It's one of those weeks that I wish was over. At least it's going to be Thursday tomorrow.
I had a 3 hour lunchbreak today. I went to the grocery of SM Makati to buy the goods that we're distributing to the Aeta kids this Friday. It was the first time that I bought in bulk. Imagine the surprise of the merchandisers when I asked for 680 pcs of Payless Noodles, 340 pcs of Palmolive Soap, 1020 sachets of Vaseline shampoo, 170 pcs of Beam toothpaste and Colgate Toothbrush.
I wish though that I was notified of this even a month in advance so I could have solicited from P&G or Unilever even. But no! They had to tell me a week from the actual event. Good thing there's budget. The whole shopping trip put a PHP15K dent on my credit card (and they'd better reimburse me before my due date. I am forced to be a transactor).
It's unfortunate that we all can't go. Only my boss and I will be going. It's a weekday (and a Friday at that) and we need people to man the fort. However, I'll ask for special dispensation from our boss. It is, after all, her birthday and start of the month. Maybe other people from our department can join us.
Leo and I also celebrated our 7th month of togetherness yesterday. After our class, we had dinner at the Chinese Monk at Rockwell. We were actually looking for Japanese, but unfortunately, the restaurants were already closed (it was after 9 pm already). It's a big countdown to our first year anniversary. It's five more months, but I'm sure it's going to be fast.
We also had one of our heart to heart talks regarding our relationship and where we're headed. I'm so happy we had that talk. Let's just say, 30 will be a good age for us (he's four months younger than me).
Wednesday, September 29, 2004
Sunday, September 26, 2004
I'm Back! (Again)
Just got back from my annual retreat. It was actually a Singles for Christ (SFC) Metro Manila/Luzon Conference held at Clark Expo. This year's theme was "Masayang mag-SFC" (It's happy to be in SFC).
I left Manila, Saturday morning together with my chapter head and his wife and daughter, and my SO. We arrived at Clark after an hour and a half of travel and immediately threw ourselves to the morning's activities. I was prepared to sit down and listen to talks but apparently, the organizers had a different idea.
The whole morning was devoted to physical exercises akin to teambuilding. We, as a team, balanced balloons, went up an oil-slicked slide, formed ourselves into a square blindfolded, brain-stormed and over-analyzed a simple case, then went outside in the 12 o'clock sun to form the longest line.
It was physically taxing, moreover with the scorching heat. I'm happy that the SO gamely participated and only rested when I rested (which was more often than not since I had low endurance when it comes to physical activities). After the longest line, we hurried off to Fontana and I had a long luxurious shower. One of the speakers was right in saying that we are a low-sweat generation. We deplore being sweaty. We complain when it gets hot. Hey, I'm guilty of that. I believe what they wanted to point out was that, we can still have fun regardless of the heat and sweat. A person's character can be tested when he/she is placed under extreme conditions. In this case, staying cool even when the unbearable heat is beating down our heads and backs.
We promptly headed back around 4 pm. I was excited to listen to the talks but was disappointed when they gave way instead, to the competitions. I had to endure 2 competitions (SFC idol and a group dance contest) before the talks started (hey, the competitions were still enjoyable!). Unfortunately, just when the first talk started, our chapter head's daughter had to go home due to the cold (she's only 7 months!) and Leo and I were the designated drivers. On the way out, we were stopped by the organizers and almost refused to grant us permission to leave. Good thing I was with my chapter head so we managed to find the exit without being harassed.
I immediately told my chapter head that though the reason may be justified, I still found it (not allowing people to leave the conference site while the talks were going on) disrespectful. I may understand their decision if the conference were for YFC (Youth for Christ) delegates, but we are SFC members--supposedly adults. As adults, we should be responsible for our own actions. We should be mature enough to make our own decisions--decisions which have been molded and melded from other SFC activities prior to the event.
In this case, if we left the conference even if the talks are not yet over, our decision should be respected BUT we do have to live with the consequences of our actions (missing the good talks and sharings and losing the learnings that we may learn from them). Anyway, most of the people I know who goes to conferences join because of the talks and sharings. It is due to an emergency that we had to leave early (not to mention, I had one hell of a headache that night and the signs of a coming sore-eye). Thinking about it, maybe they just want people to stay to emphasize the importance of the talks (did I mention that they had the concessionaires stop selling food and other stuff as well?). But they were contradicting themselves when they were talking about free-will and respect and then they do that. (I might get a lecture here about obedience. Hehe).
Anyway, going back to the conference. I was still thankful because I enjoyed the songs of praises and worship. It's been a long time ever since my spirit was fed like that. My SO also joined the worship sessions (sans raising of hands). He's no stranger to such events since he and his family are also members of another religious organization (which came highly recommended by my sector head when I asked him about it). I also spent time with friends whom I have not seen for a long time due to work and school.
I have somehow reestablished my line to God. Even if there are a bit of static, I can somehow make out His voice now. That's a good thing. Leo and I also had a talk about my jealous moment. I managed to open my side and tell him how I felt. His explanation pacified me and he gave me a hug, telling me again and again how much he loves me (awwwwwwwwww!!!!!!!!!!!!). It's a learning experience for me. Thanks for those who gave me advice on how to deal with this. Talking it over without hurling accusations and letting emotions rule surely made the thing easier to deal with. At least we managed to get that issue out of the way. That's another good thing.
Anyway, I should start working on my papers now. I should start on those things before I start panicking again. At least I'm glad that I somehow managed to renew myself spiritually now. Hopefully, I will be able to sustain this so I can reflect it on my work and school life.
I left Manila, Saturday morning together with my chapter head and his wife and daughter, and my SO. We arrived at Clark after an hour and a half of travel and immediately threw ourselves to the morning's activities. I was prepared to sit down and listen to talks but apparently, the organizers had a different idea.
The whole morning was devoted to physical exercises akin to teambuilding. We, as a team, balanced balloons, went up an oil-slicked slide, formed ourselves into a square blindfolded, brain-stormed and over-analyzed a simple case, then went outside in the 12 o'clock sun to form the longest line.
It was physically taxing, moreover with the scorching heat. I'm happy that the SO gamely participated and only rested when I rested (which was more often than not since I had low endurance when it comes to physical activities). After the longest line, we hurried off to Fontana and I had a long luxurious shower. One of the speakers was right in saying that we are a low-sweat generation. We deplore being sweaty. We complain when it gets hot. Hey, I'm guilty of that. I believe what they wanted to point out was that, we can still have fun regardless of the heat and sweat. A person's character can be tested when he/she is placed under extreme conditions. In this case, staying cool even when the unbearable heat is beating down our heads and backs.
We promptly headed back around 4 pm. I was excited to listen to the talks but was disappointed when they gave way instead, to the competitions. I had to endure 2 competitions (SFC idol and a group dance contest) before the talks started (hey, the competitions were still enjoyable!). Unfortunately, just when the first talk started, our chapter head's daughter had to go home due to the cold (she's only 7 months!) and Leo and I were the designated drivers. On the way out, we were stopped by the organizers and almost refused to grant us permission to leave. Good thing I was with my chapter head so we managed to find the exit without being harassed.
I immediately told my chapter head that though the reason may be justified, I still found it (not allowing people to leave the conference site while the talks were going on) disrespectful. I may understand their decision if the conference were for YFC (Youth for Christ) delegates, but we are SFC members--supposedly adults. As adults, we should be responsible for our own actions. We should be mature enough to make our own decisions--decisions which have been molded and melded from other SFC activities prior to the event.
In this case, if we left the conference even if the talks are not yet over, our decision should be respected BUT we do have to live with the consequences of our actions (missing the good talks and sharings and losing the learnings that we may learn from them). Anyway, most of the people I know who goes to conferences join because of the talks and sharings. It is due to an emergency that we had to leave early (not to mention, I had one hell of a headache that night and the signs of a coming sore-eye). Thinking about it, maybe they just want people to stay to emphasize the importance of the talks (did I mention that they had the concessionaires stop selling food and other stuff as well?). But they were contradicting themselves when they were talking about free-will and respect and then they do that. (I might get a lecture here about obedience. Hehe).
Anyway, going back to the conference. I was still thankful because I enjoyed the songs of praises and worship. It's been a long time ever since my spirit was fed like that. My SO also joined the worship sessions (sans raising of hands). He's no stranger to such events since he and his family are also members of another religious organization (which came highly recommended by my sector head when I asked him about it). I also spent time with friends whom I have not seen for a long time due to work and school.
I have somehow reestablished my line to God. Even if there are a bit of static, I can somehow make out His voice now. That's a good thing. Leo and I also had a talk about my jealous moment. I managed to open my side and tell him how I felt. His explanation pacified me and he gave me a hug, telling me again and again how much he loves me (awwwwwwwwww!!!!!!!!!!!!). It's a learning experience for me. Thanks for those who gave me advice on how to deal with this. Talking it over without hurling accusations and letting emotions rule surely made the thing easier to deal with. At least we managed to get that issue out of the way. That's another good thing.
Anyway, I should start working on my papers now. I should start on those things before I start panicking again. At least I'm glad that I somehow managed to renew myself spiritually now. Hopefully, I will be able to sustain this so I can reflect it on my work and school life.
Saturday, September 25, 2004
It's Contagious!
I just read the news that a friend is pregnant. She's my third friend who's now carrying a baby (kudos to Lenina, Rachelle and Cessna!). One is due to give birth Feb next year, another on April and this new one on May.
I can't help but want the same thing. Yes, I know. Patience is a virtue and everything will happen in God's time. I keep on repeating that to myself with hope that it will sink in and help my mind think of other productive things--like papers that are due on Tuesday and Thursday. I should think about those. And my deplorable financial condition. I should think of that too!
I should stop writing and rest now. Tiredness has a way of sucking all the positive thoughts out of one's mind and character.
I can't help but want the same thing. Yes, I know. Patience is a virtue and everything will happen in God's time. I keep on repeating that to myself with hope that it will sink in and help my mind think of other productive things--like papers that are due on Tuesday and Thursday. I should think about those. And my deplorable financial condition. I should think of that too!
I should stop writing and rest now. Tiredness has a way of sucking all the positive thoughts out of one's mind and character.
Friday, September 24, 2004
Hey, Jealousy!
Tomorrow we can drive around this town And let the cops chase us around The past is gone but something might be found To take its place...hey jealousy --Gin Blossoms
Jealousy is a foreign emotion to me. For me, jealousy is a sign of insecurity. I have never felt insecure over my past relationships because I truly believed that my past boyfriends loved me (which may be true). One even broke up with me because he said that I was not jealous enough (doh!).
The point that I am feeling it right now bothers the hell out of me. I do not want to go into details of the who's and the how's and the when's. I'm still trying to sort everything out into my mind.
Logic tells me that I have no reason to be jealous and that I am very much loved, but I can't help but feel uncomfortable. A friend suggested that I go and quietly ask him point blank, which I will indeed do this weekend. Nevertheless, planning the talk still won't pacify me. The thought is nagging and chewing slowly a ragged path down the center of my heart.
My boyfriend is the sweetest guy on earth--for me. It bothers me that other people (especially girls) see him the same way. Am I being selfish? Am I being paranoid? Am I being possessive? Am I such a bad person? How come I suddenly feel like I'm not special anymore? I'm out in the fringe here and grasping straws as I go.
This emotion is so foreign to me that I don't know how to deal with it. Is this a good sign? I'm lifting this all up to God. He'll help me deal with this. He'll keep my thoughts pure and help me not to be judgmental. He'll help me listen with an open heart and an open mind.
Jealousy is a foreign emotion to me. For me, jealousy is a sign of insecurity. I have never felt insecure over my past relationships because I truly believed that my past boyfriends loved me (which may be true). One even broke up with me because he said that I was not jealous enough (doh!).
The point that I am feeling it right now bothers the hell out of me. I do not want to go into details of the who's and the how's and the when's. I'm still trying to sort everything out into my mind.
Logic tells me that I have no reason to be jealous and that I am very much loved, but I can't help but feel uncomfortable. A friend suggested that I go and quietly ask him point blank, which I will indeed do this weekend. Nevertheless, planning the talk still won't pacify me. The thought is nagging and chewing slowly a ragged path down the center of my heart.
My boyfriend is the sweetest guy on earth--for me. It bothers me that other people (especially girls) see him the same way. Am I being selfish? Am I being paranoid? Am I being possessive? Am I such a bad person? How come I suddenly feel like I'm not special anymore? I'm out in the fringe here and grasping straws as I go.
This emotion is so foreign to me that I don't know how to deal with it. Is this a good sign? I'm lifting this all up to God. He'll help me deal with this. He'll keep my thoughts pure and help me not to be judgmental. He'll help me listen with an open heart and an open mind.
Thursday, September 23, 2004
EOM
Can't wait for this week/month to be over. It's been a difficult month for SO and I. Difficult in a sense that we're both pressured at work and it tested our relationship. I'm glad though that we pulled through that one.
Noticed that I'm more tired than usual lately. I could attribute it to the lack of sleep due to my 6am to 2 pm shift. (un)Fortunately, I'll be back on the regular grind of 830 to 530 starting next week. At least that will give me enough time to sleep now. Although it will limit my free time.
Leo and I will be heading for Clark this weekend together with my SFC friends for my annual retreat. This retreat is so long overdue. I badly need to refresh my spiritual side and to feed my soul. The banal world ate too much of my spirit. I need to recharge. I also figured that my physical tiredness can also be due to my tired spirit.
I'll be going to Tarlac tomorrow morning together with our VP for Corporate Affairs. We will do an ocular at our company's Aeta school for our outreach scheduled next week. It's going to be very tight because our VP wants us to be back in Manila before lunch! There's a lot of stuff going on at work right now and we need to be there. This is going beyond my job description but since load is very light in our area and our boss did ask me to come up with an outreach project, I was roped into this.
We'll be passing by Pampanga on the way back and I'm so tempted to ask to be dropped off somewhere there since I'll be going there on Saturday. But well, if I do that, who will go with Leo?
Noticed that I'm more tired than usual lately. I could attribute it to the lack of sleep due to my 6am to 2 pm shift. (un)Fortunately, I'll be back on the regular grind of 830 to 530 starting next week. At least that will give me enough time to sleep now. Although it will limit my free time.
Leo and I will be heading for Clark this weekend together with my SFC friends for my annual retreat. This retreat is so long overdue. I badly need to refresh my spiritual side and to feed my soul. The banal world ate too much of my spirit. I need to recharge. I also figured that my physical tiredness can also be due to my tired spirit.
I'll be going to Tarlac tomorrow morning together with our VP for Corporate Affairs. We will do an ocular at our company's Aeta school for our outreach scheduled next week. It's going to be very tight because our VP wants us to be back in Manila before lunch! There's a lot of stuff going on at work right now and we need to be there. This is going beyond my job description but since load is very light in our area and our boss did ask me to come up with an outreach project, I was roped into this.
We'll be passing by Pampanga on the way back and I'm so tempted to ask to be dropped off somewhere there since I'll be going there on Saturday. But well, if I do that, who will go with Leo?
Monday, September 20, 2004
Reset
I had to reset my palm since it "hanged" on me this morning. Goodbye game records. Now, I have to track down the people who beamed me those games and have them re-beam them to me again (Insaniquarium, Dinosaur something, Bookworm et al). I'm also currently synchronizing my palm to my pc back-up. I'm so glad I synced a few days ago enabling me to save the pictures taken at my friend's wedding. Although I don't think I was able to sync my new additions to my calendar and things to do list.
It has been a slow start to my Monday. I barely met my quota today. However, I did have some other things to do. I had to finish a User Acceptance Test, plan for an outreach that we're planning to hold Friday next week (all the way to Tarlac!), and planning for a presentation this Wednesday.
I'm glad that schoolwork is not that heavy this term. In fact, both my subjects do not have finals! And my other subject does not have any quizzes/exams! I think I made a mistake in grouping the subjects. Next term, I'm going to take up Management Accounting and Production Management. Yep, I definitely made a mistake
It has been a slow start to my Monday. I barely met my quota today. However, I did have some other things to do. I had to finish a User Acceptance Test, plan for an outreach that we're planning to hold Friday next week (all the way to Tarlac!), and planning for a presentation this Wednesday.
I'm glad that schoolwork is not that heavy this term. In fact, both my subjects do not have finals! And my other subject does not have any quizzes/exams! I think I made a mistake in grouping the subjects. Next term, I'm going to take up Management Accounting and Production Management. Yep, I definitely made a mistake
Sunday, September 19, 2004
Flowers
This was part of the first bouquet that Leo gave me. He gave me two dozen peach roses on our first month celebration. The roses were so pretty that I could not help but take a picture. The flowers were so beautiful!
This was also from Leo. It's part of a bouquet of tulips given on our second month. After that though, the flowers stopped. It was getting too expensive and it was not practical.
LOST IT
I think I've lost 20 lbs since last January. Not bad huh? I can fit into some old clothes again. Now the problem now is to find clothes that won't make me look like a hanger. God, I can't afford a closet overhaul right now. Hmmm...I think I'm down to size 12 now. I think I'll be happy with a Size 10, but knowing my mom, she won't be happy until I'm an 8 or even a 6! *sigh* I'll just do my best.
Nevertheless, it feels great to wear clothes that won't look as if the buttons would pop out any minute. Even my pants are a bit lose now. I have to buy belts to make sure that they don't suddenly fall down to my ankles.
NAME GAME
Got this from Ri's blogsite. Quite amusing.
PORN STAR NAME (NAME OF FIRST PET + STREET YOU LIVE IN)
Kitty Marcelino (sounds like something from the 70's. But hey, it does work!)
MOVIE STAR NAME (NAME OF YOUR FAVORITE SNACK FOOD + GRANDFATHER'S FIRST NAME)
Pretzel Ruben (hmmm...sounds...catchy)
FASHION DESIGNER NAME (FIRST WORD YOU SEE ON YOUR LEFT + FAVORITE RESTAURANT)
Beef Recipes (ok. I just finished dinner and I'm suddenly hungry again)
EXOTIC FOREIGNER ALIAS (Favorite Spice + Last Vacation Spot Visited)
Pepper Galera (now THAT sounds like a bold star!)
SOCIALITE ALIAS (SILLIEST CHILDHOOD NICKNAME + TOWN WHERE YOU FIRST PARTIED)
Dinedine Paranaque
"FLY GIRL" ALIAS (FIRST INITIAL + FIRST TWO OR THREE LETTERS OF YOUR LAST NAME
C. Dav.
ICON ALIAS (SOMETHING SWEET WITHIN SIGHT + ANY LIQUID IN KITCHEN)
Milk Water
DETECTIVE ALIAS (FAVORITE BABY ANIMAL + WHERE YOU WENT TO HIGH SCHOOL)
Kitten St. Scho
BARFLY ALIAS (LAST SNACK FOOD YOU ATE + YOUR FAVORITE BAR DRINK)
Pretzels Cruiser
SOAP OPERA ALIAS (MIDDLE NAME + STREET WHERE YOU FIRST LIVED)
Sunshine Indiana
ROCK STAR ALIAS (FAVORITE CANDY/DESSERT + LAST NAME OF FAVORITE MUSICIAN)
Chocolate Nievera
Saturday, September 18, 2004
Mr. Sandman
I am so tempted to take sleeping pills. No, I'm not in the verge of suicide. I just want something that would make me sleep for at least 8 hours. I need that 8 hours.
Ever since I can remember, I've always been an early-riser--regardless of the time I sleep. I always open my eyes before 7 am (and lately 530 or 6 am). My body clock is so damn efficient.
It has also been a long time since I woke up refreshed. Most of the time, I would wake
tired. Like last night for instance. I slept at around 130 or 2 am. I woke up at 7 am feeling very groggy. I dragged myself off to my delighted masseuse (I haven't visited her for more than 6 months and she remarked how much weight I've lost. Hah!) and had a massage which would hopefully relax me enough to make me
sleep better tonight. I'm so freaking tired *sigh*.
Ever since I can remember, I've always been an early-riser--regardless of the time I sleep. I always open my eyes before 7 am (and lately 530 or 6 am). My body clock is so damn efficient.
It has also been a long time since I woke up refreshed. Most of the time, I would wake
tired. Like last night for instance. I slept at around 130 or 2 am. I woke up at 7 am feeling very groggy. I dragged myself off to my delighted masseuse (I haven't visited her for more than 6 months and she remarked how much weight I've lost. Hah!) and had a massage which would hopefully relax me enough to make me
sleep better tonight. I'm so freaking tired *sigh*.
13 Going on 30
(Spoiler Alert!)
Since I'm very much spaced out due to the late hour, I wanted to deter writing this review until tomorrow. But I wanted to write things down before they start disappearing from my memory banks (my short term memory is so bad. I can't remember what I ate for breakfast!).
Fridays are the worst days in terms of work. Everyone is so lazy that productivity is so low. Moreover, the SO is not having a good time at work as well. It's the second Friday in a row that we could not go out on a Friday because he had to work overtime. Oh well, I shouldn't complain. These things happen. Good thing that my officemates invited me to go out with them. We watched 13 Going on 30.
That actually wasn't our first nor even second choice. During the day, we were arguing (it was just us girls) on what to watch. One half (including me) wanted to watch Feng Shui (no, I did not want to watch it because of Kris Aquino. But I've heard that it's good), while the other half wanted to watch The Terminal (saw it already. Nothing I would want to see again). When we got to the theater, only 13 Going on 30 has the available seats and the right time for us.
At the start of the movie, I knew I was going to enjoy the film. The opening credits rolled in with "Head Over Heels" playing in the background. I was bouncing on my seat. Fashion was definitely so 1987 and I could relate. There were the same music artists (Michael Jackon's Thriller, Madonna's Crazy for you, and so on and so forth), same hairstyles (big hair and side pony) and the same high school stereotypes.
For those still unfamiliar with the story (spoiler alert!), it was about a 13-year old girl who wanted to be 30 Flirty and Fabulous. Due to some wishing dust provided by her bestfriend, she woke up the next day in the body of her 30-year old self (played by the very sexy Jennifer Garner). Her adventures as a 13-year old girl trapped in the body of a 30-year old career woman were so hilarious. There was a dance number of Thriller that one should look forward to. AS we say in the office, "Winner!".
As the movie progresses, Jennifer Garner's character discovers how different she has become. She managed to achieve and gain all that she has wanted ever since she was 13, but at the expense of family, friends and even her own self. During this self-discovery, she managed to track down her bestfriend played by the very endearing Mark Ruffalo (why is he always the guy who gets left behind? Remember his character in "View from the Top". Gwyneth Paltrow leaves him but she goes back to him in the end. In both characters, he has such terrific families) and he helped her figure out what she had lost.
After a betrayal from her supposed-girl bestfriend, she rushes off to her bestfriend's wedding and they had this little confrontation/heart-to-heart talk a few minutes before the guy's altar date. That scene reduced me to blubbering tears. They both admitted that they love each other, with the guy loving her since they were kids. But in the end, the guy, being the gentleman and the sweetest guy that he is, chose his fiancee and went on with the wedding. But before that, he returned to her the dollhouse that he made for her on her 13th birthday. I was crying on my officemate's shoulder by that time.
Of course, such a sappy movie should have a happy ending. She managed to go back to her old 13-year old self and made the right choices.
The movie may carry a wrong message that you can always go back to undo things that you have done. However, taking it into the correct context, I think what it meant to say was that for us to be careful in making decisions and to think twice before we wish for something that we know is not good for us.
I could also relate to the movie's angst-y moments, especially the high school scenes. It made me go back to my high school days. Contrary to what people think, I did not really enjoy my high school life that much--except for the few friends that I had made. I was such a nerd and I'd rather spend my free time (lunch hour and dismissal) in the library. When I was in Grade School, I remembered finishing all the Nancy Drew books collection in the Learning Resource Center. Even the Indian/Hindu Comics, I did not ignore. I would stay there for hours reading through the whole series and familiarizing myself with the Hindu gods. And upon high school, I discovered a new set of books and tackled the library's more mature fiction. In our high school library, I met Sidney Sheldon and Robert Ludlum. In a little corner, I found out the library's fairy collection.
I was, you could say, not interested in boys then. All I wanted to do was read.
Anyway, I digress.
13 Going on 30 is a surprisingly good movie. I did not expect much from it at first. But I'm recommending the movie to anyone who would want to watch a nice romantic sappy movie. If you're not into that, you could watch it for Jennifer Gardner's colorful outfits. She's so darn sexy!
Since I'm very much spaced out due to the late hour, I wanted to deter writing this review until tomorrow. But I wanted to write things down before they start disappearing from my memory banks (my short term memory is so bad. I can't remember what I ate for breakfast!).
Fridays are the worst days in terms of work. Everyone is so lazy that productivity is so low. Moreover, the SO is not having a good time at work as well. It's the second Friday in a row that we could not go out on a Friday because he had to work overtime. Oh well, I shouldn't complain. These things happen. Good thing that my officemates invited me to go out with them. We watched 13 Going on 30.
That actually wasn't our first nor even second choice. During the day, we were arguing (it was just us girls) on what to watch. One half (including me) wanted to watch Feng Shui (no, I did not want to watch it because of Kris Aquino. But I've heard that it's good), while the other half wanted to watch The Terminal (saw it already. Nothing I would want to see again). When we got to the theater, only 13 Going on 30 has the available seats and the right time for us.
At the start of the movie, I knew I was going to enjoy the film. The opening credits rolled in with "Head Over Heels" playing in the background. I was bouncing on my seat. Fashion was definitely so 1987 and I could relate. There were the same music artists (Michael Jackon's Thriller, Madonna's Crazy for you, and so on and so forth), same hairstyles (big hair and side pony) and the same high school stereotypes.
For those still unfamiliar with the story (spoiler alert!), it was about a 13-year old girl who wanted to be 30 Flirty and Fabulous. Due to some wishing dust provided by her bestfriend, she woke up the next day in the body of her 30-year old self (played by the very sexy Jennifer Garner). Her adventures as a 13-year old girl trapped in the body of a 30-year old career woman were so hilarious. There was a dance number of Thriller that one should look forward to. AS we say in the office, "Winner!".
As the movie progresses, Jennifer Garner's character discovers how different she has become. She managed to achieve and gain all that she has wanted ever since she was 13, but at the expense of family, friends and even her own self. During this self-discovery, she managed to track down her bestfriend played by the very endearing Mark Ruffalo (why is he always the guy who gets left behind? Remember his character in "View from the Top". Gwyneth Paltrow leaves him but she goes back to him in the end. In both characters, he has such terrific families) and he helped her figure out what she had lost.
After a betrayal from her supposed-girl bestfriend, she rushes off to her bestfriend's wedding and they had this little confrontation/heart-to-heart talk a few minutes before the guy's altar date. That scene reduced me to blubbering tears. They both admitted that they love each other, with the guy loving her since they were kids. But in the end, the guy, being the gentleman and the sweetest guy that he is, chose his fiancee and went on with the wedding. But before that, he returned to her the dollhouse that he made for her on her 13th birthday. I was crying on my officemate's shoulder by that time.
Of course, such a sappy movie should have a happy ending. She managed to go back to her old 13-year old self and made the right choices.
The movie may carry a wrong message that you can always go back to undo things that you have done. However, taking it into the correct context, I think what it meant to say was that for us to be careful in making decisions and to think twice before we wish for something that we know is not good for us.
I could also relate to the movie's angst-y moments, especially the high school scenes. It made me go back to my high school days. Contrary to what people think, I did not really enjoy my high school life that much--except for the few friends that I had made. I was such a nerd and I'd rather spend my free time (lunch hour and dismissal) in the library. When I was in Grade School, I remembered finishing all the Nancy Drew books collection in the Learning Resource Center. Even the Indian/Hindu Comics, I did not ignore. I would stay there for hours reading through the whole series and familiarizing myself with the Hindu gods. And upon high school, I discovered a new set of books and tackled the library's more mature fiction. In our high school library, I met Sidney Sheldon and Robert Ludlum. In a little corner, I found out the library's fairy collection.
I was, you could say, not interested in boys then. All I wanted to do was read.
Anyway, I digress.
13 Going on 30 is a surprisingly good movie. I did not expect much from it at first. But I'm recommending the movie to anyone who would want to watch a nice romantic sappy movie. If you're not into that, you could watch it for Jennifer Gardner's colorful outfits. She's so darn sexy!
Wednesday, September 15, 2004
Tests and Other Stuff
Being the start of the term and a weekday with nothing to do, I decided to surf around and answer some of the tests that my friends seem to love. Here's one from Tickle.
What Kind of Girlfriend Are You?
Catherine, you're a Steady Supporter
Stand by your man — that's just something you naturally do. Once you've committed to a relationship, you are a constant companion who enjoys the comfort and stability that comes from being a couple. Not quick to judge, accuse, or think the worst, you have a lot of trust (in him and in yourself), and you rarely worry about where he is or who he's with.
My gosh, I absolutely sound so boring! But hey, it does sound so me. Maybe that's what my SO wants. Maybe I should show this to him and get his take on it. Hehe.
According to the list, other types of girlfriends are:
- Amorous Adventurer
- Laidback Lover
- Passionate Partner
- Romantic Realist
Come to think of it, I think I'm happy being a Steady Supporter. If there's one thing I value in a relationship and in myself, it's stability. Emotional, Spiritual or Financial, it doesn't matter as long as everything's in a balance. I know that might be highly improbable, but as long as one is met, I can survive.
I don't know what made me consider having a "stable" relationship rather than a tumultuous and passionate one that some of my friends seem to prefer. Maybe because I'm growing old. Maybe I could have entered into such a relationship if I was younger, but age brings wisdom. Maybe having a stable relationship would give me something permanent to hold on to, considering that my family life has been pretty unstable for the past few years (nothing much I can do about that).
Wanting a relationship would not necessarily mean that my happiness would be dependent on the other person. I do love spending time with my SO, but I ensure that I can be happy and complete even if I'm by myself. One trap that I would not want to fall in is that I revolve my life around my SO. Making him the source of my happiness and/or sadness. That I would not want to happen. Somewhere in the future, there will be a time when we will be apart (whether temporarily or permanent) and I would want to be happy even without him. I'm sure I will miss him, but I do not want to be suicidal just because he's gone.
What's Your Romantic Fantasy?
Catherine, looks like your romantic fantasy is Breakfast in Bed!
There are few things better than waking up to the smell of hot coffee and sizzling bacon, or fresh fruit and granola, especially when it's right under your nose. What is it about the combination of breakfast and bed? It can be more intimate than a candlelit dinner, yet as comfortable as an old pair of slippers. And this is only the start of your Breakfast in Bed romantic fantasy.
Yours is a dream inhabited by your trusty sweetheart and reliable soul mate, not by mysterious men from exotic places. Whether it's a cozy night next to a roaring fire, or an evening eating pizza straight from the box while wrapped up in a blanket on the floor, you love the fact that your fantasy doesn't need to venture far from reality.
That doesn't mean you don't like a good surprise every now and then. Flowers on your pillow or tickets to the hot new show are enough to provide a year's worth of future daydreams.
I was laughing when I read this. The first thing that came into mind was that I would never eat in bed. One thing that has been taught to us and which we learned the hard way, is that if you eat in bed, ants will surely come! So if it's going to be breakfast in bed, there should be no sugar and nothing that would attract those darn ants! I also don't see the roaring fire. The only time I ever experienced a fire place was when we were in Baguio with a 10 degrees celsius temperature outside. But hey, if the weather will permit, why not, coconut?!
Other fantasies are:
- Castle in the Sky
- Garden of Eden
- Romantic Rescue
- Romp on the Beach
- The Foreign Affair
Man, after seeing all those fantasies, I'm beginning to think that I am indeed boring! Hehehe.
What Kind of Girlfriend Are You?
Catherine, you're a Steady Supporter
Stand by your man — that's just something you naturally do. Once you've committed to a relationship, you are a constant companion who enjoys the comfort and stability that comes from being a couple. Not quick to judge, accuse, or think the worst, you have a lot of trust (in him and in yourself), and you rarely worry about where he is or who he's with.
My gosh, I absolutely sound so boring! But hey, it does sound so me. Maybe that's what my SO wants. Maybe I should show this to him and get his take on it. Hehe.
According to the list, other types of girlfriends are:
- Amorous Adventurer
- Laidback Lover
- Passionate Partner
- Romantic Realist
Come to think of it, I think I'm happy being a Steady Supporter. If there's one thing I value in a relationship and in myself, it's stability. Emotional, Spiritual or Financial, it doesn't matter as long as everything's in a balance. I know that might be highly improbable, but as long as one is met, I can survive.
I don't know what made me consider having a "stable" relationship rather than a tumultuous and passionate one that some of my friends seem to prefer. Maybe because I'm growing old. Maybe I could have entered into such a relationship if I was younger, but age brings wisdom. Maybe having a stable relationship would give me something permanent to hold on to, considering that my family life has been pretty unstable for the past few years (nothing much I can do about that).
Wanting a relationship would not necessarily mean that my happiness would be dependent on the other person. I do love spending time with my SO, but I ensure that I can be happy and complete even if I'm by myself. One trap that I would not want to fall in is that I revolve my life around my SO. Making him the source of my happiness and/or sadness. That I would not want to happen. Somewhere in the future, there will be a time when we will be apart (whether temporarily or permanent) and I would want to be happy even without him. I'm sure I will miss him, but I do not want to be suicidal just because he's gone.
What's Your Romantic Fantasy?
Catherine, looks like your romantic fantasy is Breakfast in Bed!
There are few things better than waking up to the smell of hot coffee and sizzling bacon, or fresh fruit and granola, especially when it's right under your nose. What is it about the combination of breakfast and bed? It can be more intimate than a candlelit dinner, yet as comfortable as an old pair of slippers. And this is only the start of your Breakfast in Bed romantic fantasy.
Yours is a dream inhabited by your trusty sweetheart and reliable soul mate, not by mysterious men from exotic places. Whether it's a cozy night next to a roaring fire, or an evening eating pizza straight from the box while wrapped up in a blanket on the floor, you love the fact that your fantasy doesn't need to venture far from reality.
That doesn't mean you don't like a good surprise every now and then. Flowers on your pillow or tickets to the hot new show are enough to provide a year's worth of future daydreams.
I was laughing when I read this. The first thing that came into mind was that I would never eat in bed. One thing that has been taught to us and which we learned the hard way, is that if you eat in bed, ants will surely come! So if it's going to be breakfast in bed, there should be no sugar and nothing that would attract those darn ants! I also don't see the roaring fire. The only time I ever experienced a fire place was when we were in Baguio with a 10 degrees celsius temperature outside. But hey, if the weather will permit, why not, coconut?!
Other fantasies are:
- Castle in the Sky
- Garden of Eden
- Romantic Rescue
- Romp on the Beach
- The Foreign Affair
Man, after seeing all those fantasies, I'm beginning to think that I am indeed boring! Hehehe.
I am Spring!
You're a Spring.
You usually are very close-knit with your friends and value everyone friendship you have.
You're a real people person and everyone loves how friendly you are.
You're good with encouraging people but usually don't like to be the center of attention.
You are a social butterfly and probably are in several circles of friends but it's just because you're well liked and you make people comfortable.
You're both fun and wise but you are very realistic about life.
What season are you? brought to you by Quizilla
Don't see the point of knowing what my season is. It's just one of those things that you would want to know just for the heck of it.
Tuesday, September 14, 2004
Updates
I haven't updated my blogspot for the past four days. Had difficulty logging in since I had to compete with two other people for internet time. Oh wait, make that four since my sister has a new laptop. (My twin sister married a techie who's based in the States. So he sent her a spanking new Thinkpad and my other sister bought the old Dell laptop. Heck, their laptops are more updated than mine! Theirs have wireless lan cards! Waaaahhh!!!)
Let me see, where do I start with the updates.
SATURDAY
I had a fun start for my Saturday. I met up with an old friend in the morning and we had a buffet breakfast at the Makati Shangri-la (her treat!). We spent 2 glorious hours there where we swapped stories and she gave me wonderful advice regarding my career. Afterwhich, we walked to Glorietta where she helped me choose a nice foundation make-up. We then proceeded to Going Straight where I had a footspa (with pedicure) and hot oil/henna wax (her treat again! Grabe! Sobrang nahiya ako). I felt so great and presentable afterwards. Good thing since I had dinner that night with my SO's family.
That's me together with my friend, Kay. As I mentioned previously, she's relocating to Cebu by next month. It's sad how we take friends for granted sometimes. Like us for example. We've been schoolmates since grade school and became good friends/barkada in high school. We joined the same college in DLSU (only to abandon her after a year). Nevertheless, we stayed in touch even afterwards and we meet around once a year (even more than a year). When I saw her last Saturday, I realized how much I've missed her. How much I've missed her humour and her generousity (it's not everyday that I have a friend who treats me to a nice breakfast and self-pampering package. Heck! When we were in high school/college, she'd use to give me bags of lanzones from their very own plantation!). She also made me realize how lucky I am and that there are some people who hide their insecurities well. She also gave me a sermon regarding my insecurities. Being the healthy people we are, she told me to stop comparing myself to other people and to start feeling beautiful in my own right. As Christina Aguilera's song goes:
We are beautiful no matter what they say
Words can't bring us down
We are beautiful in every single way
Words can't bring us down
Don't let it bring us down today.
We are definitely beautiful and she proved that beauty definitely comes from within. It's just that some people doesn't know how to see beyond the physical aspect and look what's really inside. Kay is one of the most beautiful people that I have had the priveledge of knowing and it's a big loss that most men does not see that (heck, my SO saw how beautiful she is. Shows how special my SO is. Hah!).
After the self-pampering, I caught a cab going to Alabang Town Center where I met up with Leo. We watched "Dodgeball" (a must-watch! Ben Stiller is very much hilarious here: "Don't make me bleed in my own blood.") and as previously mentioned, had dinner at Via Mare with Leo's parents, Leo's sister and brother-in-law.
Leo's parents invited me to watch a show that their community sponsored. They're both active members of the Folkalare. I think they want me to be a member too. I have no complaints since our Sector Head at Singles for Christ even endorsed the group to me. The group is actually non-sectarian and teaches the basic principle of all religions: Love, Peace and Family.
SUNDAY
My good friend at work (actually she resigned already) got married in Christian rites last Sunday at EDSA Shangri-la. Here's a picture featuring me and Leo. The picture turned out OK. First time that we attended a formal gathering together. Must say that we look good!
First time I attended a Christian wedding and it's definitely different than a Catholic one. There's still the exchange of vows and rings, but the ceremony is shorter. The vows were also made by the couple. Not something that they read off a misalette. I may follow that in my own wedding. I would want my vows to come from my heart and not from somebody's else's wedding.
The bride and groom are the pair on the far right (of course, the bride is the one wearing the really nice gown and her groom is the one behind her). I hope I don't step on anyone's toes when I say this, but her wedding was the most beautiful wedding that I've attended in terms of people. I have never seen so many beautiful people in my entire life! My friend was so enchanting and her sisters and family, my gosh! I have never seen a family that's so beautifully blessed! You could say that it's because they are a happy family. Her mother approached our table and greeted me like she've known me all my life. I was so embarassed because apparently, my friend talks to her about me. She kept on complementing me and that doubled my embarassment because coming from her, I knew it was sincere (because of that, she earned a spot in my principals sponsor list for my wedding--as if!). My friend and her family are the most sincere and honest people I have ever met. That's why she's always so radiant.
MONDAY
Technically first day of school but my first class was today. Nothing special at work (although I did exceed my productivity by 64%. Got a commendation from my boss because of that).
TUESDAY
My first class and Leo's my classmate! We had Business Ethics this evening. I admit, I had dificulty concentrating at first with Leo there by my side. But I managed to concentrate on the subject and hopefully, would be able to apply the learnings to my life.
Let me see, where do I start with the updates.
SATURDAY
I had a fun start for my Saturday. I met up with an old friend in the morning and we had a buffet breakfast at the Makati Shangri-la (her treat!). We spent 2 glorious hours there where we swapped stories and she gave me wonderful advice regarding my career. Afterwhich, we walked to Glorietta where she helped me choose a nice foundation make-up. We then proceeded to Going Straight where I had a footspa (with pedicure) and hot oil/henna wax (her treat again! Grabe! Sobrang nahiya ako). I felt so great and presentable afterwards. Good thing since I had dinner that night with my SO's family.
That's me together with my friend, Kay. As I mentioned previously, she's relocating to Cebu by next month. It's sad how we take friends for granted sometimes. Like us for example. We've been schoolmates since grade school and became good friends/barkada in high school. We joined the same college in DLSU (only to abandon her after a year). Nevertheless, we stayed in touch even afterwards and we meet around once a year (even more than a year). When I saw her last Saturday, I realized how much I've missed her. How much I've missed her humour and her generousity (it's not everyday that I have a friend who treats me to a nice breakfast and self-pampering package. Heck! When we were in high school/college, she'd use to give me bags of lanzones from their very own plantation!). She also made me realize how lucky I am and that there are some people who hide their insecurities well. She also gave me a sermon regarding my insecurities. Being the healthy people we are, she told me to stop comparing myself to other people and to start feeling beautiful in my own right. As Christina Aguilera's song goes:
We are beautiful no matter what they say
Words can't bring us down
We are beautiful in every single way
Words can't bring us down
Don't let it bring us down today.
We are definitely beautiful and she proved that beauty definitely comes from within. It's just that some people doesn't know how to see beyond the physical aspect and look what's really inside. Kay is one of the most beautiful people that I have had the priveledge of knowing and it's a big loss that most men does not see that (heck, my SO saw how beautiful she is. Shows how special my SO is. Hah!).
After the self-pampering, I caught a cab going to Alabang Town Center where I met up with Leo. We watched "Dodgeball" (a must-watch! Ben Stiller is very much hilarious here: "Don't make me bleed in my own blood.") and as previously mentioned, had dinner at Via Mare with Leo's parents, Leo's sister and brother-in-law.
Leo's parents invited me to watch a show that their community sponsored. They're both active members of the Folkalare. I think they want me to be a member too. I have no complaints since our Sector Head at Singles for Christ even endorsed the group to me. The group is actually non-sectarian and teaches the basic principle of all religions: Love, Peace and Family.
SUNDAY
My good friend at work (actually she resigned already) got married in Christian rites last Sunday at EDSA Shangri-la. Here's a picture featuring me and Leo. The picture turned out OK. First time that we attended a formal gathering together. Must say that we look good!
First time I attended a Christian wedding and it's definitely different than a Catholic one. There's still the exchange of vows and rings, but the ceremony is shorter. The vows were also made by the couple. Not something that they read off a misalette. I may follow that in my own wedding. I would want my vows to come from my heart and not from somebody's else's wedding.
The bride and groom are the pair on the far right (of course, the bride is the one wearing the really nice gown and her groom is the one behind her). I hope I don't step on anyone's toes when I say this, but her wedding was the most beautiful wedding that I've attended in terms of people. I have never seen so many beautiful people in my entire life! My friend was so enchanting and her sisters and family, my gosh! I have never seen a family that's so beautifully blessed! You could say that it's because they are a happy family. Her mother approached our table and greeted me like she've known me all my life. I was so embarassed because apparently, my friend talks to her about me. She kept on complementing me and that doubled my embarassment because coming from her, I knew it was sincere (because of that, she earned a spot in my principals sponsor list for my wedding--as if!). My friend and her family are the most sincere and honest people I have ever met. That's why she's always so radiant.
MONDAY
Technically first day of school but my first class was today. Nothing special at work (although I did exceed my productivity by 64%. Got a commendation from my boss because of that).
TUESDAY
My first class and Leo's my classmate! We had Business Ethics this evening. I admit, I had dificulty concentrating at first with Leo there by my side. But I managed to concentrate on the subject and hopefully, would be able to apply the learnings to my life.
Friday, September 10, 2004
3 AM
I woke up at 3 freaking-thirty this morning, after having only 4 hours of sleep. I could not remember what woke me up but I had a difficult time falling back to sleep.
Noticed that this has been happening for the past couple of days. I tried
playing that lovely palm Bejeweled game to lull me to sleep but it did not work.
I just turned off the lights and laid there thinking.
So many thoughts ran through my mind this morning. All of them quite disturbing. One major thought was regarding a decision which I had to make regarding my career. So many questions, but the answers are so few (that sounds like a line from a song).
I tried to discern and use the techniques that I have culled from the numerous
seminars that I've attended for the past four years with SCB. One particular
technique refers to prioritizing. Once I get my priorities straight, then making
the choice will not be difficult. Will I priorities my studies or my work more?
Am I the type of person who would go for career growth? Or am I the type of
person who wants to develop her character more than her career? (Hmmm...writing
this all down makes decision making so much easier! Looks like I'm getting
something here.)
I have received negative comments from people who I have asked and they have raised valid points. But those points would be relevant if I would prioritize one more than the other. I have until Monday to make my decision. Hopefully, I will make the right one. Please do keep me in your prayers.
Oh yeah, I ended up getting up at 5 am to prepare breakfast and was at work by 6
am. After drinking coffee in the morning and caramel coffee jelly in the
afternoon, I stayed in the office until 730 pm still awake and kicking although
my brain then already shut down. I also barely ate anything the whole day (if
you don't count the bagel during breakfast). Good thing this rarely happens.
Fridays are the worst day to work. It's the day with our lowest productivity and
it's difficult to get people to work. I also have to wake up early tomorrow.
Have a breakfast date with an old friend at the Makati Shangri-la. We haven't
seen each other in ages and we wanted to see each other before she relocates to
Cebu next month.
Noticed that this has been happening for the past couple of days. I tried
playing that lovely palm Bejeweled game to lull me to sleep but it did not work.
I just turned off the lights and laid there thinking.
So many thoughts ran through my mind this morning. All of them quite disturbing. One major thought was regarding a decision which I had to make regarding my career. So many questions, but the answers are so few (that sounds like a line from a song).
I tried to discern and use the techniques that I have culled from the numerous
seminars that I've attended for the past four years with SCB. One particular
technique refers to prioritizing. Once I get my priorities straight, then making
the choice will not be difficult. Will I priorities my studies or my work more?
Am I the type of person who would go for career growth? Or am I the type of
person who wants to develop her character more than her career? (Hmmm...writing
this all down makes decision making so much easier! Looks like I'm getting
something here.)
I have received negative comments from people who I have asked and they have raised valid points. But those points would be relevant if I would prioritize one more than the other. I have until Monday to make my decision. Hopefully, I will make the right one. Please do keep me in your prayers.
Oh yeah, I ended up getting up at 5 am to prepare breakfast and was at work by 6
am. After drinking coffee in the morning and caramel coffee jelly in the
afternoon, I stayed in the office until 730 pm still awake and kicking although
my brain then already shut down. I also barely ate anything the whole day (if
you don't count the bagel during breakfast). Good thing this rarely happens.
Fridays are the worst day to work. It's the day with our lowest productivity and
it's difficult to get people to work. I also have to wake up early tomorrow.
Have a breakfast date with an old friend at the Makati Shangri-la. We haven't
seen each other in ages and we wanted to see each other before she relocates to
Cebu next month.
Thursday, September 09, 2004
White Beach
This was taken at White Beach, Puerto Galera last April. The background is really that blue! I suddenly miss the place. It would be nice to go there at this time of the year. Rates and prices will be 100% lower than last April!
Walking with Sunshine
Ok.
So changed my web address. It's difficult to rant and remain anonymous when your url address is basically telling the whole world who you are.
Things are a bit shaky now. I'm trying to balance everything and hope that my eggs and oranges won't fall splat on the floor. One thing's for sure, a major crossroad is coming up soon and hopefully, I'll be able to make the right choice.
So changed my web address. It's difficult to rant and remain anonymous when your url address is basically telling the whole world who you are.
Things are a bit shaky now. I'm trying to balance everything and hope that my eggs and oranges won't fall splat on the floor. One thing's for sure, a major crossroad is coming up soon and hopefully, I'll be able to make the right choice.
Wednesday, September 08, 2004
Chores
CHORES
I'm muscle tired again.
Rather than let the dirty clothes pile up until Saturday, we did the laundry today. It took us more than two hours just to finish three days worth of dirty clothes worn by 7 people. I feel more tired than the 30 minute walking/jogging that I did yesterday. Come to think of it, this may be the daily exercise that I need. However, I was able to do this since we're in the middle of term break. Once school starts, I don't know how much I'll be able to contribute to household chores.
Speaking of school, I got my grades for my subjects last term. I got a 3.5 for my law subject and a 3.0 for my economics subject. Not bad. Was hoping to make it to the Dean's List again this term, but well, maybe next term.
SQUATTER
I feel like a squatter at work today. I had no permanent workstation and it affected my positive outlook and productivity. I had to change workstation three times. I'll never survive like this until the end of the year. My vacation is so far off!
Speaking of vacation, I'm taking almost a month off starting December 16, 2004 and will return to work on January 10, 2005. This is in lieu of my brother and sister's wedding on December 28 and January 5 respectively. If my parents/siblings had it their way, they will have it both in December. However, due to the different beliefs and old wives tales, they had to reschedule it on different years.
This would also mean that my wedding (if ever there's going to be one) won't happen until 2006!
Oh well, as an old friend would say, "Good things comes to those who wait."
I'm muscle tired again.
Rather than let the dirty clothes pile up until Saturday, we did the laundry today. It took us more than two hours just to finish three days worth of dirty clothes worn by 7 people. I feel more tired than the 30 minute walking/jogging that I did yesterday. Come to think of it, this may be the daily exercise that I need. However, I was able to do this since we're in the middle of term break. Once school starts, I don't know how much I'll be able to contribute to household chores.
Speaking of school, I got my grades for my subjects last term. I got a 3.5 for my law subject and a 3.0 for my economics subject. Not bad. Was hoping to make it to the Dean's List again this term, but well, maybe next term.
SQUATTER
I feel like a squatter at work today. I had no permanent workstation and it affected my positive outlook and productivity. I had to change workstation three times. I'll never survive like this until the end of the year. My vacation is so far off!
Speaking of vacation, I'm taking almost a month off starting December 16, 2004 and will return to work on January 10, 2005. This is in lieu of my brother and sister's wedding on December 28 and January 5 respectively. If my parents/siblings had it their way, they will have it both in December. However, due to the different beliefs and old wives tales, they had to reschedule it on different years.
This would also mean that my wedding (if ever there's going to be one) won't happen until 2006!
Oh well, as an old friend would say, "Good things comes to those who wait."
Sunday, September 05, 2004
All By Ourselves
Day four of having no househelp.
Our househelp of almost seven years had to rush home at Bicol due to an emergency (her son had an accident). Much as I enjoy (not) the exercise culled from all the household chores, it's still very tiring.
Just this morning, my sister-in-law and I did the laundry, I cleaned the living room and arranged our 250+ dvd collection, I also washed the dishes after lunch.
When Leo came to pick me up at around 1 pm, I was wilting. All I wanted was to lie down and sleep. But nevertheless, I took a bath (scrubbed myself down with RiceMilk scrub and tried to get every dirt that I accumulated out of my skin) and made myself presentable.
We then proceeded to Greenbelt 1 where we watch Supersize Me. Ah yes, Supersize Me. I recommend this movie to EVERYONE. After watching that movie, I will never look
at McD's the same way ever again. It made me resolve that I will never let my
children (if ever I'll be blessed to have them) be too addicted to fastfood
chains. I will never use Jollibee or McDonald's as a reward for them.
The movie also revealed some interesting facts. Americans are the fattest people on earth, and it's somehow correlated to their fastfood industry. Their food portions are directly proportional to their weight. I was shocked when I saw that they had a
supersize meal. I thought that it was equivalent to our local version of "Go
Bigtime" or "Go Large", but apparently, "Supersize Me" is twice as big as the
regular serving. So you have the kiddie size, regular size, biggie size AND
supersize!
One of the postcripts said that after the film came out at the Sundance festival, Mcd's removed the Supersize option from their menu and introduced a meal to promote an active lifestyle as opposed to a sedentary one.
The documentary came about after the director/producer saw an article about two teenage girls suing McD's for feeding them food which lead to their obesity. The judge wanted to trash the lawsuit but gave the girls the chance to prove that the food from McD's were the direct cause of their extreme weight gain. Morgan Spurlock (the director/producer) wanted to prove if that could happen so he ate NOTHING but food from the McDonald's menu for 30 days.
It's a very interesting film and it documented his McDonald's trips and his consultations with his doctors. A lot of points raised by this movie especially about health. No wondermy mom is so worried about me and my weight.
Speaking of weight, I lost 5 lbs last month and hopefully, I'm continuing to lose. I'm due at my doctor for two more weeks and I pray that I've lost a decent amount by then.
Our househelp of almost seven years had to rush home at Bicol due to an emergency (her son had an accident). Much as I enjoy (not) the exercise culled from all the household chores, it's still very tiring.
Just this morning, my sister-in-law and I did the laundry, I cleaned the living room and arranged our 250+ dvd collection, I also washed the dishes after lunch.
When Leo came to pick me up at around 1 pm, I was wilting. All I wanted was to lie down and sleep. But nevertheless, I took a bath (scrubbed myself down with RiceMilk scrub and tried to get every dirt that I accumulated out of my skin) and made myself presentable.
We then proceeded to Greenbelt 1 where we watch Supersize Me. Ah yes, Supersize Me. I recommend this movie to EVERYONE. After watching that movie, I will never look
at McD's the same way ever again. It made me resolve that I will never let my
children (if ever I'll be blessed to have them) be too addicted to fastfood
chains. I will never use Jollibee or McDonald's as a reward for them.
The movie also revealed some interesting facts. Americans are the fattest people on earth, and it's somehow correlated to their fastfood industry. Their food portions are directly proportional to their weight. I was shocked when I saw that they had a
supersize meal. I thought that it was equivalent to our local version of "Go
Bigtime" or "Go Large", but apparently, "Supersize Me" is twice as big as the
regular serving. So you have the kiddie size, regular size, biggie size AND
supersize!
One of the postcripts said that after the film came out at the Sundance festival, Mcd's removed the Supersize option from their menu and introduced a meal to promote an active lifestyle as opposed to a sedentary one.
The documentary came about after the director/producer saw an article about two teenage girls suing McD's for feeding them food which lead to their obesity. The judge wanted to trash the lawsuit but gave the girls the chance to prove that the food from McD's were the direct cause of their extreme weight gain. Morgan Spurlock (the director/producer) wanted to prove if that could happen so he ate NOTHING but food from the McDonald's menu for 30 days.
It's a very interesting film and it documented his McDonald's trips and his consultations with his doctors. A lot of points raised by this movie especially about health. No wondermy mom is so worried about me and my weight.
Speaking of weight, I lost 5 lbs last month and hopefully, I'm continuing to lose. I'm due at my doctor for two more weeks and I pray that I've lost a decent amount by then.
Enchanted Kingdom
Went to Enchanted Kingdom last Saturday with Leo. First time I had the roller coaster (Space Shuttle) all by myself. I was literally, the only one, on the ride. It was scary and exciting. A bit boring though since I was the only one screaming and laughing. Nevertheless, the ride still managed to draw more than once scream from me. The 4-D Theater was also nice. It sucks that you have to pay separate entrance for that.
Ziggurat
This is the interior of the restaurant where we had dinner last Friday. Pretty cozy. Food is good too.
Friday, September 03, 2004
Thank God It's Friday
I went to confession after a long time. It was such a rewarding experience in a sense that it gave me a chance to unload all the excess baggage that I've been carrying. Too much negativity is not good for one's health. Let's just say that I managed to regain my positive outlook on life and I'm happy once again.
Leo and I had dinner at a hole-in-the-wall restaurant somewhere in Makati Ave. (I took a picture of the interior of the place. Will post it tomorrow). The food was surprisingly good. It was a place that served Mediterranean/Indian/Greek fare.
We had pita bread, and some other stuff whose names I forgot. I remember the kebab though. The chicken and the beef/pork was very tender and very flavorful. Will definitely recommend the place to everyone.
Ah here's the name: ZIGGURAT. Not an easy name to forget. It's not an easy place to find though. It's in one of those side streets along Burgos St. in Makati. You won't find it unless you're looking for it.
Leo and I will also be going to Enchanted Kingdom tomorrow. I do hope that it won't rain. I've been wanting to go back to that place. Last time I went there, it was my birthday last 2001. Quite a long time.
Leo and I had dinner at a hole-in-the-wall restaurant somewhere in Makati Ave. (I took a picture of the interior of the place. Will post it tomorrow). The food was surprisingly good. It was a place that served Mediterranean/Indian/Greek fare.
We had pita bread, and some other stuff whose names I forgot. I remember the kebab though. The chicken and the beef/pork was very tender and very flavorful. Will definitely recommend the place to everyone.
Ah here's the name: ZIGGURAT. Not an easy name to forget. It's not an easy place to find though. It's in one of those side streets along Burgos St. in Makati. You won't find it unless you're looking for it.
Leo and I will also be going to Enchanted Kingdom tomorrow. I do hope that it won't rain. I've been wanting to go back to that place. Last time I went there, it was my birthday last 2001. Quite a long time.
Thursday, September 02, 2004
San Jose Church
I love churches. The older the better. One of my dreams is to go church hopping all over the Philippines. And who knows, I may want to get married in an old church myself.
The above picture was taken while we were on our way to Pagudpod, Ilocos early this year. This was the San Jose church at Candon, Ilocos Sur.
Offer
I received a job offer today and I have spent the whole afternoon thinking whether I should take it or not. If I were to think of the compensation only, I might take the bait. However, I also have to consider the benefits.
When I attended the case workshop on my first term, the professor shared some tidbits on job changing. Before that, he identified the top reasons on why people leave:
1. boss/immediate superior
2. working environment
3. compensation
4. work itself
I have no problems with the first two. I do, however, have problems with the third issue. For a multinational employee, I am underpaid compared to my peers. The reason for the unequal distribution is that some of the officers who has the same level as mine (or even one rank below), have been in the bank longer. Moreover, some of them were pirated from other companies, thus the higher pay.
The professor further added that if you have no problems with the first two, only accept the offer if compensation is at LEAST 40% that what you're getting right now. The thing is, I'll be leaving a really great boss and a great team. Will I be happier when I move to the other company? Moreover, the company is a local one and not as par with my current employer.
Upon discussing this issue with my SO, he said that he will support me in whatever decision I will make. However, he just asked me why people are not satisfied with what they have. It was a matter of a fact question but it hit me. Hard. I have always been happy with what I have. The issue of compensation has never bothered me before--except now. Leo reminded me that there are things more important than money. He also reminded me that we should be happy with what God has given us and not go searching for more things which would eventually lead to more problems.
I still haven't truly decided on my course of action. The offer is not formal yet. I just had initial discussions with the manager. I'll just cross the bridge when I get there.
When I attended the case workshop on my first term, the professor shared some tidbits on job changing. Before that, he identified the top reasons on why people leave:
1. boss/immediate superior
2. working environment
3. compensation
4. work itself
I have no problems with the first two. I do, however, have problems with the third issue. For a multinational employee, I am underpaid compared to my peers. The reason for the unequal distribution is that some of the officers who has the same level as mine (or even one rank below), have been in the bank longer. Moreover, some of them were pirated from other companies, thus the higher pay.
The professor further added that if you have no problems with the first two, only accept the offer if compensation is at LEAST 40% that what you're getting right now. The thing is, I'll be leaving a really great boss and a great team. Will I be happier when I move to the other company? Moreover, the company is a local one and not as par with my current employer.
Upon discussing this issue with my SO, he said that he will support me in whatever decision I will make. However, he just asked me why people are not satisfied with what they have. It was a matter of a fact question but it hit me. Hard. I have always been happy with what I have. The issue of compensation has never bothered me before--except now. Leo reminded me that there are things more important than money. He also reminded me that we should be happy with what God has given us and not go searching for more things which would eventually lead to more problems.
I still haven't truly decided on my course of action. The offer is not formal yet. I just had initial discussions with the manager. I'll just cross the bridge when I get there.
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