Scribbler's Smorgasbord

Remembering Mama

2012-01-23T05:15:00.000-08:00

Make that twelve years ago when it would be the last time I'd see her. It would be the last time we'd talk, the last that I'd see her smile.

'Be good", that was what she told me, her voice frail, her breathing ragged. I'd listen to every word she said, although she no longer said much anymore.

She had some fight going in her. I saw it in the way she looked at me. She was trying to fight back. But somehow she had lost the fight. She succumbed to it.

That was twelve years ago when I lost my hero to breast cancer. That person was my mother.

There is never a day that I don't miss her. And each time I look at myself, the pain of missing her hurts even more because I've grown up to be a spitting image of her.

There is never a day that I don't long for her, wishing she was still here to celebrate with me in my happy, glorious days, even more so to back me up when I'm down in the rut. After all, she was the person I'd first run to whenever I had something great to share or whenever I needed help.

I miss saying the word 'Mama' and having someone to call that, because there is no one else that could ever take her place; no one who loved me more than she did. I still long to hear her infectious laughter, and the things she used to tell me are still fresh in my mind. But she was gone too soon.

She didn't get to put a medal around my neck with Papa when I got an award at my highschool graduation.

She didn't get to have me as a student in Economics in college, something which she really looked forward to.

She wasn't able to beam with so much pride when everyone else congratulated me for 'causing trouble' in school.

She didn't get to cheer me on when I got my first job and celebrate the sweet reapings of the first pay with me.

She never got to meet the guy whom she prayed would be right for me.

All that's left with me are joyful, lasting memories of her - the blessing of having her as my mother even though her physical presence may be shortlived. She may be smiling and looking on with pride for the good deeds I've done, or perhaps frowning upon the boo-boos I may have gotten myself into, because deep in my heart and mind, I know she is and will always be with me.

I love you, Ma.

Help Sendong victims

2011-12-19T05:16:00.000-08:00

Following the tragedy that has happened to our brothers and sisters in Mindanao, I'm really not as festive as I should be. I have relatives in CDO and Iligan and I was worried about them knowing how badly these cities were hit.

Thankfully, they are fine; but my heart breaks to know that a lot of people drowned in their sleep (as of the latest count, there are more than 650 casualties) and many more are missing.

The plight these people are suffering, and will still have to bear is heartbreaking, so let's extend whatever help we can to the victims of typhoon Sendong. Donate whatever you can such as clean clothing, drinking water, medicines, slippers, canned goods or give financial aid - whatever help we can give counts.

I've just finished packing some relief items (pillows, bedsheets, clothes and slippers) for sendoff tomorrow at LBC. For those who want to help, you can send your donations at any LBC branch, check with Red Cross and/or your bank.

A little goes a long way. Let's make them, at the very least, feel the spirit of Christmas by helping them at this time of dire need.

Because nothing feels like it like Love Letters can

2011-12-09T10:06:00.000-08:00

Love letters: stash 'em or trash 'em?

I have had my fair share of love letters in my lifetime. I don’t clearly remember the very first time I got mine. All I know is that it was from a boy whom I really liked in fifth grade. It was scribbled in pencil on a piece of intermediate paper.

I recall with fondness how one cutesy love note bore more cutesy love notes which led to something cutesy – more popularly known as puppy love. Alas, my mother read all the letters stuffed in my school bag and crumpled them into a huge ball of rubbish. Unfortunately I was too young to know the importance of stashing these precious scraps away from queer eyes.

My first boyfriend also wrote me love letters, which he’d usually hand me to my surprise. His letters didn’t say much, but were enough to make me swoon and fall even more in love with him at that time. I still have them, hidden safely somewhere.

My second boyfriend, who was sweet in every way, used to write me love letters with so much passion and creativity. One he had smothered in his favorite perfume, another he had embellished with rose petals and tiny little beads - the works, never mind the bad poetry. (grins) I'd write him love letters too, with the hardest attempts at making mine more passionate and creative than the ones I received from him. I didn’t get to keep all love letters he had written for me, as I burned some of them after a bitter breakup.

I also keep letters from so-called 'admirers'. I hardly ever read these notes but on instances when I pore over them, it never fails to flatter me knowing I have, in a way, experienced what it’s like to be adored.

In a world where everything is just a click away, love letters are seemingly a thing of the past; its beauty nearing a halt. Hand-written confessions of love and affection are being conveniently replaced by email, text messaging and other techie means possible.

However, compared to these modern ways of expressing one’s feelings, the beauty of love letters lies in its surefire ability to draw emotional response. It can make you giggle, swoon, cry tears of joy or even embarrass you. There's always a big difference when you receive an "I love you" message from your significant other when it's handwritten than when it's typed in on a keyboard/keypad.

It's a good thing I got to keep some love letters for me. These documents of confessed passion are a stark reminder of how you became someone’s inspiration. It is a written record of someone who poured his time and effort to weave words out of pure emotion, nevermind if he's not a gifted writer.

I've learned of this now, as I happened to come across these letters. I will always remember and be thankful that at some point in my life, somebody loved me; that I became special in his life and that I was once the apple of his eye - even if the relationship is gone or the feeling had long fizzled out.

It's been a long, long while since I last received a love letter. My boyfriend of three years, though sweet and one of a kind, has never written me one yet, ever. But in case he's reading this... :)

K-Poppin'

2011-12-07T06:18:00.000-08:00

I've long resigned to the fact that I'm a bore when it comes to fashion and I just couldn't go weak at the knees at it. I've always believed in dressing for comfort over fashion. Check out my closet and you'll find that there is nothing much to be excited rummaging into it anyway - most of my clothing pieces are dark and consist of the basics. Perhaps one can say my clothing selections are a cross between safe and boring. I rest my case.

So when KPop (abbreviation of Korean pop) was announced as our office's Christmas party theme, I felt as if I was at loose ends again, thinking of what to wear and how to wear it. You see, I am probably the least person anyone would think of when it comes to fashion. I shy away from wearing bold prints, shun bright colors, get cautious with accessories and ward off trends because frankly, I don't really know if I can pull it off.

And although the idea of a best-be-overdressed vibe was more of a chore to me, this was a night I felt was too good to pass up without getting hyped up, if at all it would mean a new experience.

So the closest I got to defying my cardinal comfort-over-fashion mantra is to kick it up with killer heels, don chunky accessories and wear explosively bright-colored lipstick.

KPop fashion, or fashion per se, is all about having fun. But fashion and being a fashionista are just not my turf, and I prefer being called a fashion ennuyeuse. Really.

Alone and lonely

2011-10-26T23:00:00.000-07:00

The past few days have made me feel like an emotional wreck, nursing figurative wounds I felt I could not get past with, let alone patch. My psyche disapproves, but emotions are a stronger force than that, succumbing to anxiety attacks and a feeling of helplessness - loneliness beyond reprieve. I've been alone for some time but I've never felt this lonely.

I wish you were here. I need you. So he was told. He could wipe her tears dry, chase her blues away. Yet all he could do was stay on the other end of the line until her tears dried all on their own.

If it isn't distance, it's the pain of being lonely that's killing her. She has been counting the days when he will come home, she will not know when, but she will wait faithfully.

I miss you. Please come home.

Palawan lovin'

2011-10-23T02:53:00.000-07:00

I know, I know. It took me this looong to blog about this. It's not to say that I have had been overpowered by my blogging-delinquent tendencies, I guess I've finally gained enough inspiration to blog, blog and just blog.

My idea of a weekend reprieve calls for slipping on my trusty pair of Havaianas, wearing my favorite shorts and hopping on that boat or plane to neverland - a getaway to somewhere new and different.

What I'd give to explore new sights and have a taste of novel experiences, even if it means having barely enough to last me once I get back to the daily grind. Going on a 'pocket vacay' to Palawan with my bee friends was fun and worthwhile, even pumping up my wanderlust more.

Just arrived!

Lotsa crocs! - at the Palawan Wildlife Rescue and Conservation Center

baby, behave :)

Off to the underground river

I had always dreamt of going to Palawan – the last frontier of an island which I’d often see in tourism advertisements and postcards, it's name I’d always hear good raves about from people who have gone there.

Palawan is an ideal haven when you’re looking to commune with nature, and yet even anyone who’s not much of a nature lover will be in awe with their lush greens, breathtaking islands, highly protected wildlife and well-preserved natural resources.

Lush green

the Palawan Underground River:

I'm still gloating with glee that I have, at long last, visited the Puerto Princesa Subterranean River National Park. No wonder it was declared an official finalist to the search for the New 7 Wonders of Nature.

Just one of the amazing rock formations inside the cave. Our tour guide calls it the 'elephant'

One of the reasons why I wanted to explore Palawan was the enchantment of seeing for myself if schools of fish would really swarm you, as my aunt once told me. And sure it did happen when we we were at Snake Island. I never got to ask the locals why the island was called such but it was a delightful experience to be swarmed by fishes, not veered away from by them. Mind you, I don't think I'll ever get to experience that anywhere else than in Palawan.

Snake Island

I've found that Palawan is one of the cleanest places I've ever been to. In Puerto Princesa, you could actually get fined for littering anywhere, which brings me to ponder that if they have commendable waste management practices, I don't see why other cities in the Philippines just can't do it.

Albeit short, visiting this beautiful place made me, for a while, forget just how crazy this world can get because the place is just so relaxed and laid back. It makes you truly thankful and proud to claim such breathtaking a scenery our own which grant us worthy of bragging rights. It also makes you aware and conscious of preserving the environment (because their locals are bent on keeping it so).

I wonder when I'll be able to satisfy my wanderlust again. Anyone up for another getaway?

Gecko fright

2011-10-21T07:47:00.000-07:00

I'm locking myself inside my room because of this gecko hanging around in the kitchen. I had to look it up on Google to know what kind of red-dotted reptile it is, and found that it's a leopard gecko. Out of my huge fear of lizards, I am laughing at myself as I have blocked the small space at the foot of my door with shoe boxes, for fear that the gecko might crawl inside and join me here in this already cramped space I call my room.

You see, I have never seemed to overcome 'scoliodentosaurophobia', or fear of lizards, myself still quaking in my boots up until now every time this reptile is close by. This is the same feeling I get with frogs, ranidaphobia as it is called. Either of, or both these phobias may be an affront to my thankfully clean bill of cardiac health, the psychological a different aspect, of course.

But no matter how many times I try to tell myself that lizards are generally harmless, it simply just doesn't cut it. Heck, I cant even post a picture of a happy gecko even because it still skeeves me.

Although it may still take a lot of convincing to be able to conquer this fear not uncommon, I still have reasons to feel a lot luckier knowing I don't have the weirdest of weird phobias, like the fear of gravity reversing itself, for example, or fear of being drowned by peacocks. I'm not even sure how I could even begin to deal with such a grotesque fear on the uptake.

Meanwhile, I'll just lock myself up a little longer in my room and wait 'til the gecko's gone. What do you expect a lizard phobe to do anyway?

Welcome to the world, Yoseff!

2011-10-12T20:26:00.000-07:00

It's official. I'm now a godmother - a proud one at that.

Meet my first godson, Yoseff Iñigo Castro Fabia.

Welcome to the world, little one! I couldn't be happier to be your ninang.

Plod on

2011-10-08T08:33:00.000-07:00

Yesterday was a horrible rainy day. I got stuck in the rain for what seemed like eternity, myself wondering about, and wishing for things scattering my brain like rain showers and thunderstorms. It was actually my first time to experience the brunt of getting stranded because of flooding in the streets, and the lousy part was that I could only do so much.

You wait helplessly to get a ride not knowing whether or not you can, and while you do, you see right before your eyes how worse it could get when you can't do anything about the angry rain, not even the flooding.

But then, you're not too sure if there really is nothing you can do but just sit and wait for a miracle to happen. When I think about it, this seemingly inevitable a headache, no matter how I abhor it, happens perhaps to make me see something more profound.

Life's tough. Plod on.

Of beauty pageants and boo-boos

2011-09-13T07:08:00.000-07:00

Well done, Shamcey. You've made us proud.

Yes. Shamcey Supsup did very well in the recently concluded Ms. Universe 2011. I was confident that she was going to take home the crown. After all, she had the looks, the confidence, the grace and the intelligence. I was one amongst the crowd in fever pitch hoping she was going all the way for the win.

But no, she only made it to the 3rd spot. Eyebrows raised as to Ms. Angola getting the crown, or why Supsup ranked lower than the two other contenders, and then reactions came in different sways.

Our high hopes falling short, people stoop into making snide and sarcastic, even stupid remarks, a normal inclination that may qualify as bitterness because we knew our bet fared so well in the first place. If it wasn't showing support for Supsup with great fervor, I don't know how to put it.

Perhaps this could be brought about by all that hype that many Filipinos have with beauty pageants. Yes, I watch them whenever I get the chance but I have never been a fan of them. I have always thought of beauty pageants as a root of insecurity to some and a source of entertainment to many - not so much with substance if we're really talking about real causes and issues, if you know what I mean.

People seek and expect perfection, but ironically take delight in spotting imperfections at the expense of others. Now what does that speak of a person? People are made to believe that it is acceptable to quantify beauty through physical appearance and intelligence through the hypothetical and plain rhetoric.

But looking at the other side of the spectrum, I'd like to think that the public's blind fixation on beauty pageants stems from it's ability to bring about some sort of 'escape' from the harsh realities of everyday life. People want to be fascinated, and in a way, find fascination by the glitz and glamour often associated with beauty pageants. They delve into this realm where 'beauty' is highlighted, showcased, more so glorified, making it their own. After all, who doesn't like beauty and want to be surrounded by it?

So there are remarks from some who talk about the pageant's results in unsensible, distasteful fashion, poking fun at race, skin color and even the lack of, or inability to answer in English. I say, stop the bitterness. Beauty is relative and it is never defined by what you are, where you're from or the language you use.

Shamcey Supsup may not have taken home the crown but she made us all proud. She may not have won the title, but she outshone the rest of the candidates and was a crowd favorite. She may not be Miss Universe 2011 but many believe she deserved the crown and should have won.

Now isn't that something we should all celebrate?

Image source: http://goo.gl/zwl8L

Well hello, Singapore!

2011-09-03T18:58:00.000-07:00

Exploring Singapore for just three days wasn't easy and yes - bitin, needless to say. Checking out what this fine city had to offer constituted lots of walking (expect muscle cramps!) and catching buses and trains in between taking deep sighs from marveling at Singapore's splendor. No matter how pressed for time I was, it was well spent and enjoyed. The best part of it all: winding up back in the arms of my boy, who's based there.

There are just so many things I am amazed with in Singapore.

1. The city is generally clean and clutter-free.

2. You can easily get around the city. Getting 'lost' does not really scare you that much, especially if you're a tourist.

3. Traffic flow is 'liquid'. Motorists strictly observe traffic rules and have a full understanding of what a pedestrian lane is.

4. People don't spit. Because this is one of my major peeves, I've found great relief here.

5. Safe. The only thing I actually ever worried about while touring Singapore was if I could still walk (what with all that heavy walking), not my bag getting snatched or getting poked from behind by a stranger inside a packed train.

Travel tip # 1: Dress for comfort. Your body will thank you for it.

Travel tip # 2: Bring water at all times. Water is quite expensive in SG too, FYI

Travel tip # 3. Wear protection. Sunblock and sunglasses a must.

Travel trip # 4: Have earphones. Will travel.

Travel trip # 5: Bring a map. It always helps.

Singapore is pretty much a small city but there's actually a lot to explore and discover. I'm amazed how this city has flourished from its humble beginnings as a fishing village to a fabulous and bustling cosmopolitan hub, its rich cultural diversity making it a popular destination.

the famous Merlion

Fantastic view of the city at night aboard the Singapore flyer

When in Singapore, try hawker food. Tasty, local food for cheap.

Checking out art at the Esplanade

All that walking, to the point of getting cramped that I could no longer seem to walk was a shame when I realized I've only explored parts of Singapore's beautiful whole. Blame it on time constraints. But then I can always go back there, perhaps discover there's something bright, bold and new that awaits me. I feel lucky.

Love, after all

2011-09-01T23:03:00.000-07:00

My most unforgettable experience in Singapore:

Tired and cramp from a fun day at Universal Studios, I fell almost face first in front of many people at the bus stop in our attempt to catch the bus. Bruised and embarrassed, Cyril took me into his arms, wiped my tears, hugged me tight and nursed me the entire night, not minding that he, too, was cramped and even more tired than I was.

I am the most blessed girl in the world.

Not lucky, only blessed.

Debugging

2011-08-09T07:12:00.000-07:00

Girl settles at a table and waits for her pasta chicken order when guy approaches and sits next to her.

Girl: Yes?
Guy: I just want to talk to you.
Girl: uh, about what?
Guy: You know, youre really looking hot these days.

Girl’s brain shoots up 360 degrees but manages to contain herself despite wanting to break the guy's neck. FYI, girl doesnt like being called hot.
Guy: Your hair’s great. And what a cute shirt you have on too.
Girl: (starts doubting guy’s sexual orientation) I know. Tell me something i dont know.

FOOD ARRIVES
Guy: Can i have your number.
Girl: No.
Guy: Why not?
Girl: Coz i dont want to. If you want my number, find my number. But im not giving it to you.
Guy: Why are you being so stuck-up? I just want to know you more.
Girl: Im not interested, alright?
Guy: Are you really like that to all the other guys?
Girl: Ummm…no. Can you please leave me alone? Im hungry and i want to enjoy my meal.

Guy doesnt leave and continues blabbering. Realizing that his attempts at getting into a conversation with her are futile, guy’s presence undergoes a state of sublimation.

Girl is oblivious, too preoccupied twirling spaghetti with her fork.

This girl tells you, guys in particular, to cut it out when she’s not interested, especially when she’s hungry. Cheesy pick-up lines and trite conversation startup pieces dont work for her, and she knows when you, (guys in particular) are trying to pull it off.

Try a little harder, though, unless you want yourself forked, turned-over and become toast.

Going brave, going bangs!

2011-06-14T02:16:00.000-07:00

Undecided for months and months as to what I was going to do with my hair, which is ideal an example of boring and lifeless, I finally mustered enough decisiveness to just go straight to the salon to get a hair makeover.

Bench Fix in Ayala has always been my choice whenever I needed a hair fix, thanks to bad haircut experiences with other salons. Their rates can be higher compared to most salons here but at least their stylists know what they're doing and yes, I'd always get out of the salon not wishing I had chopped the stylist's ear. haha.

Here's a photo of me pre-hair makeover.

I instructed my stylist to please trim the ends of my hair but make sure the length was maintained as much as possible. I wanted bangs to go with it as well. After several snips (he thought I was better off with side bangs just below my cheekbones to complement the shape of my face), he asked if I wanted to make my bangs shorter.

"Can you make it shorter? Like up to my brows? I know it doesn't really suit my face shape but daugon ra nako sa confidence."

The stylist chuckled and proceeded to chop it shorter.

Lo and behold my new look.

Oh okay, well maybe the look isn't totally new.
I sported bangs in 2007 - DIY, fyi.
Guess I'm just brining back the look

The cut was still good the following day, although it didn't give the exact same look (I could probably maintain that 'bagong labas sa parlor' look if I had a blower same as theirs.). It didn't worry me much though, as I've but long kept a mental note to myself - it's actually what made the stylist chuckle. And mind you, it pretty much works.

Because really, no matter what hairstyle you sport, or the shade of lipstick you wear even, or the outfit you don, it all and always boils down to one thing: Confidence.

Going beyond the topic on getting bangs now, I ask, what's stopping you from trying something new, if at all interesting at the least? Be brave, be confident, be you. :)

From Maria Ressa to me!

2011-06-12T05:38:00.000-07:00

Thank you, dear, for this pleasant surprise! :)

Boyfriend approaches Maria Ressa.

Boy: Hi, can I have a picture with you?
Maria Ressa: Sure. (smiles for the camera with the boyfriend)
Boy: Can I have your autograph?
Maria Ressa: Sure, after photo ops.

Boyfriend waits till Maria Ressa is done with her photo ops. Approaches her again.

Boy: Can I have your autograph?
Maria Ressa: Sure, what's your name?
Boy: Can you put the name of my girlfriend instead? She's a big fan of yours. She's an aspiring journalist.
Maria Ressa: Wow! What's her name?

Boyfriend says girlfriend's name. Maria Ressa scribbles in notebook. Boyfriend thanks her. Sends pic of autograph to girlfriend. Girlfriend is surprised and ecstatic. So ecstatic!

Boy I sure have the best boyfriend in the world!

Bee, Tea and Me (Bubble Bee Tea House)

2011-06-06T07:01:00.000-07:00

I don't know what it is with the middle of the month, this time at work when my brain gets overworked and my hormones are raging badly enough to trigger anxiety and panic attacks.

When all the dirty work is done, I seem to have always made it a point to purge all that stress off me. Whether it's going to the salon for a diamond peel or getting a massage at my favorite spa or having a drink or two with friends, it's amazing how these simple indulgences can actually keep me from being on the brink of insanity.

After heaving sighs of relief following the end of reporting day, me and my girls went to Bubble Bee Tea House for some chillaxing. It was actually my first time to visit the place and boy I was not disappointed - it really makes for a nice place to just sit back, relax and unwind.

I especially love Bubble Bee's interiors - soft, warm lights, soothing colors, cushioned chairs that bring out your 'lazy' side. The cafe's style spells fun, quirky and very laid back.

Couldn't help but stop and stare at 'em cutesies!

that's the Bubble Bee logo right there

Davey getting cozy with tiger

Rhea and her milk tea

Bubble Bee Tea House isn't just all about aesthetics, too. Their tea drinks are actually a great alternative to coffee, and are delicious, I actually had a tough time deciding which drink we ordered was better, if not the best.

If you're not into tea, they also offer fresh fruit slushes too. Whether they serve beer or any other liquor, I'm not too sure - the waiter said they weren't serving beer but then I saw a beer bar alfresco (which is which?)

We all gushed amongst ourselves "Bitaw noh, nice diri noh?" Drop by and you might as well be saying the exact same thing.

Post Script:
My gizmo doesn't really take good photos. =)

Why, thank you, BB cream

2011-06-01T08:30:00.000-07:00

During my most recent diamond peel session, the attendant remarked that my skin was looking better than before, saying that it looked brighter and smoother.

Okay, so maybe getting a diamond peel regularly has helped, alongside my doctor's prescription for my acne-prone skin. It's just that she repeatedly remarked how good my skin looked, (I'm not sure if that was her way to get me to tip her big, haha) That's when I realized I should give BB cream part of the credit too.

What I'm using

I first learned of BB (blemish balm) cream in my desperate attempts to find that one product that would best suit my skin - the perfect example of imperfect. And because I am not really into wearing makeup, I wanted to find that one product that could give me the 'no makeup' makeup look, if only to stop my well meaning friends from telling me to put some glow on my otherwise pale face.

Lucky I found these things and even more in a BB cream. I've been using this wonder cream for four months now and I've been so hooked - in fact, I don't leave home anymore without applying it on my face. Why do I love BB cream? Let me give you my top five reasons:

1. Conceals imperfections. Think blemishes, dark spots and uneven skin tone. BB cream's got them all covered. BB cream instantly brightens my skin, giving it that nice, noticeable glow.

2. Protects from the sun's harmful UV rays.

3. Moisturizes my skin. Who says oily skin should skip moisturizer?

4. Lightweight and goes on easy and natural on the skin. Unlike foundation, it doesn't feel thick and is non-comedogenic.

5. Time-saving. Because BB cream all comes with coverage, moisturizing and protection properties, I'm usually all set and good to go after application.

I guess this explains why BB creams are such a rave among women, especially Asians. And if you ever wonder how many celebs, for instance, Korean stars, possess impeccably good skin, that's because they use BB cream too. I'm currently using Maybelline BB cream - the product works well on my skin although I know there are other better brands out there which I might want to try when the tube runs out.

Now you see why I am smiling more confidently now. See the difference?

BB cream could also stand for this too - Be Beautiful.

You're invited! Jollibee Kids Convention 2011

2011-05-23T23:10:00.000-07:00

Dubbed as the country’s biggest expo event for kids, Jollibee is all set to hold the Kids Convention on May 28-29 at the SM City Cebu Trade Hall.

Open to all kids, both JKC (Jollibee Kids Club) members and non-members alike, this two-day event comes with a full slate of exciting activities that are sure to delight kids and even the kids at heart. Among the highlights of this expo include mall parade, mini concert featuring Jollibee Kids Club talents and photo op with your favorite Jollitown friends, plus a toy exhibit showcasing Transformers action robot figures and Barbie doll collectibles.

Not to be missed is the first ever Barbie Cosplay Contest. This competition highlights a one-of-a-kind fantasy experience for kids, with cash prizes at stake.

Cool freebies will also be given away to the first 500 new JKC members as well. They may even get a chance to win a Jollibee Kids Party Package for free. This event makes for a great venue for parents who want to clue in on the latest kids party ideas as well.

The Jollibee Kids Convention aims to bring together kids in one big, spectacular event. This will feature a lot of cool and exciting stuffs everyone for everyone to enjoy and remember.

Mark your calendars and be a part of the biggest expo for kids this year.

Nothing but memories

2011-05-05T09:58:00.000-07:00

My grandparents' two-storey house - now demolished.

I am sad. This is what my late grandparents' house looks now, a far different picture from that cozy and lovely home where I used to spend summer after summer back when I was a child.

This used to be my playhouse. To the little girl that I once was, my grandparents' humble abode was like a house made of candy - simple pleasures that make for my once unadulterated joys. There were times when I didn't want to leave.

This was once a house that was so full of love and happiness. And that was so because my grandparents showed me love and cared for his grandchildren so much. Now nothing is left of it but memories of my happy childhood with Lolo Ating and Lola Tinay.

Back in my childhood days, I'd wake up in the morning and rush downstairs to find lolo in the kitchen preparing my milk. He wouldn't mix it with coffee the way he did with his drink because he said coffee was bad for children.

Come dinner, he would knowingly ask what we wanted to eat. He knew we wanted him to pull out corned beef or canned paksiw from his sari-sari store, with softdrinks to boot. He'd tease me about just having sardines and then laugh when I'd wail. When it comes to food, lolo spoiled us to bits. He was an excellent cook, and I'd always finish his plate full and happy.

The sari-sari store was another favorite spot of mine in the house. It was so stuffed with goods they had to put up a bodega to stock other supplies there. My eyes were always on those colorful assortments of candy placed in glass jars. I always craved for them; and when I'd be tempted to get some, lolo always knew when to quell it.

Whenever he was tending to something else, I'd sit at his table and fiddle with his abacus, even when I didn't know then how to use it, or what it was for. I'd get to play little cashier every once in a while too. I never liked it one bit, but it was my way of helping them out.

They had a spacious living room as well, which could accommodate a good number of people at one time. The mood was always fun and festive whenever we'd all gather after a meal and the elders would make the kids dance while they sang in chorus. All I'd hear was laughter and happy chatter.

the shack, where we used to gather and lounge around.

Lolo and lola also had a big backyard, where lolo built a tree house for me and my sister to spend lazy afternoons in. Their backyard was also where I would run around with the other kids, play games and even chase stray chicken too.

Lola grew a variety of plants, flowers and fruits as well, to which lolo would cut sugarcane, pick buungon (pomelo), among others, much to our delight. Lola would gather cacao for me to eat, and then I would help her make tableya out of the leftover seeds the next day. She also often warned me not to go further out into the backyard because of the presence of tungaw or red mite which could be extremely itchy to the skin. And when I wouldn't listen to her, she'd treat my poor, rashed skin expertly without the proverbial "I told you so" remark anyway.

Their washing area was my most favorite spot in the house. It had a tub which I loved soaking into and just playing with cool water that seemed to be running non-stop.The last time I visited their house, I'd find that the tub appeared to be way smaller than it used to - I must have become all grown up now.

The house was already barren the last time the family came to visit. I barely saw a hint of lola's once well manicured garden. Lolo's sari-sari store was nothing but an empty, dusty space; the backyard looked as if it hadn't been tamed for ages, and the tub was dry out of water. Now all that is left are just remnants of nothingness. Who knows, although I'm not sure, that maybe if the house were kept to stand still, it would have been a lot less sad for us.

Nothing is left of it now, I know; but the memories will always live with me. I will always be thankful to my lolo Ating and lola Tinay for making my childhood the happiest days of my life and I will always remember how they helped raise me to become what I am now.

TOSH is LOVE

2011-04-19T20:27:00.000-07:00

The Old Spaghetti House is always the first that comes to my mind whenever I think of pasta. Call me exaggerated, but TOSH gives me these unusual cravings, like an addiction to something I must satisfy if only to keep me from going insane. True.

My most recent dining experience at TOSH was pleasant, as always. I had a tough time deciding what to have, although I wanted to try the pasta dish my boyfriend had the last time we dined there. It was surprisingly nice to know that he, the one I know who'd be the last to eat pasta, would actually finish his plate of sun dried tomato pesto with grilled chicken, and remark that he loved it.

Mirror, mirror on the wall!

I love dining at places where there are mirrors. The self-confessed narcissa's logic is that you'd forget everything if you're enjoying good food, and that includes looking in the mirror all the time. It's like humoring myself to check out what a monster I become when I'm chowing. lol

Bolognese spaghetti

Ordered Bolognese thinking this was what my boyfriend had when we last dined here. Turned out it wasn't what he ordered. But still, it was good, really good.

Chicken and mushroom spaghetti

Rhea ordered chicken and mushroom spaghetti, it's taste close to that of carbonara. Forked into her plate and loved the dish too.

more garlic bread!

Trio 8 - Golden Oreo cookies

Trio 8 - Funnel cake

Trio 8 - Mud Pie is to die for

For dessert, we ordered Trio 8, which consists of deep fried Oreo cookies topped with ice cream, funnel cake and mud pie. We just couldn't get enough of the mud pie - it's simply divine. So what if it's laden with calories? We're ditching our diets for this.

filling out the customer survey form

and the respondent says...

One for the road! Stuffed and smiling!

It has been yet another pleasant dining experience at The Old Spaghetti House what with it's no doubt delicious food, cozy resto ambience and of course, juicy conversation with a dear friend.

Post Script:

Thanks to Rhea's Nikoy for the shots. ;)

Lowaii weekend

2011-03-17T03:31:00.000-07:00

Once in a while I try to get away from the usual scenario of me when I'm alone during weekends - falling prey to sloth, staying all throughout the day in my small, rented room doodling online or sleeping like a log. I wanted to go somewhere else, somewhere new, somewhere private, somewhere nice but near. And so Lowaii (Cebu Marine Resort) was the place to go.

Here, finally!

Nicely landscaped garden

Their grass was so green, I had to humor myself about "keeping off the grass". haha

Beach placid?

I was, at first, excited to hit the beach for a swim but didn't find it too tempting. I found their beach rather weird. I don't know - no waves, not even a sound of 'em. The water didn't look clean to me either.

Bean shaped pool

I brought two pairs of bikinis and to not be able to wear either one of them would be a sorry of waste of my time and energy preparing them. So I just took a dip in the pool. Lucky I had the pool all to myself. Yay!

Lobby

I like that the resort's lobby is wide enough to seat a good number of people. I love their sofa chairs. They're so comfortable you could sleep on them.

View of Baybayon restaurant at night

Lowaii resort's only restaurant, Baybayon, serves a variety of Filipino and international cuisines. The restaurant looks really nice in the evening, replete with soft and warm lights - makes for a romantic dinner date.

Dig in!

Ordered chicken adobo and a plate of grilled shrimp, squid, chicken and pork. Their food serving is generous enough but I later found that it was actually not at all, because the food was delicious - I wanted more. hehe

Chicken Adobo - heaven

I have this knack for remembering food that reminded me of my mama's cooking. Whoever prepared their chicken adobo should be my personal cook! (fancy, fat chance, I know) haha

So maybe looking at our dinner bill made me cringe a bit, but I had to tell myself to just pay without the guilt because, after all, the food and service was good. My little mistake, though, was not reading the details of the bill. I could've saved on the tip had I carefully checked that they put the service charge on the bill.

Nothing like waking up to a nice morning with yummy breakfast!

After a few hours, I was back to reality. Oh well, it was good while it lasted.

Chikaan Chow

2011-03-14T06:24:00.000-07:00

When I'm not home spending the weekend with my family, I find that most of my Sundays are spent with my dear chum Davey, pigging out and 'trading frustrations' (haha). We've always loved to indulge in gastronomical excess, nevermind if we'd often find ourselves not talking at all halfway through our plates.

I guess that's pretty normal when you've been friends for longer than you could remember, and that by being too comfortable with each other, you couldn't care less whether or not you have something to talk about, as long as you're just together.

So after a few rounds of cardio walking around at the mall on a fine Sunday, we settled for dinner at Chika-an sa Cebu. Chika-an is ideal a place if you are craving for Filipino food and makes for a homey spot to make chika with family and friends, as the restaurant's name suggests.

Nothing like Bob Ong to wile our time

baked scallops

I'm a sucker for baked scallops. Theirs is something I always ask for whenever I dine at Chikaan.

Pinakbet

Davey's choice. I couldn't resist the chicharon bits I just had to have some - the veggies I left to Davey. teheee!

Pork belly

Didn't like their pork belly though. It had that gross 'porky' aftertaste.

Sinuglaw

A fusion of sinugbang baboy (grilled pork) and kinilaw na isda (ceviche). Reminds me so much of home where papa would prepare the yummiest kinilaw I've ever tasted!

Stuffed!

The next time I dine at Chikaan, I think I'll probably want to stick to their seafood menu- they're more appetizing than their pork meat-based dishes.

And because Davey paid for our dinner, ain't I just the luckiest friend he could ever have? haha

Would you believe me if I lied?

2011-02-26T21:49:00.000-08:00

Reposting this from my Friendster blog. Just one of my older posts I dont cringe re-reading at all.

I love the usual office chatter. It is, perhaps, the only breather i get from the gruesome work that i do in my little blue cubicle. There’s always witty banter involved, with lots of humor to boot. Anyone in the room can just bring up a topic or throw a question at anyone, and you have to think on your toes and come up with something that will them blow them away.

Of course, that’s not expected of me, nor I am obliged to do so anyway. But between shutting them out of their wits and enjoying the amusement of being playfully picked on, you know what I’d go for.

The other day, one of my officemates asked a female colleague in the room at what age she lost her virginity. Without batting an eyelash, she answered, and the rest broke out in chorus. Then, they turned to me and asked the same question.

"Mel, how old were you when you did it?"

"Would you believe me if I lied?" I said.

For a second or two, the room went silent. Dinky, my trainer and the eldest in the team, broke the silence and said "Philosophical ang approach ni Mel, ah."

What am I trying to say? Whether or not i am a virgin, it’s none of their business. And even if it didn’t matter to them whether or not i am a virgin, it’s still not their business to know. Besides, being asked that kind of question from people i barely even know on a personal level is like being given lingerie by a boyfriend on our first date. You get the picture.

You don’t have to know. And i dont have to tell you.

image source: http://goo.gl/gkmPu

Goodbye, baby Cy

2011-02-15T21:48:00.000-08:00

In the afternoon of February 1st, I met up with Cy's father and two sisters, Cherry and Cyndie, at a diner close to my office. They wanted to see me, and when I spotted them at the table, they didn't look too good. I sat down with them, with my attempts to create a cheery environment gone futile. Tito, in between biting into his sandwich and fighting tears, broke the news. "Wala na siya, day".

I looked at Ate Cherry, who was holding back her tears and wouldn't look at me in the eye. I couldn't believe what I heard that I kept asking them what he meant. That was when tito explained what happened. No one in the family had the courage to tell Cyril about it, and wanted me to let him know.

I didn't know how to tell Cyril about it either. Since he heard about the accident, he was just not the same. He was so sad and worried it bothered me that he didn't want to talk whenever I'd catch him online. That night before they told me that baby Cyrus was gone, Cyril told me to visit them at the hospital because he had a bad feeling about something. But it was too late. Their little angel had to go.

But I had to, and he had to know. I called him up, and as composed as I could be, I broke the news to him. That was the first time I ever heard him cry.

Cyril dearly loved his nephew. I saw how he was there for him even when he was still in Ate Cherry's womb. He'd buy whatever they needed or even fancied for their little angel. Everytime we're together, he'd never miss talking about 'dodong', as he'd fondly call, his face always lightening up whenever he was the topic. My boyfriend stood more like baby Cy's father, in the absence of his papa who needed to work abroad for his family.

No one ever thought this was going to happen. He was spoiled by the family and everyone was very fond of him. I remember how I used to carry him into my arms and play with him each time I was with them. I couldn't get enough of him because he was too cute and adorable, nevermind if he drained everyone off their energies because he was hyper, which was normal of babies.

We couldn't believe how one incident could lead to his passing. I feel for Ate Cherry, her anguish over the babysitter for not telling what really transpired even when medical results showed something did happen; for making false statements about baby Cy, whom she said was 'sickly', just so she could cover up for her negligence; for having the nerve to utter words of nonchalance about what happened and walk freely around town without a hint of remorse.

I am sad this happened to baby Cy. I am sorry this happened to Cy's family. I couldn't bear hearing the pain in Cyril's voice everytime we'd talk on the phone, or see him cry whenever he'd go on videochat. And though it sucks because he's away, all we could do is to be strong and pray.

And though we may never know why God took baby Cy, it is in prayer that we come to understand why this had to happen. It is in submitting, surrendering and lifting up everything to Him wherein we find peace deep within. In time, we will.

Goodbye, Dodong...

Shopping for clothes online?

2010-12-04T05:10:00.000-08:00

I could never have too many clothes; so I always reward myself with a new dress, a pretty top or any clothing apparel I fancy. Whenever I feel like buying new clothes, but too lazy to hit boutiques/department stores, I simply go online to check out pieces I might like.

Online shops have made shopping for clothes a lot more convenient for me - I don't have to deal with irritating salesladies who tail behind when I'm checking something out; I don't have to wait in line for my turn at the dressing room; and I can shop anytime I want.

I have several clothes which I bought from different online sellers; and although this form of shopping is very convenient, I've realized after my latest purchase that nothing still beats the art of good ol' shopping. How I shop may in no way be the same as yours, but it takes more than just making a few clicks for one to say an item is indeed a good buy.

But then again, I'm still a fan of online shops. And I'd say, this isn't for every shopper that ever exists. I've learned not to ignore these aspects when shopping for clothes online:

1. Fit. The clothing pieces you see in online shops may look really nice. Sure. But there are no dressing rooms - there's no way to find out whether that dress will look good on you just as it does on the model, the mannequin or in your imagination. To know if it fits you perfectly is a hit or miss thing. Who doesn't want to wear something that's as if it was made to fit your size, and just yours?

3/4 collared top

2. Fabric. One of my online shopping mistakes then was not asking what the item was made of. Never rely on your peepers a hundred percent when checking out an item online. I once bought a sun dress that I instantly fell in love with, but got disappointed when I found out that it was made of poor fabric. Returning the item and having it exchanged would be futile an attempt, not just because of geography but because the seller might find the argument on 'fabrics' non-debatable.

Ask the seller what material an item is made of, s/he should know. Otherwise, shop somewhere else.

ruffled dress

eyelet tube dress

3. Finances. I guess this is a no-brainer here. If you don't have the money, then don't bother reserving or ordering items. 'Bogus buyers', so-called customers who drop their orders for the lamest excuses or for no reason at all, are increasing by the numbers. Sure, it is your (customer) right to not go on with the purchase, but you don't want to waste the seller's time or yours.

4. Fake or For Real? With so many online shops you can find, you can never be sure which one is fake or real. Scams lurk aplenty on the Internet, where they claim to be online shops, post items 'for sale' and then run away with your money. Thankfully I've never been a victim of fake online shops. It's always a good thing to be vigilant about some who take advantage.

Whether I make online shopping or not, I'm always reminded of one thing:

It's not what you wear, but who wears it. =)

Sailing the 'Oceanjet way'

2010-11-23T06:35:00.000-08:00

image source: www.bigtahuna.com/article_seasick.html

I cant remember the last time I rode Oceanjet without ever complaining. I would have never wanted to take another Oceanjet trip anymore but, more often than not, would be left with no choice because they offered more schedules than the other competitors plying the Cebu-Tagbilaran route.

For instance, I couldn't remember the last time Oceanjet set sail on time. My last Oceanjet trip of which I had no choice but to take (since my 6:30 pm Supercat trip was cancelled), was yet another delayed one. Sure it did pay to be early alright, the fact that I made it to the 5:30 Oceanjet schedule. But I got to the port a rough 5 minutes before six o'clock and was seated just a few moments before Oceanjet left. Now if you do the math, you'll find that it left 30 minutes late than it's scheduled departure.

That was not the first time I took a delayed Oceanjet trip. In fact, it has happened many times, and I won't be surprised if it's going to happen again.

Seating assignment has also become another concern for me on a number of Oceanjet trips I've taken. One time, my seat number happened to be a dupe with an old woman, in which I had to let it go, out of courtesy. I approached one of the cabin crew and was told to 'just stand and wait' for a vacant seat which I could fill. So much for the inconvenience, eh. Good thing the trip wasn't fully booked, and so I managed to get a seat otherwise I wouldn't know what I'd do on that 1 hour and forty-five minute boat ride.

And if you haven't taken an Oceanjet trip without getting a whiff of that really bad smell coming from the rest rooms, well then lucky you. I'd consider myself lucky to be seated far from the toilet knowing I wouldn't have to put up with the stench, which I'd usually experience. While it is one's responsibility to observe proper use of the rest room (and be considerate of other people using it), it surely doesn't take much for their crew to check on them and make sure they're clean and odorless especially before a new wave of passengers board the vessel.

Consider yourself even luckier if you're seated sans getting cramped, bit by insects or getting hot. My last Oceanjet trip from Cebu to Tagbilaran was all that - I had very little space to move about, scratched my legs once in a while because of mosquitoes and fanned myself with the newspaper I brought. I wasn't alone as other passengers close to me did the same as well.

I, for sure, am not alone alright. I once posted on my Facebook, out of sheer disappointment, about what I thought of their customer service when me and many passengers were stranded at the pier because of another delayed trip which took more than an hour. Several of my friends commented on my status post, sharing their rather unpleasant experiences with Oceanjet, some of which were worse than mine.

Correct me if I'm wrong, but there was even a time when people aired their complaints about Oceanjet over our local radio station, mainly because of frequent delays.

The number of 'not-so-good' remarks about riding Oceanjet makes me think twice about writing to them, unsure whether or not they will address the points I've stressed (to which others may relate to). So I am blogging this anyway, in my attempts to make myself feel better even when, at times, I'm down with 'sea sickness'.

The Diamond 'Feel' (my first diamond peeling experience)

2010-10-01T02:51:00.000-07:00

Thanks to stress, pollution and poor lifestyle habits, I lately noticed that my skin looked dull, tired and rough, no matter how religious I have been with my cleansing and moisturizing routine. I hated how poor and lifeless my skin would show even in pictures, with a strong urge to just photoshop out of desperation just in case somebody would tell me I looked tired - again. That's when I decided to get a professional facial treatment.

Getting 'laser-ed'

So I went to Skinzone IT Park to get a facial. I instructed my attendant, Claire, that I wanted a 'no-pricking facial' (never again to pricking!), but was then convinced by her that a diamond peel was more suitable for me since I didn't want to be pricked.

Diamond peeling is a fast and painless procedure that removes dead skin, leaving it supple and rejuvenated. It helps promote smoother, healthier skin and diminishes the appearance of blemishes, acne scars and even stretch marks.

First thing Claire did was slather cleansing milk on my face and neck, massaging it super gently. Then, she wiped it and applied scrub (to slough off old, tired skin, for sure). After another wiping, she applied the collagen mask.

Each cream application took a while to stay on my face to induce effect, I could have just wanted to doze off but was too excited to know what she was going to do next anyway. Claire was also very friendly, I was comfortable all throughout the entire procedure.

After preparing the diamond peel machine, Claire put a vacuum suction device on my face that would suck out dirt and dead skin. In the middle of the 30-minute procedure, Claire told me to feel my face. And boy, what a difference. My skin felt so smooth to the touch, I just needed to resist the urge to feel it again and again or I might ruin the procedure (haha).

Claire then showed me the grime collected from the diamond peeling. This you have got to see.

Look ma, lotsa dead skin!

She then used a laser tool for three minutes to close my pores.

"This is going to sting." Claire told me before applying toner on my face (which did, but tolerably) and then slathered on moisturizer before removing my protective headband and calling the procedure done.

Post peel effect

Forty minutes of all that slathering, vacuuming and stuff made my face red and tender right after. I no longer washed my face before hitting the sack.

The Morning After:

When I woke up, I noticed that my face was less oily. There's still the slightest sting and luck was on my side because the sun wasn't out today, but I had sunblock on as an extra precaution (I've been religious with putting on sunblock since I discovered how much havoc the sun can wreak on skin anyway.)

After two weeks, I'll be getting another diamond peel again, perhaps make it a habit (if money permits! haha) While I cannot see visible effects yet, I must tell you my skin feels cleaner and more refreshed now than when I only do ordinary washing and moisturizing.

Try getting a diamond peel, or any professional facial treatment for yourself, when you can. Treat yourself to something you deserve, and which your skin will thank you for in the long run.

And oh, need I say a change in lifestyle habits?

Saturdate at Rai-Rai Ken

2010-09-27T21:42:00.000-07:00

Mancomm week was finally over and I couldn't be more thankful to have survived yet another super stressful phase at work that it has been my resolve to reward myself every after business review. It was so sweet of my boyfriend to treat me to my favorite, sashimi.

We could have dined at Tokyo Joe's where we usually eat Japanese food, but learned that they no longer served sashimi. So off we headed to Rai-Rai Ken.

Beef Ramen

My soup lover of a boyfriend ordered the beef ramen while I gave their Gomoku Chaha (fried rice with mixed seafood) a first try.

Gomoku Chaha

Of course, dining at a Japanese resto is never complete without sashimi.

My favorite, tuna Sashimi

Although the Gomoku Chaha tasted good, I usually prefer my fried rice dry and salty, much like like the yang chow fried rice at Dimsum Break. Nevertheless, their Gomoku Chahan was very filling. I had a little taste of the beef ramen too and I especially loved the noodles, except for the bamboo shoots - I thought they smelled and tasted awful.

Next stop after a sumptuous dinner? A nice, relaxing Swedish massage at our favorite spa.

Oh how I love Saturdays!

Go fish at Co Jordan!

2010-09-12T00:47:00.000-07:00

One Sunday morning, my sister and I went to Consolacion to go fishing with my relatives. I was so excited at the thought of it since it would actually be my first time to do so. So off we went to Co Jordan Talaba and Bangus.

cottages

Co-Jordan is a restaurant situated in a pond that serves the freshest seafoods cooked any way you like - fried, grilled, ginisa, steamed or in soup base. This is a place where you can fish and have your own catch cooked at a reasonable rate. They weigh the fish for you on a per kilo basis.

the pond

You don't just find bangus and tilapia at Co Jordan as well. You also get to have your fill of crabs, shrimps, talaba and other seafoods. They're all at its freshest and cooked at its tastiest.

tasty shrimp

sa-ang


talaba

my favorite of them all - fried tilapia

I've never tasted seafood this good here, knowing they were cooked fresh. We had grilled and tinolang bangus, fried tilapia, shrimp, sa-ang and talaba. I especially loved the fried tilapia, I just couldn't get enough of it. For a seafood lover like me, it was truly one of the most sumptuous seafood chows I've ever had.

Needless to say, we didn't get any catch from our fishing attempts but the food more than made up for it though.

Co Jordan gives a different kind of seafood dining experience in a refreshing way.

Ipar's: Muy Delicioso!

2010-09-04T22:15:00.000-07:00

I've been having this unexplainable craving for paella for days now and so on our typical Saturdate with Cyril, we decided to go to a restaurant that served paella. While walking along Ramos st, we found Ipar's restaurant and knew we had to go in. After all, you don't call a Spanish restaurant authentic if they don't serve paella, which is a signature Spanish dish.

It was our first time to dine at Ipar's, and the moment we got inside, we were smitten by it's simple yet stylish and cozy ambiance. The funny moment came when we sat down to check the menu, and found that Cyril and I could not have the paella not only because the price was a little high, but because the serving was too much for just the two of us (serving was good for 4-6 persons).

lovely ambiance

all things Spanish

while waiting for our food

We could have wanted to just get out of the restaurant pronto, because we couldn't find anything else other than paella. Heck, we were unsure what the other dishes were since they were in Spanish. Good thing, the waitress was helpful enough to suggest something that was just right for our appetite and budget, of course.

As per the waitress's suggestion, I ordered the Chuletas de Cerdo al Ajillo (Php180), or porkchop sauteed in garlic. The dish also comes with rice which you can have either plain or with garlic. I love how the garlic sautee meshed perfectly with the meat, the taste was not overpowering of garlic and it helped bring out the meat's flavor. I'm pretty certain they used olive oil to sautee the garlic, it's light and never greasy at all.

Chuletas de Cerdo Al Ajillo

Cyril's dish was even better. He had the Pescado en Salsa Verde (Php300), or fish fillet smothered in parsley sauce. How the fish melted in my mouth was just pure heaven, I couldn't help but fork on his plate again and again.


Pescados en Salsa Verde

I may not have satisfied my craving for paella, but I sure did have a muy delicioso dinner at Ipar's.

Cocina de Lola no more?

2010-08-21T23:35:00.000-07:00

It was me and Cyril's 23rd month together and I had long planned to take us to Cocina de Lola. I thought it was a great place to celebrate yet another month of magkasintahan bliss because of its subtle charm as well as its name, in which home-cooked recipes quickly comes to mind.

When we stepped inside the restaurant, I thought we were in the wrong place. I noticed they had those buffet trays at the counter, which looked quite off with its interiors. I asked the lady if they had a menu but was told the only dishes they served were those in the trays. There were only five choices, and the dishes were similar to those being served in carinderias, But we just proceeded with our order anyway.

We were the only customers that time yet, so we had the place all to ourselves. It looked quaint inside as it was outside, which could make for a fine dining ambiance. What we still didn't understand, though, were the buffet trays and the unbelievably cheap menu prices. I looked around and noticed that the cafe was named Cafe Tinio, as indicated on their business permit hung conspicuously on the wall.

I had chicken adobo and calamares while Cyril ordered beef steak and vegetable soup. I also had mango shake to go with my meal. Putting our confusion aside, we chowed down and were not disappointed. Their chicken adobo was good it actually reminded me of my mama's own version. The calamares was also delicious as well - not too starchy and cooked just right. Cyril loved his vegetable soup and beef steak too. The food was definitely good, home-cooked style.

After what had been a satisfying meal, we could have wanted to chill a bit for some convo but decided to leave instead because Cyril was already sweating - the electric fan was only cooling the place even though there was an a/c. After taking some snaps of the place, we left after paying Php135.00 for our meal. Now that's an unbelievably affordable meal on a special occasion.

I looked at the cafe's facade and noticed it didn't bear the Cocina de Lola signage anymore. Is it really gone or just repackaged into Cafe Tinio?

The 5-year old mother

2010-07-31T06:35:00.000-07:00

A woman can never be too old nor too young to conceive. For many people, the question on when a woman can have a child is not about her age but by her readiness for it.

But such is not the case for Lina Medina, who, much to my shock, became a mother at 5 years old.

Born in Peru in 1933, Lina was just like any other girl her age who loved to play with her friends, discover new things and enjoy the simple pleasures of childhood. However, Lina started having abnormal changes in her body, as in her breasts and hips. When she turned 5, her stomach began to grow larger.

Thinking that it was a tumor, her parents took her to the hospital. After a series of X-ray tests and biopsies, the doctors confirmed that she had been pregnant for seven months already. It was also found that she started puberty at 8 months. This condition would later be described as precocious puberty.

On May 14, 1939, Lina gave birth to a healthy baby boy through caesarian section. The baby was named Gerardo, after her doctor.

For ten years, the family kept it a secret from Gerardo that Lina was actually his mother, and not his older sister. Gerardo died in 1979 from a bone infection.

Who got her pregnant still remains a mystery today. In fact, Lina’s father was arrested for suspicion of rape and incest, but was later freed for lack of evidence.

At present, Lina lives in Lima with her husband. She also has another son who lives in Mexico.

Last day at work (a Thank You note to Xlibris Marketing pips)

2010-06-25T06:59:00.000-07:00

Xlibris Marketing team

Today was my last day at Xlibris. Finally, it is time. I will start working somewhere in July.

My colleagues were all shocked when they learned that I was resigning. They only knew about it yesterday, a day before I would leave. I intended to keep it from them; if not for some reasons that would remain as privileged information, I wanted to keep it low.

My last day of work at Xlibris also happens to be my 25th birthday, and it surely is a mix of emotions for me. I feel sentimental, as many of my colleagues have become good friends of mine during my two years and one month of working in the company. It's hard to say goodbye to these people with whom I have shared fun and crazy moments with for some time.

But it had to be. I'm just so glad my exit was happy, graceful and definitely memorable. I couldn't help but cry when, in my last working hours, they wished me well, got me a yummy cake and a nice gift and simply made me happy. And as I was ready to walk out of the office, they hugged me, gave a round of applause, sang a 'Happy Birthday' and that crazily inappropriate farewell song. I am definitely going to miss them all.

To my Xlibris Marketing colleagues, I'd like to take this opportunity to thank you all for the friendship. I truly cherish the fun atmosphere in which I have worked in a span of two years and a month. I also thank you for planning out a little something for my birthday/last day at work. Having all of you wish me well is something I will definitely treasure for keeps.

Now, now, let's not be so dramatic. It's not as if I'm heading to Antarctica, you know. I'll still be seeing you around and I'll come back to visit you guys. Hasta manana.

Unguilty pleasure - Japanese food!

2010-06-15T20:32:00.000-07:00

If money were not a problem, I'd definitely make sashimi a part of my everyday diet.

I love Japanese food. It is simple, elegant and best of all, healthy. Whenever my budget permits, I'd go to Japanese restaurants just to satisfy my craving for sashimi or other Japanese food I fancy. There's nothing like savoring the rich, raw taste of salmon or tuna dipped in special soy sauce (minus the wasabi, I hate spicy stuff).

Another Japanese food favorite of mine is the kani salad, a healthy dish made with kani kama (crab stick), Japanese mayonnaise, cucumber, ripe mango, carrots, lettuce and topped with tobiko (flying fish roe).

Kani salad tastes gorgeous depending on how it is prepared. I once ordered the dish at Rai-Rai Ken (Robinson's branch) and was hugely disappointed. I had better at Manpuku Bento (Food Choices, Ayala Center).

Tokyo Joe's (SM City Cebu) offers value for money when I want to indulge in my unguilty pleasure. Although food selections have noticeably been cut down, they have tasty recipes at affordable prices. My boyfriend and I always order the Lover's meal, composed of miso soup, tuna and salmon sashimi, tempura, stir-fried vegetables, rice and your choice of pork, chicken or beef bento. We'd always get a pretty good tummy fill for just Php350.

Although I'm not a big fan of sushi, I couldn't forget the delightful taste of Tempura Japanese Grill's (SM City Northwing) california maki with cream cheese the last time I dined there. If I'm not mistaken, I think it's called the Caterpillar Roll. And while I have never understood my boyfriend's love for noodle soups, I can understand why he'd crave for ramen at Nonki restaurant (SM City Cebu). Now, now, ramen really reminds me of the late actress Brittany Murphy's movie, The Ramen Girl.

Oh, I can't wait for the next time we'd dine at Mikado Eat All You Can Japanese restaurant. I wouldn't mind shelling out Php450 for unlimited sushi and other flavorful Japanese dishes.

If only money were not a problem.

Tubig, anyone?!

2010-06-02T20:38:00.000-07:00

It's been a month now since I last used the shower. Not that I wanted to, but because there's no water coming out of the showerhead anyway.

Water shortage has become a problem in my place for some time now, and I am terribly feeling the brunt of it. In fact, there was one time when I had to make do with two 500 mL bottles of water straight from the portable tubig machine, for the love of bathing. There is just no way I am going to work without taking a bath, especially in this wicked heat.

And because water supply lately is far worse than an on-and-off relationship, I now have to wake up earlier than I usually do just to make sure I have enough water to start my day right.

But then, I am not alone. Water shortage in Cebu City remains to be a problem that seems to take too long to be resolved. And with the El Nino wreaking havoc on the city's water sources, the situation just couldn't get any worse.

The question on when this dilemma is going to ease up - better yet, end, we do not know. Doing the rain dance just like what Sarah Geronimo did in her movie may be a far-fetched idea for me. But if it can help beat the dry spell, why not?

Then again, it boils down to one important thing - to conserve water. It doesn't require too much, but it definitely goes a long, long way.

image source: campusadv.com

And happier fiestas are made of...

2010-05-26T01:53:00.000-07:00

In my hometown Bohol, May is that time of the year in which people say you will never go hungry. This is because a string of fiestas are slated throughout the entire month, the city of Tagbilaran first marking the start of the month-long fiesta celebration on the 1st of May, also Philippine Labor Day.

Having a little 'handa' has been a tradition in the family during fiesta. Pork is the main staple served on our dining table, cooked in varieties. There's crispy pata, adobo, bola-bola, dinuguan, hamonada, menudo, etc. Doesn't it sound too fattening?

my cousin's version of crunchy breaded pork

My most favorite putahe is my cousin's version of crunchy breaded pork. It's so good it is actually the first to run out among our food servings. Our guests just keep coming back for more, more and more of it.

crunchy and juicy goodness!

She doesn't use much - just fish sauce, calamansi, camote starch and pork strips, of course. It's delectably crunchy on the outside and tender juicy on the inside. Guests would even ask how it is made with. Although she shares how it is done without hesitation, there probably will never be anyone who can do it as better as she does.

My little sacrifice: 2010 Philippine Automated Elections

2010-05-11T01:23:00.001-07:00

My right index finger soiled with indelible ink, my legs were tired and hurt from standing in line for five terribly long hours. My clothes were soaked in sweat, my skin feeling sticky from rubbing against sweaty bodies of people I didn't know under the hot and humid weather. Heavy rain poured when it was almost my turn to vote, my tired self thankful to have secured a seat inside a small, dark classroom cramped with other voters nearing their turn.

Tension started to ensue among the crowd, an understandable predicament when one is being made to wait for unbelievably so long, without having eaten and being cut off by people who have no idea what standing in line or taking turns means. I knew the only relief there was from a monster headache was to get out of the voting precinct, my purpose done and over with.

That was my rather draining experience of the 1st Philippine Automated Elections. The long and wearisome ordeal may have made others give up and walk away, but I chose to hold on a little longer anyway. After all, this momentary sacrifice would be nothing compared to what might lurk ahead of our country.

Vote counting is still ongoing, but we now have pretty much a clearer picture who won. I can only hope my own, little sacrifice was well worth it. It's the little sacrifices we do that help change things for the better, if not the best.

Boy, don't I just love this country so much.

Sun dog in Cebu

2010-05-07T20:05:00.000-07:00

sun dog

At around noontime today, my officemates and I marvelled at an interesting sight from up above. It was a rainbow-colored halo that surrounded the sun. I didn't know something like that could occur but it did, and it was pretty cool.

That halo was said to be a parhelion, more commonly known as a sun dog. Scientists explain that a sun dog is caused by the reflection or refraction of sunlight by plenty of small ice crystals that comprise cirrus or cirrostratus clouds.

It was my first time to see a sun dog for real and it was a really unique sight to behold.

The sun dog was only seen in Cebu, though.

What were you thinking, Patricia?

2010-05-03T20:46:00.000-07:00

image source: dps-class67.blogspot.com

I came across Patricia Evangelista's latest column on Richard Gordon entitled People Call Me Dick.

I would not have wanted to question her piece since, after all, it is her column, her opinion. Yet, she wrote mere shilly-shally about Gordon, her arguments founded only on half-baked judgments about the man without digging deeper and tackling substantial points spot on.

I'd think of what she wrote as the shallowest piece I've come across from her because she wrote about someone she doesn’t know, despite her own brand of conviction. She failed to intelligently point out her reasons because she didn't think enough.

I’m putting my pro-Gordon leanings aside here. I would like to think Pat may have wanted to get readers to make more careful and calculated decisions when it comes to choosing the next president but I just could not see any depth in her piece except sheer brashness (not feistiness) and a lack of understanding. Really, what was she thinking anyway?

So she's mentioned she's not voting for Gordon because she thinks he's an ass. Fine, that's her opinion. But not voting for a candidate on the basis of dislike is worse than going for someone who is ‘likeable’.

Patricia must have forgotten that choosing the right leader is not primarily about charm or personality – it is about a candidate’s platform of governance, performance and track record. A personality-based criterion only happens in entertainment searches, Patricia. This notion only misleads readers into making decisions that are ignorant and irrational.

Whatever attempts Patricia might have to get readers to think well, I just didn’t see it. She didn’t think enough in the first place.

To write something biased about someone or something you only know of or have little knowledge about would only make your musings a waste of print.

Top ten essentials every working girl must have

2010-05-02T07:04:00.000-07:00

Everyday I bring my kikay kit with me but you'll find that there's not too much stuff inside - just the basics. I'm pretty low key when it comes to kikay stuff; I simply make do with a few touch ups and I'm good to go. It could be because of the pretty laid back environment at work or that I don't really like putting on makeup.

Here are some of the things inside my kikay kit that I just can't do without (and that every working girl should have):

1. Alcohol. Always have a bottle of disinfectant handy to keep you sanitized throughout the day.

2. Eye drops. My eyes tend to get dry and tired for sitting in front of the computer for eight hours (or even longer). A few drops of Eye-Mo gives my peepers instant eye relief and comfort.

3. Powder. I shun pressed powders. I have oily skin and I dont really like the idea of oil getting trapped in the sponge and getting mixed up with powder each time I apply it. Besides, I'm too lazy to wash the sponge anyway. (hehe). I only use Johnson's baby powder to keep me fresh and matte all day. No frills.

4. Dental floss. Brushing alone is not enough to keep your teeth clean. That's why I make it a point to floss everyday. I really like Johnson & Johnson's Reach Mint Waxed dental floss. Its minty goodness makes flossing so addictive! Currently though, I'm using a cheaper brand, but hey it's always better than not flossing at all.

5. Moisturizer. Airconditioning at the office can take a toll on my hands, making it dry and stiff. I use Nivea Creme to moisturize my hands so I could clack away on the computer comfortably all day.

6. Eye Concealer. My eyes often get tired at the end of my shift. How my peepers look mirrors how my day at work has been. But I always cheat my way at it by applying Top Gel pearl cream stick around my eye area. The product is actually for the face but I prefer to use it as an eye concealer. I love how it instantly brightens my tired and stressed eyes, as if I wasn't ngarag from work. (hehe)

7. Lip Gloss. My lips tend to get dry and chapped easily. Mary Kay lip gloss in Sweet Raisin keeps me moisturized with a hint of color.

8. Hair elastic bands. My hair's natural condition just could not afford me to simply let it loose and not have a bad hair day. So I always, always tie my locks with elastic bands especially when I'm commuting to work.

9. Hair Polish. Unless I'm riding a cab, two jeepney rides to work usually leaves my hair disheveled. Vitresse Hair Cuticle Coat keeps my hair smooth and well behaved. I love that a little application goes a long way and that its not greasy.

10. Ascorbic Acid. The weather these days can be such a bitch, making you more prone to viral illnesses such as cough, cold and flu. I believe my strong resistance to common illnesses can be attributed much to Vitamin C. I take 500 mg of ascorbic acid everyday, sometimes even more. I'm not sure if Vitamin C overdose is something I should be wary of, but lately I've been sticking to 1 tablet a day.

So what's in your kikay kit?

Working out the Marriott way

2010-04-21T22:27:00.000-07:00

I no longer believe in diets. I've tried several diets too, in my efforts to maintain my ideal weight. At one point, I got so thin I thought I was doing a good job until I got so sick that I was rushed to the hospital. The doctor told me I hadn't been eating well.

Now I am a firm believer of the concept that in order to lose weight, eat right. You can eat whatever you like as long you do so in moderation and keep yourself physically active as much as possible.

So in January of this year, me and my colleague signed up for gym membership at the Marriott. I found that it was the most convenient place for me to workout in terms of location and accessibility.

Hotel view from the pool

The Marriott fitness center is equipped with modern gym facilities such as the elliptical cross trainer, treadmills, stationary bikes and other equipment. They have personal trainers to help you out with your routine too. Gym membership at the Marriott entitles you to free use of their swimming pool as well.

Gym bud, Winnie

Watching Chloe, the Chihuahua while on the treadmill =)

The Marriott gym can get cramped especially during peak hours, which is around 5 to 8 pm, so it can be difficult to find a space to workout or use their equipment. You may have to ask the trainers to reserve the equipment for you or simply wait for your turn. This can be a downside especially if the only time you have to workout is during these hours and you don't have all day at the gym.

Also, they have too few workout programs available (probably because of the space), so working out can be a somewhat routinary especially if you're only keen on using one or two of their exercise machines.

On a lighter note, you don't have to bring your own towels, drinking water or bath soaps when you workout at the Marriott because they provide you with these. Sometimes, they even give away shampoo and lotion too.

Sauna

Ladies can request for a blowdryer for your hair after using the shower. I also love that they have a sauna, which is a great way to relax at the same time sweat out. Their personal trainers are friendly and attentive too.

A pose before dipping!

the pool

The Marriott is located at Cardinal Rosales Ave. Cebu City.

I Love Steak!

2010-04-21T03:41:00.000-07:00

Cyril and I celebrated another month of 'magkasintahan' bliss at I Love Steak. By the name itself, this steakhouse looks tempting from the outside and feels cozier once you get in, subtle enough to set a feel-good dining mood.

Their steaks are served in 'hungry' and 'starving' portions, the latter having a thicker slab good for those with monster appetites. They also have other non-steak dishes on their menu as well.

Cyril ordered the rib eye steak (Php350), medium rare, starving. I had their sizzling tenderloin steak (Php130), their bestseller which they call the "Steak of the Nation".

rib-eye steak

Steak of the Nation

The tenderloin steak was soft and juicy and tasted even better with their gravy. The rib eye steak was even more delicious -tasty with juicy goodness oozing out. I guess it's probably in the way they put their spices that made me and Cyril love it.

This was actually my first time to try steak cooked medium rare. I'm just glad trying out their steak made me appreciate how meat would actually taste even with blood still in it.

Of course, no steak dinner is complete without wine. Although we passed up on the wine (haha), I Love Steak has a wine bar to complement your steak dining experience. They have good customer service too.

Needless to say, Cyril and I walked out of the restaurant full, happier and more in love! haha

I Love Steak is located at Juana Osmena St. (across Century Plaza Hotel, Mango Square area), Cebu City.

First time dining at Shakey's

2010-04-19T07:58:00.000-07:00

Busy Monday at work, as usual. I completely forgot about informing my colleague, Jane, to prepare delicious home-cooked lunch for me beforehand. So I had no choice but to eat out with my boyfriend who also happens to work in the same building as I do. The boyfriend, who has not been feeling well for several days now, wanted to dine at the nearest spot, and it was Shakey's we saw.

We sat down at the same time arguing about having lunch there. After all, I wanted my meal to go for less than a hundred bucks because I didn't want him to pay for my lunch. But he still got the final say anyway. Believe it or not, this was actually my first time to dine here. So, I was pretty curious as to what Shakey's has to offer.

He ordered the super platter meal while he suggested the bunch of lunch for me.

bunch of lunch

He also had chicken and corn soup to go with his meal. I'm not a big fan of soups, let alone corn, but it tasted surprisingly good. The soup was creamy with chunks of chicken and ham and garnished with crunchy potato shreds. Best part was that I actually forgot I was eating something corn-y.

While I can honestly say that I've had better when it comes to their pizza, everything else in my platter (and his) was good. Their Mojo potatoes were delicious; the salad was tasty, the chicken was superb, the spaghetti was just right and the garlic bread was divine.

super platter meal

The food and service (very courteous dining crew, by the way) was worth what we paid for. Overall, my first time dining experience at Shakey's Pizza was worth it.

Chow time at Chowabungga

2010-04-17T04:49:00.000-07:00

Pay was in and so my colleagues and I decided to eat out at Chowabungga.

It was my first time to dine there and definitely not my last. I had their chicken teriyaki (Php85) and fell in love with it the moment I tasted it. The taste was just right; I just loved how juicy and tender the chicken was.

Chicken teriyaki - the best I've ever tasted

My other colleagues tried the Chowa beef bowl (Php 65), made of thinly sliced beef simmered in Japanese broth and served over rice. The rest of them had the Pork Katsudon(Php90), which is rice topped with strips of breaded pork and egg cooked in Japanese broth. The Pork Katsudon smelled scrumptious, but the taste was too sweet for me though.

Pork Katsudon

What I like about Chowabungga is that they have a variety of Oriental dishes available at a reasonable price. On my next visit there (which is just a stone's throw from my office building), I'm definitely going to try their much talked about quesadilla. I'm steering clear from their Banana Ice (Php25) though - I thought it was just ice, some milk and too few slices of bananas. hehe

Chowabungga is in i1 building, Asiatown IT Park, Lahug, Cebu City.

Worth blogging?

2010-04-06T20:31:00.000-07:00

Adam Carolla

In my attempts to keep this blog updated as much as possible, I find myself in a constant battle against writer's block. Lots of things are happening, I know, but I'm not sure if they are worth blogging about.

Take Adam Carolla's racial slur against Manny Pacquiao and the Filipinos, for instance. Lest you didn't know, this American comedian and TV host went about lashing derogatory remarks by calling Manny a f***ing idiot and that he is off 'praying to chicken bones'.

He also dropped these statements about the Philippines as well:

“Here’s how you know when your country doesn’t have a lot going for it: When everything is about Manny Pacquiao.”

“All you fu**in got is just an illiterate guy who happens to smash other guys in the head better than other people”

“All they have over there is Manny Pacquiao and sex stores.”

“Really, you want some guy with brain damage running your country? Why don’t you get your sh*t together?”

“What happens when Floyd Mayweather beats him? Does your country go into depression?”

“Get a fu**in life as a country”

I had no inkling who Adam Carolla was until the news broke out; so I thought, why would I bother dignifying his words with a response anyway? Besides, it's not as if this hasn't happened in the past. Who could ever forget Chip Tsao, Claire Danes or someone you know dropping bombs against our country and people?

Racism, to me, is the highest form of stupidity and stooping down to one's racist remarks only pulls you into their own pathetic mindset, even glorifying them at that.

Swelling over what Adam Carolla did is just not worth my time. But then again, I'm blogging about it.

This Holy Week...

2010-03-22T20:15:00.000-07:00

With my vacation leave approved and ticket to Bohol ready, I am now set for Holy Week. But no, it's not what you think. I don't intend to spend my Holy Week just like the many others who hit top vacation spots and spend some R&R (rest and recreation).

Just like the past Lenten Seasons, I am observing Holy Week with a different kind of R&R - reflection and recollection. During this time, making some sacrifices has always been a practice in my family.

I always hated Holy Week back when I was a kid. My mother would prepare unusually unappetizing dishes for our meals and we were forbidden to watch TV or listen to the radio. At home, we'd spend most of our time saying prayers or reading the Bible. My parents strongly emphasized the importance of going to church, most especially during the Lenten Season. In my young mind, I had never understood why I had to go through these things I thought were plain torture.

"Jesus died for us." was what my mother would say.

As I got older, I've learned to understand what mama had told me back then. Sure I may have agnostic leanings now, which describes why I'd find myself engaging in debates on the topic of religion or why I don't go to church anymore, but in my heart I believe there is a God.

The Lenten season is but the best kairos to truly discover who you really are and move forward. To many, Holy Week is a time to remember the sacrifices the Lord has made. To me, it is an opportune moment to renew and grow spiritually; to make some sacrifices I don't usually do to keep myself humbled and grateful knowing that my life is and has always been blessed.

So how are you spending your Holy Week?

image source: http://www.lcmstl.org

moving forward...

2010-03-17T01:18:00.000-07:00

I'm back from a long hiatus. I have been busy with work, and even more work that, for a time, sleeping has had already become a luxury for me. I am blogging again, and yes, I am now well-adjusted with my new responsibilities at work at the same time getting eight hours of well-deserved snooze.

March has been a start of a few new and nice things for me. We've only just moved into our new facility in IT Park, which calls for changes in routine, fashion (time to pump up those heels!) and diet (fastfood for quick hunger fixes - so not good).

I am elated that we've finally moved. There may be tradeoffs, yes, but so far they are below the gains.

Bye Blueblade, hello TGU!

Eat like a King at Casa Verde

2010-02-16T23:03:00.000-08:00

So maybe I am watching what I eat now. However, that doesn't stop me from eating to my heart's content once in a while. Dining at Casa Verde brings out the glutton in me - and yes, I never feel guilty about it afterwards.

Not to mention how scrumptious their dishes are, food servings at Casa Verde are incredibly huge, you could even share your plate with someone. The best part of all? You can eat like royalty even on a budget.

Green-minded salad with chicken chunks

Shrimp on the Barbie

Their bestseller: Brian's ribs (baby back ribs to satisfy your monster appetite, trust me.)

Death by Chocolate

Huge serving, ey?

Images were taken at Casa Verde - The Walk, Asiatown IT Park, Lahug, Cebu City.

Casa Verde is located along V. Ranudo Ext., Cebu City.

Valentine's Day Musings

2010-02-12T17:09:00.000-08:00

image source: askmissa.com

You know what I think about Valentine’s Day?

Simple. It's crass commercialism at the expense of emotions.

It’s the time when flower shops triple their sales; restaurants close beyond closing time, and you see hearts everywhere you go.

There’s so much “love” in the air, its nearing congestion. Somebody get me my nasal strips, please. haha

At least now, no one asks me who’s going to be my date, since the answer is already a given. But no, I have never celebrated Valentine’s Day with my special someone – including the ‘has-beens’.

Don’t get me wrong though, but since my discovery of oxytocins, I have always gotten a taste of ‘Valentine’s Day lovin’ – flowers wrapped in fancy paper, mushy Valentines cards or a cutesy stuff toy.

Everyone seems to be so hyped about this so called day of hearts. I don’t. My boyfriend doesn’t either.

In fact, this year will be no different than last year’s Valentine’s Day, when Cyril and I avoided being a part of the predictable crowd flocking predictable places with their respective partners.

To me, the idea of being predictable defies the purpose of being romantic. I’d prefer receiving flowers or being taken out to a nice dinner any day when I least expect it.

As for singles, who cares if you don’t have a date this Valentine’s day? I’ve been there. And I know how irritating it feels to be asked who your date will be and be felt sorry for, given your single status, as if you can never be happy with being single. Besides, whoever said singles can’t revel in pompous gaiety anyway?

Besides Valentine’s Day is just not for lovers, it’s for singles, for everyone - a special day to celebrate the boons and banes of life’s inconsolable mysteries.

Happy Hearts Day everyone!

My Barefoot White beach escapade

2010-01-29T00:24:00.000-08:00

Looking for beach resorts in Cebu can be tough. While there are a lot of nice beaches here, I'm usually caught in a two-fold quandary: it's either the beaches here are not too far but are too expensive or they're affordable but located too far.

I came across Barefoot White beach resort while searching for beach resorts online. The name was new to me but I was taken by their site's features that I decided to book a reservation there.

I am a big lover of canopy beds and so I was so glad to find they had a canopy bed in one of their rooms. Also, the resort allowed their guests to cook, which was another plus for me. The best part of all was that the resort is located in Moalboal, only 2.5 hours away from the city. Not bad for someone like me who moderately likes long travels.

canopy bed

what's cooking?

yummy shrimp in butter sauce for dinner!

beachfront view

the pool at Club Serena

The reservation process was very convenient - owners Michael and Lingling Rozgoni were very helpful and quick to answer to my inquiries. They give 20% off when you stay there on weekdays or bigger discounts when you stay longer. The staff was also very warm and courteous. They made sure they provided us with everything we needed for our stay.

Barefoot White beach does not have a pool, though. You may want to inquire at Club Serena beach resort if you want to use their pool. Club Serena is a more upscale beach resort right next to Barefoot White.

I hope the resort remains clean and well-maintained on my next stay (hopefully). It had just opened a month ago when we stayed there.

Barefoot White beach resort is in Basdako, Moalboal, Cebu. For more information, check out http://barefoot.ph/.

Fudge time!

2010-01-20T20:55:00.000-08:00

One busy Monday, my office pals and I decided to spend lunchbreak over dessert at Fudge restaurant. We tried some of their sinfully delicious delights, we had to forget counting calories the moment we tasted them. haha.

Ice cream cake. Heaven!

Tri-colore. Resistance is futile!

Strawberry cream puff

Lava cheesecake

We all fell in love with Fudge's ice cream cake and tri-colore. The lava cheesecake had a unique tangy taste and a rich texture as well. The strawberry cheesecake, on the other hand, was creamy but the taste was so-so.

Initially, I thought Fudge only served desserts, cakes and pastries. However, they also have a wide variety of tasty dishes that are not just for those with a sweet tooth. I have yet to try them, probably on my next visit. Their prices can go a little high, but overall, my dessert experience at Fudge is worth my money spent.

Surrender. Submission. Fudge.

Fudge is located at 888 A.S. Fortuna St. Banilad, Mandaue City, Cebu.

Trouble Tricycle Drivers in Tagbilaran City

2010-01-17T23:56:00.000-08:00

image source: boholchronicle.com

I go home to Bohol every often. There's nothing like being in your home sweet home, a respite from all that stress living in the big city (which I have come to love by the way). While I love to be home, there's just one thing I really hate whenever I am in Tagbilaran:

Tricycle drivers.

I am still disgusted by our city's tricycle drivers for their rude behavior and lack of discipline. Ask anyone from Tagbilaran City and they'll understand what I mean, unless s/he's never hopped inside a tricycle ever. It irritates me to hell to find how inconvenient it is to get to some place in the city because of these trouble tricycle drivers. Who hasn't experienced a tricycle driver who:

• overcharges

• refuses to convey to your destination

• ignores you because you are commuting alone

• does not follow traffic rules

• makes inappropriate comments to passengers

It's appalling to know that I still encounter the same problem as I used to back when I was still living there. Until now, I still get into spats with tricycle drivers who charge unreasonably high even when my destination is not even that far. Php15 from BQ to the pier? No way. It doesn’t get any worse than this – they get even worse when it rains really hard too.

Also, don't you just hate it when tricycle drivers shake your heads and speed off if they do not want to take you to your destination? How about if they ask you where you are heading to and then start looking around for other passengers while you are left standing right there? Whether he’s off for lunch or needs to call it a day, they should at least have the courtesy to let passengers know. Then again, tricycle drivers are not supposed to refuse to convey passengers to their destination within their designated route, of course.

The poor commuter is left with very little options. Tricycles are the primary source of transportation in Tagbilaran. Not a lot of multicabs ply around the city. Taxis are costlier and not easy to catch as well.

When the price of oil increases, it's no surprise if they'll lobby for another raise to make ends meet for them. But how can you sympathize with these lazy drivers, the fact that they choose who to pick up or where they want to go?

It's appalling to find how nothing seems to be done to address this problem. If these tricycle drivers continue to be abusive, it is because no action is being done at all; much less, their kawalang modo is being condoned. While I have diligently listed down the numbers of these trouble drivers, I haven't the luxury of time to channel my complaints as I only usually stay here during weekends and try as much to maximize quality time with my family and friends. All I could do is to calm down.

If you happen to, or continue to experience the same problem as I do, here are some things you can do.

1. If you are commuting alone, try looking for someone else who is going somewhere 'on the way'. Many tricycle drivers ignore you when you're alone and leave you with stupid excuses why they can't take you to your destination.

2. Minimum rate for tricycles is at Php7.00. If you are a tourist, you might want to ask a local for the rate first before getting a tricycle. If you think they are charging ridiculously high, then they probably are. Demand a discount if you are a student or senior citizen. Negotiate, if you must.

3. Report abusive tricycle drivers, if you can. Teach them a lesson they'll never forget. My mother did this once when a tricycle driver flat out ignored her. He was made to pay the penalty and apologize to her, crying. Served him right. Their devious ways will not have a place in the community if people are more assertive.

These trouble tricycle drivers in Tagbilaran City leave a really bad impression on both locals and tourists, most especially on the good tricycle drivers who conscientiously follow the rules and do not take advantage of passengers.

In Hot Water: Cebu Pacific's Discrimination of Special Children

2010-01-08T09:33:00.000-08:00

My flights, though very seldom, have always been with Cebu Pacific. While I have never had any problems with them, I continue to hear a lot of negative feedback about their service - from booking, to boarding, to their engines, you name it. But just because I've never had a bad experience with Cebu Pacific doesn't mean that I am going to turn a blind eye on their service, and their seeming lack of action to address these concerns.

Like any service, any airline is bound to experience problems and make mistakes, which, to some extent can be understandable. But what I especially could not believe (and accept) this airline would get in trouble with is its refusal of special children on board the plane. I feel for the two mothers of these children.

My cousin is also a special child. Everyone in the family loves him. He's an adorable boy that never fails to make people smile. And while his behavior may be different from his 'normal' peers, he is far from being mentally ill.

I stress this: Special children are not mentally ill.

If anything, I'd think of the airline crew to be mentally retarded for simply not using their heads. There is a huge difference between a mentally ill person and one with developmental delay, as seen in special children. Any person with half a brain knows that. But what gives? They have a 'manual' anyway.

Whether Cebu Pacific Air crew just doesn't think or their manual makes them think that way, I really don't know. To a total stranger, it takes a lot to understand and deal with a special child, given his many unusual manifestations; but it only takes just a little bit to be sensitive to one's feelings, especially of the mother and her special child as well.

Cebu Pacific should immerse its crew on sensitivity training. Offering free tickets (a rather measly attempt, by the way)to assuage the pain and humiliation these passengers experienced just doesn't cut it at all.

Cebu Pacific should really strive to improve its service, if it doesn't want to lose its 'valued passengers'. Offering very low rates just would not do the trick if they continue to treat passengers that way - with a lack of respect and sensitivity. Cebu Pacific should not wait for the time everyone flies in some other airline.

Not a bird, not a plane! Yes, it's Burj Khalifa!

2010-01-06T20:34:00.000-08:00

Move over, Taipei 101. The world is looking up and up at Dubai's Burj Khalifa. Having officially opened on January 4, 2010, this super skyscraper now holds the title as the tallest building in the world.

Burj Khalifa was named after United Arab Emirates president Sheikh Khalifa and measures 2717 feet tall, hovering about 1000 feet more than the 101-story Taipei 101. This mighty towering edifice is even said to have the world's fastest elevators, traveling at a whopping speed of 40mph.

I can only marvel at how magnificent the Burj Khalifa looks as far as buildings go and be awed at how Dubai has done it all the same.

I wonder if, just like the possibility of seeing this skyscraper in real life, my country will also have something quite like this too. Well, hope springs eternal.

image source: dvice.com

The Year that was, the Year that is now

2010-01-01T18:31:00.000-08:00

I leave 2009 thankful for all the blessings I have received and welcome year 2010 filled with so much hope. As in the past years, I have never any New Year’s resolutions because I have never really seen the point of it. Change doesn’t start at the beginning of the year – it starts with oneself.

Yet, having a new look has always helped jumpstart my new year. In 2008, I had my bangs chopped off, and surprisingly looked good in it. Last year, I had my hair rebonded and never felt any better. I don’t know what I will have for my 2010 makeover yet; other than my hair, I’m thinking of something more.

This 2010, I am hopeful that something better will happen to my career. I have always been the person who never wants to stop learning. When one ceases to learn, one ceases to grow as well. This year, I am hoping to find a spark in my career – the kind of spark that not only gives me what I need, but I want all the same.

This 2010, I am hopeful that my loved ones and my relationship with them will continue to be blessed. I am thankful to have a beautiful family who loves me unconditionally, the most wonderful friends who are always there for me and the most amazing boyfriend any girl could ask for. The life that I have right now, though not perfect, is one that gives me more than enough reasons not to complain.

Looking back on the year that was gives me so much more to look forward to in the next year. Yet, the best part about leaving 2009 and welcoming 2010 is that I have finally forgiven someone from my past. Whatever pain and confusion he had caused me back then, and the guilt and remorse that he had been carrying all these years are already forgiven and all behind us now. What matters is that our relationship is now better than ever.

There is indeed no better feeling than to forgive those who have caused you pain. You let go of the pain you have inside you, and start anew and whole a person again.

Have a blessed New Year everyone!

Superficial

2009-12-20T19:13:00.000-08:00

I had a great time with my Marketing teammates last Saturday. We had dinner at Alejandro's, a Filipino restaurant which catch line screams "Home of the best Crispy Pata!". I hardly helped myself with their food though. Filipino food, though delicious, is much too adipose for me.

We stayed a little longer for some drinks. The fun was just getting started with my teammates doing their own silly antics. I found myself dancing to the tune of Beyonce's 'Single Ladies', much to their delight.

The night was young and not over yet, so we trooped to Club Vudu. It's been a while since I last went clubbing, having fun and dancing the night away.

The party scene at Vudu was more rocking than ever. People were dressed to the nines, goodlooking creatures whose presence made you stop and stare. Beneath their well-done makeup and fancy clothes, I wondered, Were these people real? Nevertheless, the party music made me dance like I didn't care.

I checked out the crowd again and realized why I don't really frequent places like this. There are just about a lot of superficial people lurking around. People who are much too worried about how they look that they forget how to have fun. Looking fabulous is not a bad thing, of course. Yet, there's the ugly truth in trying too hard to look hot and stiff just to impress. Superficial, you can say that again.

I would rather look crunk and stupid but have fun than look hot but stoic and boring.

Well, let's just say real people know how to have fun.

Brazilian Waxing at Lay Bare

2009-12-03T18:18:00.000-08:00

I’ve long wanted to get a Brazilian wax but would chicken out each time I’d hear how painful the procedure was. But the thought of feeling cleaner and more confident just kept nagging me, so after a thorough research on Brazilian waxing, I finally decided to give it a go.

I had a tough time finding a salon that offers Brazilian waxing. I guess it isn’t as common a practice here. Luckily, I came across Lay Bare Waxing Salon, which has just opened late last month.

Now open in Cebu, Lay Bare is the leading waxing salon in Metro Manila that specializes in cold waxing.

They use cold wax jelly which is made from all-natural ingredients such as sugar, honey and calamansi. Lay Bare’s cold waxing is an affront to the typical and usually very painful hot waxing.

Getting a Brazilian wax for the first time was not as painful as I thought. The staff at Lay Bare was friendly and accommodating. Ms. Luz, my waxer, made me feel at ease during the entire process. We were chatting the entire time I was being waxed. I even texted my friends how ‘sisiw’ it felt.

Ms. Luz made sure I left the salon as baby-smooth and hair-free as possible. There is the pain, of course, but it is tolerable. While I haven’t tried hot waxing (which I don’t think I ever will), cold wax is definitely a better alternative especially for those with low tolerance for pain.

Curious about Brazilian waxing? I highly suggest you try it at least once in your life. You will definitely feel good all over.

Some tips before and after getting a Brazilian wax:
1. Avoid getting waxed three days pre and post menstruation. The skin in this area is very sensitive and will make waxing very painful.

2. Be extra clean before getting a wax. You’ll be confident enough to ‘open up’ to your waxer.

3. After waxing, refrain from washing for at least 4 hours to avoid irritation. No hot baths, hot showers or sexual activity for at least 10 hours as well. The pores in your skin are still open and are susceptible to infection.

4. Do not wear tight clothing for at least 24 hours after waxing. Tight clothing rubs against your skin and can cause red bumps or ingrowns. Wearing a thong is recommended.

Say goodbye to skin burns, allergic reactions to wax or an uber painful waxing experience. I’m definitely going back to Lay Bare salon.

Lay Bare is located at the 2nd floor of Banilad Town Center. You may reach them at 0917-LAY-BARE.

5 Ways Companies Breed Incompetence

2009-11-22T23:19:00.000-08:00

Incompetence is a national epidemic. Kids leave high school not knowing how to spell, C-level executives think they can supercede macroeconomic laws, government executives practically sell incompetence wholesale.

Fortunately, incompetence has definable roots. Identifying these roots helps companies peg where they are breeding incompetence, then modify their shortcomings to benefit of both managers and employees.

If you’re concerned about incompetence in your company, check out the five tips below to see what might be causing it–and how to deal with it:

1. USING NUMBERS AS THE ONLY DEVICE TO MEASURE PERFORMANCE.

Remedy: Rate performance not by number, but by quality of conversations. Train staff in better technique and measure performance from there.

2. SPREADING WORKERS TOO THIN.

Cost-cutting is an essential component of survival, but it’s also a quick and dirty way to overburden competent employees, thus breeding incompetence. How many times have you heard the story of such-and-such a manager who, when all her other employees were laid off, was forced to run a department all by herself? Companies need to realize that even the most competent employee can’t, by herself, replace an entire team.

Remedy: If staff must be cut, companies need to make a bigger effort to help remaining employees stay competent. Is there room in the budget for contractors? How about telecommuting, which would take some of the travel burden off the employee? New types of collaboration that would spread the job between multiple people?

3. EXPECTING TOO MUCH, TOO SOON.

This is an onus both of employers and employees. Both parties expect instant performance; when it doesn’t happen, managers grow disappointed and employees grow disillusioned. I’ve seen many bright-eyed employees enter new jobs with gusto, then fizzle and drag after months of not seeing the results they’d hoped for.

Managers who expect employees to know everything from the outset grow impatient when they have to answer too many questions; those who sought miracles from their new employees become wary when progress is slow. It’s the beginning of communication breakdown, which often turns deadly.

Remedy: Unless it’s clear from the outset that the person has to hit the ground running, set scalable performance goals. Print out these goals and have the employee post them on his/her cube wall. Make expectations absolutely clear. Do the same with resources like training managers, helpful websites, etc.

If you’re an employee, clearly communicate your limitations at the very beginning. You can do this without making yourself sound incompetent. Promise a company only what you can deliver. Make it clear that you want to grow with the company, not fester inside of it.

4. PUTTING A BIGGER PREMIUM ON POLITICS THAN PERFORMANCE.

It’s a fact of life that schmoozing often gets you further than quality performance. Unfortunately, some company cultures overemphasize the social aspect, resulting in employees who feel their advancement hinges more profoundly on department happy hours than innovation or quality of service. The result? The aggregate quality of the company suffers, and employees grow overly political or bored.

Remedy: Put a premium on what the employee is doing for the company, not for his/her social network. Don’t mistake personal affinity for organizational benefit. Making performance standards clear from the outset and having an employee report his results on a regular basis are two ways to emphasize accountability.

5. REWARDING MEDIOCRITY.

Imagine you’re a gung-ho new hire employee at Franklin Widgets, Inc. You come into the job ready to make an impact–until you notice that everyone spends most of their time staring slack-jawed at Facebook. After you realize you’re safe from managerial scrutiny, you join them. Why should you work hard if nobody else is?

Remedy: The onus is on managers to create a sense of urgency and accountability. Describing how to do this is beyond the scope of this post, but John P. Kotter’s work is an excellent place to start.

Full article on businesspundit.com

Make My Day

2009-11-16T17:01:00.000-08:00

A day after a hard day’s work.

Cyril and I went to get a massage at a known spa, which was having a promo too good to resist. Much to our chagrin, the massage wasn’t good at all. The masseuse was too hard on my beat-up body. Worse, she was using her hands as if she were kneading dough in a hurry. What would you expect from a hundred-peso service anyway? I am so not going back to that spa ever.

Then we headed to the nearest fastfood joint for dinner. Cyril wanted to have palabok but the cashier said it was not available. So he went for the batchoy instead. Still unavailable. I ordered light Coke to go with my meal but the cashier told me they already ran out of it. So I said I’d have a rootbeer. Still, there was none. I always have my meal there with ice cream, so I asked her if they had it. You figure it out. Yes, you got it right.

My blood pressure was starting to shoot up a hundred degrees. Doesn’t it suck when you’re starved as hell, run to the nearest fastfood diner only to find that they barely even have meals to serve? Up until now, and even if I may have once worked in a fastfood hub, I still don’t get why customers are made to wait for “15 minutes” to have their meal. Doesn’t that defeat the essence of “fastfood”? I’d rather they close and call it a day.

But yes, I remain that I have once worked in a fastfood hub. I have been in similar situations as this so even if I wanted to strangle the cashier for offering nothing, I chose to remain calm and collected. I then reached for the drinking straw box but found that it was empty. Oh, and not to mention that they ran out of condiments too. Sh*t.

I wanted to finish my drink, but felt the urge to go home when he showed a lack of sensitivity. Details withheld, if you may but I from that point I lost my cool. I honestly felt bad; up until now I still do. It’s just that I don’t want to call other people to do what he should do for me. Not that I can’t do it on my own, but was it ever too much to ask for something so little? Oh, need I tell you we were supposed to be celebrating what could have been a special day for us?

When I got home, I sat in front of the computer to upload random pictures I couldn’t wait to show to my friends. Two hours passed and I was still re-booting the computer many a time. I went up to my room, damn frustrated.

Before hitting the sack, I went to the bathroom to relieve myself. The fiber tabs I've been taking must be really working, thank God. Worst case scenario, the toilet bowl was clogged - again. So I had to spend another hour flushing the damn thing.

Sooo not my day.

No load? No problem!

2009-11-03T23:09:00.000-08:00

If you have run out of prepaid credits or want to enjoy free texting, check out Unlitxt.org. This is a new web-based service that allows you to send text messages to Globe or Smart users for FREE.

A good thing about this service is that it is easier to use. Simply select your recipient's network and area code, type in the 7-digit number and then your message. No more registration hassles. However, there is no way your recipient can identify or reply to you through this application, so make sure to identify yourself in the message box so your recipient will know how to get back to you.

To avail of its free text messaging service, simply go to the website. Go to the right portion of the page, where you will find Unlitxt Messenger, and start sending messages.

I tried this service for myself and it did work. I sent a message to my boyfriend and my own number, and the sender number was +639279531084. I suppose the sender number would also be different for Smart recipients.

Whoever said nothing comes for free these days?

The Roommate

2009-10-20T22:52:00.000-07:00

Raffy and I!

They say that you will never know who a person truly is unless you live with him/her. I believe that in a way. Today, my roomie Raffy and I are leaving Johnny's place for good. It's sad that we have to go our separate ways.

I have always hated goodbyes. It even gets worse letting go of someone who has been dear to you and have shared good memories with. But I know that the path he willl take be a a bigger and brighter one and I couldn't be happier for him.

Today, he will have finished packing up and left, myself not knowing when I will ever see him again. The room we have been renting for four months will have been emptied of our clutter. This morning just might be the last time we greeted each other 'good morning', talked and hugged.

I will miss how we don't agree with the use of the a/c.

I will miss eating out at our suking carinderia, which we painstakingly have to do because we do not have a choice.

I will miss whining with you about our high monthly bills. (or maybe it was just me) ;-)

I will miss the two of us raving about Whitney Houston's songs and digging the same type of music.

I will miss your neverending supply of tissue paper, greaseless peanuts and other food. (compliments from Cha!)

I will miss our network war and your snide remarks on Kapuso stars. (much to Cyril's delight, hehe)

I will miss our conversations, from the highly confidential to the most absurd. (winks!)

Most of all, I will miss you. It has been a fun four months of 'living together' with you. Hasta Mañana.

PMS-ing

2009-10-15T22:24:00.000-07:00

Yesterday I had a very bad case of PMS. My poor boyfie had to face the brunt of my uncontrolled, irrational outbursts, which constituted pointless nagging, careless bitching, fleeting silence and sudden, unexplainable acts of sweetness.

I didn’t know whether to laugh, cry or get angrier with how he tried to put up with me. I sensed he was careful and calculated with what he was going to say or how he’d act around. I was too damn oblivious to even care with mine.

Amongst many other things that happened yesterday while we were together, I flared up at the thought that he ordered another meal for our dinner. He was still hungry because he didn’t have a decent lunch, he explained.

Whether I lost my cool because he wanted a heavy meal even when we’re supposed to eat light OR because he paid a part of our meal when he knew that dinner was on me, I didn’t know. I didn’t care that the meal I ordered for him must have been inadequate for his huge appetite. I didn’t understand that he was still hungry (and tired) from a hard day’s work.

I looked at him, leaned a little closer and said “Don’t you ever get sick and tired of my constant nagging? Don’t you ever wish I never nagged at all?”

“I’ve gotten used to it. I hear nagging from my mother and sisters at home. What else is new?”

“Well don’t you want to break free from home? (sounding sarcastic) Get a breath of fresh air?” I snapped.

“Well, there’s no place like home.”

My mood changed again.

The Macbay experience

2009-10-12T19:15:00.000-07:00

A nice cup of coffee and a good book: Life's simple pleasures

While I like to indulge myself to a good cup of coffee once in a while, I have never understood what makes coffee shops appealing a spot for people to meet or chill out. I've never been a big fan of coffee shops. If anything, I would like to enjoy my cup of coffee at a place where it's both convenient and comfortable.

When my good friend Davey and I heard about Macbay coffee shop, we knew we just had to go. What I really like about Macbay, aside from its soothing interiors and great-tasting coffee, is that they provide laptops free of charge. The prices of their coffee are easy on the wallet too.

irish cream latte, anyone?

I''ve come to love the place, a great hub to just sit and read a good book alone, enjoy wifi Internet or cozy up with my best chums while sipping my favorite caffeine fix.

Macbay is located in One Acacia Place, corner Acacia St. and Archbishop Reyes road, Cebu City.

Phone-y

2009-10-11T19:18:00.000-07:00

For four years now, I’ve been using a badly chipped, bruised but still trusty Nokia 2600. The phone looks too beat up worthy of everyone’s ridicule yet unworthy for even a thief to pay any mind.

This was the phone I bought four years ago with my own money. I remember going to the store and picking what I first saw out of dire need – a sleek and simple Nokia 2600. At that time I had to make do with a Nokia 8210 (which was still a hot item), a gift from my then-boyfriend.

After a bitter break-up followed by a catty feud, I knew I had to get rid of the damn thing. Returning it to him would be stupid. Pawning or selling it would have been a cool idea. However, using it to meet and greet other guys would no longer validate the fact why we broke up in the first place.

Well-meaning people wonder why I refuse to get a new phone, still remaining loyal to this rather obsolete model even when my salary can somehow afford me to buy a way better looking celly.

I have never been good at penny-pinching especially when it comes to luxuries, so that won’t be a reason. If it is because this phone holds a sentimental value to me, I really don’t know.

I guess I'm just not the type who is particuar with the latest in gadgets, or the kind of person who has to get what's new because it's what's in ergo wreaking havoc on my social status. Sure I ogle at sleek, new models at times, even wish that my phone had a camera to take snapshots of me in my random i feel-pretty-and-need-a-camera-quick' moments.

Who cares? My worth is not measured by the model of phone I use anyway.

Of course, these high-end phones capable of doing infinitely many tasks can prove to be very useful especially to people constantly on-the-go. But as long as my phone is still able to perform what it is basically designed to do – call and text – then, that shouldn’t be a problem to me at all. Okay, so I use it as my alarm clock, calculator and calendar too.

Besides, my job requires me to sit for eight hours or more in front of a computer, doing intense clacking and constant tab browsing. So between my lappy or a new celly, you know what I’d choose.

My Nokia 2600 is still highly functional; never mind the form. A little replacement on the exterior though, and I’m good to go.

Moving Out. Moving In. Moving On.

2009-10-05T00:18:00.000-07:00

I am currently renting the most comfortable room most conveniently located in one of Cebu City's major avenues. The room is as big as my department and has a nice bathroom.

I lay on a cozy, queen size bed with an exquisitely carved headboard. Since then, I've never had any sleeping problems.

I've stopped complaining about the weather as well. Whenever it's hot and the electric fan could no longer cool me, I just turn on the airconditioner and I wouldn't think of going out anywhere cool.

Also, moving in has made my life easier when it comes to using the bathroom knowing I don't have to wait for someone, or two, even three people to finish first.

The view is great outside my room; it is overlooking the busy hub. I can even set up a nice, romantic dinner right there - the view is actually even better at night.

All these will not happen anymore in two weeks time. I will be moving to another room that is not even half of the room I'm currently living in. The space will no longer allow me to move about, prance and dance around like I do just yet.

I will no longer be enjoying the pleasure and comfort of rolling on the bed and will soon try to master the art of 'stiff sleeping'.

I will be sharing the bathroom with other girls and I will have to rely only on my good ol' electric fan should the sun turn up its fury.

I am not complaining. After all, I chose this place. It's a good thing this soon-to-be place is clean and new. Well maybe I am just getting way too comfortable with my place now. It's hard to let go of something that has given you the satisfaction you need.

But then, it's not as if I haven't experienced terrible living conditions renting a room in this city. No wonder the 'room-for-rent' business is so feasible.

I have to move out. It's the smartest thing to do. Come 'pay day', my roomie Raffy and I would both experience the stress of looking at our bill, wondering how our electricity had gone up that high. We'd go weak taking out our hard-earned money from our wallets. I must admit the comfort we experience comes with a price - hefty at that, often leaving us with barely enough to last us for the next payday. Getting a new roommate could help (Raffy will be leaving for UK very soon, yay!), but it will not probably change a thing.

So I am downgrading this time. After all, consumer behavior dictates that my choices should go within my budget constraints. I am now consciously trying to make sure that every peso spent on anything is truly well worth it.

Moving out.
Moving in.
Moving on.

Bayanihan

2009-10-01T00:23:00.000-07:00

The recent events happening not only in the country but around the world have it made gloomy a way to start October.

Soon after typhoon Ondoy devastated Luzon,it has then raged it's fury into Vietnam. Yesterday, a powerful earthquake struck Indonesia as well as a tsunami that hit Samoa, all claiming thousands of lives and leaving more people in a state of nothingness.

My heart bleeds to see all these happening. Each time I check the latest updates on tv, Twitter or Facebook, I feel a sense of helplessness watching them in ruins knowing I can only do so much. Somehow the pain and suffering brought about by these calamities, particularly typhoon Ondoy, is assuaged by the strong spirit of 'bayanihan' among Filipinos. I put my 'red' leanings aside and focus more on what I can do to help.

I am filled with pride and joy to know that many out there have the kindness and compassion to help - those who never stop caring for those in need. One has yet to recover from this horrible tragedy. As if the damage is not enough, another typhoon (Pepeng) is said to enter the country very soon. In this seemingly apathetic world, perhaps now is the time to make a difference.

Image Source: Bulatlat.com

typhoon Ondoy

2009-09-27T04:20:00.001-07:00

Image source: Chinaview.cn

I woke up this cold morning, thankful for a good night's sleep. The weather here in Cebu has been pretty fickle - strong winds with light to heavy rains turning to bright, sunny skies but is still generally okay for going out and about our usual activities.

I checked my Facebook to find that most of my friends' status updates were about typhoon Ondoy (international name 'Ketsana'), the latest that hit Metro Manila and other parts of Luzon. I must say Ondoy's hitting the country really nasty. As of the latest report, 51 have died and more people are missing. It's tragic and sad all the same.

Ondoy is sweeping Luzon away pretty badly and I am hoping and praying for the victims and all those who are affected by it. It is at this very trying time when, more than anything, everyone should help everyone. It is not about who is out there and it is definitely not about highlighting what one is doing about the situation. It is everyone's role and responsibility to help.

I remember...

2009-09-25T01:05:00.000-07:00

I bumped into someone at the mall yesterday. He was with a lady, his wife. We smiled at each other and that was it. We passed by each other, he wrapping his arm around the lady's waist while I went on talking to my girl pal.

I surmise that if his wife werent with him, he would have stopped and we would have chatted up a bit. After all, we were friends, close friends at that. But I know things have changed now that he's married to the girl that came before and after me. Oh well, there never really was us but we had something together. It was good while it lasted.

Then I remember the first time we met; when we danced the night away; that first kiss; those sweet nothings; the time we lost touch; that day we met again; the time he asked me out once more; the moment he introduced me to his friends and danced the night away again - just the two of us; the early morning he shared his whole life to me; the moment I looked into his eyes filled with tears.

And then there came a time when I avoided him, not because I didn't want to but because I had to. A few YM conversations later, I would find out that he had married and had a kid too. How wouldn't I have known? He works in the same company with my boyfriend. Small world, isn't it?

I am truly happy for him. I know he is happy for me too. I will look back with a wonderful recall the happy moments I have shared with him, though not the feeling, and I will always hope for nothing but the best for him and his family.

There goes my mojo!

2009-09-24T00:04:00.000-07:00

I can't believe it's been more than a month since I last posted something new here. I guess in the seemingly long while that I haven't blogged I felt that I have lost my mojo. That depressing feeling of not knowing what to do anymore, to the point that I didn't want to do the things I've always enjoyed, including this.

But now I am back with a vengeance. Unchronicled highlights of my life and my musings of the world I try to look back and would have wanted to share with you here, and now I feel remorseful. Moving forward, I must say I now have my groove back. I'm up and blog-giddy.

Hello blogosphere! I am sooo back!

ALL FOR THE SHOW

2009-07-28T01:23:00.000-07:00

I could have wanted to ignore PGMA’s SONA yesterday. After all, I have never been wrong with my expectations that I wasn’t going to hear anything true anyway. Hats off to her, though, for delivering really feisty lines throughout her speech. She must have a really talented writer, or a team of writers. If she came up with the speech all by herself, then I must say I’m impressed.

What I paid more attention to was the so-called SONA Fashion. Politicians looking slick and sophisticated in their crisp-white barong tagalogs or fancy Filipiniana gowns. Lovely wives of politicians in matching shoes and bags (don’t forget the expensive jewelry) and their children all dolled up at their most adorable.

One lady senator, who looked lovely in her gown, said she had it made at a cheap price because she was only going to use it once. The price? More than what I get for a bi-monthly pay.

There was also this wife of a legislator, whose features proudly highlights the revelry of cosmetic enhancement, explained with the right mix of confidence and nonchalance what inspired her to wear that dress - a piece that was more appropriate if she were at Hugh Hefner’s party and would look much better on her if she were ten years younger.

Other ladies came in stealing the scene, gamely posing for the camera and quick enough to answer who they’re wearing.

So that was what the SONA was all about. Ostentatious glamour. Such blatant display of luxury is a mockery to the greater majority of the Filipino people. PGMA must be right: watching them clad in high-end fashion must speak of their ‘lifestyles and spending habits that make them walking proofs of that crime‘. After all, aren’t our government officials supposed to espouse modesty in all their ways?

Those inside the House of Representatives, clapping endlessly for no reason at all, seem to have forgotten that although they are the country’s leaders, they are still public servants. It’s appalling to watch these people flaunting themselves with their luxuries when many of our Filipino people are dying of hunger.

It’s sickening to see a lot of them looking a little too much for the event when everyday, more and more Filipinos are forced to go abroad because they couldn’t find decent jobs in their own country, not minding the portent that they might come back home sealed in coffins.

It’s depressing to hear that while their children speak fluent English, many other children do not have access to good education or are forced to drop out of school to work, if only to help feed their family’s empty stomachs.

This flagrant showcase of material wealth only justifies just how corrupt the system is and how they’re only serving themselves, and not the very people they pledged to serve.

PGMA’s SONA was just all for the show. The true state of the nation is out there. Let’s not play blind here.

Porn insights to ponder upon

2009-07-21T23:00:00.001-07:00

I came across this post on a forum site and thought I'd share it with you. This should give you a deeper understanding on the subject. Read, enjoy and learn.

PORN
by Pete Malicki

We all love porn. It’s great, simply great. No one’s around, you have a spare five minutes, why not have a quick shot of smut? Why worry about going to the trouble of finding a real live person to have sex with when you can watch other people doing it from the comfort of your bedroom / bathroom / study / office / kitchen / wardrobe / school / public library / parents’ bedroom / child’s bedroom / internet café / car / bus / train / church / swimming pool / doctor’s surgery / behind the garbage bins / up a tree?

If you’re a male aged between ten and dead, statistically speaking you’re addicted to internet porn. But is this so bad? What’s wrong with watching loving couples going at it?

You can define porn as ‘A depiction of sexual acts’, but simplifying the topic in such terms is like saying ‘Music is the sound made by instruments.’ Porn has as much variety as music, and you can hardly say hip-hop is the same thing as Beethoven’s symphonies.

In porn you can find men having sex with men, orgies involving dozens of strangers, blowjobs in crowded public places, hidden cameras, people having sex with animals, incest, children being raped, animated aliens fucking cartoon characters, married couples making sweet tender love, and sexual acts involving anything ranging from shit, piss, vomit, semen and blood, to dildos, leather, whips, electrodes, machines, knives, fists, feet, blindfolds, ropes, etc etc. The list extends as far human creativity. No fetish has gone unfilmed and if there’s something you want to see, no matter how illegal or bizarre, you can find it if you know where to look.

There are plenty of arguments both for and against pornography, some of them valid and some of them quite laughable. The idea in the United States that porn should be sanctioned under the First Amendment as ‘free speech’ is blatant rationalising if anything ever was. Conversely, claims that ‘All porn viewers will become violent rapists’ are absurd, even if it is true in some cases.

Those of us who are more sexually experienced, older, or more discerning will hopefully take porn for what it is (stress the word hopefully). Younger men, and those with less sexual experience, are likely to be more impressionable and more inclined to take what they see as reality.

One of my favourite defences of porn is that it ‘Teaches us what to do’ sexually, or ‘gives us ideas.’ Is this for real? Have the people who say this ever seen a porno? It gives us injuries, that’s what it does. I have this vague memory of attempting penetration during a handstand, but mostly all I recall is daytime suddenly becoming night-time and a bunch of icepacks. I’m fortunate enough to have had a colourful sex life but I haven’t tried half the weird shit I’ve seen in the videos and it’s probably for the best.

In all seriousness though, the suggestion that porn teaches us about sex is easy to refute. That’s not to say that you can’t learn from porn or gain any inspiration from it, but if you take it at face value you’re not going to learn about real sex.

We can start by forgetting about all the kinky and unusual stuff and looking at the more common content. Your standard (as in, most frequently occurring) porno contains a beautiful girl, usually young or young-looking. The guy is often ugly and at least a decade older than his partner, looking like that sleazy, desperate guy in the nightclub who can’t get a date without Roofies, except that this guy has a huge cock. He uses his physical strength and assertiveness to dominate his girl or girls. The vast majority of scenes end in the male ejaculating on his co-star’s face, breasts or vagina. Anal sex is present more often than it’s absent. The male is dipassionate and appears to care little for the girl, whereas she moans with uninhibited pleasure. Lesbian action is prevalent in male-oriented straight porn and one guy doing two girls is pretty much the norm.

As I said before, you can find porn in any form imaginable, but spend a few hours trawling the internet and you’ll see that the above is a fairly accurate description of your average scene. Thanks to the internet, this material is now available to a much wider audience. In the past, teenagers had to sneak into dad’s room and borrow his Playboy collection, but now they can go to one of the thousands of TGP (thumbnail gallery post) sites and see millions of pictures, or download / watch full movies from a torrent or streaming video site. If they don’t look for a specific thing such as gangbangs, vegetable insertions or public urination, they will likely come across what has just been described.

So this is what proponents of pornography want our youth to ‘learn’ from? Anal sex, facials, domination and huge cocks. If young men see this and believe it, they’ll be picking up some very unpopular habits.

I’m not going to tell you what to do in the bedroom (or in the car, or the bus, or the church, or up the tree) but I can make a few safe generalisations.

Number one, girls don’t like anal sex. Statistics will back this up, as will basic anatomy. Men have their g-spot in their anuses, women don’t. Many girls have tried anal but most of them don’t do it regularly. Yours might like it, and that’s wonderful for you, but the ubiquity of anal sex in porn does not reflect its popularity in real life.

Secondly, most girls don’t want to finish sex with a faceful of spunk. This is something that some girls might love or that you might do occasionally, but it is far from standard procedure. Issues of domination and humiliation aside, it’s very messy and hard to clean.

Then there are issues of inadequacy. Boys, let me tell you a huge secret – they don’t really care how big your dick is! In fact, if it’s as big as half the guys you see online, they won’t have anywhere to put it. Too small is bad, yes, but too big is even worse. We live in a society filled with men paranoid they won’t be able to please a girl with their mere six inches and unfortunately porn reinforces the falsity that bigger is better. When you’re a virgin and your only experience of sex is what you’ve seen on the internet, you will be much more inclined to worry about penis size and take on the stresses of being ‘average.’

Another point: the women in adult videos probably aren’t enjoying the sex all that much. It’s all for show. Many of the positions are impractical, uncomfortable and give both parties little pleasure. What is absolutely rare in porn, but essential in sex, is communication. Those moans of ecstasy you’re seeing are usually fake. If you don’t communicate properly – and that may involve asking questions – you might never know how little you’re doing for her. Roughly two in three women are unable to climax during penetration alone, so you’ll have to work a bit harder to get her off.

But if you’ve taken porn too seriously you might not even care about the girl’s pleasure. This is very incidental in the videos, meaning that it’s great if it happens but it isn’t the aim. Let’s be realistic here: will girls do whatever you want them to do while selflessly ignoring their own enjoyment? Very unlikely. They will expect sex to be as much about them as it is about you. If you ignore her needs in bed, she probably won’t bother with you again.

Finally, the thing with all the lesbians barely warrants the effort of a critique. Having a threesome with two bisexual girls is a common male fantasy but it won’t happen to you anywhere near as much as you’d like it to. Its commonness in porn gives the impression that it’s standard practice in real life, which is anything but true. Most people will live and die without experiencing a threesome, so get over it.

Pornography is much like the wrestling: it’s entertaining, it looks good, but it’s not real. That’s not to say that it’s evil or has no place in society, but it must be taken for what it is. In the bulk of straight porn, men are represented as potent, enviable and successful figures – even if they’re butt ugly – with beautiful women as their playthings. It is aimed at those who watch it most – men – and therefore represents male fantasy.

We live in a society that is hugely apologetic to the porn industry, often accusing critics of prudishness or old-fashioned values. In reality, we simply love our porn and will look for any reason to defend it, ignoring the damage it causes many of the actresses involved and the misconceptions it spreads throughout the wider population. Studies have showed that porn is as addictive as crack. Does that really sound healthy?

And these arguments don't even touch on rape, domination, humiliation, paedophilia, and other issues that harder porn raises.

Image Source: http://tvmedia.ign.com/tv/image/article/948/948232/james-gunns-pg-porn-20090126041253886_640w.jpg

Jealous, I am

2009-07-13T00:58:00.000-07:00

I am a self-professed drama queen, guilty of throwing tantrums at my boyfriend when it comes to jealousy. He’d just laugh about it, a quality that is so endearing of him. And when he’s past the bemusement of it, I’m just glad he has extra patience to deal with me whenever I throw yet another fit.

I surmise that the size of my green-eyed monster may just be too big. It makes me wonder a number of things: if there ever lived a person who’s never jealous; if my jealousy is beyond normal; and when too much jealousy is enough.

All people get jealous. There are just some who are good at hiding their emotions, so much so that they may not, at all, appear jealous of other people. With all confidence, I know that my boyfriend still gets jealous whenever some guys come around, despite his calm and collected stance. But yes, he sure knows how to handle his jealousy well. He is the type who doesn’t seem to worry about other guys because there is nothing he can do about it anyway. He can only do so much to change the guy’s behavior, let alone mine.

I guess I should just hoist my white flag up – he has always shown maturity in all his ways, allowing him to understand that even if he may not like it, get pissed at the other guys or prolly get hurt if I bite the bait, he can never change my actions by getting jealous. He has a hold on my demon, a terrible force that can break anything it gets its way on. Perhaps, I could learn from his ways and just chill.

But just when is too much jealousy enough? A little jealousy sure won’t hurt, but I admit that I couldn’t have too much of it. I get jealous to the point that I turn into a psycho, bursting into tears thinking he might have bumped into this girl on one of his ‘long days’. I become a stalker too, forcing him to give me his password to his Facebook account, in a bid to never be caught off-guard. As if it’s not enough, I even pick fights over imaginary people and circumstances that are mere figments of my imagination.

To many people, (including you perhaps), you’d think of me to be overboard. I have been warned that if I do not mellow down, he might dump me. I honestly don’t care. Anything in between can happen in a relationship. And when it comes to jealousy, it’s not the extent of jealousy that matters but how both partners deal with it.

My boyfriend has been putting up with my shitty behavior and I’m thankful that he's still there, hanging on for dear life (lol). If only it were easier for me to understand that there really is nothing for me to worry about. So what if his face lightens up whenever I mention about two of his major crushes? What is it to me if his ex’s number registers on his “Missed Calls” list? What do I care if he compliments other chicks for being bountiful there?

He is with me. He chooses to be with me. As long as we both feel that way about each other, I guess that’s more than enough to banish whatever insecurity there is.

Easier said than done for now, really. I’ll learn to get past this eventually, though.

Flirting?

2009-07-09T21:55:00.000-07:00

Is being nice to a guy (who has the hots for you) tantamount to flirting? See there is this guy at work who is brazen enough to let everyone in his and my department know that he likes me, so much so that it has roused curiosity about my identity or raised awareness from even those in other departments (who give a fart, of course)

He flirts through office email and tries to do so each time we bump into each other inside the floor. And as far as my Facebook activities are concerned, he’d post casual comments on my wall, if at all, he was interested with my shilly-shally. My reciprocal action rests on curt, lighthearted replies though, to avoid being misinterpreted by others.

I appreciate that someone, other than my boyfriend, likes me. I am flattered that some guys actually notice. In fact, I don’t see any girl who doesn’t. It boosts her confidence and makes her feel prettier than everyone else. Let me reiterate that I have a boyfriend, so flirting with other guys is out of the question. Unless I’m single, I might return the favor. But I am not attracted to him either. If I couldn’t find any good reason to bite the bait, I don’t see how you could, too. Now tell me.

By being plain friendly to someone who appears ‘too friendly’ does not mean you encourage the possibility of something that is more than just friendship to happen.

By maintaining good working relationships with someone who really likes you certainly does not mean you’re returning the favor either, even if he may not understand that flirting through office email is downright cheap or that being flagrantly flirtatious can be annoying or embarrassing.

Some girls are just nice – too nice. I guess I just happen to be one of them.

Just because I am being nice to him doesn’t mean I’m flirting, you know.

Punctuation Matters

2009-07-06T22:06:00.000-07:00

I came across this interesting post from my office buddy. See how punctuation really makes a difference when communicating with people. Read carefully.

Source: http://www.joppeluiten.nl/dearjohn.htm
Punctuation Makes a Difference

I would rather receive a letter like this one.

Dear John:

I want a man who knows what love is all about. You are generous, kind, thoughtful. People who are not like you admit to being useless and inferior. You have ruined me for other men. I yearn for you. I have no feelings whatsoever when we’re apart. I can be forever happy--will you let me be yours? Gloria

than like this one:

Dear John:

I want a man who knows what love is. All about you are generous, kind, thoughtful people, who are not like you. Admit to being useless and inferior. You have ruined me. For other men, I yearn. For you, I have no feelings whatsoever. When we’re apart, I can be forever happy. Will you let me be? Yours, Gloria

Yet, the only difference is the punctuation.

See? :)

What Death Can Touch

2009-06-29T20:09:00.000-07:00

I was stunned to hear the news about the passing of pop superstar Michael Jackson and ‘Charlie’s Angel’ Farrah Fawcett, two of the most influential figures of their time. I thought of Jackson’s death to be untimely. I felt that it wasn't his time yet, as I know that he still has so much to prove given the controversies that have shrouded his career and personal life. It's just sad that Michael Jackson never got the chance to make a good comeback before it all ended for him.

I thought of Farrah Fawcett's long battle with rectal cancer a brave fight. It's worthy to note that even in her numbered days, she never lost hope and continued fighting the disease with incredible courage. That even in her last days, she carried on to share her long and painful ordeal with rectal cancer in the hope of inspiring others. She was a spokesperson for the American Cancer Society and an advocate against colorectal cancer, zealous in her cause to raise deeper awareness for this type of disease.

Frankly though, I am more affected by the death of Farrah Fawcett than Michael Jackson's. I have my hands down for the King of Pop - his contributions to the music and entertainment industry invaluable. But I have an even deeper and greater sense of respect and admiration for Farrah Fawcett, whose struggle was truly well-worthy to be told.

The passing of Michael Jackson and Farrah Fawcett not only shows how much they have contributed to the entertainment industry but also how much influence they have on the rest of the world. It is a stark reminder that even in one’s greatness, one can never get away with the inevitable that is death; that one can never cheat death regardless of who you are or what you have. Indeed, death comes like a thief in the night, unbeknownst to you.

Losing a loved one may bring about a great deal of emotional pain and trauma. Some may find it hard to accept why it happened and move on with their lives. I should know. I lost my mother to cancer too. I was angry, sad, hurt and depressed. I was just too young and too naive at that time. I was just not ready to accept that my mother's already gone. But I had to move on.

One grieves in his own way and time, and it is important to accept that there is a reason for what happened, even if you may not clearly see it. Eventually, you will understand why. By accepting the situation, you free yourself from the pain and are then ready to move on with your life. One thing that death can touch is the idea that you can look at it in a positive light.

Death should not be viewed as a mere loss or an end; it should be looked upon as a gain and a start of a new and uncharted journey.

And happy birthdays are made of moments like these!

2009-06-24T20:28:00.001-07:00

I celebrated the happiest 24th birthday ever. Nothing made my day a very happy one than being with the people I love the most. And oh, need I mention the gifts and greetings too? ;)

I love Krua Thai food!

Bubba and my stuffed tummy =)

with my sissy

"Family" dinner at Krua Thai (my fave resto!)

Very happy me!

My good friend Marian made this cool video too. Check it out.
www.youtube.com/watch?v=Caj3EY82o2k

Melgrace Abandula, Published Author (nyaks!)

2009-06-24T00:07:00.000-07:00

I received really great news from our HR director when I checked my email inbox this morning. She informed me that, after looking into my records, I qualify for the Publishing Package, a benefit accorded to Xlibris employees for free.

Under this awesome publishing package, I get to enjoy several privileges as our valued authors get for availing of our products and services. I get availability of my book in paperback format; formatting corrections; assignment of International Standard Book Number (ISBN); royalty payments; online book sales and worldwide distribution, among others. Yay!

So now I am gloating, forgive me. My dream of becoming a published author is now finally within my reach. Cheers to HR department for coming up with this brilliant benefit, the fact that we work in the Publishing biz and that we interact with authors.

I actually plan to publish a compilation of my best works, if only to start the publishing process pronto OR write a new story – something out-of-the-box, one that’ll make me really squeeze my creative juices out. I hope to have my book out sooner than I hope. Cyril is excited about the idea and can’t wait to get his hands on my book. I also can’t wait to see the look on my papa’s face when I proudly hand him the fruit of what God has given me – the gift of writing.

And oh, lest you didn’t know, I’m turning 24 tomorrow. What better gift to receive on my birthday than this and a great way to start my 24th year right as well.

I really have to start working on my book. Now.

The Birth of Graysey

2009-06-23T01:11:00.001-07:00

I can’t believe I have but started a new blog for the nth time. I have, for a while, wanted to maintain just one blog that had all my rants and raves in it. (I’m guilty of blog clutter – I blog practically everywhere). I figured that this step would be an answer to my conundrum.

Blogging is my other side of narcissism, camwhoring aside. This is where I get to talk about myself, my life and everything else about me – an outlet where I can only be self-absorbed and not give a fart about what everyone else thinks. After all, this is my blog.

I’m pretty sure Cyril has a reason to nag me into blogging more often now, since he successfully fixed my age-old lappy. I hope to keep this blog updated as often as I can. Writer’s block will always be my enemy but I will have to keep in mind that there are other things that can stop me from wanting to write. (think the lack of, or absence of motivation; no Internet connection; busy schedule; or worse, brain loss)

Anyway, let’s get this blog rolling!