and I can't pull it back. I'm pretty sure they'll move the deadline to another date - yes!. Meanwhile, I'm taking a break from this load hanging over my head for a month now - and it's indeed great to revisit my cyberhome and update you of where-and-what-i've-been-through. This was such a good landing *wink*

Chirp

2008-09-22T17:28:00.000-07:00

I’ve been off for quite sometime, but I give my word to recoup on my absences in blogging as soon as I have finished my work deadline which is getting closer and closer. Yay! I’m keeping my fingers crossed to beat it before it beats me. Heh. There for sure, I’ve got more than enough time to update you guys some of the best-days-parts of my comings and goings. So for now, I’m gonna pause for sometime but promised to be back soon. Anyway, you can still leave your messages here and I will try to hit you back whenever my time permits me to do so. Stay tuned everyone.

Having my force break in blogging..*sad*

VisualDNA Summary

2008-09-09T20:16:00.000-07:00

Yea, after taking series of choices, i end up having this personality summary:

MOOD: Wild Cat

You're street smart and quite self-assured. The kick of the city appeals to you like nothing else- it makes you feel alive. You can see beauty in the most unlikely places. When it comes to art, you're definitely unconventional; you are drawn to the beauty of the human body - and to the opportunity to express your identity through it. You like how music helps you unwind,and switch off.

FUN: Escape Artist

You like to take any opportunity to keep in shape. You're health is really important to you. You are extremely driven, and have endless reserves of energy. For kicks, nothing beats an adrenalin rush. You like to take risks, and push limits. You're confident and brave - life is for the living. When it comes to holidays, nothing beats the bright lights of one of the world's biggest cities.

HABITS: High Time Roller

You love being a little bit of naughty. Nothing beats being up close and personal with the object of your affection! When it comes to drinking, you have a taste for exotic. You're always up for trying the local tripple when you're on holiday - it's all about fuelling the fun!. As for the home, you like to feel cozy and comfortable. Your home your oasis from the stresses of everyday life.

SOCIAL: Fun

You have real reason for life and you don't like to take things seriously. For friendship it's all about enjoying yourself and seeing the funny side of life. When you think of freedom- you think of living for the here and now. You're open to new experiences and take any opportunity that crosses your path.

*Sounds real huh!. :) How about you? Would you like to know yours and discover more people who match your VisualDNA? Go on, take your turn and be mad-widgy. You can even download your fantastic widget, post it to your website and share your VisualDNA to the world!. Oops, don't forget to make a comment and leave your URL here so i can check yours. *wink*

September Award

2008-09-04T01:38:00.000-07:00

Thanks Chesteney and Weng for this sweet award. Big thanks for lovin' mah blog. :)

These are the rules:

1. The winner can put the logo on his/her blog;

2. Link the person you received your award from;

3. Nominate at least 7 other blogs;

4. Put links of those blogs on yours; and

5. Leave a message on the blogs that you’ve nominated.

Now here are the 7 blogs that completes my bloghopping:

1. BaReFooted Me - i like everything about her blog: from layout to its worth-reading-posts!

2. Uncomplicated - Whenever i have blog concerns, she's always there to help. Sorry i need to return this back to u coz u really deserve to have it. *wink*

3. Annie's mind - my best bud's blog. Mishoo!

4. Ilatag na to! - the frst ever tagalog blog I've read. Galeng!

5. Kwento ni Enday - Congrats on your new layout!

6. Myx 3moticons -my sexy math wizard friend. Aw!

7. My Overview - a wonder mom of three kids.

A new header out of experiment

2008-09-03T20:17:00.000-07:00

Voila! I can't believe with what I did. I was just experimenting if can I can change my layout though acquiring free blog templates from the net. My only problem was everytime I hit the preview button, I always end up loosing my widgets and some of the features and mofidications I've made with my current layout. So, I tried to design my own header instead and went to the process of changing such. I used some of the pictures of my indefagable feet which I personally taken as my background design using few of magical features of photoshop. This is my own way of giving my feet a grand hiatus to be on the limelight. So here, I'm posting my new-dressed home carrying the undoubting steps of my cutesy-footsy.

Who am I in my past life?

2008-08-27T19:10:00.000-07:00

While surfing, here’s what I've found out:

Your past life diagnosis:
I don't know how you feel about it, but you were male in your last earthly incarnation.You were born somewhere in the territory of modern South India around the year 1075. Your profession was that of a digger, undertaker.

Your brief psychological profile in your past life:
Person with huge energy, good in planning and supervising. If you were just garbage-man, you were chief garbage-man.

The lesson that your last past life brought to your present incarnation:
You are bound to learn to understand other people and to meet all difficulties of life with a joyful heart. You should help others by bringing them a spirit of joy.

Oddly, the psychological profile and lesson part seem to be accurate except for my profession. It’s kinda horrible that I was an undertaker in my past life. *iw* I am afraid of the dark and terrified with worms. I hate WORMS!. It was also mentioned that I used to be a guy. Well, no questions about that coz I can see some traces of it – I’m one of the boys in my present life, lol.

If you want to know yours, go and hit this: Past Life Analysis and type in the date of your birth. Just be reminded that it is up to you how you will interpret the information that will flash on your screen. Happy tracing your past!

Sunday Outreach

2008-08-25T22:05:00.000-07:00

Saturday night after the draining airsoft activity, I received a text message from Tin. Our mother club, the ROTARY CLUB OF MAKATI – POBLACION needs reinforcement for their Sunday activity. They are asking volunteers from our club, ROTARACT CLUB OF SAMPIRO, to assist them in the distribution of books, school uniforms, and toilet bowls to San Teodoro Elementary School in Anilao Mabini, Batangas. A week before the activity, I told Tin that I won't join them due to prior commitment. I was scheduled to visit a long time friend of mine. Unfortunately, it didn’t push through and lucky for Tin that me and my dear one were able to confirm and join them during the distribution. She was actually having a big problem the night she texted me since most of her members backed out for some valid reasons before she had my confirmation.

Assembly time was 630AM(Sunday). Albeit I barely resist of getting up early due to body pain brought about by my strenuous Saturday activity, I dragged myself and dressed up. Off we went for Sunday outreach. The RCMP Real President Roman Leus and Rtn. Ryan Barcelo were so accomodating and fun to be with. The activity ended with smiles painted on everyone's face. Never would I regret that I became a part again of making things possible for someone; and never will I always be.

That's me and Tin at the distribution venue

The full force: Real Pres. Roman Leus, Rtn. Ryan Barcelo and their models: the-rotaractors-in-school-uniform

....new uniforms to wear

...books to flip

...toilet bowls to use

..and new classmates as well, lol

Balik-Eskwela '08 - The Return

Eskwelang Kwela '07

Prayer granted- It isn't my last glance

Open Field Encounter

2008-08-23T20:19:00.000-07:00

Today, I got the chance to participate in a combat-like environment held in an open field at Kilometer 18. My first airsoft encounter was a close quarter combat (CQC) one. Though we were wedged going there due to traffic, it was worth-the-wait to see the gamesite and the individuals who are keen to the sport. These are airsofters who assume a fantasy identity on weekends and attend to their normal professions and careers on weekdays. Being a newbie, so much I should exert to get the hang of it and be as committed like them. To bring it all, the game was awesome! (got hit in the middle of the game, *ouch!*). It was such a wonderful experience playing the role of our chosen battle hero with our replica guns and shoot in a non-lethal way.

Novice Airsofter

Creative stuff for airsofters

Kickin' at 59

2008-08-20T23:39:00.000-07:00

As I’ve promised, here’s how we celebrated my Pop’s 59th Birthday.

My pop’s birthday actually falls on August 19 (Tuesday), since it was declared here that August 18 (Monday) was special holiday in lieu of August 21 (Ninoy Aquino Day), we and the rest of his immediate family opted to celebrate it on that day. Everyone was early up and got busy with the preparations. We wanted him to feel extra special to us. So Ate, I and my 2(two) nieces (both were 3y/0) went out to get our customized cake, party hats and 1 big balloon for our celebrator while the rest of my siblings together with my dear Momsy were tasked to prepare foods for our visitors. When all things were ready, everyone gathered together. Irene, my sister, escorted Papa to the crowd and assisted him to put on his birthday-party-hat. Papa was overwhelmed seeing himself surrounded by his loved ones while handling his big balloon. His (5) lil’ grandchildren led the singing of the birthday song and even helped Papa blew his five and nine candles. Once again, I have witnessed Papa’s hardly-ever-tears rolled down on his cheeks – no doubt, those were tears of happiness. Now that he’s a year older, I wished him long life of happiness, good health, and more blessings; may he always carry the joy and delight of having us – his family wherever his fate would lead him. Pops, I’ll always look up to you and will ever be proud to be your daughter. Love you dearly.

Catching up

2008-08-19T23:39:00.000-07:00

Yea, I’m back again after a few days of nix-cyberworld-experience. I spent my time with my family back in the province. But before I headed back then, my sister-next-to-me and two nieces, both were 3 years of age, paid me a visit last Friday for the first time. I made them experience to ride a MRT, which these two kids in jest called it as big earthworm. It was also their first time to be at Megamall wherein they played at Timezone. They had so much fun collecting tickets being released by the game machine and exchange those with goodies. Afterwards, we went at my place to take a rest, let the kids sleep and drink their milk. I made a promise to bring them at Market, Market in Fort Bonifacio at night. It was 6pm when they woke up and kept on asking me if we’re still good to go. Though it was raining then, the kids insisted that we should go because they’ve got their jackets to wear on, so off we go, grab a taxi going to Market, Market. There, they rode on animal rides, enjoyed eating and played with other kids till 9PM. It was a treat they got from me. Saturday, we altogether traveled back to the province, and while inside the bus I could here them talking in their own understandable language what they’ve just experienced. Yea, I was several times like them when I was a kid.

Next stop, province. I was happy to see my family again. My parents with their smiles on, my brother and sisters with their kids, all of them were present when we arrived. I missed being with them in complete. Indeed, there’s no place like home. The following day was my Papa’s 59th birthday. I’ll share some of our preparations and happenings as well during his special day on my next post. I need to deal with office concern for now. :)

Long break

2008-08-14T03:49:00.000-07:00

Hey guys, this is to inform all of you that I'll be off for a few days. It will be a long weekend plus 2 (two) days of scheduled mandatory leave, so that's a total of 5 (five) days. Wow! 5 days off! Wanna know where to spot me on those days? Well, I’ll be spending my hefty days with my family and friends back in the province. It’s a great time to catch up with everything and mull over on life’s purpose. So, happy long weekend everyone. :)

Care to help?

2008-08-14T03:34:00.000-07:00

When was the last time you were asked to help someone with something that he or she needs? Were you once became an instrument of making things easier or possible for somebody to do something that one person cannot do alone by providing assistance? I could say I am, in countless times without expecting any in return. It just pissed me off when people see it in different perspective. I am aware that lending a hand should have limitations and it’s your call to refuse. As for me, I’d rather be the one helping others especially when I have the capacity to do so than be the person who asks for it.

Some things to reveal

2008-08-13T18:16:00.000-07:00

Tag was shared by Wena which she got from JoyD (of Aussietalks).

Curios Joy Wants to See...

Rules :

1. Be Spontaneous and have fun!!!

2. Grab your camera and get your hand bag / bag and take out all the stuffinside. Take a picture of all your stuff.. Everything...Even the used tissue paper or candy wrapper.. or we might see something amazing in your bag.!!

3. List all the things ..

4. Make sure to link back to Aussietalks and leave your URL

5. Pass this to your friends and tell them to link back..

Bits and pieces inside my Susanna Bag (a dear friend gifted it to me just this recent birthday of mine):

Im gonna start with my not-so-obvious-favorite blue stuff, lol .

1. umbrella

2. hairbrush

3. coin purse

4. mini tote bag (which contains my cool water perfume, blue hair doctor comb, berry gold Avon lipstic and Avon natural dual powder Foundation SPF 13)

5. pouch with silver lining (you can find in here my cellphone charger, data cable, earphone, 1 Gig Flash drive, 3 pony tails (in blue, yellow and violet color) and my company ID)

To complete the list..

6. 40 Gig Black IBM Thinkpad external hard drive

7. Michaela wallet

8. Black mini notebook of my day-to-day activities

9. white plastic case for my calling card

10 Perky( my cp's name) - under it is a knitted black reggae inspired cellphone case

11. black and red pilot pens

So there you go , I have nothing to conceal anymore. I'd so much fun listing my stuff, hope you do also.

I'm passing this meme to Anna and Alex.

Weekend Nippy Recap

2008-08-10T23:59:00.000-07:00

Seeing in advance that weekend is just a day to go makes me feel clapping in delight. Who wouldn’t want to spend in bed lying and stretching not minding the clock if it hits 5:45AM. Yea, that’s my usual alarm time minus the number of times I pressed the snooze button, lol. I make it a point that I’m up and dressed by 7:00AM or else I’ll suffer myself of traffic and hard time catching a good ride going to work. So only on weekends that I can stay late in bed and not deprive myself of a great sleep. *Ngoorkz..*

Aside from being weekend-sleepy head, it is also my time for movie marathon. Here goes the list of movie titles I’ve watched last weekend. Some were old but worth seeing, others were just recently shown and the last one is about to be shown on big screen.

1. Sassy Girl
2. Black Ops
3. Vantage Point
4. Meet Dave
5. Wanted
6. You don’t mess with the Zohan

Those movies listed made my weekend worth pad-staying. Big thanks Romy for sharing me a copy of each. No movie watching next weekend coz I’m bound to visit my old folks in province. Have a great day everyone! :)

Novice Airsofter

2008-08-04T18:08:00.000-07:00

From designing creative stuff for airsofters (logos and personalized car stickers, in particular) to a newbie airsoft enthusiasts. I was honored to grace a post-birthday-invitation-slashed-airsoft-experience from a person I dearly heart. Dressing up was fun (good that I still have my worn-out battle dress uniform which I regularly used during my active days in military reservist training) and the game itself was really exciting. It was such a life like experience of actual combat that you don’t want to get hit or die early but to accomplish the mission alive and kicking the whole course of the game. Just to raise my flag, I never got to experience the feeling of being hit yet coz I won in the two consecutive games – call it a beginner’s luck, lol. Here, I’m sharing some of the pix taken during my first encounter.

opted to lace up chucks instead of my combat boots, lol

of being told what to do

playing by the rules

tryin' out a man's mask

Blogging Friends Forever Award

2008-08-02T23:28:00.000-07:00

Big thanks to Kcee for giving me this BFF award.

Rules:
1. Only 5 people are allowed to receive this award.
2. 4 of them followers of your blog.
3. One has to be new to your blog and live in another part of the world.
4. You must link back to whoever gave you the award.

I'm passing this gold card to Tin, Anna, Alex, Se and Kate. You guys deserved to have it also.

Please follow the 4 rules listed above. I will be very happy if we show some support to the recipients of this card by any of the following means: linking, commenting, subscribing, rating, or in any form as you wish.

Meet Perky

2008-07-31T18:47:00.000-07:00

I was in the verge of selling my Sony Ericsson K700i (pre-owned by my youngest sister which she begged me to swap with my recently bought Nokia 6300) because of its annoying middle button that gets stuck at times making it difficult to select items plus the battery life’s crap. I planned also to have it traded to acquire a new one. But it didn’t work out the way I planned it when my current phone decided to be changed on its own. It accidentally slipped on my hand, fell down and broke its LCD. The result – got myself a new phone.

Perky in electric purple color

I acquired a Sony Ericsson W380i walkman clamshell model phone. I loved its three touch sensitive playback buttons on the front of the flip coz every time you touch them the small screen outside light up with a nice BLUE glow. One thing more, it comes with gesture control that lets you mute a call or alarm clock simply waving your hand above the unit. Albeit this phone has lack of application such as video, auto focus and flash, this phone really looks cool and funky which I think good enough for a walkman lover lass like me.

Quick Capsule

2008-07-28T18:18:00.000-07:00

I must admit, I've been off the track for the past few weeks. I can't find any reason for neglecting to find time taking my daily dose of blogging except for internet connection in the office has been limited only to power users. Sadly, I'm not one of them. But it made sense that the person who greatly influenced me the delight of blogging has kept her impetus of updating hers despite of having the same problem as mine. I admired her for carrying the thoughts of putting so much passion to the things that will make her happy and stay on the line.

Yea, I may have gone astray for a while but I will try to find ways to keep myself back on the track. So here Im taking my quick capsule *gulp* to jump over to the solutions and not into any difficulties ahead of me. Cheers! *klink!*

Birthday Anime’

2008-07-08T18:17:00.000-07:00

We usually hold our so called General Staff Meeting every first Friday of the month. It’s our office official way of maintaining the comradeship within our co-workers. For this month, the July celebrants were scheduled to host the event. So count me in. Together with my four fellow celebrants, we agreed to consider an Anime’ Birthday Theme. The event was actually held last July 04, 2008. Though the program started late due to ManComm meeting, our guest performer who graced a dance number in anime’ costume (big thanks, Marky) made the crowd roared from their respective seats. I’d like to take this chance to give huge thanks to my co-celebrators who have shared their continuous annual effort in making this activity another bubbly one. Hats off to you guys:

Anna – for sharing her monetary contribution despite of her absence due to work commitment in Japan.

Ms. Milo – generous co-celebrant who shelled out more than our agreed contribution.

Ate Cynthia and her hubby – for the scrumptious cheese pimiento sandwich and lip smacking popcorn in two flavors (cheese and caramel puff with raisins)

Karen – for preparing the materials for the heart transplant game (transfer of heart- shaped-paper with the use of chopsticks from one plate to another) Btw, Congrats Kathie - our chopstikcs master!

So here, I’d like to share this anime’ audio visual birthday presentation I made for us.

Freakin’ Sunday morning

2008-07-07T21:18:00.000-07:00

Just checked the time - 9AM – I wanted to lengthen my stay in bed, cuddle my life size pillow and enjoy a stress free day. Just in time, I heard loud voices outside. I lazily dragged myself up in bed and walked straight to my door to check it. My sleepy eyes popped when I saw my neighbors running from nowhere - here to there – “Hey can anybody tell me what’s happening?” My heart started to pound fast not knowing the real source. When I walked out of the door, I was taken aback with sparks coming from a wooden electric post across the house next to mine. Everyone was in shrill voice and panic mode. Completely awakened by the scenario, I immediately went inside, turned off the main electric switch and put on my brassiere which I almost forgot to notice that I don’t wear one. Albeit confused what to do next, I carried my lappie toppie, my bag where my wallet was and of course, my essential documents which I managed to put in one filer. In a dash, I was already outside my pad joining the crowd. In no less than a minute, an earsplitting sound was heard. The high tension wire flared-up followed by the sudden explosion of transformer which brought each one of us to expect for a big fire to happen. Thanks God that it ended there. No house was actually damaged. Most of the residents concluded that explosion of our street transformer helped a lot; it actually saved our neck and dwellings as well.

I almost assumed that my everything will turn into nothing. *Deep sigh*

My Fab Four

2008-07-07T18:21:00.000-07:00

Another tag from Wena

RULE:What you are supposed to do… and please don’t spoil the fun… Click copy/paste, delete my answers, type in your answers and tag 4 people in your lists!

(A) Four places I go over and over:

1. Tarlac

2. office

3. my pad

4. malls

(B) Four people who e-mail me regularly:

1. friends

2. classmates in reservist

3. officemates

4. relatives

1. KFC

2. office pantry

3. old folks kitchen

4. foldable table in my pad

(D) Four places I’d rather be?

1. London

2. moviehouse

3. mall

4. Tarlac

(E) Four people I think will respond:

1. Tin

2. Alex

3. Anna

4. Kate Ashley

(F) Four TV shows I could watch over and over:

1. Miami Ink

2. Future Weapons

3. Zone Reality

4. Cartoons (Cartoon Network)

I am now tagging the four people I have listed on top.

Flame of Friendship Tag

2008-07-07T17:03:00.000-07:00

I got this tag from Wena. Big Thanks!

The Flame of Friendship.A symbol of spirit of unity.The burning icon of love.Undying picture of hope.The hot symbol of oneness.The Flame of Friendship.And now it’s your turn to flame yourself!Meet new friends. Discover friendship. Make bonds.Copy this post starting from the PICTURE ABOVE to the endand add your blog on the list below.Let’s start FLAMING!

The People Who Accepted The Flame of Friendship

Tiklaton: We are the witness Janeth Vicy’s Life Journey A Simple Life Hailey’s Domain Hailey’s Beats and Bits MOMEMO Pinay Mommy Online Straight from the Heart Under One Roof Say Cheese Teacher Julie GreenBucks.1 GreenBucks.2 Deranged Insanity Traipsey Turvey Aeirin's Collections, Uncomplicated, Blueaficionado

(now, you follow!)OOOPSS!! Don’t forget to invite your friends!

END COPY HERE

I'm tagging my friends Anna, Lab and Se

Chucks on Big day

2008-07-03T18:57:00.000-07:00

My special day is getting near, another page of life worth flipping. I’ve been blabbing of being cautious not to spend too much, but since it would be my birthday soon, I rewarded myself something I’ve been wishing to have for a long time. Yea, I pampered my cutesy footsy a new pair of shoes – Lowcut Converse Chuck Taylor All Stars.

Advance Happy Birthday to me. :)

Take a look at my natural white Converse All Stars in girl style shots.

Time to lace up my chucks

Havin' a baby

2008-06-27T17:53:00.000-07:00

If it crossed your mind that I’m about to be a mom, well you’re absolutely wrong. Being one must be planned prudently and having one is not yet written in my priority lists. Yeah, I know I’m not getting younger anymore –the fact that I’ll be celebrating another year of existence next month, Yay!, should I be alarmed now? Nah!, Just to give justice to my blog title, here’s the reason why:

I went home last night nearly 12 midnight. I visited a friend who had just given birth and surprisingly found there our common friend who brought her 8 months old cuddly baby. It was nice to see them both and their cute and healthy little darlings. Now that the two were already moms considering I’m quite older in age, I find myself being left behind with their motherhood topics: how to cope up after giving birth, baby care tips, breast feeding techniques, where to find cheap but best baby brands, their experiences during labor and delivery, etc.. Whew! Since I’ve got nothing to share in concrete I just listened to their conversation instead. It’s indeed amazing how they were able to survive those rough moments and keep it going up to this point. Moms are real tough.

On my home, I just thought of this: Will I be a great mom in the future? Well, time can only tell.

X deal

2008-06-25T17:12:00.000-07:00

For those who have crossed their fingers for me, big thanks!, really. You may free your hands now for good.

You now what I got in exchange to my first ever fifty pager souvenir program layout?? Ah oh, don’t ever think of money. Yea, I may be in need of such these days (well, who doesn’t need it, anyway?), I’m pretty sure what I got in return will make the less fortunate kids I’ve been visiting for three years - happy as I have imagined.

In exchange, my client will provide our club, Rotaract Club of Sampiro two hundred (200) pieces of children’s book to be given away this November to our adopted barangay in Ankileng, Sagada, Mountain Province. Not really bad. Right Tin-tin?

First draft

2008-06-24T08:58:00.000-07:00

I was given two weeks to work on my first ever fifty pager souvenir program. At first, I was hesitant to accept it since it will consume most of my time and even steal some on my working paid hours. Here’s another thing, we haven’t talked how much I would charge them or if there would be any. Sigh. I was too shy to raise that topic since they’re one of the generous sponsors of our club. Well, I won’t hope for now (I’ll just keep my fingers crossed, lol).

I’ll meet the jurors tomorrow for my first draft. I had to admit that it was not easy to come up with such layout that would meet their expectations.

Well, say good luck to me then.

And one more, can you also keep your fingers for me? lol

On being truthful

2008-06-22T18:26:00.000-07:00

Everyone is on rush hoping for a good catch ride to get home early. I was with my officemate (Love) then and while inside the jeepney (C5 road via Market – Market route) waiting for the exact numbers of passenger that would fit in, a dispatcher in his teen age kept on calling the attention of commuters with his very loud voice “Isa na lng!, Isa na lang!”

A lady with two white plastic bags was hastening from afar. Upon reaching, she hurriedly asked the dispatcher “Isa na lng?” The dispatcher stared at her from head to toe as if he’s examining the woman’s body built. She was kinda chubby and would definitely find herself uncomfortable including her would-be passengers if she would insist to ride. In a very straight manner he told the lady “Ah..Ma’am, the next jeep is right over there". The woman face turned no guilt as to what she just heard but instead went straight to the next jeep in line. The passengers inside the jeep including us looked at each others face as everyone finds their own way to laugh silently. I guess we laughed not because of how the lady looked but how the teenage dispatcher able to deliver what he said in honest and no offense meant way at all despite of his hesitant facial expression.

I just wished that all dispatchers should be that honest and conscious if the passenger body size can still be accommodated for everyone’s safe and comfy travel sake. After all we all pay for the same fare rate and that should grant us a snug seat.

Finally, the last would-fit-in-passenger came in and off we go.

A surprise visit on Father’s Day

2008-06-15T22:01:00.000-07:00

Today is a special day for all fathers in the world. It is heartrending that I won’t see my father personally and spend the day with him in the province. What’s inside my wallet is just enough as my allowance until the next payday. I had tighten my budget to give way to our family’s major concern which they are aware of.

Before I went to bed last night, I texted papa and thanked him for being there for me always, with or without him physically at my side. I told him that I won’t make it on his special day but promised him to make it up by the end of this month, that sooner or later we’ll get of the probs we’re facing. He gladly replied me with these words: “thank you so much!”. I just thought that celebrating or remembering papa need not cost too much, that I don’t have to be with him in flesh just to make him feel how important he is. Simple text message straight from a loving daughter will make his heart big. And that’s what I did.

Innocently, Papa filed a leave from his work and traveled all the way to Makati to visit me. He tagged along Mama and CK, my nephew. I didn’t expect it. He even treated us out for lunch. I never thought that he would do that on his special day when I should the one who’s supposed to be doing it. I was so touched. Sigh. While sharing the food with them, I can’t help but to think of my would – be gift for Papa. I noticed my papa’s hand newly coated hand nails. To my dismay, his toe nails were not pleasant to look at. It definitely needs a pedicure. I asked him if he wanna have it done. He smiled and said “Yea, why not?” My mom even seconded that she wants a new haircut as well a new student boy cut for CK. So altogether we went to Index Hair Salon and have it all done there. It was nice to see them pampering themselves with new haircut and pedicure at not-so-expensive cost – reasonably priced within my means.

When it was their time for them to go home, I secretly handed papa a 1000 JPY I’ve been keeping to my wallet. Anna, my friend, gave it to me in exchange for peso during her recent visit to the Philippines. It may not that big amount but I know papa will keep it to his wallet as memento on father’s day.

*photo courtesy of http://www.foodandhealth.com/

Happy Independence Day!

2008-06-12T08:14:00.000-07:00

In observance of the 109th Philippine Independence Day celebration, I am proud to post our Philippine flag i got from 3D Animated Flags--By 3DFlags.com. This is to give due respect to men and women who shed blood, sweet and tears to free us under the Spanish rule. This morning, I actively participated in singing of our National Anthem and even recited our Panunumpa ng Katapatan sa Watawat ng Pilipinas (English: Pledge of Allegiance to the Philippine Flag) held at Makati City Quadrangle together with my fellow public servants. For those Filipino bloggers who haven't done their share, here's your chance to showcase your national pride. Repost our Philippine flag and silently recite the pledge below.

Panunumpa sa Watawat ng Pilipinas

Ako ay Pilipino

Buong katapatang nanunumpa

Sa watawat ng Pilipinas

At sa bansang kanyang sinasagisag

Na may dangal, katarungan at kalayaan

Na pinakikilos ng sambayanang

Maka-Diyos Maka-tao Makakalikasan at Makabansa.

Happy Independence Day Filipinos!

Creative stuff for airsofters

2008-06-11T18:39:00.000-07:00

I’m used of seeing different kinds of weaponry since my father was ex-military personnel. I spent my entire years of studying living in an area allocated for military dependents. Way back then, we need to pass two (2) military checkpoints before we could totally proceed to our everyday class which can be found outside the military camp. A six-by-six truck served as our school bus as public vehicles were not allowed inside the restricted area. Not only that, each of us should wear our dependent’s military tag as a valid identification especially when being checked by a military police on duty. The main camp gate closes at 8pm. Those who wishes to enter but unfortunately arrived beyond that time would have to endure the long walk to the partly pavement road going to his destination. Yea, those were the days – complying with the rules set forth by high ranking military officers. We’re born as "mess kit" children acting in accordance with military professionalism.

But looking at the other side of the coin, it did help me to develop my inner self in dealing with people in full battle gear. I have met peeps who find themselves scared of men-in-camouflage with their guns on which I have used to gotten since birth. My early exposure to fully armed men led me to involve myself to become one of the Philippine Military Reservists. I’m through with Military Orientation Training Course, Disaster Emergency Assistance and Response Training which were offered at 1303rd Community Defense Center Army Reserve Command in Fort Bonifacio, Taguig City. Trainings are usually done in series of Sundays only as most of the participants are working on full time. Now that I completed the course, I have a plan of pursuing a new one. Hmm.. I don’t want to be on a real battle field ok?. I don’t want to die young and eventually end up my blogging career, lol.

I am thinking of a tactical hobby, like airsoft. I think it would be fun to try a life-like combat experience similar to that of a real world of soldiers except that guns used in airsoft are typically replicas of real firearms having the mechanism of pushing out 6-mm or 8-mm diameter projectiles. Some of my fellow reservists are into it now. Though I have my military battle dress uniforms and combat boots to wear on during the game, I still need more airsoft stuff to buy. I’ve got to have airsoft sport equipment that basically includes airsoft gun, airsoft pellets or plastic ball bearings (BB), safety goggles, and all sorts of tactical gear including vests, equipment holders, and gun accessories. Whew! That would entail a lot of money to dole out before I can get to start and even sustain my would-be hobby. Since I don’t have the financial capacity yet, I would rather go for finding ways and means to raise enough. Good thing that a certified gun hobbyist asked me to come up with custom-made sticker and badge for airsoft enthusiasts. He wants something unique that can be used as car decal signifying that the person on board is a certified airsoft addict. I suggested him to take a photo of him and used it as background for the text. Here are two of my artworks that he just recently approved:

bearing the logo of his airsoft group

personalized car sticker

Turikatoji - my Japanese sobriquet

2008-06-09T17:46:00.000-07:00

I've been tagged by Imelda. Tnx sis!
1. OSWALD - moarimeikatate (sounds like america and states. har.... har... har...)
2. JUNELLE - zudotokutataku (Thank God I’m a Filipino! sounds like sadako. nyay! hehehe)
3. Sanilisa - arikatokitakiarika (Good for tongue twister challenge...hehehe)
4. Jeanne - zukukatotoku (sounds strange hahahha........ )
5. Juliana - zudotakikatoka (oh boy...i am glad that I am not Japanese :D It is difficult name for Juliana....LOL)
6. Janice Ng - ZuKatokimiku ToJi (not quite used to name starting with Zuka...haha)
7. MARZIE - Rinkashizikite (WOW! Very hard to pronounce but love that my Japanese name starts with an R!)
8. JEAN CHIA - Zukukato Mirikika (I love Mirikika! So cute!! ^^)
9. EMILA - Kurinkitaka (Yummy! Sounds like a sushi dish!)
10.FARAH - Lukashikari (I hate this name, it sounds like 'lu kasik kari' translated: you gave curry) hahahahah
11. DEBBIE - teku tutu kiku (lol! Sounds like 3 kawaii characters of a very cute Japanese anime! Love it!)
12.RATU SYURA - Shikachido Arifudoshika (Try saying that 10 times in a row without twisting your tongue!!)
13. Sam - Arikarin, Not bad. Luckily it is not Tamagochi.
14. Liza - Takizika (hehe, sounds like a tamagochi or digimon character)
15. Imelda - Ki-rin-ku-ta-te-ka (Kirinkutateka) sounds awful to me, glad to have not been in born in Japan
16. Bhang - I've chosen to translate my nick over my real name. Here's what i got - turikatoji (do i sound like I'm casting a spell?.. lol.)

Be a Japanese wannabe. I am tagging Anna, Wena, Se, Tin and Cameron.

Pleasures for less

2008-06-07T06:32:00.000-07:00

counting what's left

Today is the start of my long weekend. I am glad that the celebration of Independence Day was moved on Monday. Thanks PGMA! Now what are up for me today? Since I just visited my old folks last week, I’m bound stay with Roomy (my pad) the whole non-working days. I have lots of time to be with myself doing cheaper thrills,lol. I’m on a tight budget right now due to the increasing price of basic commodities. I’d rather stay in place and not spend my hard earned money (as if have, lol) on pay-for-a-thrill pleasure to be entertained. Here are some of things that I lined up to do:

1. Go for hand wash –I decided not to have my dirty clothes not to be done at laundry shop only for this week. Beside the fact that it won’t weigh three (3) kilos which is the minimum, I also thought that it will be a great form of exercise doing it personally.

2. Unclutter personal belongings - I’d like to clean up my mess and reward Roomy a polished personal touch which I hadn’t done for almost a month due to my demanding weekend activities.

3. Movie Marathon – I got six (6) clear copies of movie to watch out for courtesy of my gracious officemate.

4. Chow trip – no worries If I get hungry, I am pretty sure enough that foodstuff stored in my personal refrigerator will definitely satisfy my grumbling tummy.

5. Bed rest – recompensing myself to take pleasure hugging my life size pillow for a long period of hours.

6. Time alone – give myself a break to find more quiet time contemplating my sense of self-worth.

Those listed may not sound pleasurable to others, but these I reckon would make me enjoy my own company.

How about you? What are your ways to keep yourself company for less?

My fountain of youth

2008-06-05T16:26:00.000-07:00

I do love kids. I enjoy seeing them goofing around, fight over small stuff, envy each others toys and end up sharing the same. These are some of the usual scenarios whenever I visit my old folks place in Tarlac. Albeit my work is situated in Makati , I make it a point to block my calendar on weekends that will fall after the day I received my salary – my expected day of visits. I’ve got to have spare money in my pocket enough to buy pasalubong not actually for my parents or siblings but for my three nephews and two nieces who would definitely ask for it. Four of them are of the same age range – ages 2 to 3. The oldest will be turning 8 this year. I loved them. It’s a different feeling seeing them holding the grill of our gate as if they were like prisoners behind the bars, while waiting for me to arrive. Toys and goodies are my typical brought-home for them. I make sure that I have divided the stuff equally before I would hand it to each of them. You know.. just to prevent them from picking a fight.

My recent visit last week was a great one. I bought them bags with basic school supplies in preparation for the incoming class opening (lol). They ain’t going to school yet. The reason why I gave the little ones educational stuff is for them to start learning with their moms at home. They were so happy that you would see them carrying their own back packs while roaming inside the house. They even have their own spot where to bring out their papers and pencils to start their doodling time. I’m in a high spirit every time I see them – my fountain of youth, enjoying every little thing I got for them. Yea, not even one of them is mine, but the way they pleased my eyes is enough for me to say that they are my very own.

Here.. lemme share you their charming pix which I personally taken.

Cyan Kirk telling Alexa Moelah, her sister to face the camera

This is Emman wearing his personalized cap

Lorraine Ashley in her red and white dainty dress

Keight Andrei's own way of brushing his baby teeth

Back to work

2008-06-04T20:01:00.000-07:00

Yea, Tadaima (I’m back!), in Japanese. I’m 85% in good health, yippee!. (I still have my disturbing cough). It’s time to unload my backlog and start the day with positive outlook. I’m taking one concrete step at a time while keeping my burning desire to take actions and be focused on my daily tasks. I’ll try to keep this momentum for good, uhm.. just try (lol).

I have nothing to write on for now. This is to just to update you guys of my health condition and at the same take a quick capsule of blogging, hehehe. Thanks to those who took their time to visit and wished me to get well. Biggie thanks!

‘Till my next dose..

Unwell

2008-06-03T18:33:00.000-07:00

Lately, I noticed that the weather is unpredictable. There are days when the weather is fine then all of sudden the rain will pour – must be the effect of global warming. Tuesday before I went home, I felt like I’m getting sick. I’m worried If can make it early the following day since I was tasked to open the office. Yea, I was absolutely right. I found myself hard to drag up on my bed as my normal body temperature rose. I got totally sick. It’s good I was able to inform Rain, my officemate who’s leaving across my pad, to open the office on my behalf. Thanks Bes! (That’s how I call him)

Last Wednesday - the day I freed my office chair from my weekday’s sittings. I stayed the whole day in my pad. But as much as I want to take a good rest, I always end up waking up due to the giggling laugh brought about by the children playing right in front of my gate’s pad. I couldn’t ask them to refrain from doing so for I might misunderstood by their respective parents who were there also outside. I don’t want it to be the cause of the fire to flare up more so, start the fight with them. The result – the desire of getting enough rest became far from reality.

confined to bed

Thursday – thou I haven’t had enough to put my feet up, I decided to report for work. My eyes looked teary and feeling heavy that I can’t stare straight on my monitor. I closed my eyes, put on my jacket to keep me warm and rested for a while. That’s how my day was.

Weekend has gone by and I could somehow say that I’m getting fine. My only problem is having this productive cough that produces horrible phlegm and mucus. I had the feeling of constantly need to clear my throat. It’s kinda disturbing!. I had consumed one bottle of cough syrup but it never worked. It didn’t because I’m too wayward to supply my body with enough water and other liquids, such as fruit juices, which are probably the best cough syrups. These will surely help soothe my throat and also moisten and thin mucus so it can be coughed up more easily. I have to put the blame on me. I think it’s about time to put my body at work by giving more importance to myself. I admit, sometimes I neglect to treat myself with the highest degree of respect; that one affords a best friend speaks to the importance of considering oneself as one's own best friend.

I can't wait to say this to myself, "I am worthy enough for me to be kind to myself."

more tags

2008-06-02T23:26:00.000-07:00

Another two (2) tags from Wena. Biggie thanks!

A. More About Me

Participants:Tere-Blessing in Life 2.Yen- Me and Mine 3.Aggie - Pink and Brown Diaries. 4. Mich - Random Thoughts 5. Vannie - FunFierceFab 6. Jane - My Charmed Life 7. Abie – Women Xplore 8. Jody - In This Game of Life 9. Eds – Just Me 10. something purple 11.vanity kit 12. em's detour 13. mind bubbles 14. In Demand Opinions 15. Sweet Lullaby 16. MJ's Hurrah17. Buzzing Around 18. Tasteful Voyage 19. A Mom's Note 20. moms..... check nyo 21. Technotrend 22. Ness 23.Filipino love stories 24. Lisa 25. Ester's Daily Thought 26.Missbodybeautiful 27. My Daily Thoughts and Moods 28. Uncomplicated 29 Blueaficionado

1. What do you want for your birthday?next year?

A healthy family and out of the country travel experience.

2. Who will be your next kiss?

My dada

3. When was the last time you went to the mall?

Thursday, market-market

4. Are you wearing socks right now?

Nah, just my pink topsider

5. How did you spend your summer?

Summer outing with my officemates in Pagudpod and Zambales. Outreach project in Sagada

6. Have you been to the cinema in the last 5 days?

Nope.

7. What was the last thing you had to drink?

Warm water coz I'm coughing.

8. What are you wearing right now?

Pink blouse, black skirt and blue jacket

9. What was your last purchase?

two (2) boxes of nacho chips.. dip later..

10. What was the last food you ate?

Sautéed sayote with ground beef, fried fish and rice

11. Who would be the person you would call if you were up in the middle of the night and couldn’t sleep?

Anna, but since she's in Japan now.. my dada is next to her

12. Have you bought any clothing items in the last week?

Yea, a blue Abercrombie & Fitch collared shirt

13. Do you have a pet?

I used to, but not now.

14. What made you laugh in the last 5 days?

My nieces and nephews

15. If you could be anywhere right now, where would you be?

London..(lol)

16. What is the last thing you purchased online?

Nah.

7. One thing you hate about yourself?

Nothing..uhm.. i guess my being too scared of earthworms. I find myself so over reacting whenever I see one. What i can do? I can't stand it. I swear!

18. Do you miss anyone?

Yea, my classmates during college days

l9. What are your plans for the day?

to update my assigned workload in GIS

20. Last person you sent message?

My dada

21. Ever went to a camp?

Yeap, Girl scout days

22. Are you a good student in school?

I guess so...since I consistently belong in cream section

23. What do you know about the (your) future?

That I'll be able to achieve everything I have written and posted on my dreamboard

24. Are you wearing any perfume or cologne?

cologne

25. Where is/are your best friend/s right , now?

She's in Japan for now.

B. It's All About You and Me

Here's is another one.

RULES:1. Add your blog/s to the list. Feel free to add all your other blogs. It’s okey if you only post this questions in one blog as long as you answer them.2. Get back to ME{refers to YEN} and I’ll add your blogs to the master’s list here! Yup, another linking thingy but this one has 15 questions and you get to enjoy answering them too!3. Tag as many friends online you know. But you don’t need to be tag in order to join.

QUESTIONS:

1. When you buy a greetings card, are the words or the picture more important to you?

the words

2. What’s your favorite kind of cake?

chocolate

3. Do you ever make gifts for people, if so what, or do you buy them?

It depends on my mood

4. What’s your favorite holiday?

Christmas Day-slash-Mama's-Birthday

5. Are you going on holiday this year?

I hope so

6. What was the best party you’ve ever been to?

My friend's birthday party

7. If you are married, describe your wedding. If not, what would your ideal wedding be like.

Simple yet a remarkable one. Like being married barefooted along the shoreline of China sea. (lol)

8. What’s the most romantic thing that’s ever happened to you?

I got surprised when my ex-bf transformed his room into a romatic dating place on my birthday.

9. What’s your favorite girl’s name?

My would-be daughter's name - Xyz Aia

10. What’s your favorite boy’s name?

My would-be son's name - Kinno Elijah

11. Which celebrity would you like a dream date with?

George Clooney

12. Which female celebrity do you find beautiful?

Angelina Jolie

13. Which male celebrity do you think is attractive?

Piolo Pascual

14. What is your best character trait?

friendly

15. What is your worst habitmoody/senstive?

procrastinating

Now your turn!!!The Master’s List:1. Me and Mine 2.Creative In Me 3.Little Peanut 4. Pea in a Pod 5. Sugar Magnolias 6. 6. A Life in Bloom 7. Because Life is a Blessing 8. Nita’s Random Thoughts 9. Nita’s Corner 10. Nita’s Ramblings 11. Thomas Web Links 12. Thomas Travel Tales 13. Great Finds and Deals 14. Make Money Online 15. Recipe Collections 16. My Wandering Thoughts 17. Filipino Online Community 18. Famous Lyrics Collections 19. Thomas Digital Services 20. Bohol Paradise 21. PRC Board Exam Results 22. My Paperless Writings 23. As The World Turns 24. My BIG Picture 25. When Silence Speaks 26. Felicity’s Vision 27. Bienvenue `a la Noryfel 28. Inday’s Kitchen 30. My Life 31. My Life in this Wonderful World! 32.Me,Myself+2 33.FunFierceFabulous 34. Supermodel Wannabe 35. kathycot dot com 36. buhaymisis.com 37. ISL Family 38. D’ Cooking Mudra 39. Pinoy MeriendaClassics Atbp 40. Uncomplicated 41. My Life with Mel and Thea 42. Bluaficionado 43.you're next!

I'm passing these tags to Anna, Cameron, Girlie.

Balik Eskwela '08 - The Return

2008-05-29T00:46:00.000-07:00

I’ve been gushing about how significant to me the place of Sagada is, particularly the people of Barangay Ankileng.

And here’s another successful event I’m proud to label as “MISSION ACCOMPLISHED”. The recent Balik Eskwela ’08 project of the Rotaract Club of Sampiro was another remarkable experience to share.

Despite the bad weather forecasts, the rotaractors and some volunteers still pushed through with the trip. Not minding what would be the exact weather condition there, I am happy to say that the group arrived unscathed. Weather was fine enough to explore the incredible hanging coffins and the breathtaking Sumaguing Cave. Added to these, the aroma of hot tarragon tea, the pleasant taste of brown rice and freshly picked veggies were all at hand away. All these covered our long travel time and effort of bringing the donations to the young ones.

It was 8pm then when we left our foster parent’s house and started the almost one hour walk to the distribution venue. The rain never feared the group considering we had to cross a hanging bridge and walk on the pilapil down to their multi purpose hall. It’s good that our foster parent asked three of their people to carry those weighty boxes loaded with school presents. Likewise, a brilliant idea that we covered those boxes with black garbage bag before it was travelled from Makati.

Our walk-in-the-rain experience was paid off during the turnover of donations. Thou the number of kids have doubled, we managed to give them equally. Not a single penny can buy the smile on each kid’s face as they performed their talents in front of us. With the success of this project, we have surely increased the number of happy childen in our own Rotaract way. It was a joy beyond compare. Yours truly and the rest of the rotaractors and volunteers would like to acknowledge the altruistic and philanthropic act of our sponsors. – ROTARY CLUB OF MAKATI-POBLACION, POWERLINK INC., PS2.COM, JOLLiBEE, KRISPY KREME, Ms. Mennie Margate, Mr. Gerry Limlingan and the Staff of Urban Development Department (City Government of Makati). Huge thanks for making this project an achievable one. We will be sending you our feedback and pictures as well. We hope to work with you again and better if you’ll be with us on our next Sagada trip for our gift giving project scheduled on December.

For the snapshots, my great pleasure not to deprive you of those. *wink

Ooops! what's inside the black bags are not trash but our surprises for the kids of Sagada.(our own way of preventing it from getting wet).

It was dark.. It rained half of our way..but these never bothered us - A walk of commitment

Their first taste of original glazed doughnut of Krispy Kreme

These are just three of the many kids who benefited the project

So yeah. Those are some of the pix I personally picked. 'Till our next club project..

Making Friends

2008-05-28T17:37:00.000-07:00

Responding to Wena's tag.

Start Copy Here:

Rule:
1. Copy from ::Start Copy Here:: through ::End Copy Here::.
2. Add your blog to the list. Feel free to add all your other blogs. Just make sure to post this to each of the blog you added in the list.
3. Tag other online friends you know.You don’t need to be tag in order to join. If you want to join just post this one in your blog.
4. Let me know your blog’s name and url by leaving me a comment HERE. I will add you to the master list.That way, everyone is happy and can meet new friends too!5. Come back once in a while to get the master list! Let’s see how this makes our Technorati and PR goes up!
6. DO NOT REMOVE THIS: scrap page made by Yen. Using alphas and tapes from Kate H., flowers from Ida,paper by Catrine.

1. Me and Mine 2.Creative In Me 3.Little Peanut 4. Pea in a Pod 5. Sugar Magnolias 6.Because Life Is Fun 7. Piece o’Kaje 8. Mon a Bric 9. Celebrate Life 10.My Journey11. Deeply In Love 12. Pink and Brown Diaries 13. Happyheart 14. Wilstop 15. FunFierceFab 16. Nita’s Random Thoughts 17. Nita’s Corner 18. Thomas Web Links 19. Thomas Travel Tales 20. Make Money Online 21. Great Finds and Deals 22. PRC Board Exam Results 24. My Wandering Thoughts 25. Nita’s Ramblings 26. Just Me.. Eds 27. Etc Atbp 28. When Silence Speaks 29. Juliana’s Lair 30. Juliana’s World 31. Juliana’s Library 32. Blessed Chic 33. Can of Thoughts 34. Hailey’s Domain 35. Hailey’s Beats and Bits 36. ISL family 37. Arbitrary Thoughts 38. D’ Cooking Mudra 39. My Big Picture 40. Dancing in Midlife Tune 41. Blessings In Life 42. My Colorful World 43. Dare to Blog 44. Life Realities 45. WebGeek Journal DotNet 46. WebGeek Journal 47. Let’s Travel Philippines 49. MY DAILY THOUGHTS AND MOODS 50. A Sweet Taste Of Life 51. My Life in this Wonderful World! 52. Denz Techtronics 53. Denz Recreational 54. Surviving Deplyoment 55. Ester’s Raptured Dreams 56. Nipa Hut 57.Picture Clusters 58. My Wanderings 59.Maiylah’s Snippets 60. EuLehKulit 61. Life Quest 61.Being a wife. Being a Mom. 62. MoMie SPace 63.Woman Xplore 64. PinayWAHM 65. Agring’s Simply Digital 66. Agring’s Home & Garden 67. Agring’s Homecooking & Baking 68. Agring’s Electronics & Entertainments 69. Scrap Addict Sundays 70. Mommy Talks 71. Aggie Scraps 72.Teacher’s Corner 73. My Drift 74. lancernews 75. My so called Life 76. See Me for what You Will… 77. kathycot.com 78. buhaymisis.com 79. All about Mye life 80. Everything has a Reason 81. Life’s Impression 82. Some Thoughts I have 83. Life’s Lessons 84. Conciously Think 85. Geekyology 86. Sprawt 87. Swanportraits 88. Rumination Under the Clouds 89. Busynessworld 90. Gandacious 91. Uncomplicated 92. My Life with... 93. Blueaficionado

End Copy Here

Note from the creator of this tag: Please NOTE that you are not allowed to change the “HERE” in number 4 to your own blog url. I am making this so that everyone can enjoy the benefit of higher technorati rank and who knows more PR!

I'm tagging those will visit my cyber home.

Cast your vote now!

2008-05-28T13:27:00.000-07:00

Just this morning, my officemate asked me If I was able to cast my vote on the Philippines' entries to the New Seven Wonders of the World. And I just said "How can I vote ba?". Albeit she answered me back, I can't remember what she said coz it was already my time to do my frontdesk schedule.

It's good that Wena tagged me. Now I can avail my right to vote.

{Start Copy Here}

Started by Aeirin

Rules:1) Copy from {Start Copy Here} to {End Copy Here}.2) Vote the Philippines for the New 7 Wonders of Nature.3) Add your blog to the list. Feel free to add all your other blogs. Just make sure to post this to each of the blog you added in the list.4) Tag other online friends you know. You don’t need to be tag in order to join. If you want to join just post this one in your blog.5) Let me know your blog’s name and url by leaving me a comment here. I will add you to the master list. That way, everyone is happy and can meet new friends too!6) Lastly, come back and copy the master list back to your site, often. This will allow the new comers to achieve equal benefits as the late comers do.Last July 7, 2007, The New 7 Wonders of the World were announced. Now, the New7Wonders Foundation are looking for the New 7 Wonders of Nature. So many breathtakingly beautiful, natural places are still quite unknown to many. From waterfalls to fjords, rainforests to mountain peaks, freshwater lakes to salt flats, we are discovering together the incredible beauty and variety of our planet.”Call for Official Supported Nominees!Nominations can be submitted for the New 7 Wonders of Nature campaign until December 31, 2008. Check the world map now to ensure that your favorite natural site has been suggested, then get in touch with local authorities to make sure they form an Official Supporting Committee for the nominee.

Vote for the PHILIPPINES

Vote now for Chocolate Hills The Chocolate Hills is an unusual geological formation in Bohol, Philippines. It is composed of around 1,268 perfectly cone-shaped hills, all about the same size, spread over an area of more than 50 sq km The hills are covered in green grass that turns brown during the dry season, giving them the name ”Chocolate Hills.”

Vote now for Mayon Volcano Mayon Volcano is an active volcano on the Filipino island of Luzo, 15 km northwest of Legazpi City.It is classified by volcanologists as a stratovolcano (composite volcano). Its symmetric cone was formed through alternate pyroclastic and lava flows. Mayon is the most active volcano in the country, having erupted over 47 times in the past 400 years, and is apart of what is called the Pacific Ring of Fire.

Vote now for Puerto Princesa Subterranean River National Park The Puerto Princesa Subterranean River National Park is located about 50 km north of the city of Puerto Princesa, Palawan, Philippines. It features a limestone karst mountain landscape with an 8.2 km. navigable underground river. A distinguishing feature of the river is that it winds through a cave before flowing directly into the South China Sea. It includes major formations of stalactites and stalagmites, and several large chambers. The lower portion of the river is subject to tidal influences. The underground river is reputed to be the world’s longest. At the mouth of the cave, a clear lagoon is framed by ancient trees growing right to the water’s edge. Monkeys, large monitor lizards, and squirrels find their niche on the beach near the cave.

Vote now for Tubbataha Reef Tubbataha Reef is an atoll coral reef in the Sulu Sea that belongs to the Philippines. It is a marine sanctuary protected as Tubbataha Reef National Marine Park. The reef is composed of two atolls, North and South Reefs. Each reef has a single small islet that protrudes from the water. The atolls are separated by a deep channel 8 kilometers wide.Over one thousand species, including many that are endangered, can be found at on the reef. These include manta rays, lionfish, tortoises, clownfish and sharks.
For more infomation, please visit: http://www.new7wonders.com/nature/en/

Masterlist
1. Aeirin’s Collection 2. Gelestrada 3. When Silence Speaks, 4. Crissy's Haven 5. Uncomplicated 6. blueaficionado

{End Copy Here}

I'm tagging Girlie. Go girl!

Got Tags

2008-05-26T08:34:00.000-07:00

20 Questions Tag

I've been tagged for the first time. Thanks KCee!

Here are the Rules for this tag : Remove one (1) question from below and add in your personal question, make it a total of 20 questions, then tag eight (8) people on your list. List them out at the end of this post.

1. At what age do/did you wish to marry?

35. Hahahaha. Still not sure if he's the one. Peace dada.

2. What was your happiest moment when you were a child?

Eating morning snack while playing scrabble with my siblings in our small nipa hut right in front of our house.

3. Where is the place that you want to go the most?

London

4. Which part of you do you hate the most?

Uhm.. can't tell. I love everything about me. Lol.

5. When you encounter a sad moment, what do you do?

Go to a place where I can only be me and utter a silent prayer.

6. What are you afraid to lose the most?

My loved ones of course.

7. If you win $1 million, what would you do?

Donate some to our adopted barangay in Sagada. Share it with my loved ones. Travel abroad and save for the future.

8. What do you love the most about last year (2007)?
I was able to visit my lolo's place in Masbate after (16) sixteen long years.

9. List out 3 good points of the person who tagged you:

Friendly, kind and pretty.

10. How do you cope with boredom?

Play ear defeaning music. Amuse myself with "icey" by browsing stacks of my pix and play games after.

11. Till now, what is the moment that you regret the most?

No regrets. I have learned so much from those experiences.

12. What type of person do you hate the most?

Backstabber.

13. What is your ambition?

To be a doctor? Lol.

14. If you had one wish, what would you wish for?

A family free from any sickness.

15. How did you celebrate New Year?

Watching fireworks while eating with my family.

16. What has been the craziest thing you've ever done in your whole life?

I accidentally used an iodized salt to my mom's coffee. I've mistaken it as salt.

17. What do you look forward to in 2008?

To finally own our house we loaned from PAGIBIG

18. If your life is a song, what title best fits it?

Gloria Gaynor's "I will Survive"!

19. What is your inspiration in life?

My family I dearly love.

20. Here's my out of the box question. How would you sell a refrigerator to an Eskimo?

Since it's freezing cold there, I would suggest him to use it as his cabinet instead. Lol.

Lakbayan Meme

My Lakbayan grade is C-!

How much of the Philippines have you visited? Find out at Lakbayan!

Created by Eugene Villar.

So how much of the Philippines have you travelled? Add your links here:

1) mind bubbles, 2) may 3) VANITY KIT 4) SOMETHING PURPLE 5.) A DETOUR 6) Big Eyed Gal 7) The Chronic Shopper 8) My Inner Thoughts Revealed 9.) DeCaFFeiNaTed 10.) BaReFooTeD Me 11.) blueaficionado

I got C!. No doubt since most of the places I've been were from part of Luzon only.

I havent got (8) eight people on my list yet, but I'm tagiing my best bud who's in Japan now. Go Anna. Mishoo!

Just contemplating

2008-05-25T23:33:00.000-07:00

Musing over the waves of China Sea

Have you ever felt your significance? How about someone’s rebuffing it? Has anybody asked of your capability and expertise over a certain thing and receive nothing in any way after the favor has been done? It's indeed unscrupulous.

I myself not trying to emphasize I became an essential part of getting their things done. Likewise, let them feel that I became an element of the success of a group. This is not all about monetary reward for the accomplished task but being thankful is of great way of returning the act of kindness. I consider that when things are appreciated it’s freely-given.

Albeit the two-word “Thank you!” is just simple expression, the manner of how you express it creates a great impact to anyone who will heed it. It does not matter how big or small the favor was, but the verity that she/he became indispensable reinforcement deserves a gratitude you need to return. I guess that by doing so, this will help you develop a more concrete relationship towards individual when it comes to soliciting a favor.

Before I put an end to this, I am taking this chance to say “thank you” to the peeps I met along my journey; for providing me opportunities to know the real me; for making me realize my purpose on earth; for believing in my capacity to handle things which are sometimes uncontainable. All of you made me feel me that a big load has been taken off my neck. My sincere gratitude for letting God used you as a huge blessing to me.

For the peeps who made me feel bad and hurt me in any way.. I won’t fail to remember to utter the same words: Thank you!. I consider all of you as my life critics that will always remind me how to live right.

Eskwelang Kwela '07

2008-05-22T14:00:00.000-07:00

This was a triumphant activity that ought to have a space here: As part of the collaborative campaign to ensure the smooth opening of classes for school year 2007 - 2008, The Rotaract Club of Sampiro conducted a project entitled Eskwelang Kwela: A Balik Eskwela Program for the Children of Barangay Ankileng, Sagada Mountain Province last May 18-20, 2007. The project aims to extend material assistance to those identified children willing to continue with their studies but lack of financial support. The club has been extending to the said barangay facilities and knowledge with regard to the fast changing era of computers. Our club was able to teach the people the basic use of computer during our first leg visit and donated computers for their actual application. Furthermore, they benefited clothes, books, maps, medicines and goodies courtesy of our generous sponsors on our second visit.

The said Balik Eskwela was part of our continuous community project in Sagada wherein mostly pre-schoolers became our beneficiaries. Ten (10) rotaractors took the grueling 14 hours trip to Sagada carrying seven boxes carefully packed loaded with school uniform for pre-schoolers, bags, school supplies, medicines, shampoo and biscuits. All these items were handed to the kids and made possible by our bighearted sponsors: The Rotary Club Makati- Poblacion, Jollibee Taguig- Pateros, Philippine National Red Cross Rizal – Chapter, Head and Shoulders, Powelink Inc., Ms. Aleki Roshane and the staff of Urban Development Department, City Government of Makati. The group enjoyed seeing the faces of the youngsters glowing with wonder and innocence. They remind us of how important it is to remain open to whatever adventures lie just around the bend.

With the success of this endeavor, the children of Sagada taught us a new way to understand the importance of giving. It motivated each one of us to keep coming back not only because we enjoy serving but also because we can learn from them; helping us grow into caring individuals who can change the future.

The kids of Ankileng Day Care Center showing their new school uniforms , some barangay officials and rotaractors handling the banner of RC Makati Poblacion – our mother club

A surprise gift for Ms. Carmen Lipato, lone teacher of Ankileng Day Care Center (clothes, bag loaded with school supplies and teaching materials)

The little choreographer teaching the rotaractors the sagada moves

Exploring the breathtaking Sumaging Cave

Got mud dirt while catching our breath but yea, we survived!

UPDATE: The Rotaract Club of Sampiro (11 rotaractors to be exact) will be leaving for Sagada tomorrow via Victory Liner(to Baguio) for our second Balik Eskwela Project 2008.. Yipee.. . Thanks to our generous supporters (i'll reveal them on my next blog). Can't wait to witness the children of Sagada have the first taste of the popular US doughnut brand which is now in the Philippines. Yea, you've read it right. Thanks Krispy Kreme - Ayala Avenue Branch (one of our sponsors). You have such a huge heart for the kids. For those who haven't shared anything for the kids, you can still do so by saying a simple prayer for our safe and sound journey.

Time to paint a smile. So kids..brace yourself coz we are coming over for your school presents and lots of goodies - a long fourteen hours rewarding trip.

Prayer granted - It isn't my last glance

2008-05-15T21:35:00.000-07:00

In the recent Holy week, I was able to blog of my last glance of Sagada, which I reckoned. But now, I am happy to announce that I’m going back there for another outreach program. Yippe!. For all you know, I’ve been doing this with the full support of my co-rotaractors and generous sponsors since 2006 when I became the elected president of the Rotaract Club of Sampiro – younger Rotarians as they call us. Though my term is over, I still prop up my loyalty to our club as past president. It was awe-inspiring to know that the club to be headed by the elected president, Ms. Ma. Lourdes Bernadette Gonzales-Ostonal will be coming back there for another Balik Eskwela Project on May 24-25, 2008.

As of this moment, the group is in the process of gathering school supplies, books and other forms of donations to be given to the seventy (70) less fortunate kids of Barangay Ankileng in Sagada. Six (6) medical staff from Makati Medical Centerwill join the said outreach shelling out their own contributions as well. I can’t wait to see the children wearing their beaming smile as they patiently line-up to get their school presents. That unforgettable smile painted on their faces certainly the main reason that keeps the group from finding bighearted sponsors that will support our projects for the young ones.

The project is one week away. Albeit it’s another fourteen hours butt-aching trip but who cares? I would say that it’s another experience laudable to be remembered by; another absolute idyllic day for the seventy kids and a great chance for us, rotaractors to be the reason for them to smile again. The no-doubt smile that would bring each one of us the amazing feeling even a single penny can’t buy. Hay.. can’t wait to feel such experience all over again.
How about you? Do you want to paint a smile by sharing something for the kids? We’ll be delighted to see you being a part of our club - Rotaract Club of Sampiro. This coming August is our sponsorship month. Our incoming president, Ms. Ma. Cristina Espinueva (hahaha.. go..go.. Tin-Tin!) would be glad to welcome you guys as we altogether extend help to the needy ones in our own rotaract way.

Wear a smile and be the reason for others to smile. Click!.

Summer Escapade

2008-04-02T17:06:00.000-07:00

Never a year our division fails to plan for summer getaway. We’ve been to Bataan, Hundred Islands, Bolinao, Puerto Galera and then this year, the group decided to go to the northernmost tip of Luzon in the Philippines. Yeah, we are heading north this summer-Pagudpud, Ilocos Norte. Everyone is excited and getting ready for the grueling trip.

Attention: Cacai, we are leaving this Friday night. Can you fly back by then coz we don't want you to miss this 3-day trip.

Going back, wanna know what makes Pagudpud a haven for tourists like us? Well, lemme share what’s in store for us – northern trippers.

Friday - April 4, 2008

09:30 PM - Assembly Time Makati City Hall

10:00 PM - Estimated Time of Departure

Saturday - April 5, 2008

7:00 AM - Estimated Time of Arrival Bantay, Ilocos Sur

7:00 - 07:30 AM - Bantay Church Belfry

7:30 - 08:00 AM - Breakfast at Vigan

8:00 - 09:00 AM - Crisologo St. Walk Tour

9:00 - 09:30 AM - St. Paul's Cathedral

9:30 - 10:00 AM - Fr. Jose Burgos Museum

10:00 - 10:30 AM - Pagburnayan (Vigan House of Pottery)

10:30 - 11:00 AM - Crisologo Museum

11:00 - 12:00 NN - Chavit Singson's Baluarte

12:00 - 01:00 PM - Lunch in Vigan0

3:00 - 03:30 PM - Marcos Mausoleum Batac

3:30 - 04:00 PM - Paoay Church

4:00 - 04:30 PM - Balay Ti Amianan (Malacanang of the North)

5:00 - 05:30 PM - Market Food at Laoag

6:30 PM - Estimated Time of Arrival Pagudpud

6:30 - 07:00 PM - Prepare Dinner

7:00 PM - Dinner

8:00 PM onwards - Free Time

Sunday - April 6, 2008

7:00 AM - Breakfast

8:30 - 09:00 AM - Ilocos - Cagayan Boundary Canopy

9:00 - 09:30 AM - Paraiso nit Anton/ Bagong Lipunan Lodge Ruins

9:30 - 10:00 AM - Agua Grande/ Patapat Viaduct

10:00 - 11:30 AM - Kabigan Falls

11:30 - 12:00 NN - Bantay Abot Caves

12:00 NN - Lunch at Blue Lagoon

12:30 - 02:30 PM - Swimming @ Blue Lagoon

3:00 - 06:00 PM - Swimming @ Saud Beach

7:00 PM - Dinner

8:00 PM onwards - Free Time

Monday - April 7, 2008

5:00 AM - Early Breakfast

6:00 AM - Sunrise @ Bangui Windmills

6:30 AM - Bangui View Deck

7:00 AM - Kapurpuraoan Rock
8:00 AM - Cape Bojeador Lighthouse

11:00 AM - Lunch @ Vigan

12:00 - 01:00 PM - Buy Pasalubong

1:00 PM - Leave for Manila

10:00 PM - Estimated Time of Arrival Manila

Whoa! This is must be a very tiring summer out of town trip but definitely a northern discovery worth coming back. Pagudpod, here we come!

Sagada, Mountain Province – my last glance perhaps

2008-03-27T08:31:00.000-07:00

If there’s a place worth traveling during Holy week – a must-go is Sagada. I was there actually with my friend (sorry she doesn’t want anybody to know that we’re together, hehehe) and a few of her cousins. T’was my fourth time to experience the grueling fourteen hours trip (huwaahhh! still have my butt-ache as of this time). But it was fun revisiting the place knowing the road going there indeed amused me. For the average trippers, they would definitely go for the famous hanging coffins and Sumaguing cave which are my usual itinerary for the past three times of my visit there. But this time, I broke my program. Though most of the members of the group are newbies (only two are timers), I decided not to join them (my best friend and a local guide tagged along with them). I instead went with Tan-ay, our bighearted foster parent in Sagada to help her gather head-size-cabbage and tomatoes in what she called garden which is actually the size of farm – as far as your eyes can see!. Tan-ay said that it’s just near her place but mind you, it took us 45 minute-walk before we reached the garden, hay..but it’s worth the walk!. I got the chance to pick fresh tomatoes, pull the cabbage out, cut it with knife and dropped it into the basket. I maybe slow while doing it, but I had so much fun.

The tiring part came when it was time to carry those veggies back to Tan-ay’s house. Ugh!, Heavy!, I can’t actually lift the basket full of tomatoes but I had no choice nor right to complain. Tan-ay was carrying a sack of cabbage on her head, much heavier than mine. So I carried the basket, managing its weight which is getting heavier and heavier on our way. I knew Tan-ay was worried about me. She was actually asking me every now and then if I can stand the walk with my basket on.. I just reciprocated her with a smile. And thanks God!, we finally reached the house. Truly, it was really tiring but a great experience that can’t be traded for anything else.

When its time to head back to Manila, I was surprised that Tan-ay had this box of cabbage carefully packed for us. Thanks that I did not vocally complain how weighty my basket was. Hers was far heavier just to know in the end that those cabbages are for us to bring home.

Upon reaching Poblacion, I visited the Church of Saint May the Virgin and utter this: "I pray that may this not be my last glance-slash-step of Sagada. I pray for more life experience, fun and serenity as well. Amen."

My sanctuary, my safe haven

2008-03-09T19:19:00.000-07:00

Moving from a place you have gotten used to since birth to a place which is wholly stranger to your eyes is such an appalling experience. I remember my first few months of struggling and adjusting myself just to fit in to this so-called highly urbanized metro. My life way back in the province was really far different from where I am now. I’ve been working in Makati for over five years but back then, I actually had my second thought of moving and accepting the job due to my would-be environment. I had the apprehensions that a certified “probinsyana” would absolutely have to dare extend an extra mile just to adopt the city-life.

Finding where to dwell was the first I considered. Though, I do have relatives where I can stay to, I opted to find a different abode. Yeap, they’re my kin but I don’t want to squeeze in myself and be an added burden, este, responsibilities since most of them have already children to look after to. I did find one (boarding house with two rooms) and compromised to pay the bigger share just to convince my eldest sister moved with me, since she works nearby my working place. I need someone trustworthy to ask and get an outright answer of the things that might draw my concern while living my life here, and that’s my ate (thou most of the times we argue over small things because she’s is so clever, peace sis! J) Sad to say after a year, she had to go back to the province because her company has to close and that ended me to be finally on my own. I even cried the first night I went home and saw her room empty. But what I can I do? She needs to leave and I need to get on with my life without her.
It made me realize that living all by myself will give me more time to assess myself, bring out the best in me, decide on my own, live my purpose without turning back, walk head up and face the challenges of life.

And during my downfall moment, the four corners of my room became my place of safety to release the pain of being single-handedly; my own sanctuary who have witnessed my everyday battle of missing my family while fiddling with my new milieu; the haven wherein I can totally take off my different masks and be of myself for real. Thanks Roomy (my room). You’ve seen the tears I cried, the number of times I smiled and how I’ve grown a lot here. You are my sole eyewitness up to this moment.

Seeing myself now after five years (that’s also an additional five years to my age, whew! I don’t wanna to get old yet, really.), I can say that I was able to surpass and agree with the flow of life here.

Sayonara for now

2008-02-25T01:35:00.000-08:00

I’m counting my days being with ANNA – my best bud-slash-touristguide in Makati.

I’ve been here for over five years now due to work commitment but never get certain of the place up to now. Yay! – must be the reason for always asking her help to track the place. Good thing she’s there (my one click away GPS); blocking even her busiest day available for me; my shield against stressful day; making me feel like I really belong here to stay. I love her for that - not to mention how generous she really is. She never fails to share even the tiniest blessings she received. Hardly would I find a friend who is such a bighearted like her.

I know heading my days in Makati will be different now that she (Anna) will be leaving anytime soon. Yokohama,Japan– her would-be new home for one year. I feel grateful knowing that she was chosen to represent the City Government of Makati as secondmen staff for the CITYNET (Ugh!, I did ask ANNA about it, but I can’t still remember its full name - must be sign of aging..lol ) event. I got so excited of the news when I first heard it, really. But after contemplating that there would be no more ANNA next month, I suddenly asked myself “Am I ready for this?”.

Days without her, will definitely uneasy to bear at first. There are so many things with her that I have gotten used to do: texting her during wee hours that I need someone to be with (expect the following day that her things are all packed ready for overnight stay at my place), barhops-slash-bandchasing, fun carnivals, tiangge-shopping galore, quiapo-baclaran tour (she toured me here just to see for myself that these two places are not situated in one place - which my belief at first, hahaha..i was supah “probinsyana” back then), our so called school days (casino days), attending rotaract activities, visiting my old folks while checking out restos that offers wide range of exotic foods, and of course spending Sunday in her place and have the taste of her dad’s very own sinigang na hipon.

For obvious reasons, we are more than sisters. We're like Spongebob and Patrick. She may be out of my picture sooner, but who cares? It’s just one year of being apart, anyway,right? Sigh. I’m actually trying not to be sad about it; to accept the grim reality that I have to go on with my life being left here and to settle for who’s around. This is how it’s always gonna be for one year.
But looking on the other side of the coin, I want to look at ANA’s departure as her way to explore more of herself in foreign land, to find what’s in store there for her and for me also to find my way to get through here or abroad perhaps.

I’d like to think that finding ourselves in different paths is meeting each other at the end of the road. So no SAYONARA (goodbye) for us but IRASSHAIMASE (welcome) to the opportunities that life has to offer.

Way for us to go my friend!, thou I am going to miss you dearly..

Pen rules

2008-02-22T01:10:00.000-08:00

I am not a writer. Not a good one. I loved to be but don’t know how to. I started to write anything, just whatever comes in my mind. I want to enjoy the freedom of writing and explore the power of expression. I know that it’s not an overnight success but a process I need to go through with. Beyond doubt, it’s hard to pretend to be somebody when you’re not; to play the role you’re not supposed to play.

But lemme' share this adage i'm holding up to: “You’ll never know how high you can fly until you spread your wings”. Yea, time would come that I will no longer call myself as a fraud writer. The point in time that pen will rule in me.