Year-Ender Special

I know I haven't written much. I could count the number of posts i did this year with one hand. But before this year ends, I would like to post some kind of tribute to the year that was. Twitter, with its 140-character feature, will not be able to supply me with enough space to completely describe the 2009 experience.

Year 2009. Where do i even begin? The highlights? Definitely a lot.

This year had a great start since all emotional disputes were resolved on the eve of New Year 2008. At that time, i knew 2009 had a lot in store for me.

For the first month of the year, I experienced living independently, sans paying for my bills and other expenses with my own money. It was my first time to live away from home, hold a certain amount of cash and budget and take note of every cent spent so that i would have something left for fun and enjoyment.

I was in Manila. Over the short time I stayed there, I learned how to commute around the city. I had my Metro Manila map in my bag all the time so that I would always find my way around the city. Before traveling to a certain place or during a 'lost-moment' in the middle of a commute, i would discreetly peek in my bag to glance at my handy dandy map, folded to the part where i was planning to go (a promdi-to-city-move i learned from Pow). In less than a month, through constant jeepney and MRT riding, malling and etc. and frequent inquiries for directions from commuting experts, Tita Bing and Tito Boy, I was conquering the city and the outskirts like a certified "manila girl." I also realized that bringing a handkerchief with you is as necessary as wearing underwear and that taxis and tricycles in Davao are REALLY cheap.

Throughout the 10-month stay in Manila, i was able to watch one of my super kadooper favorite singers in the world: John Legend. Aside from him, i was also able to watch Rihanna & Chris Brown (before the beating issue), Craig David and Boyz II Men! From local artists at MTS' Taboan to international performers, definitely 10 levels-up!!

I started training at the largest military hospital in the country and met a lot of great people there. Ironically, I spoke bisaya more fluently and more often here compared to me talking in bisaya in Davao. It was because there were a lot of patients from mindanao or visayas who had a difficult time expressing in tagalog. Whenever I'd tell them that I'm from Davao, their faces would light up and speak a thousand words per minute - as if some kind of language barrier had been broken. Speaking bisaya was like a bonding activity me and my patients shared.

What or who i would never forget in V. Luna were the people I met and friendships I gained that helped me get through living away from home. Everyone there was "feeling close" and were incredibly fond laughing. I loved it.

This experience had also been the highlight of mine and Pow's relationship. This definitely took our relationship a notch higher and made us grow even closer. Since we were both living away from our families, we took care of each other even more. Made meals for each other, went to mass together, experienced ka-ignoy-an together like malls, theme parks, out of town trips, and other manila-sosyal-nesses. He became my constant buddy. I never felt lonely. :)

September came and my Manila sojourn ended. Packed around 10 boxes of my stuff that Pow continues to bring from Manila up until now. I think i still have a few more boxes left. (heehee)

From January to September, me and Pow were inseparable. I wasn't going to allow myself to drown in depression and boredom when I come back home. I loved my Manila experience too much. I applied for a job (not nursing related though) and got in. September 13 @11:30pm, I arrived Davao City. September 14 at 5am, I came in for work.

I got in at Western Wats. It's (more than just..) a call center. haha I worked as a market researcher - one who conducts surveys all across america. The work hours were good since it starts at 4 or 5am and ends before noon. Since I also work as an online writer for IOventures, everything worked great for me. Busy during day time, Skype-quality time with Pow in the evening.

This was my first time to receive a real paycheck and earn on my own. (Apparently, online selling did not count as a 'real' job) With the money I was earning, I was able to save up and buy a BLACKBERRY! Take note that I paid in cash. haha I was also able to buy stuff for my family and treat them to movies or pizza dinners. It was something that i have been wanting to do ever since I graduated. Sharing my hard earned money definitely had more meaning.

It's the last day and month of the year. Though my Western Wats contract ended, the friendship i gained from the people i met and became close to, will not. (naks, cheesy naman.)

2009 has indeed become fruitful for me. It was action packed, dramatic, expensive, funny, romantic and bittersweet. It's like my dream movie, although, like how movie trends are today, there is or will be a sequel and other quel-quel in the coming years.

I have a feeling that 2010 will be able to top this year's experience. Who knows? By December 31, 2010, i might be writing by a window on the other side of the earth.

Happy happy new year to everyone! Thank you very much for making my 2009 a conversational piece. I love you all. <3 ..and God, thank you again. It is through these moments that make me feel and think that You're playing favorites again. You haaaa... haha :)

Enjoy the rest of the last day of 2009. Let go of all negative feelings to give room for all the good vibrations coming your way!

Disney, with Pixar's help, does it again <3

We just came from a movie about an hour ago. Me, momma and daddy watched Up, a disney/pixar film which I have been itching to watch ages ago and have begged Pow, countless of times, to take me to see it. The bros weren't feeling the cutesie patootsie movie, so they watched G.I. Joe instead. Though I am also a guy-movie/action-packed-comic-or-cartoon-series-from-my-childhood-movies afficionado, GI didn't get me giddy enough to watch out for it. Bea Alonzo's And I love you so generated more excitement in me compared to it. I just couldn't relate. haha

Anyway, moving along now..

I looooooooove Up!!!! Aside from the characters' obvious cuteness, Disney proved that they still had it. The movie gave my heart a tug most especially during the "adventure book" scene where the lolo finds out that his recently departed wife Ellie had already filled up the pages of how she defined "fulfilling her dreams..." - which was the life she had with lolo Carl. Awww... It almost brought me to tears. (I have a weakness for old folks)

While I was journalling (yes, i have started journal writing again...), I kind of thought about my own "adventure" or dreams that I have planned for myself which I believe would really make me a happier person. Like what age should I get married, have kids, the career I would concentrate on, or whether or not to continue being a nurse. Then I realized that you couldn't call it an adventure if you had your future all planned out. I think that what matters most now to me is not what the future has in store, but the one who hugs me and holds my hand as I fill up the pages of my own adventure book.

So here's to the uncertain future my newly reflected self is about to embark upon.. Good luck and hold tight!

should've done the laundry 2 hours ago.

if i had done the laundry two hours ago, i could be in bed by now, enjoying my teleseryes without a worry that i might doze off anytime.

if i went to bed now, i could wake up earlier than usual and have time to fix myself a nice breakfast.. and maybe have extra time to make lunch too.

if i made lunch for myself, i wouldn't have to buy food from the hospital's cafeteria/canteen whose kitchen i haven't inspected..

if i do not buy lunch tomorrow, i would be able to save more and have extra money to buy Boyz II Men concert tickets and Pow's anniversary gift.

i should stop procrastinating. i'll do the laundry now..

for real.

-o-

Here's something for everyone

**here's a lil guide i dedicate to all my blogger visitors who are thinking of better ways to live 2009 ♥ hope these enlighten you as it did me!

HANDBOOK 2009

Health:
1. Drink plenty of water.
2. Eat breakfast like a king, lunch like a prince and dinner like a beggar.
3. Eat more foods that grow on trees and plants and eat less food that is manufactured in plants. 4. Live with the 3 E's -- Energy, Enthusiasm, and Empathy.
5.. Make time to practice meditation, yoga, and prayer.
6. Play more games.
7. Read more books than you did in 2008..
8. Sit in silence for at least 10 minutes each day.
9. Sleep for 7 hours.
10. Take a 10-30 minutes walk every day. And while you walk, smile.

Personality:
11. Don't compare your life to others'. You have no idea what their journey is all about.
12. Don't have negative thoughts or things you cannot control. Instead invest your energy in the positive present moment.
13. Don't over do. Keep your limits.
14. Don't take yourself so seriously. No one else does.
15. Don't waste your precious energy on gossip.
16. Dream more while you are awake.
17. Envy is a waste of time. You already have all you need.
18. Forget issues of the past. Don't remind your partner with his/her mistakes of the past. That will ruin your present happiness.
19.. Life is too short to waste time hating anyone. Don't hate others.
20. Make peace with your past so it won't spoil the present.
21. No one is in charge of your happiness except you.
22. Realize that life is a school and you are here to learn. Problems are simply part of the curriculum that appear and fade away like algebra class but the lessons you learn will last a lifetime.
23. Smile and laugh more.
24. You don't have to win every argument. Agree to disagree.

Society:
25. Call your family often.
26. Each day give something good to others.
27. Forgive everyone for everything.
28. Spend time with people over the age of 70 & under the age of 6.
29. Try to make at least three people smile each day.
30. What other people think of you is none of your business..
31. Your job won't take care of you when you are sick. Your friends will. Stay in touch.

Life:
32. Do the right thing!
33. Get rid of anything that isn't useful, beautiful or joyful.
34. GOD heals everything.
35. However good or bad a situation is, it will change.
36. No matter how you feel, get up, dress up and show up.
37. The best is yet to come.
38. When you awake alive in the morning, thank GOD for it.
39. Your Inner most is always happy. So, be happy.


Happy 2009 to all of us!

Barack Obama's Inaugural Speech

Barack Obama has been sworn in as the 44th US president. Here is his inauguration speech in full. (copied from BBC.com)



My fellow citizens:

I stand here today humbled by the task before us, grateful for the trust you have bestowed, mindful of the sacrifices borne by our ancestors. I thank President Bush for his service to our nation, as well as the generosity and co-operation he has shown throughout this transition.

Key words used by President Barack Obama in his inaugural address.

Enlarge Image

Forty-four Americans have now taken the presidential oath. The words have been spoken during rising tides of prosperity and the still waters of peace. Yet, every so often the oath is taken amidst gathering clouds and raging storms.

At these moments, America has carried on not simply because of the skill or vision of those in high office, but because we, the people, have remained faithful to the ideals of our forbearers, and true to our founding documents.

So it has been. So it must be with this generation of Americans.

Serious challenges

That we are in the midst of crisis is now well understood. Our nation is at war, against a far-reaching network of violence and hatred. Our economy is badly weakened, a consequence of greed and irresponsibility on the part of some, but also our collective failure to make hard choices and prepare the nation for a new age. Homes have been lost; jobs shed; businesses shuttered. Our health care is too costly; our schools fail too many; and each day brings further evidence that the ways we use energy strengthen our adversaries and threaten our planet.

We have chosen hope over fear, unity of purpose over conflict and discord

These are the indicators of crisis, subject to data and statistics. Less measurable but no less profound is a sapping of confidence across our land - a nagging fear that America's decline is inevitable, and that the next generation must lower its sights.

Today I say to you that the challenges we face are real. They are serious and they are many. They will not be met easily or in a short span of time. But know this, America - they will be met.

On this day, we gather because we have chosen hope over fear, unity of purpose over conflict and discord.

On this day, we come to proclaim an end to the petty grievances and false promises, the recriminations and worn out dogmas, that for far too long have strangled our politics.

Nation of 'risk-takers'

We remain a young nation, but in the words of scripture, the time has come to set aside childish things. The time has come to reaffirm our enduring spirit; to choose our better history; to carry forward that precious gift, that noble idea, passed on from generation to generation: the God-given promise that all are equal, all are free, and all deserve a chance to pursue their full measure of happiness.

In reaffirming the greatness of our nation, we understand that greatness is never a given. It must be earned. Our journey has never been one of short-cuts or settling for less. It has not been the path for the faint-hearted - for those who prefer leisure over work, or seek only the pleasures of riches and fame. Rather, it has been the risk-takers, the doers, the makers of things - some celebrated but more often men and women obscure in their labour, who have carried us up the long, rugged path towards prosperity and freedom.

For us, they packed up their few worldly possessions and travelled across oceans in search of a new life.

For us, they toiled in sweatshops and settled the West; endured the lash of the whip and ploughed the hard earth.

For us, they fought and died, in places like Concord and Gettysburg; Normandy and Khe Sahn.

'Remaking America'

Time and again these men and women struggled and sacrificed and worked till their hands were raw so that we might live a better life. They saw America as bigger than the sum of our individual ambitions; greater than all the differences of birth or wealth or faction.

The state of the economy calls for action, bold and swift

This is the journey we continue today. We remain the most prosperous, powerful nation on earth. Our workers are no less productive than when this crisis began. Our minds are no less inventive, our goods and services no less needed than they were last week or last month or last year. Our capacity remains undiminished. But our time of standing pat, of protecting narrow interests and putting off unpleasant decisions - that time has surely passed. Starting today, we must pick ourselves up, dust ourselves off, and begin again the work of remaking America.

For everywhere we look, there is work to be done. The state of the economy calls for action, bold and swift, and we will act - not only to create new jobs, but to lay a new foundation for growth. We will build the roads and bridges, the electric grids and digital lines that feed our commerce and bind us together. We will restore science to its rightful place, and wield technology's wonders to raise health care's quality and lower its cost. We will harness the sun and the winds and the soil to fuel our cars and run our factories. And we will transform our schools and colleges and universities to meet the demands of a new age. All this we can do. All this we will do.

Restoring trust

Now, there are some who question the scale of our ambitions - who suggest that our system cannot tolerate too many big plans. Their memories are short. For they have forgotten what this country has already done; what free men and women can achieve when imagination is joined to common purpose, and necessity to courage.

We reject as false the choice between our safety and our ideals

What the cynics fail to understand is that the ground has shifted beneath them - that the stale political arguments that have consumed us for so long no longer apply.

The question we ask today is not whether our government is too big or too small, but whether it works - whether it helps families find jobs at a decent wage, care they can afford, a retirement that is dignified. Where the answer is yes, we intend to move forward. Where the answer is no, programs will end. And those of us who manage the public's dollars will be held to account - to spend wisely, reform bad habits, and do our business in the light of day - because only then can we restore the vital trust between a people and their government.

Nor is the question before us whether the market is a force for good or ill. Its power to generate wealth and expand freedom is unmatched, but this crisis has reminded us that without a watchful eye, the market can spin out of control - that a nation cannot prosper long when it favours only the prosperous. The success of our economy has always depended not just on the size of our gross domestic product, but on the reach of our prosperity; on the ability to extend opportunity to every willing heart - not out of charity, but because it is the surest route to our common good.

'Ready to lead'

As for our common defence, we reject as false the choice between our safety and our ideals. Our founding fathers, faced with perils we can scarcely imagine, drafted a charter to assure the rule of law and the rights of man, a charter expanded by the blood of generations. Those ideals still light the world, and we will not give them up for expedience's sake. And so to all other peoples and governments who are watching today, from the grandest capitals to the small village where my father was born: know that America is a friend of each nation and every man, woman, and child who seeks a future of peace and dignity, and we are ready to lead once more.

We will not apologise for our way of life, nor will we waver in its defence

Recall that earlier generations faced down fascism and communism not just with missiles and tanks, but with the sturdy alliances and enduring convictions. They understood that our power alone cannot protect us, nor does it entitle us to do as we please. Instead, they knew that our power grows through its prudent use; our security emanates from the justness of our cause, the force of our example, the tempering qualities of humility and restraint.

We are the keepers of this legacy. Guided by these principles once more, we can meet those new threats that demand even greater effort - even greater cooperation and understanding between nations. We will begin to responsibly leave Iraq to its people, and forge a hard-earned peace in Afghanistan. With old friends and former foes, we will work tirelessly to lessen the nuclear threat, and roll back the spectre of a warming planet. We will not apologise for our way of life, nor will we waver in its defence, and for those who seek to advance their aims by inducing terror and slaughtering innocents, we say to you now that our spirit is stronger and cannot be broken; you cannot outlast us, and we will defeat you.

'Era of peace'

For we know that our patchwork heritage is a strength, not a weakness. We are a nation of Christians and Muslims, Jews and Hindus - and non-believers. We are shaped by every language and culture, drawn from every end of this earth; and because we have tasted the bitter swill of civil war and segregation, and emerged from that dark chapter stronger and more united, we cannot help but believe that the old hatreds shall someday pass; that the lines of tribe shall soon dissolve; that as the world grows smaller, our common humanity shall reveal itself; and that America must play its role in ushering in a new era of peace.

To the Muslim world, we seek a new way forward, based on mutual interest and mutual respect. To those leaders around the globe who seek to sow conflict, or blame their society's ills on the West - know that your people will judge you on what you can build, not what you destroy. To those who cling to power through corruption and deceit and the silencing of dissent, know that you are on the wrong side of history; but that we will extend a hand if you are willing to unclench your fist.

To the people of poor nations, we pledge to work alongside you to make your farms flourish and let clean waters flow; to nourish starved bodies and feed hungry minds. And to those nations like ours that enjoy relative plenty, we say we can no longer afford indifference to suffering outside our borders; nor can we consume the world's resources without regard to effect. For the world has changed, and we must change with it.

'Duties'

As we consider the road that unfolds before us, we remember with humble gratitude those brave Americans who, at this very hour, patrol far-off deserts and distant mountains. They have something to tell us, just as the fallen heroes who lie in Arlington whisper through the ages. We honour them not only because they are guardians of our liberty, but because they embody the spirit of service; a willingness to find meaning in something greater than themselves. And yet, at this moment - a moment that will define a generation - it is precisely this spirit that must inhabit us all.

What is required of us now is a new era of responsibility

For as much as government can do and must do, it is ultimately the faith and determination of the American people upon which this nation relies. It is the kindness to take in a stranger when the levees break, the selflessness of workers who would rather cut their hours than see a friend lose their job which sees us through our darkest hours. It is the firefighter's courage to storm a stairway filled with smoke, but also a parent's willingness to nurture a child, that finally decides our fate.

Our challenges may be new. The instruments with which we meet them may be new. But those values upon which our success depends - honesty and hard work, courage and fair play, tolerance and curiosity, loyalty and patriotism - these things are old. These things are true. They have been the quiet force of progress throughout our history. What is demanded then is a return to these truths.

What is required of us now is a new era of responsibility - a recognition, on the part of every American, that we have duties to ourselves, our nation, and the world, duties that we do not grudgingly accept but rather seize gladly, firm in the knowledge that there is nothing so satisfying to the spirit, so defining of our character, than giving our all to a difficult task.

'Gift of freedom'

This is the price and the promise of citizenship.

This is the source of our confidence - the knowledge that God calls on us to shape an uncertain destiny.

This is the meaning of our liberty and our creed - why men and women and children of every race and every faith can join in celebration across this magnificent mall, and why a man whose father less than 60 years ago might not have been served at a local restaurant can now stand before you to take a most sacred oath.

So let us mark this day with remembrance, of who we are and how far we have travelled. In the year of America's birth, in the coldest of months, a small band of patriots huddled by dying campfires on the shores of an icy river. The capital was abandoned. The enemy was advancing. The snow was stained with blood. At a moment when the outcome of our revolution was most in doubt, the father of our nation ordered these words be read to the people:

"Let it be told to the future world... that in the depth of winter, when nothing but hope and virtue could survive... that the city and the country, alarmed at one common danger, came forth to meet [it]."

America. In the face of our common dangers, in this winter of our hardship, let us remember these timeless words. With hope and virtue, let us brave once more the icy currents, and endure what storms may come. Let it be said by our children's children that when we were tested we refused to let this journey end, that we did not turn back nor did we falter; and with eyes fixed on the horizon and God's grace upon us, we carried forth that great gift of freedom and delivered it safely to future generations.

Thank you. God bless you. And God bless the United States of America.

Mini Dresses, Watches, Cincher-uppers and Boyfriend Polos FOR SALE!

Mad about Plaid?

Glam-a-fying an Outfit?

Arm Candy? Anyone?

or are you itching for that Tomboy-Sexy Look?

Whatever it is, here's one place where you can all find these...

CLICK ME

you know u want to.

Midnight Sun

Okay. Add me up in Edward Cullen's list of hungry-for-his-bite fans. Desperate even. But how could you not when your not so average vampire looks this hot in wayfarers? Movie was not that great. The story was too compressed that if you didn't read the book, more so, if you've never heard of the Twilight series, it would appear too pilit and think that they were not actually in love but infatuated with each other. But all those details are waived as Edward does his signature stare at Bella. I wouldn't mind being stalked by someone hot as hell, yet literally cool as ice. One stare lang, lag-lag panty na.

I was browsing the net for more pictures of Rob Pattinson when I came across the Twilight official site and discovered a 5th book in the best selling saga. It is Edward's version of the first story. According to the author, the book's draft was leaked out on the internet. She decided to temporarily stop writing since she "is not in her right state of mind." Although, she was nice enough to release Chapters 1-12 of her illegally distributed draft so that her "readers don't have to feel they have to make a sacrifice to stay honest."

Can't give out any more details to the draft since I'm currently reading it too.. aaand, i have to wipe off this pool of drool from too much Edward/Rob obsession. Besides, I know that you'll be on the prowl for a copy of Midnight Sun. I just wanted to return the favor to all Twilight fans who encouraged me to give in to my own temptation and buy and read the book 2 days before the movie was released.

---------
You are my life now.. ---Edward Cullen to Bella..

OMFG.

Davaoeña in Manila: Week 1

First few differences I've noticed between Davao and Manila.

1. You can't drink water from the faucet.
2. The jeepneys here do not travel long distances. (meaning you have to get on at least 2-3-4 different jeeps to get to where you wanna be)
3. The tricycles here are "lowered" and a 2 kilometer ride costs around P44.00 (according to Pow)
4. Pests here are Mutants. Cockroaches aren't their usual squishable size and the Rats are as big as cats.
5. When it rains, it POURS, and floods.
6. The air, of course, isn't as fresh as Davao's. If you're used to clean air and you're riding in a non-air vehicle downtown, you might get caught between choosing to hold your breath till you turn purple or inhale the Manila pollution.
7. Drivers and salespeople are maangas and don't dance the way all the salespeople do in Davao malls.
8. Jeepney barkers pronounce "SM" as "esemm," unlike in Davao where they pronounce it as "is-im." hehe
9. With the exception of high end establishments, everywhere you look seems dirty.
10. Puppies have their own restaurants.

Okay, so i sound kinda negative. I'll post Manila's positive side on my next entry. Pictures will come some other time, when I get my gadgets rolling. Til later then!

Isadora: The Villain to Love

What can i say? I'm hooked to Iisa Pa Lamang. Isadora is the kind of villain you want to see more of and imitate. haha Here are some of my favorite lines. Enjoy.

♥

Isadora: Aalis ka? Ah ganun! So, pera pera na lang. Matapos kitang kunin sa bundok, bihisan, at pakainin ng imported na corned beef! Ito ang gagawin mo sakin?

Katulong: Eh Ma'am, wala na nga po kaming makain dito eh.

Isadora: Eh kayo-kayo kaya ang umubos ng mga pagkain na pina-grocery ko...Walang hiya ka! Lumayas ka!

♥

Estelle: Pagnanakaw sa taong bayan. Aba, nabigla ako sa salita ni Rafael. Akalain mo, parang inakusahan na rin nya ng magnanakaw ang mga magulang nya.

Isadora: Naku! Alam mo, sigurado ako. Influence yan ni Katherine. Naku, kaya nagiging pro-poor yang mashado si Rafael eh papaano nga eh itong si Katherine..poor na poor!

♥

Isadora: Oh, aren't you excited to see me?

Scarlet: Excited? Alam mo ba na mas excited pa akong magpunta ng dentista at mag pa-root canal kesa ang makaharap ka?

Isadora: Naku, ikaw naman. Nagpapaka-funny. Kung ang lahat ng bulok na ngipin ay kasing ganda ko, oh di wala ng bibili ng toothpaste....ahihihihi I'm so witty.

♥

Isadora to Miguel: O, tingnan mo yang pasa mo ha. Nakaganti ka man lang ba? Naku, ikaw sa susunod nga ha. Galing-galingan mo yung pag ilag mo, yung parang si Pacquiao. O kaya, wag ka namang huminto hangga't hindi ka nakaka ganti! Laki-laki ng katawan mo, nagpasapak ka sa Rafael na yun.

Miguel: Ma, pwede ba. Ayokong pag usapan to...

Isadora: Ay hindi! Pag uusapan natin to hangga't sa gusto ko. Tatalak ako hangga't gusto ko.

Sophia: Ma, kuya might lose his job because of this!

Isadora: Hmmm...kung sa bagay. Tama ka dun. Pasensya na...na-carried away lang ako. Eh gusto ko lang ma-realize nitong si Miguel na sana pinakita nya sa mga Toralba na hindi sa lahat ng pagkakataon panalo sila. Kaka-stress!!! Hay....o sige, mabuti pa bumalik ka sa opisina mo ngayon, ha? Tapos, yun, lumapit ka kay Rafael. Humingi ka ng sorry.

Miguel: What? You're unbelievable!

Isadora: Of course! I'm unbelievably good! Hoy, Miguel. Kapakanan mo lang ang iniisip ko. hindi ka pwede mawalan ngayon ng trabaho. At isa pa, kelangan mong alagaan yang career mo ngayon.

(Isadora walks by the window and looks outside)

Isadora: Naku, hindi ko kasi maintindihan kung bakit hanggang ngayon nagpapaka tanga ka sa pag ibig! Hindi na matapos-tapos yang kabaliwan mo kay Katherine (Miguel walks out). Naku, napapagod nako Miguel! Napapagod naku sa kakaturo sayo......................................O, Sophia, nasan ang kuya mo? ...........................HOY! humingi ka ng tawad ha.....Yung sincere na sincere! Hay naku!

(Isadora takes a look at her almost empty living room)

Isadora to Sophia: O, ang ganda naman pala eh diba? Minimalist. Bagay naman pala, o. Luwang pa. Noh, anak?

(Sophia gives a dumb look)

♥

Isadora: Ganito pala ang buhay hampaslupa... kaloka!

♥

Katherine: Pagod ako. Huwag kang loloko-loko. Baka gusto mo ihampas ko tong bag kong mas mahal pa sa'yo!

Isadora: Sabagay, ako rin eh, pagod makipaghampasan. Next time, ok? In fairness ah, ang ganda ng damit mo. Pahiram minsan ha.

♥

Aura: Kung ako sa iyo, magbalot-balot ka na, at malapit ka nang mapatalsik sa Amadesto
Isadora: Kahit kelan di mo ako mapapaalis sa Amadesto. Aking ang lupang iyon…
Aura: Lupa lang ba ang gusto mo? Ilang paso ang gusto mo?
Isadora: Haciendera ako Aura, hindi hardinera…
Isadora: Isa ka lang dumi sa paningin ko.
Aura: Tandaan mo, balang araw, itong dumi na ito ang pupuwing sa iyo
Isadora: Eh di magsi-shades ako.

♥

Isadora talking to a bloodied AND PRESUMABLY DEAD Aura who just fell from a flight of stairs from their house: Aura... Aura!!!! Hoy! Wag mo nga akong artehan... Di naman ganon kataas ang hagdan mo!

♥

I just love her. Watch the last two weeks of the serye for more of Isadora's witty remarks.
Weeknights, at around 9PM :)

Get 'em while they're HOT!

Cebu Pacific is at it again!

Pay only P1,050.00 for Roundtrip tickets on all(?) domestic flights from January to March 15, 2009!!!!! Just add P200 if travelling with check-in baggage.

Deadline for advanced booking promo is until tomorrow only, October 27, 2008..

Click on to Cebu Pacific's webpage for more details!

i ♥ Rain

It makes everyone extra sweet, don't you think so too?

Laughter in the Rain

Strolling along country roads with my baby
It starts to rain, it begins to pour
Without an umbrella we're soaked to the skin
I feel a shiver run up my spine
I feel the warmth of his hand in mine

Oh, I hear laughter in the rain
Walking hand in hand with the one I love
Oh, how I love the rainy days
And the happy way I feel inside

After a while we run under a tree
I turn to his and he kisses me
There with the beat of the rain on the leaves
Softly he breathes and I close my eyes
Sharing our love under stormy skies

Oh, I hear laughter in the rain
Walking hand in hand with the one I love
Oh, how I love the rainy days
And the happy way I feel inside

[break]

I feel the warmth of his hand in mine

Oh, I hear laughter in the rain
Walking hand in hand with the one I love
Oh, how I love the rainy days
And the happy way I feel inside

Oh, I hear laughter in the rain
Walking hand in hand with the one I love
Oh, how I love the rainy days
And the happy way I feel inside

Oh, I hear laughter in the rain
Walking hand in hand with the one I love
Oh, how I love the rainy days
And the happy way I feel inside

The Georgina Diaries

Yesterday, after jogging - err rather walking, we stopped by our neighbor's house because a litter of pups were doing what they do best, looking cute. Our neighbor asked us if we wanted one. She said that she couldn't handle taking care of all of them, and we were more than happy to adopt one (or two?) of 'em. We got a cute girl pup, and I named her George.

Why George?

When I was a little kid, I used to watch looney tunes all the time. One of my favorite episodes included an abominable snowman who wanted to have his very own bunny rabbit.

(the amazing youtube truly has a wide array of videos!)


Ever since this episode, I, too, wanted to have a pet named "George" to hug and squeeze and pet. And without a doubt, I would be doing a much, much, MUCH better job than that snowman. :)

On Georgie's first day with me, I had a lotta fun playing with her. I went to the mall to buy stuff for her. I turned a cart into something I thought she would be comfortable in.
I went out for a while and asked our Ate Nene to look after my baby. When I came back, my momma told me that George had been crying the whole time. I took her inside my room so that she wouldn't feel lonely. I put her to sleep and when she finally did at 1AM, I rested. In what I thought had been a few hours, I was awaken by George's howls. When I looked at my clock, it was only 2AM! I tried to quiet her down, and she did. But after a few minutes or seconds, she went howling again - which seemed a few decibels higher than the ones before. Georgie was really testing my patience. I was thinking that at this rate, I'm never going to get any sleep. I did what any reasonable, sleepy, cranky person would do. I took her to the kitchen where she could move around freely and scream all night.

On her second day, George was less fussy. It turned out that she was just hungry yesterday. We were feeding her milk since she's only about 3 weeks old. But when my mom fed her rice with soup, she became more active than the Energizer bunny. It didn't take her five minutes to finish her meal. Boy was she hungry! Patay gutom talaga. She was recharged! She became more playful, malambing and bouncier. I didn't get to spend much time on the internet because she would cry every now and then and I had to pull her out of a hole or help her out when she gets too scared to jump back down the steps she climbed.

I may just have had a sneak peak of mommy-hood. My baby is most of the time annoying, shrill and needy. But when she puts her paws on my feet, and tries to snuggle beside me to sleep, she proves to be one of the most effective stress relievers during this time in my life.

Labor of Love: How to Make a Personalized Guestbook/Scrapbook

I just want to share to everybody how I made my inaanak Isshi's guestbook. That way, the mommies or party planners who get to read this entry can make one themselves. :)

What you will need:

• 2 illustration boards (i used 1/3 sized ones so that it'll be almost as big as the celebrant) P11.50 each @ NCCC Mall
• Cartolina -- P6.50 each @ National Bookstore
  
• Construction paper @ P20-30.00 (around 20 colored sheets) @ NCCC Mall
  
• sequins (the flat ones) -- Mine (you can get them at around P10 @ NCCC Linens Section or P20/pack at the bead shop inside Golden Bell.
• Glass beads - mine (available at this beads shop in san pedro street for P6.00 per pack)
  
• 3-toned yarn @ P15.00 @ NCCC Mall
• Fabric/Craft Paint -- Mine (P33.75 each @ National Bookstore. If on a budget, you may use colored glue which is sold at around P15-20.00)
• Shells -- Mine (you may find some lying around your house)
• Fuzzy Wires - P20.00 @ National Bookstore
  
• Scissors and glue
• Clear Tape

First, you have to talk to the mommy or the host about the details of the party. That way whatever idea you come up with will match with the party's theme. In my case, my friend wanted an "Under the Sea" theme. Since she gave me full control of the guestbook, I decided to surprise her with my ideas as well. I went for a "Mermaid" design.

Before you start buying materials, you have to envision the final product. That way, you avoid overspending or overbuying unnecessary stuff. After figuring out the details to your project, you may start browsing different shops to compare where you can get the best value for your money. I advise starting to shop for materials weeks before your deadline so that you avoid "okay nalang or ito nalang" shopping. Make buying the materials a leisurely activity. Don't pressure yourself to buy the items all at once. Although, if you're a weeks behind schedule, then you'd better start rushing. haha

Project Proper

• Use the illustration board to provide a hard cover for your guestbook. I used the black portion of the board to make the colors more distinct. Using the white part would not only make your artwork look flat, it also makes your front cover prone to unnecessary smudges.

• The next step is to outline the mermaid on the illustration board using a lead pencil. Draw the details (e.g. scales, tail lines, shell bra top..). Don't forget to allot a little space for your page fasteners.
  

• Start decorating the more intricate parts of the project. I started with the tail.

• To make the tail shining, shimmering and splendid, I used flat aqua colored sequins. I traced the outline of the tail using glue, then stuck sequins one by one. Tedious job? Need not worry. There's a short cut. Slightly dip the tip of your pencil in a little blob of glue. Use the glued tip to pick up the sequins, then stick 'em to the outline. If you have enough patience to do this for the whole tail, then go for it. Otherwise, do what I did. I used glossy craft paint to scribble different styles of swirls in the blank spaces of the tail, thereby giving it a more solid look. Let the paint dry.

• Do the body next. I used flesh/orange toned glass beads to outline the mermaid's body. Unlike the tail, I didn't fill up the spaces with craft paint. Too many patterns generate headaches.

• To make the Bra top, i used two shells. Clean them first with soap and water before decorating. Wipe 'em dry. Stick the shells on the illustration board by placing glue on the shells' edges. If the shells are in place, place blobs of clear glue around the edges of each shell to give better support. Fill up the remaining spaces with glass beads and clear glue to give the shells a more 'glam' look. I glazed them with 3 different colors of paint to make them stand out even more.

Personalize it!

This is the second most important ingredient in making anything customized. For Isshi's guestbook, to make her or her mommy feel that it's truly theirs, I used Isshi's face as the mermaid's own by printing her photo on a 6x4 sized photo paper. (Photo paper is P10.00 at CD R-King, or have it printed at Fujifilm for P8.00 only)

• Estimate the photo's size before printing so that it doesn't look too big or too small for the mermaid's body. After putting the photo in its place, you may now start with the hair.
  

• I used the 3-colors-in-one yarn to make the hair. Making this takes a lot of patience. Cut and Glue the yarn one by one to make it look like hair strands.

Guestbook Pages

• Draw theme-related items on the construction paper to act as the guest's writing area. Make them small enough to fit at least 6 of them into the pages, and big enough for short messages.
  

• To make the colors more alive, I pasted the cut-outs to a cartolina of contrasting colors. After pasting, cut around 1 cm from the construction paper's outline, still following the original shape.
  

• To make the pages of the guestbook, trace the front cover's shape into the cartolina. Cut through the shape, although leave around 1 inch from the outline so that the pages turn out to be smaller than the guestbook covers.
  

• Paste at least 6 cut-outs on the pages, and arrange them in such a way that no two similar shapes or colors are together. This avoids monotony.
  

• Using craft paint, draw different shapes or swirls along the empty spaces of the pages just to jazz 'em up a little bit more.

Putting them all together

• Place clear tape behind the "page fastener" space of each page. This avoids the pages from getting ripped from the guestbook.
  

• Punch two holes on the space provided for the fasteners. Then place a fuzzy wire on one hole and twirl it around the other end to lock it. Do the same for the other hole. :)

Voila! Your very own guestbook.

It took me around a week to buy the materials and another one to make this guestbook. To make something as captivating (haha self praising) as this, you need to enjoy, and most especially love what you're doing.

I think that in anything you do, may it be artwork, cooking or photography, when you do it with passion & love, you give your work that factor which causes the recepients' eyes grow with excitement upon receiving, tasting or seeing your work. The most important element in making anything personalized is the heart. When you do anything with your heart, you share a part of you, making it extra extra special.

If you love what you're doing, your finished product will certainly exude sincerity - thereby making your project even more adorable. Truly a labor of love. And believe me, nothing beats the feeling of seeing people's faces light up with gratitude, happiness and appreciation while receiving your work. Cheaper in cost, priceless by nature.
♥
Happy Birthday Isshi!

Love always,
Ninang :)

It's Legit!

Finally, it has arrived.The much awaited license cards of the nurses who passed the December 2007 board exam have finally come! We registered last April of this year and the cards were released just this month. Yep, you counted right. Six excruciating months of waiting. That's PRC for you. I know that we were already certified nurses long before they were released, but the card sort of validates our title. Not to mention, adds plus points to our yabang factor.
**Grinning from ear to ear**

The Sale-Itch. Don't scratch it.

Why do pinoys feel the need to spend and shop like crazy during mall sales, and complain about being or feeling poor at the same time?

I just came from SM's crazy 3-day sale. I didn't get anything for myself, though. Not that there wasn't anything good to buy. All Flip-flops had a 40% off sale on selected items/sizes. Although, Havie-holics had to endure at least an hour in line before they can get into the store. The department store had up to 70% off and Buy1 Take1 promos on selected items. Lines averaged on eight shoppers per counter. From the second floor, the people below looked like busy black ants ready to trample on anyone who blocks their way. Raffle boxes were on almost every mall entrance. (For every P500 = 1 raffle ticket) Big prizes such as refrigerators, washing machines, and 50 Next Base speakers/pods await the winners. People were crowding over the "ticket-claiming" booth. If I were to do the math, each family/group spent at least P500 that afternoon. As I filled up our raffle ticket, (yes, 1 lang), I noticed that three other average looking shoppers were filling up around 5-10 tickets each!

Never underestimate the powers of a mall. More so, the powers of a mall and a big sale. I mean, most of the people were buying stuff not because they needed 'em. Most of them were buying just because it was the last day of the sale and didn't want to get left behind. They might have also been caught up with the discount+raffle ticket frenzy that some of them were adding more unnecessary items to their cart just to reach P500 and avail of the P50 off discount (for SM Advantage Card holders only) or get one measly raffle ticket (e.g. Momma).

Don't get me wrong. I'm a shop-a-holic myself. I'm not trying to be KJ, it's just that with news about stockmarkets plummeting, this ironic situation amazes me.

Grabe. Shopping and malling, our national pastime? Partly the reason why shopping malls are sprouting everywhere, perhaps. And they tell us we're a third world country. hehe

My Silver Lining, Widgets!

I super dooper love 'em! :)

I originally wanted to customize my blogger template, but since it's starting to become a source of major stress, I temporarily gave up the search for the perfect xml template generator and concentrated on widgetifying my bloggie.

For all frustrated xml-template-customizers like me, visit this site, and find & install widgets to re-invent your blog to give it a more you look.

P.S.
To all XML Dorks: Maybe you can help me tweak my lil hideaway. :)

*Blog-date*

I just found out that customizing the new blogger doesn't really need special skills. You just need to find a great XML template to work with. Create ur own banner, upload it to photobucket. Then from the orig template, replace the banner's url with your own banner. Simple as that. Sheesh.

Food for the Soul

Today was a far more productive day compared to my usual daily activities. I did the finishing touches on my inaanak's guestbook for her first birthday, swerved across Uyanguren traffic to help momma with her errands, and finally, gave in to pow's persistent request and attended their CLP (Christian Life Program) facilitated by Singles/Couples for Christ.

It's not like i have anything against religious or spiritual gatherings, it's just that i've had the impression that such assemblies require all participants to share personal experiences to the whole group and/or a facilitator or a member from the group would force unsolicited pieces of advice to the "sharer."

Anyway, God truly made a way to make this experience more appealing and memorable for me. This evening's topic was about love. We didn't limit its definition to romantic love alone, but the meaning of love on a broader aspect. After the speaker's talk, we were divided into smaller clusters for the sharing session.

I didn't have any difficulty pouring my thoughts out to these strangers. Sharing came naturally. Seeing the other members intently listening to my story, nodding along as i went on, made me want to share a little bit more about me. (with the exception of our facilitator who seemed to be staring blankly at me the whole time...)

This experience changed how i felt towards religious groups/gatherings. Although, I still think that forced-sharing and unsolicited advice may still transpire during such sessions, but the amount of personal information you share and what advice you listen to will only be up to you. The listening experience during the featured speaker's talk and group sessions definitely outweighs whatever negative impression I have of 'em.

Pow's definition of the CLP experience perfectly describes the reason why one should attend it. "Gina-re-affirm nya yung mga tingin mo alam mo na, and binibigyan ka pa ng meaning ng mga ito the Christian way, making your ideas more concrete."

Not only have i made Powski very happy, but most importantly, my soul has been reconnected with my heart and mind. :)

Portico, a fresh addition to a growing community

Amateur Photographer

Taken with a camera phone this morning.. who knew it would make it in the papers. haha interesting photo, really.

P.S.
**Ahem! Me naka encircle in red..**

*** click on picture for a bigger version. **

--Mindanao Daily Mirror; August 4, 2008

FYI: No, they did not pay me for this. They inserted this pic for "fun" lang. para walang blank spaces sa paper.. :D

Prepare for Awesomeness!

That’s right. I just watched the very adorable, monochromatic colored jiggly-puff in cool orange patched-up shorts: Kung Fu Panda!

Jack Black stars in another animated goodie which shows that he (or his voice) can be über adorable. (FYI: He also played Lenny the vegetarian shark in Shark Tale.)

The movie is about a panda named Po, whose father (a goose) pushes him to run the family business – the noodle restaurant. Po, being the kung fu enthusiast, thinks otherwise. But since he can’t afford to break his father’s heart, he keeps his dreams to himself. Until one day, Master Oogway (the weird Confucius-ish turtle) predicts that Tai Lung (the bad leopard) will escape the rhino-guarded prison and return to their village to claim the dragon scroll, which is supposed to be for the Dragon Warrior’s eyes only. And so the search for the Dragon Warrior began, for Master Oogway also predicted that he is destined to defeat the ferocious Tai Lung.

Lem’me just leave you hanging at that before I blab some more and turn this entry into a spoiler.

Aside from Jack Black, big stars such as Dustin Hoffman (Master Shifu), Angelina Jolie (Master Tigress), Lucy Liu (Master Viper) and Jackie Chan (Master Monkey) dubbed some of the other “kung fu masters” in the movie.

So, just how fantastic is this movie? Let’s just say that I have been swamped with Po’s pudginess that Pow’s arms were constantly pinched and grabbed because of overflowing gigil. I also didn’t catch a few lines in the movie ‘coz most of the time the audience were roaring in laughter. Tai Lung even had me hiding behind Pow’s hand!

Packed with vibrant kung fu action scenes, most of which were motivated by food, on-cue comedy, and the “awesomeness” factor which all characters possessed, it will surely have you craving for siopao and running to the nearest McDonald’s branch to complete Po and the Furious Five action figures! That’s where I’m headed now… Bye! **Hayaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaa!**