mescapade

power of three

2012-02-02T13:19:00.004+08:00

It's a rare opportunity to have both of my pretty, strong-willed girls at the same time. Kryzelle, my friend who has been working abroad since college is now in the country and is staying here for quite a while. (Hmm, I think I've mentioned that on my previous blog.) Tin, my hot momma friend, on the other hand has been around ever since and is now doing a great job with her two-year-old daughter, LA.

We are not in the same circle; we don't really have the same friends. But during highschool, we found each other and just clicked. ;) We are the kind of friends who do not see each other always nor talk often. In fact, there were times when we lost contact with each other. But I'd like to believe we still have that "connection". And that was proven last Saturday night. :D

Kryz and I went to ATC to check some swimwear. The mall was about to close so we rushed off to Nothing But H2O. After picking up the best one that fits me, we headed off to Town's new wing. It looks fine but most of the shops are still closed. So after roaming around, me and my friend went to Starbs.

We went out for a couple of times already since she arrived last year but it seemed like there's more to tell. Gossip, you know. Haha, just kidding! So anyway, after about an hour or so, Tin showed up. I don't know how long Kryzelle didn't see Tin but surely it's way too looong. I let them chat for a while because I know they missed each other and they wanted to catch up as well. Of course I wasn't silent all the time.

We started talking about our highschool days and it was interesting because we have a totally different perspective of things now. We didn't agree with each other in everything, all the time but we certainly understand what the one was pointing out. We were laughing about some of our choices way back then, especially when it comes to boys. *ehem! ehem!* That night, we were also asking ourselves or one another the reason/s behind some unarguable decision/s during our younger years but all we could thought of is stupidity. :)) One really gets a lot of that during teenage years, right? :p Anyway, everything's done. We are all happy because whatever mistakes we have committed, we were still able to stand. This is the proof.. the three of us moving forward and just living our lives. ;)

Around eleven, I brought them to Soderno. For those of you who do not know the place, it's like the South's Mercato.. of course by Anton Diaz's team. Kryzelle and Tin loved it.. they even bought some food for their parents. :)

Our night-out (an-oldie-kind-of-night-out) ended a little after midnight. Stomachs were satisfied and of course, the three of us were pleased to have spent the night together. Minsan lang yun eh! :p

*pics to follow

the katy perry experience

2012-01-24T16:06:00.009+08:00

Katy Perry: California Dreams Tour was the first ever concert I went to. I'm not Perry's number one fan but I like her.. I mean, who doesn't right? :p

I wasn't really planning to attend this event because Lawrence and I had plans for the long weekend. Unfortunately, the out-of-town trip didn't push through so we resorted to the Thrilla in Manila event.

I was just kidding when I brought this up with Lawrence. I know he wouldn't enjoy going to the concert, but despite the fact, he still agreed and even bought the tix. Oha?! ;)

So Lawrence picked me up and my friend, Kryzelle around four and got into MOA right away. Wala namang traffic kase Sunday. The problem arose when we were in Mall of Asia.. no parking space!!! Nakakaloka lang. We decided to line up at San Miguel by the Bay's parking area and got a slot around seven.. just in time for the concert! :p

It was less than an hour then but I still wasn't feeling the Katy-Perry-concert rush. I was feeling lazy and also worried because Lawrence had a gout.. he was having a hard time walking because his right foot hurt.. poor Lo. :(

Anyway, when we were inside the concert grounds, we headed to McDo booth first and bought some food. DJ, umm I forgot his name (haha), started the event around eight and played a couple of songs which made the people high. But the people lost this mood after two hours.. yesss, we waited for TWO HOURS! I don't watch concerts, but Lo told me it was too much.. he said usually the delay is only one to one hour and a half.

I was already feeling sleepy and tired but I won't deny, when Katy Perry appeared, I got kilig! HAHA. She sang Teenage Dream when she came out and everyone was singing with her. :D

After almost ten songs, she paused and asked a guy to remove his shirt.. Ivan, the lucky guy was then called to the stage. She got a kiss from Katy Perry. Grabeee! Swerte lang. Sana girl na lang.. HAHA, JOKE! :)) I'm telling you, the crowd got crazy that moment.. di ko alam kung dahil kay Katy Perry o kay Ivan of PBB.. or maybe both? :p

After the pa-kilig moment, Katy continued with the concert. My fave song, Firework was her second to the last song.. she ended the night with her famous, kinky song of course, the California Girls. The show finished past eleven and we were all hungry!

The three of us went to Ibayo for a very late dinner. We were all exhausted but happy.. aaand mad at Smart, HAHA. They blocked the Globe network during the event. I couldn't reach my friends who were at the concert as well.. sayang, mas masaya sana kung magkakasama kami. Oh well.

Anyhow, it was a memorable experience. I just don't know if I'm going to see another concert again. Tamad talaga ko pagdating sa mga ganun e. Maybe I should try when the venue is in Araneta.. just to compare. ;)

*photos c/o Kryzelle

december, baby!

2011-12-31T17:37:00.019+08:00

Wow, 2011 was fast; time really flies!

Today's the last day of the year. And this is actually my first (and well, last) post for December 2011. Yes, I've been busy with work this month. We are actually thankful in the office because we really thought there would be no sales and activities for us this month.

So let me see.. what have I been doing this month? Of course, aside from working my ass off. :p

Early this month, my Pinoy Pasta girls and I reunited. Elaine and Cla were my college buddies. We haven't seen each other for so long and honestly, we rarely talk nowadays.

Thank God, Cla's mother found out Elaine is pregnant through Facebook. Ha, that's when we started messaging one another! :p When we got the confirmation from Elaine herself, we decided to meet right away.

Our dear friend is due on Feb and she's having a baby girl. Love it! :D Me and Cla are really shocked. We really didn't think she would be the first one to be a mom, haha. Life is indeed full of surprises.

Anyway, we talked about her (very easy) pregnancy and future plans over lunch. Elaine makes it a point to schedule and plan out everything, even when we were in college.. so she got all the answers to our questions.

Even though we hardly talk to/see each other, I'm glad that we still have this bond. It was just like during our MC days. The only difference is that there were no more non-sense talks. ;)

We didn't promise to keep in touch regularly, but at least update each other once in a while. And also, to be there when one needs a friend. :)

This month, I was also back at the party scene.. but just once. :p As everyone knows, I used to go out a lot before. As in, A LOT. Nowadays, you would never see me near any bar because I'd usually be spotted in restos or food bazaars. Hehe! ;)

Greg celebrated his 23rd birthday in Distillery, Fort. I was actually having a second thought of going because I'd rather stay at home or go out and eat. Yes, I have become a boring individual now. :))

So anyway, only few people were invited. Yung asa inner circle lang kumbaga, hehe. Partying doesn't appeal to me anymore but I thought it was Greg's day (and Mandy's as well) so I should just go and join them on their special day.. and I did. :)

That night, I also met Chesca, Sugar and Thina. I used to go out with them years ago and I was happy to see them again. They were in Bugsy's so I dropped by for a while. I also saw Gee when I got back in Distillery. O diba, party-goers parin mga blockmates ko! :p

On the 24th, after our family gathering, I went out to meet an old friend who I haven't seen for more than a year. Kryzelle just got back from Singapore and this time, she might stay here for a while.. that's a good news.. we missed her. :)

We just had a hard time looking for a place to stay because most of the establishments were closed. We forgot it's Christmas Eve, hehe. Anyway, we ended up in Gloria Jean's. Grabe, we talked about too many things.. too many emotions felt in a span of few hours. But nonetheless, we are both pleased too see each other again. :)

Around midnight, we decided to check the new hotel in Alabang. Kryz got curious with Acacia so we dropped by the place. It was love at first sight for her so we decided to get some drinks.. then headed home around two or three in the morning.

On Christmas day, me and Nico decided to meet. He actually helped me do my last-minute shopping. We also dropped by Love's place because she visited their home in South for the holidays. She was with her husband and husband's family.

It was nice seeing her because we are always together on this day. But of course, you all know she got married already and we really don't get to see her these days. At least, kahit papaano parang yung dati parin.. kami yung magkakasama. :)

Then last night, I had a year-end dinner with my bestfriends, Nico and Kryzelle. We tried the buffet in Acacia Hotel, and man, we got sooo full! :D

After the sumptuous dinner, we went to Bo's for coffee and Lawrence followed. I was really happy I got to spend the last days of this year with the people who are dear to me. :)

Today, the last day of 2011, I only stayed home. It's NYE so I should be with the family. :D

This month is amaziiing! I got to see my friends who I haven't seen in ages and got to have those inspiring convos with the important persons in my life.

Can't wait for 2012! I'm ready for the new year.. bring it on! :D

PFW 2011

2011-11-15T14:43:00.005+08:00

It was three years ago when Soi introduced me to Ziggy one late night at the Fort. I didn't know he is a Fashion Designer until PFW 2008 came. He invited us to see his collection, and since then, we never fail to catch his show.

I always attend the Fashion Week with Soi, Greg and Diana, but this year Diana wasn't able to come with us. However, Mandy and Greg's sister joined us.

Below is our photo with Mr. Ziggy Savella. If you want to know more about him or his collection, you may check his website here.

Kape 108

2011-11-15T14:42:00.013+08:00

Beverly and Christine. Relatives. Business partners. Proud owners of Kape 108. And two of the the most makulit persons I've ever met. Really. :p

One afternoon, these two ladies went to the academy and inquired on our offered courses. I gladly attended to them, thinking of "sales". Lucky me, I was able to convince them to take two of our classes. And lucky them because after attending the Cafe Management seminar and Barista 101 training, they're now ready to play in the coffee industry. What a win-win situation! ;)

As everyone knows (because I think Bevs have already told everyone :p), they were not really planning to put up a coffee shop. Everything was an accident. From what I remember, they were looking for a space for their food business. But you know, sometimes planned things do not really push through. And since everything just fell into place, they felt that they were meant to have this coffee shop.

So anyway, as I've mentioned on my previous blog, I really don't go to cafe/coffee shop openings. This was the first time I visited a students' coffee shop. Lucky you, Bevs and Tin! Haha, just kidding! :p

The coffee shop was supposed to be called Cafe 108. Unfortunately, someone already registered the name so they ended up having Kape 108 as their business name. Why 108? Nope, it's not the address nor their combined lucky numbers. Its opening was set last October 8 but due to typhoon (Quiel?), they had to postpone and move the opening to October 28. I don't know why they chose the 28th (I forgot to ask) but I think it's a good date (and a good number as well). I remember a Chinese friend telling me that opening a business on October is a good one. Plus 8 is infinity.. umm, meaning continuous sales? Haha, I'm not sure with that one though. Well, as far as Feng Shui is concerned, I think their preferred date was lucky.

Kape 108 has a good location as it is just beside FEU-FERN College and outside Ferndale Village. The coffee shop is just small but you won't be able to miss it because of its red-colored signage outside.

I also like their tagline --Kainan, Kapihan, Kwentuhan. Very simple. That's what almost everyone does in a cafe, right?

That night, there was an acoustic band playing outside. I immediately had that good-vibe feel so me and Lawrence got in right away. There are about four tables inside and Lo chose the different one. I talked to the owners while my friend took his seat and checked the menu. The cousins shared how the ribbon cutting went. They wanted to have the ribbon cut by someone from the academy, but since all of us were not available, one of their classmates did the honor.

Our chit-chat was cut off as they had to entertain orders and other friends. That was also my cue to go back to our table. The menu was on the wall so we didn't have a hard time choosing. I got a dessert coffee, an Almond Coffee Breeze while Lo got a milkshake. (He doesn't drink coffee, BTW.) Tin made our drinks and it was good. :) I just had a hard time finishing my drink because it was big. They only have one size for the dessert coffees so I really had no choice. I'm not sure if I was just full then or the drink was a lot for me to consume.

They're using plastic cups even for the dine-in/for-here drinks since they do not have mugs/ceramic cups yet. I think they're planning to have customized mugs/cups but they're still looking for a supplier. They also serve food, BTW. I just didn't get to taste one because we already ate before going there. I'll make sure to try Bevs' pastries next time.. I heard they're really good! :)

After a couple of minutes, Bevs returned and showed me the bar.. their equipment, consumables, etc. Tin joined us and they pointed out the chairs, tables and even the windows were designed by the ever-creative Christine Ison. Naks namaaan! During their training, they've also mentioned that they would be getting stuff from their houses and well, everything was displayed there. They really wanted to make the shop their "own" and very unique that's why Tin really worked on it. Even the lights were actually different. And the gate. Gosh, I don't know how I missed the detailed gate and Lawrence didn't! He was really being observant that night. Bevs had to take me outside to show what was written on the gate. Tsktsk.

It was almost midnight when Lo and I left Kape 108. There were still people in the coffee shop and some were on their way (according to Bevs). I wanted to wait for their classmates but it was already late and we still had to go to Makati before heading home. Anyway, I'm planning to go back with friends so they could also try Bevs and Tin's coffee. :)

Sooo, to all FARviewers (HAHA).. scratch that. To everyone who loves coffee, please visit Kape 108. It's a good place to stay in.. whether you're just going to study/finish a paper or chill/catch up with friends. They also have acoustic nights but you have to check the schedule with the owners. Plus there's WIFI and an internet cafe upstairs in case you need to do something online. :p

Once again, congrats to Bevs and Tin! Happy brewing, Kape 108! :D

last friday night

2011-10-29T08:22:00.008+08:00

Me and Lawrence planned this night-out because I wasn't able to meet him on my birthday. Originally, the plan was to go to Fairview for the opening of our students' coffee shop, to be followed by a dinner. However, there had been some changes a day before.. I was asked to go to a catering for an additional hand.

I actually asked Lo if he wanted to postpone since it seemed like I'd be working until nighttime. Luckily, he didn't want to. :)

So Friday came. After work, my officemate and I headed to UPIS for the Huling Yugyugan event. I was anticipating a busy night but when we got there, four jaded faces welcomed us. No queue. How disappointing. Then our boss showed up and told us that we could already leave since we were no longer needed. That was just great, right? Anyway, I stayed for a while because my friend got stuck in Makati (traffic). There was nothing more to do but look around and do something productive. Me and my colleague grabbed some flyers, checked the booths (which I think was only 10 or less) and well, talked to some souls who were kind enough to accept our leaflet/invitation to the school. After a good what, fifteen-minute walk-and-talk, we headed back to our booth. Wala naman kasi talagang maiikutan na. When we got back, our practicumers were like, "Grabe, ang daming tao, nakakapagod!" We were really expecting it to be a riot like our previous caterings because we were told there would be THREE THOUSAND people. Apparently, 3k means thirty. HAHA. There were lots of attendees but the event was sort of a reunion so coffee wasn't really a hit. And besides, who would choose coffee when there was a 3-for-100 beer promo?! S'yempre ano ba'ng pipiliin ng mga matatanda? Malamang yung medyo may tama! :p Yung kape, pampawala lang ng tama nila e. Anyway, after almost two hours, Lawrence arrived. Thank God. I bought a wine soda before I left.. para may dagdag benta naman. :)) Our OJTs were still joking around just when Dave (my colleague) and I were about to leave. E well, no choice sila.. they had to stay.

Was so relieved when I got in Lo's car. Told him about what happened when we were on the road.

So from Katip, we went to Fairview. Buti na lang di traffic. At buti na lang alam ni Lo yung way. I've been to FARview (as the Southerners call it :p) once or twice only so I'm not really familiar with the roads. After passing by FEU Fern, I immediately saw Kape 108. We parked in front of the school and checked the newly-opened cafe. We had a lot of students who opened up their own coffee shops but this was the first time I went to an opening. I really wanted to see the cafe. Bevs and Tin, our graduates and the owners of Kape 108, have been so good and makwento the first time I met them, so I loved them right away. The invitation was also personal, so even if I had to travel all the way to the far end of the world (HAHAHA), ok lang. They were really happy when me and my friend arrived. Ako lang kasi yung pumunta from the academy. I had to explain everyone was in UP for the catering, and even the instructor couldn't go because he had a gig. There was a small talk before I got to introduce Lawrence to them. Medyo madaldal talaga si Bevs e. :p Then we settled on the table in front of the bar.. Lo and I checked their menu and ordered.

While waiting, I gave my friend a short background of our former students and how the coffee shop started. He, on the other hand, was being a critic. HAHA. The night was full of kwentuhan and kantahan. Yep, that's right.. kantahan. There was an acoustic band playing outside.. and they were actually good. The place was cozy enough so we thought it would really click, especially to college students. So anyway, after spending an hour, Lo and I bade goodbye to the cousins. As much as I'd like to stay, we couldn't because we still had to go to Makati. (Anyway, there'll be a separate post about Kape 108. :D)

It was a bit late then and we still had to pick up the cake Lawrence bought me. On my birthday, he asked what I like. E well, everyone knows I'm a sucker for sweets (I was once called the "Dessert Queen" :p).. so I told him I want a Ferrero Crunch Cake. Since the cake is made to order in Maitre Chocolatier Boutique Cafe, he wasn't able to give it exactly on my special day. I think the cake was one of the reasons why he wanted to push through with the Fridate.. na-order na n'ya eh. Hehehe! 2 am pa naman nagco-close yung store and we were just right on time. I was the one who claimed it since parking in Jupiter was difficult. Lo couldn't find a vacant slot so he just waited for me on the other side. When I got back, he greeted me "happy birthday". Haha, I was hiding a very big smile. :p

After that, we grabbed some food along the way and headed back to South.

My Friday night wasn't crazy as Kathy Beth Terry's, haha, but it was sooo much fun.. thanks to Lo lo lo! ;) He's so mabait to picked me up in UP and drove all the way to Fairview just to accompany me to the cafe even though he doesn't drink coffee at all. Tapos may bonus pa.. yung cake. And of course, extra points for bringing me home safe. :p

It wasn't the perfect night for us because we weren't able to have a good dinner as planned and I think he was really exhausted for driving the whole time. Pero well, at least naging maayos parin kahit di ganun yung plano. Anyway, I'm glad he was with me that night.. otherwise my Friday would be lackluster.

Download this mp3 from Beemp3.com

jampacked

2011-10-17T11:13:00.025+08:00

Well hello there, October! Wow, it's my birthday month alreadyyy! Can't believe I'm turning 24 in a couple of days. Ang tanda ko naaa!

And since this is MY month, I welcomed it with a bang!

My first week has been colorful. Me and Ands went to Bangkok. This was supposedly between October 23 and November 24 for our combined b-day celebration but plans were changed. Our friend, Aia was supposed to come with us too but she couldn't get out of her job.

It was not as adventurous as the previous trip. It wasn't pleasing in a sense that we haven't had the chance to go to a lot of places and take photos. We weren't able to follow the itinerary I made, BUT.. yes, there's a big but.. we were able to go to different malls and markets. There was sooo much stuff to buy, I died. We really spent a lot. Even Andrea who is not a fan of clothes, shoes and bags have taken home quite a few.. though I'm not sure if she enjoyed as much as I did. She's not really into fashion so she couldn't appreciate most of the items we were seeing. On the other hand, I was smiling big with my eyes twinkling while I go to each shop. I seemed to be walking on Cloud 9. HAHA.

The whole trip was exhausting. We seriously did a lot of walking. Thais don't speak English well. In most stores, the OIC or taga-bantay/benta (HAHA) would just bring out their calculators and communicate with us over the numbers. They weren't friendly like what I've heard too. IDK why. But still, new experienced gained. I won't say I'm not going back because I still want to see the elephants and do the elephant trekking. So next time, I wish me and my companion would somehow stick to our itinerary before spending all our money. :p

When we got back here in Manila, Ands and I worked right away. After spending that much, we just have to work our asses off again. :))

Came in the office Friday. Buti na lang di ganun katambak trabaho ko. I wasn't ready to work yet but I was looking forward to see my girlfriends after work. Hehe. So after staying eight hours in the office, rushed to Makati to meet up with the girls.

Then after my half-day work on Saturday, I went to Greenbelt 5 for the Coffee Origins event. We didn't have a booth there but my boss wanted me to check the place. Well, it was quite boring, honestly. Thank God Aia accompanied me that day. There were about eight to ten booths who were offering coffee. Some were selling their equipment too, I think. There wasn't much of an audience, just the passers-by who got a little curious. Even the highlight of that day's event didn't create a buzz. There were no more than thirty people that time. Aia and I did some flyering at the area (which BTW is f*cking difficult). After the shameless act (at talagang shameless e noh?) and after seeing our training assistant participated on the Latte Jam (or was it Latte Art Jam?), me and my friend took off.

One of the places we checked that day was Caffe Ti-Amo. We were craving for some ice cream then and that place caught our attention. Their gelato was awesome. We had two flavors each. (I want to try the gelato waffle and their drinks next time.) The place was great too, BTW.. nice interiors and furniture. Aia loved their rocking chair. I just don't understand why the cafe was dominated by senior citizens. (Or was it only that time?) :p Anyhow, I suggest you visit the place and treat yourself for some lovely desserts. :D

We also dropped by MAC Center and took time to read the notes for Steve Jobs. I'm not a techie and I don't think I'll ever be into those gadgets but I was saddened by Jobs' death. Well, I've seen his creations and have used them (though I don't own any), and was pretty much amazed with his works.

So anyway, after eating so much on Sat, I burned all the calories by doing yoga the next day. It was my first Bikram yoga class last, last Sunday. Bikram Yoga Alabang (BYA) is having their anniversary this month and they have open house every weekend for the whole month of October. I signed up, together with my highschool friends Mandy and Rhoan. I really wanted to try Bikram (as in ang tagal naaa) but I couldn't do it by myself.

I'm glad I had the chance to experience it before I turn another year older. Yes, it was hard but it was really fun. Me and my friends were actually worried about staying in the heated room for ninety minutes but we made it! Parang achievement talaga sya, seryoso. :D We were even surprised because the instructor somehow complimented the first-timers who were doing really well. Oha, kami yun! :p

I looove the stretching. Can't wait to be Ms. Flexi, haha. I also love how my whole body sweats. Ang OA talaga! Parang triple ng pinapawis ko pag naggy-gym ako. I also noticed that I've never been as focused as that. I was really listening whenever Frank (our yoga instructor who my friends say is from Czech Republic) would talk. During relaxation, I would do nothing but to relax. My mind was free; I'm worry-free. Now I know why a lot of people is hooked in Bikram. Medyo mahirap rin talaga pero sarap naman ng feeling pagkatapos.

Just a few tips though. Do not put lotion when you're going to attend the class. I did that on my very first session (well, I always put lotion whenever I wear shorts/skirt) and I had a hard time doing some poses. Dumudulas yung legs ko e. If you're afraid you won't be able to do the poses, don't be. You just have to listen and look around. You can also sit for a while when you're feeling dizzy or tired, but as Frank told us, "Don't leave the room so you won't miss the other good stuff." So don't be shy if you're feeling a little uncomfortable. I took a few breaks to sit but joined the group as soon as I could. Push yourself to do the poses but don't force it too much. You can't prefect all the poses in one session so just be patient, practice and attend the classes (regularly). Lastly, smile and focus. :)

After doing Bikram, the three of us ate in S&R. It was my first time to try their pizza (sorry naman, sobrang late nako.. 'lam kong dati pa yun pinag-uusapan) and man, one slice is biggie! We stayed in S&R for more than three hours. Grabe, di namin napansin yung oras. Mands and I caught up with Rho.. parang highschool pa kasi kami nung huli ko syang makita e. Grabe!

And can I say GRABE one more time? Haha. What a productive week it has been! I love how this month gets so busy and exciting at the same time. Love the energy. I hope this continues until my birthday, yay! Good vibes. ;)

//Caffe Ti-Amo is located at G/F Greenbelt 5, Ayala Center Makati City and Bikram Yoga Alabang is at 2nd floor Commerce Center, Commerce Ave., Filinvest Muntinlupa City.

*Thanks to Mandy, Rhoan and Aia for the pics.

happiness

2011-10-10T14:26:00.006+08:00

This is a photo taken last month, when my dearest Nanay Rosit visited us in Manila after more than TEN YEARS. Yes, ten long years.

No words could describe when I heard she was coming over for a week. I wanted to take a leave at work but it was impossible so when she was here, I just went home straight every after work and stayed up late so we could spend more time catching up.

One week was certainly not enough but it was the only time we had so we made the most out of it --we ate out, shopped and did a lot of kwentuhan.

What I loved about my grandmother is how she's so understanding and very humble. I now understand why my mother have treated her as her bestfriend and how she was able to spill all her secrets to Nanay. There's this magic when you're in a conversation with her. I never held back. It's so easy to share things from work to boys. I never hesitated answering any of her questions. Ang sarap lang makipagkwentuhan sa kanya. Di ko feel na matanda sya, na lola ko sya.

I didn't want that week to end; I didn't want her to go. But well, she had to. She had to go back to our province and as much as I would like to come with her, I couldn't too because of work.

I just hope I'll be able to spend some time with her again very soon. (And please, let it be more than a week.) I'm always praying for her long life. (And may God continue to bless her.)

That moment, that one-week experience was the best (advance) birthday gift me and Mama have received. :)

girly lunchy

2011-09-20T17:00:00.011+08:00

Me and my highschool friend, Tin have been seeing each other a lot lately. She's always somewhere.. and most of the time, she is in the vicinity of San Juan. :)

One Wednesday, after going to a bank, she texted me. It was almost lunch and since she was near my workplace, we decided to eat out. Had to finish some work then so she stayed in Happy Lemon and grabbed a drink whilst waiting for me. We were already texting, thinking where to eat while she was in HL but couldn't decide. So when I finally got into the store, we agreed to check Promenade first. To my surprise, I saw Bon Chon there. I've been hearing a lot about this chicken craze so we just had to try Bon Chon. I think the branch in GH is new since I didn't know there's one there. How funny because I actually thought BC is sort of a high-end resto (sorry naman). And wait, is it new here in the country? Because I have a friend who told me Bon Chon has been here a long time ago.. but another friend said it was only established here last or early this year. So anyway, we just ordered a chicken meal.. I had the Chops and Tin got the Wings. We tried both of the sauces but I didn't like the spicy one (it's just too spicy for me). I love their chix actually.. I almost ordered for an extra rice. (I just didn't because I'm on a "diet". Haha.)

Then just earlier, Tin and I had a lunch-out again. We had an early appointment in Ortigas but went on separate ways after the meeting. Then a little after 12, she texted me. Apparently, she was in MY area again. She asked me to have lunch in Everything at Steak just as our delivery arrived.. nice timing, isn't it? I was actually hesitant since I already bought a food and based on the reviews I've read, the food there is not that good.. but she said she would treat me. I was still thinking of my lunch but she was making kulit so I went over. Naitsapwera tuloy yung Mang Inasal ko. HAHA. Anyway, she already got her food when I arrived so I did the choosing alone. They don't have much on the menu. Tin got T-bone.. and it comes with a rice and a side dish and she ordered Mac 'n Cheese. I had the Less Bones Chicken with rice and twice baked potato. We were asked what flavors and sauces we wanted. My friend chose New Orleans Rub while I had the Original Marinade. For the sauce, she had Mushroom Gravy and I chose Country Style Gravy. They actually have a big serving and I honestly loved my food! Hindi nakakaumay kahit sobrang nakakasawa na yung chicken. Haha, gets? Feeling ko yung marinade yung panalo. :p And although they have too many sauces to choose from, I'm happy I got the Country Style.. I think it goes well with the chix. EAS's steak may not be as good as the other steaks but well, they're pretty cheap.. tsaka ok din naman talaga yung food. I think I'll go back and try something new. ;)

I really love lunch-outs.. lalo na pag sumasakto na bad trip ka sa work o kung san man. Hehe! Parang break sa work and all your stressors. It's your time to gossip (HAHA), or to rant.. basta chika-chika lang.

Seeing a friend never fails to lighten me up. I'm glad that even almost all of my friends work in Makati, they still visit me here in San Juan or they make a point to drop by whenever they're in the area.

*Some pics grabbed from Tin's FB. Thanks sooo much girl!

2nd bride

2011-09-13T12:09:00.024+08:00

Yesterday, me and my friends took a leave from work, and attended the wedding of our dearest friend (the second one in our group who settled down), Lovelyn. It wasn't a church wedding; they tied the knot in Mandaluyong City Hall, and had a simple gathering in Ortigas. Nothing grand, really.. but it was both intimate and fun.

The reception was held in One San Miguel building. We got there before one and found Love's father together with some of the groom's relatives. We thought of leaving for a while since we felt we were too early but well, we decided to stay. Mr. Cabillo (Love's father) entertained us and talked about Love. He was actually more of story-telling, though I was able to feel how happy and proud he was for his daughter. It was so touching I almost cried. Nico and I know Love too well, even her relationship with her parents.. Lovelyn and her father may not have a perfect relationship, but we are very sure that there's always love between them. I felt how Mr. Cabillo loves his daughter.. he has this look that you'd see in a father when his daughter is about to get married.. yung parang masaya na parang takot na parang ayaw pang pakawalan yung anak. I suddenly wondered if my dad would have that look as well or would feel the same way when I'm about to get married. Anyway, after our little chat, Kat, Nico and I killed time by "shooting" (meaning picture-picture, haha).

Charles and Love arrived around two. They both looked wonderful. Both of their families were there to greet them and some of their closest friends (ehem, syempre kasama kami dun). When everyone's settled, we were all asked to stand for a prayer lead by a priest. After giving praise, everyone went to the buffet table and we were the first ones because our table was the nearest on the food. Talk about strategy, HAHAHA! After eating, we were able to chat with Love who gave us the details of her wedding preparation.

The program started around three if I'm not mistaken. The groom's sisters gave a song and dance number.. napilitan tuloy sumayaw sina Love, haha. I have to say the two ladies sang really well and effortlessly. After that, another relative of Charles sang, though I don't know what was the song.. I think it's Korean?

After the enjoyable numbers came the more serious part of the program --messages from Charles and Lovelyn's loved ones. Love's grandmother was up first. Grabe, I really thought I'm gonna cry real hard. We've know her lola since highschool so feel na feel talaga namin nung nagsasalita sya. I had to wipe my tears while it's still in the corner of my eyes.. yoko naman umiyak ng bongga. Haha! When we talked to my friend after the reception, she admitted she's also very touched.. di nga daw sya tumitingin samin kase lam nyang magkakaiyakan talaga. The family members of each party have given their straight-from-the-heart messages/advice. One of the messages that's been given to Love is "serve your husband always", and "take care of your wife" for Charles. Well, I think that's really important especially because they're bonded now.. give and take, ika nga nila. There was also a practical message and I think it's somehow right.. wag daw makinig sa mga in-laws. Well, not literally.. but you know, during the fights and arguments.. the woman who gave that message told them to settle it between them and not with each other's family. She also said to just follow their hearts and pray whenever they are troubled. I think that's the best advice. I mean, they're married now and it's their life so they should be able to solve their problems on their own.. also, I truly believe that once God is in the center of the relationship, everything will be alright. The friends have also spoken and Nico talked in behalf of us (Love's friends). :)

The couple have the slicing of cake (or whatever that's called) after that, then almost everyone went in line for the photobooth. Upbeat songs were played then so some of the kids played and danced while some of the adults went out and enjoyed the view outside (ang hangin kasi kaya masarap din magkwentuhan).. others stayed in and drank (beer).

The place was rented until five but we left past four to give the newly weds and their families time to talk and bond some more. The three of us dropped by Boni High before heading home.

Umm, we really couldn't believe Love's someone's WIFE already. I'm happy that she's married and all but what saddened me (and Nico too, I think) is the fact that we can't be with her anytime anymore. Love is the kind of person who would ask you to go out in the wee hours of the day.. as in minsan, magugulat ka na lang susunduin ka na nya o kaya asa labas na pala sya ng bahay nyo, kahit madaling araw na. We didn't like that but that's one thing Nico and I would miss. How ironic. Naglolokohan nga kami ni Nix kase parati na kaming date nito.. wala na si Love e. Gosh, we really are growing old. Next time, baby shower na siguro mga aattendan ko. Haha! Anyway, back to Love.. I know this is what she wanted and is contented on where she is and what she has right now. We've seen her mature and have seen how her relationship with Charles grow. Love has been with him since 1st or 2nd year college (so that's 2004).. there had been bumpy roads but they got through it.. and well, sila talaga in the end. I'll just keep praying for their happiness (especially my friend's).. and may God give them courage and wisdom for the new path they're about to take.

I love you, Labong! And again, congratulations to Mr. and Mrs. Trinidad! :D

*Some photos grabbed from Love's and Kat's FB.

POORies: ang gabing pina-sosyal

2011-09-10T08:21:00.014+08:00

I really had a blast last night! I didn't have plans of going out yesterday but in the afternoon, I got a text message from my friend, Tin who wanted to go to Happy Lemon. She also texted our milk-tea-convert friend, Mandy who happened to be in Shaw that time. HL is what, a ten-minute walk (or less) from my workplace so I just had to say yes. Mandy agreed, of course.

Mands and I met Tin in front of my office building a little after six then we headed to Greenhills. We were supposed to go to Happy Lemon right away but we checked out the tiangge first. There were too many clothes that we wanted to buy but we didn't purchase any because we were broke. Haha. We just tortured ourselves there, actually.. we got in each stall, pointed to a top or bottom we like, laughed it off (because we couldn't buy them) then left. It's funny how we always go to GH when we don't have cash.. we just don't remember Greenhills when it's pay day or when we're "rich". :p

When we finally got tired of looking, we decided to have dinner. We could feel our stomachs rumbling so we knew it's time. Haha. Tin have been mentioning these places in Mandaluyong me and Mands have never heard of.. she told us there's one place where food is cheap and good. At that moment, those words were the only thing we wanted to hear: CHEAP and GOOD!

The place is not in the center nor in a strip of food establishments. Medyo tago but not to the point that you'd get lost. It's one of those house-turned-into-a-resto places (na click kasi parang easy business) and one that you'd look for because of the "buzz" and good reviews.

So anyway, when we were already standing in front of Chef Arch's Lime (which I think is also known as Lime 88), their tagline caught my eyes. It says, "Streetfood na Pina-Sosyal". And I guessed, that's what to be expected.

Lime appeared to be just an inuman place you'd probably see in BF or Katipunan. They use monoblock tables and chairs, and a simple table cloth. There were many people when we arrived and good thing there were two tables available. We chose the table in the non-smoking area but it turned into a smoking one before midnight, haha. There's only a short list in their menu so we really didn't have a hard time choosing. That night, we had:

Quail Egg Tempura (Me likey!)

Street Style (it has Longganisa and Tuyo) and Four Cheese Pizza

Char Siu Style Pork Belly with Steamed Rice

Stir-Fry Crispy Pork Belly (this one's a little spicy)

and Asian Style Chicken BBQ with Tinola Rice and Braised Kangkong Stems.

*Sorry for the poor photos.

They also offer beer, cocktails and shooters.. we just tried their Lychee Martini and Cosmopolitan. Food prices ranges from P100-P200+. It's not good for sharing though the serving of the meat/chicken is more than enough (the pics don't give justice to the food) so I guess you can share a portion. I wasn't able to see how much the bucket of beer is but the cocktails are all below P100.

The food is fine; the presentation is "sosyal". It is indeed a street food with a twist. So if you want to eat clean street food while drinking with your officemates or friends, check out Chef Arch's Lime. BTW, they play R&B and 80's alternately. Joseph (Tin's friend), who happens to be a regular there, and the owner's friend also told us that there's a band playing every Sunday.

Chef Arch's Lime is located at 160 San Rafael St. Mandaluyong City.. it's near China Bank.

*Pics grabbed from Mandy's FB.

the blee in KLee

2011-09-02T12:12:00.028+08:00

It was my first ever trip with Andrea.. well, first trip by ourselves. ;)

I've known Ands (that's what I call her nowadays) since college. We didn't click right away because we are similar. To tell you honestly, we almost didn't have things in common back then. I didn't know how we became friends but it just did. Way back our MC days, you would see how different our choices and opinions were, but I guess being together every day made us accept and embrace all our differences.

Actually, Andrea already migrated to US so I was surprised when she got back before my graduation. I was really sad when she left because we really got close.. I also got close with her family because they were like my second family in QC (my dorm days). So when they got back, Ands and I relived our freshman days. Whenever I had freecuts and early dismissals, we would meet and go to the mall to watch movie, have dinner then coffee.. simple joys of our lives.

When I graduated, I had to go back to South, so we rarely see each other. We mostly meet for coffee --just to see how each other's doing. There were few times when we go out of town, too. And that's it.

Sooo, one day, me and my dear friend were texting and we suddenly thought of going out since it's been a while since we last saw each other. We were both browsing the net when we crossed a promo flight to Kuala Lumpur. We didn't know what to do nor what to visit there but we thought it's a good deal and we needed a short vacation together so we booked it right away.

It was our first time in Malaysia. The place was nice. There was actually a part of it where I felt like I'm just in South because of the trees, wide streets and freeways. We've never experienced traffic there at all. We just had a few nearly-death experiences (I am exaggerating) because we kept forgetting their driver's side is at right so whenever we cross streets, we tend to look on the wrong side. I remember Ands saying, "di ko lam gagawin ko kung nabangga ka" when I was almost hit by a car. Haha.

Although the people speak Bahasa Malaysia, we really didn't have a hard time communicating. There were just few instances when we encounter a non-English speaking store-in-charge so we just had to point to whatever we want in that store.

We also tried commuting around the city and it was great! Their regular buses are like the good provincial buses here in the Phils. It leaves on time, plus it's very cheap. We also rode their train which is like the LRT 2 here, only way better and faster (or at least that's what I thought). Of course we had to take the cab on few of our trips. The taxi drivers there are really kind. They teach us to go to a certain place by bus or train when we feel it's expensive to take their cabs. Unlike here, some taxi drivers would force you to ride just so they earn. The cab also brings you to your destination, even it's too far, and still uses the meter. Unlike here, some taxi drivers won't drive you or would give you a fixed rate before letting you ride. But at night, taxis in KL don't use meter anymore.

One night, we took a cab and the driver is just way too cool to be a driver. Andrea noticed right away that it was the only taxi playing hiphop songs. The guy ask where we're from and we answered. Then we passed by a place where there were a lot of dressed-up people. I asked the driver what it was and he told us that it was a bar.. it was Zouk. He actually invited us because he was going there that night (after his shift, I guess) but we just had to pass. He didn't insist anyway. He's not the scary type who looks like he would stalk but it was late then and we had to wake up early the next day.

So anyway let me share some of the places we've gone to and other people we met. Our hotel is in Chinatown so we were able to spot cheap finds as soon as we got there. It's funny how Chinatown transforms. Early in the morning, you could see the streets very wide and clean.. no stalls and shops. After lunch, stalls just popped out of nowhere. Then night comes and the place gets jampacked.

Andrea and I were able to meet this Chinese guy who owns a food stall and speaks English very well. His products were good and our first food from KL was from him. Hehe. We also met an old Chinese man who has a stall full of souvenir items. He weren't like the others who are "pully" or those who almost grab you to buy from them. He was just keeping it cool (oha) and he smiles a lot. Ands bought a lot of stuff from him so the old man gave him a discount. Before we left KL, we actually visited him to say goodbye.

One night, still around Chinatown, we met an Indonesian. (He took that pic. :p) He seems nice though me and my friend were joking on how he doesn't seem to look like a doctor. ;p Anyway, he told us he was just there for a couple of days and was going to Singapore for conference the next day.

Our very first destination was Batu Caves. I am an Amazing Race fan so I looked up where ARA went to when they included Kuala Lumpur in the race. Found that the racers went to Batu Caves (then I remember I was able to watch that episode) so I included it in our itinerary. We visited the place early morning. The caves has 272 steps (and I counted it perfectly!!) but man, it was really a workout for us! I wonder how some men could jog going up. Take note, the steps are narrow enough that one wrong step could actually take your life. Anyway, there's really nothing special in the place. There were some religious group upstairs and if I'm not mistaken, that's their worship area. There's also a big space in the middle and there are also two to three shops around.

Our next stop is Resorts World Genting. Ands works in RW Manila so we just had to see Genting. It's not really as beautiful as I expected (may ganun e noh) and no rides for us. :( The buildings are separated. We rode Skyway, the longest and fastest cable car in Asia (as advertised) to go to other parts of RW. It was really cold up there and because we didn't bring any jacket, we were both shaking. After the long ride that took forever, we strolled around the place. Medyo nakakalito ng onti pero ayos lang. After hours of walking, we left and have gone somewhere.

We also went to KL Suria Centre. I think it's a high-end mall since signature brands could be found there. I also noticed that the mall is like Glorietta, even the food court. (Or maybe Suria Centre was one of the inspirations for the Ayala malls, IDK.) We looked for shops that are not here in Manila and found some. Ands got curious with their cinemas, and guess whaaat!? Yess, we watched a movie there.. we saw Super 8. The movie house is almost the same as here. What I didn't like is how little the interval of each row of seats is. Also, they have a rule to let people in only five minutes before the movie starts.. so me and Andrea waited for a couple of minutes. I also checked their movie sched and found that their last full show is around eleven or twelve midnight. How cool, riiight?

Of course, there was Petronas Towers. I don't think a KL trip would be complete without a trip to the Twin Towers. Did you know that we woke up very, very early for that towers? We went there one afternoon but it's already closed.. we were advised to be in the area by six in the morning (though it opens at eight thirty) because the line gets really long.. and boy, it really did! The wait was really long and I couldn't say it's really worth it. The attraction is that you get to see the city from above.. but actually, I find it more amazing from the outside, especially at night.. you'd see how tall it really is and its lights are very bright.. then there's the bridge connecting the two buildings. It's like it has full of life.. beautiful. Inside Petronas, we met a Malaysian tour guide. She's ahead of us on the long queue. She was kind enough to answer some of our queries and talk a little about Malaysia. After our chat, she asked how old we are. She thought we're still kids and was amazed that we went on a trip by ourselves. But honestly, I don't think it's a biggie because I know a lot of people who does it. Maybe she's conservative? Hmm.

Of course, we were able to explore some places by walking, riding the train/bus so there were a little side trips as well.

Aside from exploring the places, we also explore the food. That won't be forgotten because I'm with a chef. I know some of you know I also studied Culinary Arts and may be fooled that I'm into food (I only love eating them :p) but Andrea is the shizz! ;) She's really into food and has been in the industry for a few years now. Some of the food we tried were roti, mee goreng, curry noodles, dried meat and floss bun, etc. There were also rice and some viands there that could be eaten here. I think we almost have the same dishes but they add some spices that creates a different flavor. It is also funny how some of our hotel food are just their street food.

The whole trip was a bit tiring because we really get up early and stay up late.. but when we think of what we did the whole day, we feel pleased.. it was like a line of checked accomplishments, haha. I'm just glad I had that trip. I certainly needed a break from work that time, plus me and Ands wanted to do a major catching up. Yay for a great bonding experience! :D

song of the week

2011-08-09T11:45:00.004+08:00

I'm just sooo in-love with this song right now. It has been playing non-stop in my mind since Sunday. Sing along with me. :p

Baby it's late can you take me home
Bring me somewhere we can be alone
Coz you know i'm a little tipsy
Light me up and baby kiss me
Come on baby and do it quickly
I don't wanna talk so keep my mouth busy
Little missy
I feel like burning
You're who I'm yearning
I'm ready for friction
sparks fly
Up high
Baby make me feel like i never felt before

Chorus:
Hold me close by your side
Baby never let me go through the night
As i open my eyes
Baby kiss me from my nose
Down to my..

Baby come here and I will make you see
I'll take you to a place where we can be free
Boy you put me on fire
come on baby take me higher
and fulfill my desire
Don't talk just give it a try
And blow my mind
Don't keep me waiting
I know you want it
Now lets get it started
Lead me
Feel me
Baby let me hear it that you wanted more

Chorus:
Hold me close by your side
Baby never let me go through the night
As i open my eyes
Baby kiss me from my nose
Down to my..

Bridge:
Oh baby.. Oh baby.. Oh baby..
Where'd you learn to work that way?
I said you.. You.. You..You..
You are driving me insane
To heaven
would you come with me babe?

Chorus:
Hold me close by your side
Baby never let me go through the night
As i open my eyes
Baby kiss me from my nose
Down to my..
(2x)

(Lyrics from http://roomforanything.blogspot.com/2011/08/kiss-never-let-me-go-yumi-ft-thyro.html)

reconnected

2011-07-25T14:28:00.012+08:00

I didn't join the company outing last June so there was one day where I spent the whole afternoon in the office alone.. NOT!!! :)

It was Friday then and my officemates, together with our OJTs, left for Laguna. I was alone for a few minutes until Rashid arrived. I really shouted when I saw him. It wasn't a surprise but I was so delighted to see him again, in flesh. :)) It's been months since he last went to PBCA and I was so glad he went back.

Whenever he visits, he always bring something from his hometown and that day we feasted on (Bulacan's) chicharon and we bought soda downstairs. The 6th floor girls were also happy to see Rashid (heartthrob eh!) so we stayed there for a while. After their small chit-chat, we went back to the office. I finished my work before calling Cy who is now based in Singapore. (Hay, my dear babies have really grown up.) Luckily, it was his day off so we were able to talk via Skype the whole afternoon.

It was really fun talking to them. If you read my previous blog about "my babies", you would know how much I love them! ;)

Around five, Cy had to bid goodbye because he was going to church. Jayz came in a little after Cy logged out (sayang nga e, di sila nakapagkwentuhan!) and we went wild! Haha. Non-stop talking and laughing. Ang saya lang! It's pleasing how they changed from a short period of time..dati-dati, puro school lang kinekwento nila, ngayon may goals na and career. I'm so flattered because they always get my opinion and sometimes, advice whenever they're in the middle of something. I love how they trust me from the smallest things to the most important ones. I think that just means I've influenced them in some ways and that am also a great help, right?

So anyway, after work, we all headed to Greenhills. We had dinner and just like old times, videoke. :D After singing our hearts out, we checked some tiangge, have Rashida's iPhone fixed and then we went to Happy Lemon. Funny how Rashid thought of Happy Lemon as a bar..he was thinking of getting drunk and all. :p Jayz couldn't stop making fun of him until we reached the place. There were many people (as always) when we got there but good thing we were able to spot a vacant table for us.

It was a little late when we finished our drinks and though the chikahan and tsismisan were still bitin, we already hugged each other goodbye.

Rash and I headed back to Atlanta to get the car and we were so shocked because there were no lights at the basement parking. I already anticipated my first meeting (ever) with Nida Blanca..I was ready to scream but didn't see her..nor a man with a knife on his hand. Hehe. But seriously, it was really scary. Thank God, nothing happened and Rashid didn't panic. ;)

You know how it's fine to miss a special occasion for a simple day with your loved ones? That's how I felt that day, and I wouldn't regret making that decision (kala mo napaka-seryoso e noh). I didn't care what happened with the outing. I don't even remember asking how it went. I guess I was just in high spirits with the whole get-together. ;)

At present, Cy is still in Singapore, Rashid is in Bulacan and Jayzel is in Japan for a short vacation with her mom. I'm busy with work so we don't really talk that much. We chat in FB sometimes, then Rash and I would text other times. Hay. I hope I get to see them again soon. They are my stress relievers..love my beckies!

going back to oceana

2011-06-07T13:25:00.013+08:00

I know I've been MIA for quite a while. Got a little busy and was always tired after work.. had no time to write anymore. Anyway, a lot (most especially, good stuff) has happened but unfortunately, I won't be able to tell everything here.

Last April, believe it or not, I was in Oceana again. The mother company of where I am currently working had their big event and we supported them. EQ is the sole distributor of Torani syrups and sauces, to name one, here in the country. The big bosses (Torani USA) were here to take part in the event that's why it was special. It was titled Torani Remixed because it showed how Torani syrups could be mixed with teas, cocktails, juices, etc.

As much as I'd like to write about the event, I couldn't.. I'm more excited to tell you how my visit went. Haha. Sorry naman.

Enderun was the original venue for the event. I didn't know what happened but few weeks before the occasion, we were informed of the new venue --Oceana. I had a straight face when I heard of it. I honestly did not know what to feel but I thought of Chef RJ and Kuya Noel so I got a little positive.

For those of you who didn't know, I once worked in Oceana (CCA) and man, I had a really hard time! Everyone knows I was not in my best condition when I was there but I couldn't do anything.. no one could. I couldn't even go back to CCA Katipunan. (My heart broke.) I was more than sad but I endured all the pain. Thanks to Chef RJ (my one and only boss) and Kuya Noel plus the stewards who made me smile and worked hand in hand with me. Unlike the "others" there, they weren't complaining and even bossy.. they were very kind. But anyway, after almost two months, things got a little better and easier. Misunderstandings were resolved, the organization was somehow been taken care of and I found friends on two of the newly-hired employees. Soon enough, I was enjoying each day in Oceana until some unlucky incident took place --I had to leave.

So anyway, back to my story. When I got to Oceana last, last month, I looked for Chef RJ and Kuya Noel but they were nowhere to be found since there were no Saturday classes. It was still early then so neither the resto people was there. Mark from the Events was not yet there so there were no familiar faces. I was a bit down because I thought I would be able to see everyone and catch up. Good thing during lunch, I saw Lou (steward) who is working again for the Events. Then I also saw Mae.. she introduced me to the girl (I forgot her name, sorry) who's doing the work I used to do. She's mabait.. I told her how it used to be in that place and I'm glad some of the things were changed. I stayed in the office for a couple of minutes and met some of the students.

After a while, I went back to the venue for the event was about to start. But before I did, I left a note for Chef and Kuya Noel on the CCA board.

There were dead times during the event so to kept my sanity, I went to the office once in a while. In the afternoon, I asked them to watch the event with me. So the three of us, plus the one handling the event (whom I forgot the name as well.. sorry) listened to the international bartenders, ate and drank, and go on with our stories.

When the event was about to end, the "familiar faces" arrived. I was so glad to see Tin, Irene and other resto people, and of course Mark from Events. Hugged all of them because I really missed them.

When I'm done working and helping in the event, I moved to the restaurant and joined the Oceana gang. They updated me about the happenings since I left. We were all just laughing and sharing stories. It was like I still belonged there. It really felt good.

It was nighttime and everyone who attended the event were already gone when I left the place I once called "hell". Sinulit ko talaga ang stay ko sa dun kase minsan lang yun. Also, had to wait for my dear friend, Mandy as she suddenly skipped her review.

When Mandy arrived, we decided to head South and meet Soi. I told her how my day went while I was driving. She was happy that I had a good time in Oceana. Anyway, the fun continued in Petron where we had few drinks.

What's good about the experience is that I was able to see the people I've worked with and got to enjoy the place again. It was pleasing because we still have that connection even though I only stayed there for a couple of months. Also, the new ones are welcoming. I wanna visit them again. Hopefully, when I go back, Chef RJ and Kuya Noel will be there. :)

the "L" saturday

2011-03-06T18:33:00.003+08:00

I had a lazy Saturday morning.. I woke up early but did things leisurely. Good thing I still managed to be at work right on the dot. I had a feeling my boss won't be able to go to work that day and boy I was right! (I should've stayed home as well. Haha, KIDDING!) Anyway, I tried doing some work and asked my OJTs to do some too. We finished right away and then noticed twelve was not coming any closer. Some of my OJTs started cleaning. My (girl) practicumer asked me to go to sixth floor with her and we did. We bought some food, and then Mahal and Joyce (not sure with her name), the sixth floor ladies, told me someone's asking for my number. They wouldn't tell me who it is but they were giggling. I don't know if they were getting kilig or they were laughing because the one asking for my number is that ugly. Haha. Anyway, I didn't give them my number.. told them I would if I get free food. :p When we get back in our unit, nothing's changed.. still got nothing to do and still far away from twelve. Suddenly time moves verrry slowly. My officemate then asked one of the practicumers to buy ice. When Jay (the one who bought ice) arrived, he gave me pretzels. It was sweet.. I was touched. I mean, yeah, it's super cheap but I was surprised he remembered I like pretzels. Hehe. ;) So my officemate and the OJTs tried making different blended drinks. I didn't dare to taste any because the last time I did, it felt like hell.. my head and stomach hurt. After an hour or so, we all found ourselves in front of the computer, watching some LPU students do flair tending. No one wow-ed me.. but well, who am I to judge, right? I haven't even tried doing that. Gladly, after few videos, twelve has arrived. Haha. We almost jumped for joy. We all hurriedly got our stuff and left. Too bad for the boys who stayed for a while because they forgot to get the pitchers downstairs.

After a lazy morning came the lucky afternoon. I got into Alabang in less than an hour because traffic was not that bad. When I got there, I went directly to Globe in Festival Supermall to pay my over-due bill (haha). There were many people.. I was actually standing near the door already and the number I got was 2053 (number then was 2043). So I just stood there and patiently waited. After awhile, a girl randomly approached me and said, "Sa payment ka? O eto, sayo nalang." She gave me her number and left. *ding* It was the sound for the next customer and the number on the screen changed --2044. I checked the number the girl gave me and gah, that was it! I ran to the counter, paid my bill and gave back my original number to the guard. After going to Globe, dropped by Holy Kettle to buy some popcorn then left. I had really nothing to do in the mall.. my friends were not there too so I had no one to meet up with. So anyway, when I got into the parking exit, the girl told me it was still free. Had a huge smile, haha. I was pretty surprised.. didn't realized I was that quick in the mall. Well at least, I was able to keep my twenty peso bill. Bihira lang ang free parking ah! :p

When I finally arrived home, I fixed all my stuff then had my late lunch. Both of my parents have eaten already so I ate by myself. After eating, spent few minutes with them watching the television then went inside my room, got on-line and started watching DVDs.. borrowed Eclipse (which I thought I haven't seen yet) and Hachiko (which made me cry real hard) from one of my OJTs. I was just infront of my laptop with foodies until nighttime. That was absolutely a laid-back Saturday night (and that seldom happens nowadays). If you know me well, you'd definitely be sure I am always out on a Saturday night. Sat night for me is the time to chill and "relax" with friends.. usually out for dinner and coffee (or sometimes drinks) but only in South area. ;) Anyhow, I want to change it and make Saturday night a rest time.. unless there's a special occasion of course. :)

So from lazy to a lucky one to a good, laid-back feel.. That was indeed a lovely Saturday! :D Hope you guys had a great weekend as well. :)

free friday

2011-02-25T20:37:00.003+08:00

While (almost) everyone is out there, celebrating People Power, I am just home, enjoying one, stress-free day. ;) I'm just like them.. celebrating freedom.. freedom from work. (But wait, don't get me wrong, I didn't quit.. I just don't have work today. :p)

So anyway, I woke up late today.. enjoyed more than eight hours of sleep. I got to have breakfast with my mother (which rarely happens nowadays) and was able to watch tv whilst online the whole morning. During lunch, our television was still on and finally saw Happy Yipee Yehey for the first time. The show doesn't look appealing but I was curious what it's like so I gave it a try. After few minutes, I left the tv on and had my hair dyed. (I was too lazy to go to the salon to have it colored so my mother did it for me, haha.) Anyway, when my hair's done, went back to the living room and found my lola hooked up with the noontime show. My mother and I joined her. Few minutes after, they featured a segment that caught my attention.. it's the one with John Pratts (I forgot what it's called, sorry). The lucky guy just had to get five yellow stuff.. then he won fifty k. The people around him helped him.. how lucky, right? After that segment, One Time Big Time followed. The man who joined the game is a father of three.. he was doing business before but lost money that's why he stopped selling fruits.. his children who used to go to a private school were sent back to their province.. then he started working as a street entertainer. He was asked how much he earn a day.. he said he bring home around five hundred for four hours. I was surprised.. I've been seeing a lot of street entertainers but never I imagined they make hundreds a day. It's not that I don't see them as talented ones or wala akong bilib sa kanila.. it's just that, even inside malls, there are entertainers and most of the time, people would just put/throw coins on them or in their box/hat. So anyway, the man needs extra money badly.. for him to have his business again and for his children's education. What he had to do is play dart and hit the balloon at the center. Three shots were given.. the first one was almost.. second one was the same.. and for the third.. gosh, I was really praying he'd get it. Well, answered prayer.. he won! I shouted when the balloon was popped. It's like I felt it.. I know God would give it to him. I don't know him and his story is not that heartbreaking compared to other stories I've heard but I felt he's sincere enough and that he truly needs help, not for his own sake but for his family. I'm so happy for him.. I almost cried. I know he would use his prize wisely. :) (BTW, I was also glad to see Anne Curtis sang live in HYY. She's so cuuute! :D)

After spending the whole day in front of tv/laptop, I went out with my mother and my grandmother. Mommy (my grandmother) slipped last year and her left arm up until now is not yet fine.. it still hurts, especially her hand. After that accident, she barely goes out because she's afraid it would really hurt or someone might tap it or something, and make her situation worse. I hardly see her and go out as well since I work Monday to Saturday. So our get-together earlier was just perfect. The three of us ate out and chatted. Girl bonding it is! ;) Mommy wasn't that updated with me so she was asking about my work and I told her everything seems to be in place.. then my mother butted in, saying I don't have time for other things and still single. She actually told my lola I might be an old maid. Haha. (Now, I am pressured.. any guys out there who wants to date me? Haha, kidding! :p) Before nighttime, we were already back in our place. I enjoyed our time together and wanted to tell them to do it again next week.. just didn't do it because I hate making promises and not fulfilling them. I guess I'll just fix my sched and surprise them! ;)

the so-called hearts day

2011-02-25T09:56:00.009+08:00

On my way to work last, last Monday, I saw a lot of girls wearing red top/dress. There were also bunch of people holding a single rose while others have bouquet. In short, almost everyone was into Valentine's Day. I, on the other hand, was wearing black matching it with a colorful skirt and a pink-y, flower-y neckpiece. It was just an ordinary day for me.

When I got into the office, our (girl) OJT asked why I was wearing black. She said it seemed like I'm being bitter about V-day. I was like, "No, I'm not." I mean, come on.. I did not know people make a big deal of your clothes during Valentine's. I don't own any red top at all. All I have are pink ones or other colored shirts with a print of red or something.. I also think red dress is for special occasions. Maybe, I should've put my red lipstick on that day. Anyway, all I'm saying is that I really don't think Hearts Day is about red clothes nor flowers.. it's about love and how you celebrate it with your loved ones, right?

I didn't have plans that day.. well one is because I don't have a boyfriend and two, all my friends were working as well. I figured we should like hang on weekends. I was just watching the training then and was working. Buuut, after lunch, my dearest Andyblee texted me and asked me out. Just like that and I got a date! Haha. :D

After work, I went to Greenhills and met up with the Rodriguez sisters. I love my girls and was so happy I got to spend the love night with them. I haven't seen Claire (Andy's younger sister) for years and man, she is so grown-up now! She's almost my height.. can't believe eeett! They were eating at Prome when I came and after that, we headed to World Music Room. We wanted to sang our hearts out and simply enjoy the night, and we thought that's the best place. Since we were just three, we got a small room. I was still in college the last time I visited WMR and was surprised that they don't have a song book anymore.. everything's computerized and on the screen.. awesome! We only stayed there for an hour but it was indeed a fun-filled hour. I got to chat with Claire in between songs, and we loaded up with different appetizers. She mostly talked about her highschool life because I don't know what highschool students do nowadays anymore. She just attended Ateneo's prom and will have AA's JS soon.. got excited when I heard it. She told us about the recent prom but nothing's really special about it. We were even laughing about Ateneo's prom giveaway. (You gotta see it, haha!)

After videoke, we planned to shop and go around buuut (yes, another but) ended up going to a resto. Haha. We ordered for some dessert. (We weren't done eating!) Andy have tried Goodies N' Sweets already and gave a two thumbs up that's why we checked it out again. We had Tiramisu and Mochamisu. The two are almost similar (or maybe that's what I thought since I was eating them side by side, haha) except for the chocolate on top of the Mochamisu which makes it sweeter. I love both.. very delicious! I remember Andy's in search of a good tiramisu ever since my b-day four or five years ago. Haha. Whyyy? I treated them in a resto somewhere in Greenbelt before and she fell in-love with their tiramisu. I just forgot the name of the resto but it has an open kitchen.. hmm, not even sure if it's still in GB. Anyway, I think we have a runner-up now! I am definitely going back to Goodies and try their other cakes. :)

When we were finally full, we got up on our feet and walked.. the thing is, shops were already closed. Haha. So we just found ourselves chatting more then few minutes after, we decided to go home.

I think that was our (me and Ands) 2nd or 3rd time celebrating V-day together. Haha. I don't know why, but I'm always single on Feb 14. Okay, whatever. Valentine's Day is not just for lovers. I spent it with friends and had a great time.. see! I hope every single lady was able to spend Hearts Day with people they love and not affected by the fact that they're not in a relationship. ;)

my babies

2011-02-19T18:22:00.015+08:00

I know I keep repeating this line lately but I just can't believe HOW TIME FLIES. I got a call from Cy, one of our 1st batch of practicumers, last week. He is already in Singapore. When I hung up, I thought to myself, "Is he really in SG?" We were just laughing our hearts out few days ago.. he was one of those assisting the training few weeks ago.. and few months ago, we barely talk. And again, time really flies.

I honestly did not think I'd be friends (and that I'd consider them as my younger sibs) with three graduating students namely Cyril, Rashid and Jayzel. We totally have different personalities but we jive in a way that only us could understand. I was not really looking for friendship then because I thought these students would just get instructions from me and work, finish the hours required for their On-the-Job-Training and leave. Since I was also new when they got in, I was focusing more with my job. As time passed by, we got to know each other and then finally enjoyed each other's company. From work discussions, we got into personal stuff. I then noticed we were starting to create a bond and care for each other. Work became lighter. We knew who's going to do this and that; we knew what's not to do. We communicated openly and made one laugh when s/he is about to break down.

Gaah, I am really missing the trio a lot! :( There's just no dull moments with them. Some of the things I won't forget:

*Our DIVA moments. Haha. We love doing videoke. We love singing, and dancing too. :p When at work, you would just hear us humming or singing, and sometimes even creating own lyrics that would fit the song. Our theme song is "Hello, hello" a.k.a. Telephone by Lady Gaga. :D We love playing BEP's song that we call "Dirty Bit", Whip My Hair, Firework, Grenade, acoustic songs and a lot more.

*Shopping experiences. When I started working in Atlanta, I really did not try going to Greenhills after work (even if I just have to take few steps from the office). One time, during the holidays, they asked me to come with them to GH and I agreed. Since then, we kept checking out the bazaar/tiangge. I am telling you, no one gets tired even if we keep walking or go on circles the whole night.

*6th floor. Jayzel is my ultimate 6th-floor buddy. Before, we don't really eat snacks on mid-aftie. When we got really close, we started bringing food to share and eating between work became a routine. When clock strikes at three, it means it's 6th-floor time. Of course, when there's (urgent) work or when I have meeting, it's delayed. 6th floor became our tambayan and Ate #1 and Ate #2 became our friends.

*BORING times. During their stay, there were just too many dead hours. We really didn't have much classes during that time. Some days, we were real busy. Other days, we were just going crazy because we got nothing to do. Those times, we used to open up and share serious matters. We also did things that need not to be written here. HAHA. :p

*Bloopers. They are just walking boo-boo. Haha. Especially Rashid. I love how Jayzel jocularly calls Rash "bobo" and "tanga" when he makes mistakes. Sometimes, she would just call Rash to whisper those words. Then Rash would patiently wait until Jayz makes her own slipup. They're not pikon so no one gets mad. Unforgettable words: "Es-pla-nage", "likes", "pos", "pile" and a lot more. :p

*PBCA events. The three got to join PBCA's X-mas party, different coffee caterings and media shoots. Every event was stressful but having them around made it fun and bearable. They are all creative and hardworking. They were actually a big help for me and I guess for the company as well.

I can go on and on all night here but I just have to stop.. I can not write it all here. I am happy I got to know these three people. I am not sure if I made a big impact into their lives but I hope they have learned something from me and of course, I hope I didn't make their stay in PBCA like hell, haha. I wish them all good luck.. I hope to see them all successful in the future. And lastly, I hope they won't forget me. Haha. I just love my beckies. Oh, I mean my babies. ;)

starting it off

2011-02-04T21:54:00.008+08:00

My 2011 started with a bang!

I have been very blessed, especially at work, since last month. I have been real busy and am just so glad that I can be this productive.

This is my second Marketing job and wow, it is getting better and better! Two years ago, I was not sure with the path I am going to embark. What I remember is that I was just fond of the Marketing subject (in college).. I thought a real Marketing job is going to be fun that's why I wanted to land a job in this field. True enough, it is cool.. though it is also tough because in the real world, you have to plan and make strategies that would profit.

I want to thank our (terror) Marketing professor, Ms. Ong, for teaching us what it is like in the business world, for pushing us always to think out of the box, and for her non-stop recitations, paper works and different activities. I was honestly surprised that I got to love that subject despite having a very strict teacher and even dared starting a career in this very demanding field. I guess I really learned a lot from her.

I used to be part of a team but in my present company, I work alone. We do not have a Marketing Department as the school is just small. Therefore, it does not need a lot of employees. Working on your own is both good and bad. It is good because you can work freely and as quickly as possible.. and then bad in a sense that you get pressured and the blame is all yours when something turns wrong. I have experienced both sides of having to work single-handedly. It is wearing. Sometimes I already feel (mentally) drained but when I see the outcome is fine, I just smile and whisper to myself, "It paid off."

PBCA, the company I am currently in is just starting and needs every exposure that there is on earth. Haha.

Last month, I was able to get MYX to feature us on Wer U At. It was easy. I emailed them, and days after, they called me and said they are going to shoot in our school. There were about ten staff when they had the shoot. Chino was the VJ assigned.. got to talk to him and of course got a picture with him. :p First few minutes was used to shoot the place, then the interview took place. Chino did the interview with our school director. Chino only had one-take while our school director had three because she kept saying one instead of nine for our contact number. It was good that there is a class during the shoot.. MYX was able to meet and talk to the barista instructor.. Chino got even a chance to make an espresso. After an hour or so, they packed up and left. Then after a week, our episode was aired. I was too excited I rushed home on its premiere airing, haha.

Two days after, the academy was featured in Unang Hirit. It was really a short notice but it was a very good opportunity to be missed. As we all know, UH is live and since the school is on the eighteenth floor of Atlanta, we had to relocate (technical difficulties).. we then set up at Muntinlupa City, where our mother company is located. Kudos to all the employees and students who woke up early and helped out, and most especially to our training assistant who was live and kickin' at one in the morning and to our dearest OJTs who came from the other side of the world (haha) and managed to be in the location at two. I was not in UH (thank God) because I had nothing to do there and someone should be in the school while everybody was away.

Last week.. okay, we were not featured in any show.. but we got media people during our trainings. Andrea's (my friend) mother has really a wide network and am so delighted she helped me reach the media. We originally got twelve but some did a last-minute cancellation because of urgent matters. It was nice that we had two classes at the same time. Our visitors from Business World and Business Mirror, and even the bloggers I invited were pleased to join both trainings. It was refreshing to have them around.. I got to talk to them during lunch and there were just too much information and advices that I could prolly use in the future.

The feeling is just wonderful. Really. I feel proud of myself. I am (definitely) not a Marketing Guru.. I do not even have my connections (yet :p).. but for starters, I think what I have done is pleasing. Can't thank enough those people who helped me and of course, to those who believe in a twenty-something-year-old brat like me. :p At least now, I know I am really capable of doing this.. can't wait for more projects, extra stressful days, additional knowledge and lotsa fun! ;)

*Thanks to Zel, one of the bloggers, who just wrote her experience with PBCA. Please visit her site here.

trinablee, andyblee and mavablee

2011-01-30T22:20:00.006+08:00

I can't believe tomorrow's the last day of January. Oh, time really flies. I've been busy the whole month. Maybe that's the reason why I didn't notice days were passing by. But it's fine.. I thank God I've been real productive first month of the year.

If I were to tell you the highlight/s of my January 2011, it would be about work. But since I don't wanna talk about work now, I'm going to share two of my happiest days instead. ;)

I was overjoyed first Monday of the year. I know, most of us then didn't want to go back to work because people wanted a longer vacay. On the contrary, I was excited to go to work.. not because I wanted to work right away.. it was the after-work that I was fired up about actually. Haha. For the first time in five years, I was able to see my college friend, Trina.

Just a short background. I've been friends with Trina since my freshie days in MC. We were in our second year (I think) when she and her family had to migrate to US. I felt bad then because she is one of my closest friends.. she is one of my barkada during my freshman year.. we were together everyday. So when she spilled the beans (which was too sudden, as far as I remember), I felt sad. I guess all of her friends were.

So back to the real story. On the 3rd, Andrea and I met Trina in Greenhills. 'Twas funny how we reacted when we first saw her.. we didn't shout nor jumped for joy. We just said, "Trinaaa" and hugged her. Sobrang pigil. She was with her family and when we came, they were already settled in our dinner table. Me and Andrea were a little shy at first, and I think parang nangangapa pa.. but after few minutes, we were okay and just kept on chatting. It was also funny that we ordered the same food and drinks. That just shows we have the same taste. Haha.

After dinner, we were able to get away from Trina's family. We stayed in Xocolat for another hour of catching up. We mostly talked about what's happening with our lives now. Andrea and I told her that we are still not sure where we're really going but Trina? Oh, she's very decided. She's fond of kids and teaching ever since, and she's making a career out of it. She's graduating soon and is working as well. I'm really proud of her.

Anyway, we didn't stay late that night because me and Ands have work the next day.. Trina, on the other hand, had to go to the Fort to meet some friends. Sinusulit n'ya talaga ang bawat araw.

That meet-up was really bitin so we planned an out-of-town. We only had one, whole day and the nearest place that we could go to was, what else? Tagaytaaay!

We all met up in MC because I got my yearbook. Trina and I waited at the parking lot.. we were able to finish browsing the pages of my yearbook before Andrea arrived. Just like college days, Andrea is always late. Hehe.

We dropped by Cello's, one of our favorite tambayan before, but it was closed. :( It was being transferred to another location, I think. So, we headed to Tagaytay and our first stop was Bag of Beans. Damn, it was very cold when we got there. We were all surprised. Good thing we were all equipped --jacket/sweatshirt, check. cap/beanie, check. I was craving for pancakes then so even it was past lunch already, I still ordered buttermilk pancakes. We got soup, pasta and lotsa bread. We didn't get our stomachs too full because our mission that day was: food trip. After eating, we stayed for awhile then proceeded to BoB's store upstairs.. Ands bought food and coffee beans for her parents. Our next stop was Cliffhouse. I actually loved that place.. very cozy. Andrea and I don't visit that place when we go to Tags so we tried hanging there. We found a souv shop there.. they actually have pretty cool stuff but it's a little pricey so we didn't buy. Haha. After going around, we went to Mochiko. That was my first time to try Mochi. I've been hearing Mochi before pero deadma lang, haha. Anyway, it was good.. we tried Sesame Seed (which somehow tasted like palitaw).. but I didn't love it. I'd rather buy froyo I guess. After ice cream, crepe! Haha. We then go to Cafe Breton. I looove CB. I can stay there all day, everyday. We also stayed there for a while because we were getting full already.. chatted some more and then enjoyed the view outside. It was late in the afternoon then and Trina wanted to buy Erasmo (her boyfriend) a souvenir so we headed to Picnic Grove. We just strolled.. we didn't try the zipline nor the cable car. After getting our pics at the park and buying some stuff, we once again got some food. Last stop was Rowena's. Gosh, buko tart is love. Then after that, junk food in the car. Haha.

I won't forget that day. Soooo fun! Fun is not the right term. The whole get-together was beyond great, beyond fun! I cannot explain it. I cannot even share it the right way.. because as you can see, what I've written is mostly about food --where we ate, what we ate. Haha. And, I'm sorry about that. We shared a lot of things.. of course, reminiscing MC days won't be missed.. how our lives changed.. what we want now and what we expect in the future. (Details not necessary)

I have to say I feel blessed to have these two lovely ladies. We proved that distance doesn't create a "gap" between real friends. We seldom talk and see each other.. (even Andrea and I).. and yet, when we're together, it seems like everything's just the same.

I don't know when we're seeing Trina again.. maybe after another five years? I don't care how long it is because I know, when we meet again, it would be just like when we were sixteen-year-old girls. What I hope is that on our next get-together, Emma would be present. Fab 4 should be complete! Haha. :D

holidays

2011-01-13T15:36:00.016+08:00

I used to celebrate* past Christmases with my barkada and my then-boyfriend.. then every New Year's Eve, you would just find me at home. This recent holidays, I spent it differently and with my other group of friends.

On the 25th, I went out with Soi, Mandy and Diana. It was unexpected. We usually hang after New Year. We wanted to go to Tagaytay but due to some unfortunate events, we weren't able to. We went malling and dined out instead. I know, it sounds like just an ordinary day. What made it unforgettable is that it was Diana's first time to share stuff she actually doesn't want to tell people (even FRIENDS). We were just laughing so hard because we knew she wasn't comfortable talking about it. Anyway, we were just glad she finally opened up. I mean, what are friends are for, right? :p It was also memorable because it was Csoi's first time to eat puto bumbong. For real. Mandy had to buy puto bumbong somewhere so he would be able to taste it. Well, he didn't like it that much.

On January 1, we saw each other again. This was the 2nd year we had the New Year dinner. I think this recent dinner was much better and more fun that the 1st because the five of us were complete and we were able to meet Ron's new love as well. We opted to go for West Gate again (just like our first NY dinner).. we tried Sophia's (the resto in KC and Richrad's movie). Food was great and there were only few people then so we really had the best time. Parang amin lang nga yung 2nd floor nila eh! By the way, I loved their mashed potato! Almost everyone knows I'm a potato addict.. love all the potato dishes except mashed potato. I just couldn't eat it until that dinner. I died when I ate their mashed potato. It was so delicious even without gravy. After eating and catching up, we headed to Tides for some drinks. To our surprise, there were lots of people there. I guess New Year's Eve is for family and then night of January 1 is for friends. :p We tried this Squeeze Me drink which colors your lips, teeth and tongue. It was good because you won't actually taste the alcohol in it. My friends ordered beer as well. Limited myself to few shots and few bottles for I had to drive (and my mother doesn't want me to go home drunk ever again). Ron and his partner left before midnight because CJ was feeling sick. Mandy's date followed. We really weren't able to talk to the new guy because he is shy and well, he just wanted to chat with Mandy (I guess). Oh, Greg also followed, so you bet it was really one hell of a night! Anyway, we left past midnight. Mandy, being drunk, chose to stay with Eric, the new guy, and his friends.. but also went home before the sun rose.

The next morning, I excitedly texted Mandy for the "details". Then, the whole day, all of us were just exchanging texts and calls. Haha.

I was quite sad I didn't get the chance to be with the people I used to be with during holidays. We actually didn't even text/call each other. I miss two of my closest friends. I think my bestfriend is still mad because he isn't answering any of my texts. I miss him. My mother misses the two too. She is actually wondering why I don't get late-night visits anymore. Even she doesn't approve of us going out almost every night, she still likes to see me hanging with them. I guess she's used to it already. I know we'll still be able to fix everything.. I just hope it won't be awkward. Also, I hope I can be with them very soon. For the mean time, I just have to be thankful I have this other group of friends. We've known each other since highschool and we're just getting closer and closer with one another. I hope our bond we'll get stronger and of course, I'm so looking forward to many drinking sessions, late-night dinners, tambays or whatever! ;) I just love them! :)

*Note that I really don't celebrate X-mas. I just join my friends during the occasion.

goodbye 2010, hello 2011

2010-12-31T21:09:00.006+08:00

Few more hours before we hit another year.. wow, time really flies. 2010 was not that good to me. I remember I got so depressed because I was unemployed for quite sometime and I thought I'd be stuck like that forever.. then I lost my boyfriend and I think I kind-of lost my bestfriend too. However, I learned a lot. I am definitely stronger now. I know that I could always stand up if ever I'd fall again. But hopefully, 2011 would be nicer to me. Please let this be my year ("I am a Rabbit anyway"). :p

Before we all leave this year.. let me share how my day went yesterday. Nothing's really special about that day but I was just too happy.
#1 reason: Lola Gima
Lola Gima is not my real grandmother. We are not blood-related actually. She's the mother of my mom's friend and they're our churchmates. I seldom see her but this year, we spent more hours than the usual and we were able to talk. It is this year that I also started visiting their house. I don't know why but seeing her makes me glad. She is too old, almost 100 years old, but is still strong and doesn't have memory gap. She is having a hard time hearing though but is very good in lip reading so there's no problem in communicating with her. Anyway, yesterday, she gave me a pair of sandals. It's not the kind of shoes I always wear but it's pretty nice and I like it. In return, I gave her a pearl accessories. Those are cheap but my heart melted when I saw the smile in her face. She wasn't expecting any gift from me at all. She was touched and I really saw that in her eyes. I really love Lola Gima and I hope God will bless her good health and happiness this 2011.

#2 reason: Date with Diana
It's been a while since Diana and I went out.. I mean, just the two of us. I thought last night's plan was postponed until she texted me. I was surprised because Diana doesn't usually want to hang out if it's late already (unless it's a "gimik night" of course). So anyway, we got to the mall past 8 and luckily, Festival Supermall was open until 10 p.m. last night. I was her personal shoe shopper last night. It was her first time to buy a real pretty shoes and I picked a nice one for her, good for work and after-work. ;)
After malling, we decided to have coffee.. we had the usual catching up and we made plans for next year (ahem for November!). After an hour or so, we went to Northgate but there was no Bazaar so we decided to go home. We wanted to meet Soi and Mands but both of them weren't available.

Woke up late today.. woke up to the drilling sound here at home. My dad decided to have our house fixed today. Of all the days, why on the 31st? Dibaaa?! Anyhow, our place was messy the whole day. We, I mean HE, finished cleaning just few hours ago. No one cooked nor prepared anything because we are too lazy and thought it would be too late. We ordered food instead. It's almost 10.. wow, two hours left before New Year. We already had dinner and just waiting for our other relatives.. we are going to visit our lola because she's sick.

So there.. I hope everyone's safe and having a good time. Good luck and happy new year! :)

time of my life

2010-12-25T15:33:00.002+08:00

Currently loving B.E.P.'s Time of My Life. Let's get up and dance! ;)

(This is international)
(Big mega radio smasher)

(will.i.am)

I've had the time of my life
And I've never felt this way before
And I swear this is true
And I owe it all to you

(Fergie)

I've had the time of my life
And I've never felt this way before
And I swear this is true
And I owe it all to you
You-you-you-you-you
You-you-you-you-you
You-you-you-you-you-you-y-y-y-y-you

Dirty bit
Dirty bit

(will.i.am)

I-I came up in here to rock
Light a fire, make it hot
I don't wanna take no pictures
I just wanna take some shots
So come on, let's go
Let's lose control
Let's do it all night
'Til we can't do it no mo'

People rockin' to the sound
Turn it up and watch it pound
We gon' rock it to the top
Until the roof come burnin' down
Yeah, it's hot in herrre
The temperaturrre
Has got these ladies
Gettin' freakierrr

(Fergie)

I got freaky, freaky, baby
I was chillin' with my ladies
I didn't come to get bougie
I came here to get crazy
I was born to get wiiild
That's my styyyle
If you didn't know that
Well, baby, now you know now

'Cause I'm!
Havin'!
A good! Time!
With you!
I'm tellin' you

I've had the time of my life
And I've never felt this way before
And I swear this is true
And I owe it all to you

I've had the time of my life
And I've never felt this way before
And I swear this is true

And I owe it all to you

You-you-you-you-you
You-you-you-you-you
You-you-you-you-you-you-y-y-y-y-you

http://www.elyricsworld.com/time_of_my_life_lyrics_black_eyed_peas.html
Dirty bit
Dirty bit

(Taboo)

All-all these girls, they like my swagger
They callin' me Mick Jagger
I be rollin' like a Stone
Jet-setter, jet-lagger
We ain't messin' with no maggots
Messin' with the baddest
Chicks in the club
Honey, what's up?

(apl.de.ap)

Mirror, mirror on the wall
Who's the baddest of them all?
Yeah, it's gotta be the apl
I'm the mack daddy, y'all
Haters better step back
Ladies (don't load your act)
I'm the party application
Rockin' just like that

(This is international)
(Big mega radio smasher)

'Cause I'm!
Havin'!
A good! Time!
With you!
I'm tellin' you

I-I-I-I've had
The time of my li-i-ife
And I've never felt this way before-fore
And I swear-wear
This is tru-u-ue
And I owe it all to you-ou

Oh, I-I-I-I've had
The time of my li-i-i-ow
And I've never felt this way before-fore
And I swear-wear
This is tru-u-ue
And I owe it all to you-ou

I-I-I-I've had
The time of my li-i-ife
And I've never felt this way before-fore
And I swear-wear
This is tru-u-ue
And I owe it all to you-ou

Oh, I-I-I-I've had
The time of my li-i-i-ow
And I've never felt this way before-fore
And I swear-wear
This is tru-u-ue
And I owe it all to you-ou

Dirty bit!

The Black Eyed Peas - The Time .. download at emp3

the 24th

2010-12-25T14:16:00.005+08:00

For most of us, this day is very special because this is when gifts are being distributed and Noche Buena happens. Unfortunately, for someone who doesn't celebrate Christmas like me, it is just an ordinary day.

We weren't that busy at home yesterday. I was just babysitting because my two-year-old niece was at home. It was really tiring because she wants to be carried all the time.. she is too lazy to walk. Then yesterday, me, my mother and my niece went malling. It was unexpectedly fun. I really don't go out with kids but I felt pleased.. even though my niece is so maldita at her young age. Haha. At one point there, I wished I had a younger sister. My arms were a little sore because obviously I don't carry babies nor heavy things at home. Despite my aching body (yes, I'm exaggerating, haha), I didn't complain.. at all. I guess, I was enjoying. I love it when my niece would kiss me and make lambing and when she would choose to be with me over her mom and my mom. I was like, "Yeahh, I'm the best!" I still want to spend time with her but sadly, they had to go home this morning. Hope she comes back next week. Anyhow, at least we were able to eat out yesterday.. we also had fun on different kiddie rides and were able to shop for her. I took some photos of Cathleen but there wasn't a single photo where she is smiling and looking at the cam all at the same time. Tsktsk.

That afternoon, when my mom and my niece went home already, I met up with my friends, Soi and Mandy. It was our first time to be together on X-mas Eve. Mandy treated us at TOSH because it was also her birthday yesterday. Unluckily, Diana wasn't able to join us because she was at home.

I just have to say my 24th was extraordinary. I may have different reason why my 12/24/10 was special but at least I also celebrated something.. aaand, most importantly, I spent it with my loved ones. Haha, right? ;)

my saturdays

2010-12-12T19:05:00.008+08:00

My usual Saturday nights are spent with my bestfriend but last month, it kinda stopped and my routine was changed. I've been spending Saturdays with my girlfriends now. I miss my bestfriend but it really is different when you are with your girlfriends, right?

One Saturday afternoon, Mandy and I checked out Fernbrook. My other friends and I saw that one evening when we were in Petron (Daang Hari). The place was full of lights and we were curious what it was.. so we looked for the place and found out it's an events place. We wanted to check it but unfortunately, we couldn't that time because there was a wedding reception and it was almost midnight already. I really wanted to see the place so I got back and brought my friend. There was actually two events going on when we dropped by but we were allowed to get in. It reminded me of Fernwood (or Fernwoods?).. but Fernbrook is more beautiful. One thing that really caught my attention is their mini Gondola. Got a picture of it but it's not as pretty as the real thing.. not even close actually. Then, we also found out that Imortal is shooting there. Gosh, I really felt kilig, haha. I wanna see JL. I will come back again there.

The Saturday after that, I was with Mandy again. We went to St. James Bazaar in AAV. It was our first time to go to that bazaar.. not that overcrowded as I expected.. parking was everywhere.. good-looking people everywhere (haha). We even saw Nancy Castiglione there. Many good finds but most of them were expensive. (Guess that bazaar is for rich people, haha.) We only bought necklaces. What I loved that day is that me and Mandy were able to stroll around AAV. (I think I was still in college when I last went there.) I love house-hunting. I really want to have my own home soon and it gives me joy when I see big and unique houses. Mandy is the perfect partner because she is an Architect. She was giving me a crash course while we were driving down the road. Haha. Actually, we also went to BFRV to check different flats.
Then after that, we went to visit our highschool classmate, Shane. It was not planned.. we were actually having second thoughts because we were a little shy. Anyway, you should see their crib. One word to describe their house - BONGGA. It wasn't December then and their home is really glowing, full of decors and everything. I told Shane I won't be surprised if right there and then, Santa visited. Haha.
Last, last Saturday, I was with another girlfriend, Diana. Mandy wasn't able to go with us because she was broke. It was supposed to be our "Photoshop Session" but it was postponed. So Diana and I had a girl bonding instead.. went to salon, checked out Levels bazaar, ate and had coffee then went back to bazaar. The reason why we went back to Levels was to buy the pricey headband. Haha. That Saturday was really costly but unexpectedly superrr fun!

Yesterday was a bit different. Hung out with Greg and Soi, and we got to party again. Fab 4 is once again alive! Haha. Just like my other Saturdays, I went to a bazaar. (This is becoming a habit.) Finally found a beanie and it was so cheap! Before we went to Fort, we had dinner at Greg's (thanks to Diana for the food), pushed through with the PS Session and drank a little. We all missed dancing.. good thing Status played great music. We all remembered our Embassy days. Oh, how time flies.

Tomorrow is already a working day. Another stressful week. Whew! Hopefully, my December 18 would be enjoyable as well. Good vibes everyone! :D

firework

2010-12-12T18:47:00.003+08:00

I am currently loving Katy Perry's Firework. I like her.. she is so pretty and perky. And she has feel-good songs.. you know what I mean? Anyway, I just have to post the song that makes me smile at present. ;) Sing along and beam all the way! :p

Do you ever feel like a plastic bag
Drifting through the wind, wanting to start again?
Do you ever feel, feel so paper thin
Like a house of cards, one blow from caving in?

Do you ever feel already buried deep?
Six feet under screams but no one seems to hear a thing
Do you know that there's still a chance for you
'Cause there's a spark in you?

You just gotta ignite the light and let it shine
Just own the night like the 4th of July

'Cause baby, you're a firework
Come on, show 'em what you're worth
Make 'em go, oh
As you shoot across the sky

Baby, you're a firework
Come on, let your colors burst
Make 'em go, oh
You're gonna leave 'em falling down

You don't have to feel like a waste of space
You're original, cannot be replaced
If you only knew what the future holds
After a hurricane comes a rainbow

Maybe you're reason why all the doors are closed
[ From: http://www.elyrics.net/read/k/katy-perry-lyrics/firework-lyrics.html ]
So you could open one that leads you to the perfect road
Like a lightning bolt, your heart will blow
And when it's time, you'll know

You just gotta ignite the light and let it shine
Just own the night like the 4th of July

'Cause baby you're a firework
Come on, show 'em what you're worth
Make 'em go, oh
As you shoot across the sky

Baby, you're a firework
Come on, let your colors burst
Make 'em go, oh
You're gonna leave 'em falling down

Boom, boom, boom
Even brighter than the moon, moon, moon
It's always been inside of you, you, you
And now it's time to let it through

'Cause baby you're a firework
Come on, show 'em what you're worth
Make 'em go, oh
As you shoot across the sky

Baby, you're a firework
Come on, let your colors burst
Make 'em go, oh
You're gonna leave 'em falling down

Boom, boom, boom
Even brighter than the moon, moon, moon
Boom, boom, boom
Even brighter than the moon, moon, moon

Katy Perry - Firework download at emp3

no post for today

2010-12-06T22:33:00.003+08:00

Tumblr is working out something with their site. I can't view the Christmas Challenge page. So now, I can't blog.. don't know the question for today. Wasn't able to post when I was still in the office because there was no internet connection earlier. Aww. This is bad. I'll be sleeping in a while and it's an hour and twenty minutes before this day ends. So does that mean I fail the challenge? Oh nooo. :(

day 05

2010-12-05T14:58:00.002+08:00

*Favorite Christmas albums

I don't have any Christmas album of any artist. Seriously. Anyway, I like Mariah's All I Want For Christmas Is You, Santa Claus Is Coming to Town and O Holy Night, Christina's (with various artists) Grown-up Christmas List and Destiny's Child's 8 Days Of Christmas. Those are some of the X-mas songs I love and would like those to be compiled in one album. ;)

day 04

2010-12-04T23:01:00.002+08:00

*Best gift ever given

Since I don't receive much presents during X-mas, I don't give gifts as well. Haha. I give my relatives food but not home-made. As for my friends, they usually get a letter from me and a little something that I think perfectly fit them.

I once bought a pricey wallet in HK for my ex-boyfriend. I think I was still into him then and I wanted him to think that he wasn't forgotten (and that it was my way of saying, "Please come back.").. kidding! Haha. Anyway, we didn't meet that holiday.. he got it two months after. Definitely, that's not the "best" gift ever buuut.. I consider it "best".. why?.. I still cared to give him something while he was just causing me pain. (Love oh love). So yeah, beat that! Haha. That's the Christmas spirit, right? Giving without expecting anything in return. Wait, I think that's love. X-mas is giving. Okay, yeah.. whatever.

day 03

2010-12-03T16:13:00.002+08:00

*Best gift ever received

Hmmm. This one's hard. I can't remember any gift given on Christmas that I really loved. Well, prolly because I don't get much presents during that holiday and I usually ask for money so I could buy stuff that I want.

I think it was last, last year when I received a big amount of cash from my dad. I was so glad because I was able to buy clothes, shoes, bags and books. I hope that will happen again very soon. :p

day 02

2010-12-02T16:16:00.002+08:00

*Which has been your favorite Christmas of all time?

Well, I don't have favorite Christmas of all time, just memorable Christmases. First one is when I was in my senior highschool. Me and my friends went to Love's crib to celebrate.. we were eating a lot and drinking and even playing games (courtesy of Love, haha). It was so memorable because it was the first time we did that and unfortunately, the last as well. Second one is last 2008 I think. My friends and I got together at Love's place again. What I remember is that we were all surprised because we were all wearing white. That night was a lot of fun, though we were missing one good friend --Gi. Last Christmas was unforgettable as well.. this time, it is because I celebrated it with my family and other relatives. We went to different places and just bonded.

You'd prolly notice that I've been spending X-mas with my friends and other people. Actually, that's right. We really don't celebrate Yuletide.. on December 24, I usually stay home until dinner then leave after.. just like an ordinary day.

day 01 justification

2010-12-01T21:29:00.003+08:00

Yeah, I have to justify. HAHA.

I don't think I could put an MP3 file here that's why I posted a video instead. That's still okay, right? I guess that's much better, haha.

And by the way, sorry about my site.. I'm still fixing it. Well actually, I'm waiting for Josef's codes, haha. So there.. that's all for tonight!

day 01

2010-12-01T20:40:00.005+08:00

*Post an audio of one of your favorite Christmas songs

This song reminds me of our Foundation Day in school. My bestfriend really loves Mariah Carey. Way back in highschool, we had to compete with other levels on December for our Foundation Day. Me and my bestfriend were two of the main dancers so we were able to choose dance songs and do the choreography. My bestfriend, being MC's #1 fan, chose All I Want For Christmas Is You. We instantly liked it. The song is upbeat and very nice. If I'm not mistaken, that year, we won first place. Anyhow, since then, I make it a point to include that song on my playlist.. brings good memories. ;)

weee!

2010-11-30T21:45:00.002+08:00

I was that BORED earlier at work. Man, if I could just pout all day.. haha! We got loads to do but my morning was "taken" by our coffee catering.. so I actually started working after lunch (sssshh!).. I only had one OJT with me today and we were really going crazy!! It was so quiet in the office.. we were disturbed by the complete silence in the room.

Mood changed in the afternoon. Another OJT came, Cy. We got to work a bit, haha.. plus, we got to "play" as well. I was even happier when our prospect participant came over to visit and gave us his payment for the training next week.
Then, when I got home, I was surprised to have my internet connection back.. thanks Smart Bro! My net was down for about three weeks now, thought I wasn't really bothered because I barely open my laptop at home. I usually go online at work.. BUUUT, starting tomorrow, I think I'm going to blog everyday. Why? Well, my friend Josef (yes, the one who helped me with my site) asked me to join this Christmas Challenge.. http://heckyeahtumblrchallenges.tumblr.com/post/1682801725/countdown-to-christmas-challenge. We'll see how it goes.. hopefully, I'll be able to make a post everyday.
So there.. let's all be gay, haha.. (Advance) Happy Holidays! :)

love hurts

2010-11-14T18:40:00.004+08:00

Love hurts. Literally.

Last week, I was able to talk to my friend's boyfriend who is now an ex-boyfriend. I was really surprised with the news. Earlier this year, they were inseparable. My friend would talk to him all the time, even at work. They were so close, they treated each other as one's bestfriend. I was so happy for them because they were really in-love. I saw how they did things out of love and fought for each other. After summer, my communication with my friend was somehow cut. Then when the ex-boyfriend talked to me, I felt bad. They were engaged. I knew that was coming because during their first few months, they've been talking of marriage already. They felt they're destined to be together, and now, they're broken apart. The ex-boyfriend told me it was mainly my friend's fault. He said my friend wanted space for no reason at all. They started fighting and everything changed. Then the ring was returned to him. It really is the end. T* (my friend's ex) was hurt and mad at the same time. He said my friend was being a brat. I haven't heard my friend's side of the story but I think something's wrong with her. That was her second engagement already. I don't know if the idea of marriage scares her or what. Of course, I am not here to judge her. Like what I've said, I don't know what she has to say. Whatever her reasons are, I respect it. Anyway, while my friend is enjoying her freedom, her ex-bf is suffering. T told me he had been into an accident. He wasn't hospitalized but he has bruises and all. He has been drinking a lot as well. He knows that what he has been doing lately is crazy but that's his way of coping. I just hope that he could get through this. I hope he realizes he must stop doing those and start loving himself.

Well, that's not the only story I got. I have another one but this one's worse. I was able to finally see my college buddy last week, after work. We haven't hung for a couple of months and it was so refreshing to be with her again. We did a lot of catching up and she told me some really bad occurrences about her (love) life. I wasn't shocked about the events and that surprised her. Her relationship with this guy is really going the wrong way.. my other friend and I saw it. The guy was turning into some self-centered asshole. I'm really hating what he has been doing for the last couple of months with my friend. Before, R* (my friend) wouldn't tell me everything because she didn't want us to have a gap with her boyfriend.. but now, the guy is really crossing the line. I thought he is a very kind guy.. well, I think, somehow he still is.. but he is definitely not a good boyfriend. I don't know if he is obsessed with R, but my friend and I think he is turning into a psycho. I'm actually afraid of him now. And honestly, there's a possibility he could kill R. My friend and I are totally concerned with R but she told us she could still handle it. We are giving her few weeks and if everything's unchanged then we would certainly step in. My friend was already thinking of going to DSWD last week and I wanted to get a security or a policeman. It was already maddening just hearing the story.. and when it actually happened right before our very own eyes, damn, it was really annoying! It was so frustrating that me and my friend stood still after R was almost dragged out of the place. Good thing she still got home in one piece.

I wish I could do something for those people (aside from giving them an advice), but I know they're grown-ups (are they?) and that's their responsibilities. It is just that it's really sad that it came to those kind of situations.. I mean, where is the love? I hope they would survive their own battles and would still be able to give love after everything that has happened.

*code names

a new beginning

2010-11-07T18:32:00.002+08:00

So I have another blog again. Wow. I made three blogs before but earlier this year, I decided to delete all of them. I was really upset then. I wanted to write about something but didn't have any interesting stuff to share. I've been bumming around for almost five months and it was just gloomy.

Anyway, I have work now. It was the best birthday present ever. Thought I'd be unemployed until Christmas but I got fortunate. (I guess God still loves me.) I was really losing hope then because I was job-hunting for about three months and the companies would not hire me. Idkwhy. Felt really, reeeally unlucky. I was depressed and scared that I won't get to work again. I was already starting to feel that I am a failure until I got a very good opportunity. The work that I am in now is not my dream job but I have to say it's very good. It is challenging actually and that makes it fun. I am forced to have my brain cells working all the time. Haha. The people are great. The office, except for their (spine-tingling) basement parking and its location (which is a little far from home), is great as well.

You'd probably think I am writing again because I have good stuff to tell. Well yes, that's one. But what really made me post a blog again is my (simple) blog layout. I really wanted a personal design for my blog even before.. I just don't know how to make one. Then, on my birthday, a good friend of mine (from miles away ;p) named Josef Naungayan told me he would design my blog. I was so delighted I've been smiling big the whole time. I immediately messaged him what I want for my site. He didn't get it exactly, nevertheless the upshot's still so good.. Love it! *Thanks Josef :)*

I feel so blessed right now. I am happy because everything seems to be in place. I am starting again and I'm liking it! ;)