Thoughts, Experiences and Reality

I'm Still Blessed

2010-09-27T01:30:00.000-07:00

I underwent various laboratory examinations for the past two weeks mainly because I'm complaining of irregular menses. My gynecologist decided to do another ultrasound but she cannot see anything wrong with my ovaries and my uterus.

It was good news that she still did not find anything wrong but I wasn't relieved. I feel that there's something wrong with me and I have to know the cause of all these bad feelings. She then advised me to have my thyroid checked, among others.

I had blood tests which they call T3, T4 and TSH. After seeing the result of my blood tests, my gynecologist advised me to see an Endocrinologist. I had to endure 2 more days since the schedule of the Endocrinologist is every Tuesday and Thursday.

I went to see the Endocrinologist on Tuesday (September 21, 2010). He told me that I'm suffering from hypothyroidism and that there's no cure. I don't know if I would be happy or sad... I don't really know what I felt that time. Somehow, I felt relieved... because at least now, I know that this is the cause of the laziness, the falling hair, the small aches and pains in my body, and my irregular menses.

The doctor gave me a medicine which I should take everyday... for the rest of my life. I would have to undergo another test after a month just to monitor the thyroxine level in my blood.

Despite this sickness, I know that I'm still blessed. I am blessed with a family that never ceases to support me, with a partner who continues to be patient and takes care of me, and with friends who go to the hospital with me and those who always listen and are there whenever I need them. This is my way of saying thank you to all of you!

Live Streaming of Marikina City Council Sessions

2010-07-25T23:50:00.000-07:00

After the May 10, 2010 National and Local Elections, the leadership of the City of Marikina has changed. Mayor Del R. De Guzman, a former 2nd District Congressman, is now the man in charge of continuing the development of the City.

Working hand in hand with him is the newly elected Vice Mayor, Dr. Jose Fabian I. Cadiz who is seriously working towards eradicating the use of illegal drugs in the City.

He has also made sure that everyone can view the City Council Sessions being held every Wednesday at 9:00 a.m. via live streaming at www.marikinacitycouncil.co.cc

He is trying to accomplish a e-governance system by creating his own team of tech experts called the Marikina City Council Information and Technology Center with the battle cry, "Transparency, Accountability and Accessibility through Information Technology".

Our Anniversary

2010-07-19T21:28:00.000-07:00

It had been a year since we first met... I never thought that meeting would pave for a year of happy moments for us. But it did and now we are still together... though there are times that we have disagreements, we still held on to each other.

We may not be a perfect couple but still we are happy and we are together. I can only pray that in the coming years, we would be more mature in handling our relationship and we would be able to give each other support in every way we can.

I love you! Happy Anniversary...

Rainy Days are Here!

2010-07-12T20:04:00.001-07:00

I'm not really fond of rainy days. I kind of feel a bit blue when it rains, for some reason maybe it's because of the coldness of the day or the somewhat darker than usual atmosphere that's making me feel a bit down.

But today, I thank God for the rain that's slowly pouring on the pavement outside my workplace. I thank God because we badly need water right now. Many dams are now on the lowest water level and it would affect a lot of people if it becomes even lower.

I don't want to be selfish and think only about my unreasonable dislike of rainy days. I'm happy today, there's going to be more water for all of us and that's all that matters. Thank God for this blessing!

A New Post... After a Long Time of Hiatus

2010-07-12T18:09:00.000-07:00

It's been more than seven (7) months after my last post. I have actually forgotten my password for this account already. I didn't notice that it was that long. I had to search for my list of passwords to be able to sign in my account.

What ever happened? Why was I gone too long? I don't really know... I just lost the desire to write for sometime. I was at a loss for anything to write. Or maybe I was just too lazy.

Whatever it is... I want to go back to writing again, I don't want to permanently lose my writing ability. I would like to be able to express myself again through writing.

I am back... and I'll be back for good!

Come and Join the "You Gotta See This" Video Contest!

2009-12-03T06:46:00.000-08:00

Do you want to have fun and earn money as well? Then come and join the "You Gotta See This" Video Contest sponsored by Abbott Medical Optics Inc. (AMO).

Abbott Medical Optics Inc. is the global leader in laser vision correction. A lot of people were already benefited by the laser vision correction being conducted by the Abbott Medical Optics Inc.

Perfect vision has always been an important factor in our daily live. We use our eyes to read, to see our environment, to see our loved ones and everything around us including ourselves. Many people with eye deficiencies are very thankful that there is now this laser vision correction that can restore your eye sight to its normal condition.

So, if you are one of them come and join this wonderful video contest. You may submit an original video showing whatever you do best or the things that you have fun doing.

The Prizes at stake are as follows:
$5,000 Grand Prize

First Prize (one in each video category):
HDTV package — a $2,500 value

Second Prize (one in each video category):
The Flip UltraHD™ camcorder — a $199.99 value

Here's how to join:

1. Submit A Video
Users make and submit a video in one of the following categories:
• “My contacts are getting in the way of my good time”
• “My favorite sport or activity would be so much cooler with better vision”
• “You should see life after the iLASIK® Procedure”

2. Tell Friends To Vote
Once users submit a video, their friends can vote on it. And votes are one of the key factors in determining which videos win a prize.

3. Have A Chance To Win
• One Grand Prize winner will win $5,000 — selected from all submitted videos
• Three First Prize winners will win an HDTV package(a $2,500 value) — one per video category
• Three Second Prize winners will win the Flip UltraHD camcorder (a $199.99 value) — one per video category

All entries must be submitted to this site: www.GottaSeeThisNow.com.

iLASIK Video Contest

This is a Sponsored Post written by me on behalf of Incendia Health. All opinions are 100% mine.

Movie Watching: Terminator Salvation

2009-05-31T20:12:00.000-07:00

Me and my friends watched "Terminator Salvation" after work last Friday at the Blue Wave Marquinton Mall here in Marikina City.

The movie was full of action, the scenes were great but I didn't quite like the story itself or maybe I'm just tired of the Terminator saga and never thought another one would come out at this time or maybe it was because I wasn't feeling very good that time that I misjudged the movie.

I may not like the entire movie, but the actors are really good. I like Sam Worthington (Marcus Wright)very much. He has portrayed the role well, in fairness to him. I also like the actor who portrayed John Connor too, but only next to Sam.

But the fact that I have my friends with me that time, watching a not-so-good movie with me when I could have been alone and lonely at home, still made the activity worth it.

It's fun being Single too!

2009-05-28T03:01:00.000-07:00

It was Thursday last week, when my friend, who can be very impulsive at times, asked me to come with him to meet another friend from Surigao. We have not seen him in person yet, so we traveled all the way from Marikina to the Mall of Asia (MOA) to take the opportunity to meet him. Although, for a very good reason, he wasn't able to make it and we did not get to meet him in person.

Anyway, we took the LRT going to Recto and from there took a jeepney going to Buendia and then a shuttle going to the Mall of Asia. It was quite a long route but we enjoyed talking non-stop inside the jeepney. We talk about life, relationships, fun times and even heartaches.

We finally reached MOA a few minutes before 9:00 PM. We were already starving so what we first did was find a place to eat. There are so many restaurants to choose from but we both decided to eat in a restaurant named "Bangus" (milk fish). It was our first time to eat there. We ordered Aligi (crab paste) Rice, Fried Bangus belly with sweet Sampalok (tamarind) Candy Sauce with Crispy Kangkong and Buko Shake. We definitely enjoyed the food since we both love bangus belly.

After being so full, we had to walk a bit inside the mall to look for some change of clothes since we decided not to go home that night anymore. We both bought two shirts and shorts, after a few minutes of choosing from the racks.

When the mall was about to close, we decided to stay at the bay side. We sat there and once again talked about anything and everything under the sun or the moonlight would be more appropriate. We don't always agree with everything but we respect each others opinion. We stayed there talking until 12 midnight when the guard told us that we have to leave the place already.

We don't know where we will go but we decided to take the bus going to Cubao. It was about 1 or 2 AM when we get there. We don't know where to stay so we decided to just stay in my house since we will have to go to work the following day. We took a cab and got there before 3AM.

It was so much fun. Doing simple things, not having anyone to worry about someone, not needing to ask anybody's permission to go to places. I never realized till then that sometimes, it's fun being single too.

WW: Beautiful Creation

2009-05-26T22:35:00.000-07:00

Thanks to Engr. Elbert M. Malonzo, RHCT for this beautiful picture.

A year in Marikina Valley Community Forum

2009-05-21T20:21:00.000-07:00

How time flies! I didn't notice that I was already a member of the Marikina Valley Community Forum for a year now.

It was my friend Mhel who invited me to join this group. The site was up for only a few months before I was eventually able to register. I can no longer recall how many members were already there when I registered but I was glad that I did since everyone warmly welcomed me to the site. But it was only on June 13, 2008 when I first joined them in an "EB". I met JC, Vinzer, Elbert, Angelo, Randy and Jabey. Dennis, who works in the same institution as mine, was also there.

We met outside the Bluewave Marquinton Mall and from there, we proceeded to Yellow Cab and had pizza and pasta. They are all young, lively people who are photography enthusiasts and computer geeks. I enjoyed being with them even if it was only the first time I met them. I had fun listening to them, joking with them and just talking and eating with them.

It was not the first time that we went out together. It was followed by a lot more gatherings, dine outs, photo shoots, parties and road trips. I always have fun being with them. I gained new friends because of this forum and I thank JC for that.

Thanks to Jabey for the photos.

Our angel has turned 1

2009-05-18T22:59:00.000-07:00

A year ago, another blessing was given to our family; My sister gave birth to her first baby, a little angel she named "Arwen Beatrice". She was 5.17 pounds and was so small then.

And last Sunday, May 17, she turned a year old. We had her party at home. A lot of children from the neighborhood joined the fun. There were three (3) clowns who entertained the children, led the games and played some magic tricks. All the visitors were thrilled.

There was also a big blue cake with Little Mermaid design. The children had plenty to eat; they had spaghetti, chicken, waffles and the chocolate coated wafer sticks which even the adults liked. They also had ice cream in Macapuno, Cookies and Cream and Cheese flavors.

It was so much fun despite the rain. The party started at 3:00 PM and went on until 6:00 PM. We were all so tired but thankful that our friends and relatives have come to join us in celebrating Arwen Beatrice's 1st Birthday Party.

To all our neighbors, friends and relatives who were there... Thank you!

Bob Ong's Kapitan Sino is now available!

2009-05-15T07:54:00.000-07:00

It was early this year when I first heard that Bob Ong is about to release his 7th book in May. Since then, me and my friends were all waiting excitedly for this book.

We were even quite disappointed when the first week of May passed and it was still not out in the bookstores. It was only on Monday (May 11) when I called Visprint Publishing that I found out that "Kapitan Sino" will be available in Pandayan Bookstores by May 13. I immediately called Pandayan Bookstore on Wednesday morning to verify if there are available stocks of Bob Ong's book already. I was so excited when the sales lady said that the book was already available but they only got a few stocks.

I had to make a reservation and promised to pick it up the following day. Luckily, I had the chance to go to the Pandayan Bookstore branch in Cainta, Rizal and finally got myself a copy.

After the success of Bob Ong's books: ABNAKKBSNPLAKo, Bakit Baliktad Magbasa ng Libro ang mga Pilipino, Ang Paboritong Libro ni Hudas, Alamat ng Gubat, Mc Arthur, and Stainless Longganisa,Kapitan Sino is finally out in some bookstores. You can buy it for only P175.00.

A night out in Metrowalk Ortigas

2009-05-14T19:47:00.000-07:00

It was my friend's birthday last May 3 and we (Hanzel, Steve, Oyo Boy, Me and the birthday girl Atty. Princess)celebrated it by having lots of fun in Metrowalk, Ortigas.

We started the whole night of fun by having dinner in Oyster Boy. We ordered Beef Kaldereta, Baked Oysters, Kangkong, and Adobong Pusit. The latter being Hanzel's favorite. I liked the oysters very much... I actually had four big oysters. I think I ate most of it.

After being full to almost the brink, we looked for a good place to have a few drinks while playing billiards. We found the "Elbow Room" on the second floor of the Metrowalk. It is a nice place, with a singer to serenade those who are not busy playing. We actually had two buckets of beer and played billiards for two hours. I don't really know how to play billiards but I enjoyed trying to hit the ball and make it go to the nearest hole possible. We stayed there until 1AM, just playing, drinking, talking and having fun.

To end the night out, we had coffee in the nearest "Starbucks" that we found on the ground floor of the Metrowalk. I had a cup of hot coffee while they all enjoyed their frapuccino.

We were still a little bit drunk, tired and sleepy when we decided to go home. I actually slept while on the way home, that's the good thing about not having to drive.

Fun has ended and by 3:30 AM, I was safely brought home by my friends.

Trapped!

2009-03-23T10:36:00.000-07:00

I usually stay for an hour or less in the office after my work hours have ended but yesterday, I was so engrossed at what I was reading that I did not notice that it was already 7:00 PM. I have stayed in the office for two hours after my work. It was then that I decided to turn off my pc, tidy up a bit, turn off the lights and call it a day.

It was also at that moment, as I reached the end of the hallway that I noticed the doors are actually locked. I am inside the office building, on the 2nd floor, all alone and I’m trapped! I started to panic… but then I had to think of something.

I remember my friend, Dennis, is still in the other building since I said goodbye to him over the YM before I turned my computer off. I hurriedly opened my office again, looked for the phonebook and there I found Dennis’ office number and dialed. It seemed to me that the ringing of the phone has taken an hour before it was picked up. I panicked again and thought he just left but there it was… the sound of his voice on the other end of the line and I was relieved.

I told him to come over to my building and tell the guard downstairs that I was locked up in the 2nd floor but I guess I really wasn’t thinking well that time because he thought of a more sensible way. He asked the guard assigned in his building to radio the guard assigned in mine and tell them I was trapped.

It was another long wait… which I think took only seven (7) minutes as I recall now. I had to turn on all the lights in my office and in the hallway. I don’t feel good being locked up, I almost felt like I was suffocating so I had to calm myself down. It wouldn’t look good if the guard arrives and see me passed out in the office anyway, so I had to be brave.

The guard on duty finally arrived, saw me inside, opened the locked doors and apologized profusely for his mistake.

Bloggers' Friday Night Out at Source Bar

2009-03-22T20:55:00.000-07:00

Last Friday, I had the chance to attend a bloggers' party at the Source Bar in Ortigas, Pasig City with two of my friends. It was a bloggers' party and at the same time the launching of the all new Playboy Magazine.

I was surprised at how different the bloggers looked that night in comparison to the bloggers' wifi testing recently held in SM Marikina. Everyone is garbed with their night outfit and looks ready to party.

We got there by 8PM and a few people were already there. A few minutes have passed and the bar was almost full with nice looking people. Everyone seems happy to be there, including me.

Playboy mags were handed out to the early birds and later that night, prizes were given away to lucky game winners. We left even before the party was over so I never had the chance to see who the sexiest male and female bloggers were that night.

It was a fun-filled evening and I was glad that I was a part of it.

A weekend with my friends

2009-03-09T00:08:00.000-07:00

I was up early last Saturday, though I had a hard time sleeping again that Friday night. I'm getting used to sleeping only a few hours at night nowadays. Anyway, I was up early to do my usual chores that goes with living alone... my laundry, watering my plants, feeding my fish, tidying up the garage, doing the dishes, cleaning the house and a lot more.

I started early because I am expecting my friends to be coming before lunch time. True to their words, Jabey and Dennis came at around 11:00 am while Jil and Elbert came a few minutes after them. I already finished cooking pork adobo (which was requested by Dennis) by the time they arrived. I prefer to eat hot rice so I had to start cooking it when they arrived. It wasn't lunch time yet anyway. I also steamed the rest of the siomai left in the fridge.

We had lunch by 12:00 noon with the usual bantering as to who will prepare the iced tea and who will prepare the table, etc. I enjoy hearing and seeing them like that. We're always like a big family and I am always happy having them to join me at home.

After lunch, we watched the Slumdog Millionaire. And then another friend (Rodel) joined us after an hour or two. We then had "halo-halo" since the weather is getting hot already. We bought it from my neighbor... the house right beside mine. I also cooked potato balls, which Jil liked.

We then watched another dvd, the comedy concert of Pooh and Pokwang, which we already watched two weeks before but still made us laugh the second time.

The day ended so soon... it was already 6:00 PM and they had to leave so that they won't have a hard time waiting for a jeepney to bring them home. I was again left on my own... missing them. But it was a happy time and I appreciate my friends' effort so much.

(Pictures will be posted soon)

Hot Air Balloon Fiesta

2009-02-19T16:29:00.000-08:00

I had a chance to join my friends from Marikina Valley Community Portal, Dennis, Jil, Elbert, Randy and JC, in watching the Hot Air Balloon Fiesta in Clark Airfield last Saturday, February 14, 2009. Despite not feeling well, I didn't miss the opportunity to watch it for the first time.

We left Marikina before 3:00 AM, all a bit sleepy since we only had a few hours of sleep but I think we were all excited to be there. It was so dark outside and very cloudy; we were comfortably driving along the North Luzon Expressway (NLEX) where only a few vehicles can be seen at that time.

We decided to take the Subic Clark Tarlac Expressway(SCTEX) going to Clark but we inadvertently missed the turn and ended up driving a lot longer than we should have. We also had to take a U-Turn and drive back all the way to the supposed turn going to Diosdado Macapagal International Airport (DMIA).

We reached DMIA just a few minutes before the Hot Air Balloon Fiesta formally opens. I was impressed with the conduct of the National Anthem where they had the Philippine Flag flying in the sky being held by three (3) paragliders.

After the National Anthem, I have watched the colorful hot air balloons being inflated and released slowly in the air. There's even an elephant-shaped balloon, a coke bottle and a coffee mug. It was a fascinating sight. We also got to watch the awesome plane flying exhibition.

Thanks to Jabey and Randy for the pictures!

Celebrating my bestfriend's birthday in Baguio City

2009-02-11T16:04:00.000-08:00

I was back in the City of Pines the other week. My friends and I left for Baguio City on the early morning of January 30 (Friday). It's my bestfriend's birthday and we decided to celebrate it with a trip. We brought a car going there instead of taking the public transport. Thanks to my bestfriend's husband who patiently drove us to and from Baguio City.

It was a pleasant drive, though I was asleep almost the whole time since I was not able to sleep for the past nights. We passed through the Subic Clark Tarlac Expressway (SCTEX)which is the shortest and fastest route possible. We likewise took the Kennon Road instead of the Marcos Highway. We reached Baguio City after almost four (4) hours of driving.

We were so excited to be there and we immediately had our pictures taken by the Lion's Club Monument along Kennon Road. The next thing we did was to drive around looking for a place to eat. Since I was there last December, I suggested that we eat in Good Taste Restaurant where I had dinner with my other friends before. Unfortunately, I didn't remember where it is located so we had to drive around, ask for directions before we found it. Our time wasn't wasted, we found the restaurant and had so much fun eating.

After lunch, we decided to find a place to stay and rest for a while. We stayed in Dauz Pension House which is very near SM Baguio and the other places of interest. It's a simple pension house which is large enough for the five of us. I finally slept for a few hours and woke up refreshed. We went out after the wonderful rest and walked around Session Road.

We had dinner in the pension house since we still have a lot of food left from our lunch. It was so much fun simply eating inside our room, having fun among ourselves. I realize that simple things can be so much fun when you do it with people who matters to you.

The following day, we were out of the pension house by 7:30 AM since we were going to buy some vegetables and other stuff that we need to bring home. When we were there, I found a coffee bean store and had so much fun choosing from among the different varieties of coffee beans. I ended up buying Arabica and Mocha coffee beans although what I really wanted was to buy the Alamid or Civet Coffee. I also bought potato balls which I really don't know how to cook but I wanted to experiment so I bought it.

After that, we had our breakfast in Zola Restaurant. I loved the free flowing coffee and the meal which includes bacons, egg, fried rice and a sausage. It was a good way to end our stay in Baguio City.

Incoherent Thoughts

2009-02-05T18:20:00.000-08:00

Last night, I cried myself to sleep again as I did the night before
This morning, despite a bad night, I had renewed spirits...
I decided I should go to work rather than stay at home and think
since there is no other subject that my brain can process except you.

I had to go out, be with people, try to make myself busy, but I still can't...
You keep on hurting me... intentional or not, but you still do.
I guess I should stop caring, I should stop loving you...
I should stop doing things for you... things that you don't even appreciate.

I can't take anymore of the rejection, I've had so much pain in my heart
I have never regretted loving you because you made me happy then
I have never regretted the things that I did for you
because I was happy doing them for you.

I thought I was helping you out and making you happy
Maybe I thought wrong because you left me
I don't know what life has in store for me now and for the future
I just hope that whatever it is, it would show itself soon.

My first visit to Mall of Asia

2009-01-11T17:56:00.000-08:00

My friends, Jabey and Dennis invited me to join them in going to the Mall of Asia (MOA) yesterday. We decided to push through with it eventhough we're only three. Our other friends, Jil and Elbert have other plans in another mall. Although later in the afternoon, they surprised us by joining us in MOA.

We left Marikina at around 10:00 AM (thanks to Dennis for being an hour late). We were actually supposed to leave by 9:00 AM. We took a jeepney going to the LRT 2 station in Katipunan and from there we went down in Araneta Center Cubao to take the MRT going to Taft Avenue. From Taft Avenue, we took a shuttle service going to MOA. It was quite a series of rides but since it was Sunday, we were comfortable inside the LRT and the MRT.

We were in MOA by 11:30 AM and the first thing we did was to argue (it was actually a friendly argument) on where we will have our lunch. I want to eat sashimi but well the special child (it's a joke... he's normal), Dennis wants to have chicken. I won't be surprised if one day he'll get wings of his own and probably some feathers. So we agreed to eat in Max's Restaurant. It was full packed but we were lucky to be seated immediately. I had chicken, rolls with butter, pancit canton and iced tea, same with Jabey but he had rice instead of rolls. Dennis had a huge half chicken, soup, 2 orders of rice, iced tea and ice cream for dessert. Whoa!!! what an appetite!!! I really got sick of watching him finish the chicken.

After the really sumptuous lunch, they toured me inside the mall. They kept on kidding me since it was my first time to be there. We went hopping from one store to another looking for something to buy. In the end, it was only Dennis who bought a shirt. Though I really had a good time with them. Jil and Elbert joined us at around 2:00 PM.

After the tiring window shopping, we decided to have coffee in "Kopi Roti". I haven't tried their coffee but I have tried the "Kopi Bun" which is really delicious but it's quite sweet for those who are watching their sugar. We tried the soft boiled eggs with soy sauce and a pinch of black pepper and their "Kaya Toast", the "French Toast" and the "Peanut butter Toast". I really enjoyed the peanut butter toast. The others are just okay. I like my own french toast recipe hehe.

All in all, It was a fun-filled experience, especially since I was with my friends. We really had a great time with each other and we were already planning on our next visit to MOA.

Thank you!

2009-01-06T22:05:00.000-08:00

How time flies! It's already the 7th day of the new year... 2009. The past year has left a lot of memories in me. Some are good and some are bad. But despite being bad, they are still a part of the past year, a part of the story of my life.

The last quarter of my life had been very colorful for me. It made me happy, made me confused, and eventually before Christmas, broke my heart. I have no regrets, I've been happy for sometime... I guess the tears I'm shedding until now is still worth the happiness that I have experienced.

So, for now, I want to thank the people who became a part of my life...

First, my Ate Weng for always being there, listening to my sobs, trying to console me, supporting me in any way possible. Thank you!

Second, my bestfriend Mhel... thank you for understanding my decisions especially when I know it is not what she wanted for me, still she stayed beside me. Thank you for worrying so much about me, for hearing me out, for always being my shoulder to cry on.

Third, my Marikina Valley friends... Jil, Elbert, Randy, Tita Veron, Tita Babie, Dennis and the rest of the guys... thank you for keeping me company when I need to get drunk and pour out my heart aches. Thank you for listening to me, for giving me advices and for joining me in a simple lunch or dinner. You, guys kept me company most of the time and you never judged me.

And lastly, to you... the person I still love but broke my heart... thank you. "Falling in love with you was easy, but losing you was hard... and up until now you're still the one in my heart." Time can only tell when I can totally forget the feeling I have for you. I just wish you'll be happy because I have shed so much tears just to give you what you want... your freedom. Let's remain friends, just like the old days.

To all of you... thank you so much! May we all have a happy and blessed year ahead.

Photo Courtesy of Engr. Elbert M. Malonzo, RHCT

Right love at the wrong time...

2008-12-18T17:35:00.000-08:00

I'm sure everybody knows the song "Somewhere down the road" which was originally sung by Barry Manilow. It's a beautiful song that kept on popping in my head these days. But is it true? Can it really happen?

We had the right love
At the wrong time
Guess I always knew inside
I wouldnt have you for a long time

Those dreams of yours
Are shining on distant shores
And if theyre calling you away
I have no right to make you stay,

When do we know that it's the right love? What if you really love each other and yet it still doesn't feel right? What if he chooses to be with someone he doesn't love, dumped you that he said he loves so much, just because it's the right thing to do?

Letting go is just another way to say
I'll always love you so...

Let go... move on... those have always been the advice of friends... those are the things I myself want to achieve. But how? Someone told me time is the best healer... Do we really forget the feeling over time? Do we really forget the person we love so much? Or is it just there in our hearts... we keep hiding it and try hard to suppress it but it's still there.

I really don't know the answer to all those questions... I really don't know what the future has in store for us but then we have to live each day as it comes. Accept the fact that life is never fair...

Personalized Gift Ideas are very cool!

2008-12-17T21:32:00.000-08:00

It's less than a week before Christmas and I'm still worrying about what to give my friends, relatives and colleagues, I guess most of you are having the same predicament at the moment. We're all very busy finishing our work before vacation that we never even noticed that Christmas is almost there. But hey, there's still time left and it's so easy to order online nowadays.

Especially since Pexagon is offering personalized holiday gifts. You may choose from Personalized Thumb Drives, Personalized Pens, Business Card Flash Drives and Wooden USB Flash Drives.

Pexagon offers Personalized Thumb Drives which are available in 14 colors and up to 16GB in capacity. You may also have a two-line personalized message engraved on the reverse side, how cool can that be! It would be nice to give your younger friends since they are so colorful and hip.

They also have these Personalized Pens that are so affordable and can accomodate a free line of personalized laster engraved text.

I'm sure your colleagues and business inclined friends would also love the Business Card Flash Drives. Three lines of personalized text can be engraved on the front side of this flash drive and it has up to 2GB capacity. It's so unique, actually this is one of my favorites, and the prize is just right for its purpose.

And of course, they also have Personalized Wooden USB Flash Drives! You can choose from two colors with 2GB and 4GB capacities. This would look good on a leather briefcase and this would really make your boss remember you if you give it to them.

What are you waiting for? Visit the Pexagon Technology website now and avail of the 20% discount they are offering.

Road Trip Part 2: Revisiting Baguio City

2008-12-17T18:44:00.000-08:00

After sleeping well that night, I woke up at around 6AM. Elbert and Randy woke up way too early to make sure they'll catch the sunlight. Still feeling lazy but refreshed after that very wonderful night of rest, I showered and prepared my things since we already agreed that we will be going around Baguio City again until before lunch and then we'll be leaving for La Union after that.

So, we decided to visit Tam-Awan Village which is located in Pinsao Proper, Baguio City. We took a cab going there and paid only P47.00. I really like the idea of taking cabs in Baguio since the fair is so affordable and it is more comfortable travelling that way.

We had breakfast in the cafe in Tam-Awan Village, I had Tocino with Egg and brown rice, and the other guys had beef tapa and longganisa. It was my first time to eat brown rice... I was fascinated by it... the color is actually almost violet, I'm not really sure if it was fried or boiled because it is quite moist and a bit sticky. I liked it though. The coffee was also very good that's why I had 2 cups of it.

After breakfast, we went around, check out some of the artworks displayed in the gallery and bought a few things at the souvenir shop. I bought a pair of dangling, blue earrings for myself.

I would have loved to see the inside of the "Dukligan Hut" (Fertility Hut) but it was occupied that time. So we were contented to just have our pictures taken outside some other huts.

We went back to the hotel then and prepared to leave for La Union. On our way going to the terminal, we bought some more wine... strawberry wine, rice wine and the other two that I can no longer recall. It's still sitting on top of my table at this time, though the rice wine is almost gone.

I'll be telling you about what happened to us in La Union next time.

Photos courtesy of Randyblu... thanks so much!

Marikina Valley Christmas Party

2008-12-16T23:22:00.000-08:00

I've been a member of Marikina Valley Community website since June of this year. It was there that I met my new friends. The MV group is not just a website, it's where real people, real friends meet. It's a website that binds different kinds of people together.

On December 13, 2008, we held our very first Christmas Party. It was a simple gathering yet a fun-filled one. We shared the food that each of us brought... we had pancit palabok, mussels, puto, cake and ice cream. Some of us even had beer afterwards.

It was a successful party because of everyone who participated and helped out in the preparations. I want to recognize them here, through this post... JC for leading the whole thing and for keeping MV, Ayumie and Maroni for bearing with some of our immature ways and for bringing the palabok and cooking the delicious spicy mussels, Elbert and Jill for coming to the party (i'm really glad you did), Dennis for the ice cream, Jabey for the the venue, photos and the yummy puto, Jard for the funny moments and for the beer and Vinzer and Alex for the roasted chicken. Thanks, guys for your cooperation. Till next year! Cheers to our friendship!

Wordless Wednesday: Pretty Sunset

2008-12-16T21:40:00.000-08:00

Photo Courtesy of Engr. Elbert M. Malonzo, RHCT
Location: San Miguel, Bulacan

Road Trip Part 1: Revisiting Baguio City

2008-12-11T01:55:00.000-08:00

My first Baguio City Experience was sometime in October 2001. I went there with three (3) of my friends but we only stayed there for the whole day. We took the bus, left the terminal at around 10PM and arrived in Baguio at 4AM. It was very cold, the cool wind really made me chill when I went out of the bus. We slept for a while, went out to walk around Baguio the whole day and then went straight to the bus terminal going back home.

This time, after seven (7) years, I went to visit the City of Pines again. My friends and I agreed to take the bus, leave on November 28 (Friday) since the November 30 holiday was moved to December 1 and we won't have to go to work for four days. But eventually, most people have thought the same way we did and so when we arrived at the bus terminal at around 10PM, we were surprised by the huge crowd gathering inside the terminal. To make it short, we were not able to leave that night. We had to wait for the 5AM bus to take us to Baguio City. It was a very long wait, we were all very sleepy and tired but we decided to just stay there and wait.

We arrived in Baguio City the following day (Saturday), a little after lunch time. With my heavy back pack behind me, we walked the streets of Baguio City and had lunch in a restaurant named "Zola". After satisfying ourselves with the food, we then had to find a place to stay. As we have already expected, it was hard to find a place to stay since there were really a lot of people in Baguio that time. It being a long weekend and we found out later on that there is a Nursing examination going on that time.

We eventually found a place in Camp Allen with the help of a cab driver. It was a small hotel named "Robol 88", it's got a rooftop where we can have fun while seeing everything around us. We paid the accomodation for a day since we were still unsure of our plan for the next day. We slept for a few minutes and went out to take a walk. It was a very long walk but I did not get tired, I enjoyed every moment of it, seeing a lot of people, enjoying the cold weather, seeing beautiful flowers and breathing fresh air.

It was the most pleasant long walk I had. We went to SM Department Store, bought some small things to give to our friends back home and sat outside SM. It was already past 6PM and it was really very cold out there.

At around 7PM, my friends, Randy, JC and I decided to have dinner in a restaurant nearby. Randy said that the food there was great and so we decided to try it out. We ordered buttered chicken, lumpiang shanghai and rice and we were really surprised with the amount of food we saw on our table when all the food were already there. They really gave us big servings and we never.. however we tried... we were never able to finish everything. But the thing that they served us sodas without ice is something that really amused me. We looked around on the other tables and we found out that all of them are satisfied to be drinking their sodas without ice and there we are trying to figure out why they served it without ice. Eventually, we requested for ice from the waitress :)

On our way back to the hotel, we bought a small bottle of strawberry wine just to try it out and then we bought some bottles of beer from the convenience store. We decided, despite the coldness of the weather, to drink on the rooftop. It was very very cold, I had to put on a warmer jacket and socks. But my hands are still very very cold as well as my face. The cold wind kept on blowing but we stayed on. The strawberry wine tasted very good... we should have bought a bigger bottle :)

When we finished the wine and a few bottles of beer, we decided we already had enough so we went down to our room and slept. At around 3AM we were awaken by the ringing of one of our cell phones. Our other friend called to let us know that he is already at the bus terminal. I was so sleepy so I just let the two guys fetch him from the terminal. I slept like a baby till morning :)

(photos courtesy of Randy and Elbert)

to be continued...

Get discounts on Vacuum Cleaners!

2008-12-10T16:44:00.000-08:00

This morning when I went out of the house to go to work and saw the car in front of the house, I nearly changed my mind. The car is so dirty inside and out that I really would have wanted to get my hands on it and clean it.

I don't need to go to a car wash to have it cleaned since I already got a vacuum cleaner at home. It is one of the most reliable home equipment that I have at home since I use it to clean the car and the house and it really helps me save on my cleaning time by 50%. However, I really want to buy a smaller vacuum cleaner that I can easily pull wherever I wish to clean. Something that's light weight and very handy and while I was browsing the net, I had the chance to visit EZVacuum.com, a site that offers a 10% discount on your entire order of vacuum cleaners and stuff.

They really have nice vacuum cleaners bags belts filters brushrolls machines that you can choose from. Availing the discount is as easy as buying over $20 worth of their items.

As I was having a hard time thinking of gifts that would be very useful to my friends, I just had a thought, why not give this to my special friends? I'm sure the price would be worth it and it would really make them happy.

COMELEC registration ongoing

2008-12-04T21:31:00.000-08:00

I went to the Commission on Elections Office this morning to accompany a friend who is going to register as a voter for the first time. We arrived at around 10:15 in the morning bringing with him a valid Identification Card (ID) showing his present address and a photocopy of said ID. Since he is already 24 years old, he was not required to bring a birth certificate anymore.

We spent exactly an hour for the registration. We started out by submitting a photocopy of the required ID and in return the staff gave my friend some forms to fill out. After filling out the form, we returned it to the staff and waited for his name to be called for verification of the details on the form. The last step was for his biometrics and his picture to be taken.

The registration started on December 2, 2008 and will end on December 15, 2008. But don't fret, that's just a Christmas break... they will be accepting registrations again starting January 5, 2009 until December 15, 2009.

For registrants who are 18 years old and below, you must bring a copy of your birth certificate and one (1) valid Identification Card (showing your present address) with its photocopy. Birth certificates are not required for registrants aged 19 and above.

WW: Waves

2008-12-02T19:40:00.000-08:00

Location: Sebay Resort, San Juan, La Union
Photo Courtesy of Engr. Elbert M. Malonzo, RHCT

Letting go

2008-12-01T19:39:00.000-08:00

People come to our lives when we least expect them to. And when they do, we tend to love them and care for them so much that we give up so many things just to be with them. Sometimes we even tend to give them our whole lives thinking that this person will stay forever. I, for one, do have the tendency to depend my happiness on the person that I love. I neglect my friends and even my own family when I'm in love. Just to make that person feel that he is that much important to me, that he is the only one that could make me happy.

But then despite the years of being together there can't be no assurance that he is going to stay. Despite giving everything I can, still I can't make him happy, I can't give everything that would make him stay and love me forever.

And now, I'm left with another heartache, with a big empty space in my life... Why did it end up like this? Have I done anything wrong? These are just two of the questions I've been asking, which still remain unanswered.

I don't want to keep him in my life when he is no longer happy... I don't want to insist that he stays when I am no longer the person he would love to see when he wakes up. I don't want him to feel caged and suffocated by my love for him. There is nothing more to do now... than to let go.

I still have my heart, though it's already broken, I still know how to love, though I don't know if I should love again because loving again may mean another heartache.

WW: Hermit Crab

2008-11-25T21:57:00.000-08:00

Photo taken by: Engr. Elbert M. Malonzo... thanks my friend!

I'm still alive and I'm back!

2008-11-19T17:43:00.001-08:00

It had been almost a month now since my last post. A lot of things happened in my life for that short period of time. A lot of decisions have been made and that includes having to continue my blog or not. I decided to go on... maybe not as active as before but I would still go on with this.

In the first place, I started this blog to be an outlet of my feelings... to be an expression of my thoughts... and everything that's happening to me. And so it must continue... until I still have feelings... until I can still write.

I have collected quite a lot of memories for the past month and I would be willing to share them with you in my next posts.

All I know is that... I'm glad to be back.

Happy Birthday... Ate Weng

2008-10-21T23:33:00.000-07:00

October 22... a very special day for my sister. It's her birthday and I would like to express how happy I am to be taken care of someone like her through this post.

Her name is Rowena but she is commonly known as "Weng". For me, she is Ate Weng. She is the 3rd of four siblings and I'm the youngest. I was born exactly two years and one day after her. And since we were children, she is the one closest to me. We always go to places together. I even remember her waiting for me while I was taking my college entrance exam at the Polytechnic University of the Philippines. She patiently waited for me because I don't know how to travel alone. I don't go to malls on my own, she was always with me.

When my parents died, she became the "head" of the family. She is presently even raising the six (6) children of one of my sisters. Even if she recently had her own child, she still assumes responsibility of them.

When I have problems, she is always the one who is so worried about me. She takes care of all of us in a lot of ways. She is the best sister I have and I am grateful to God for giving her to us.

I just pray that her life will be peaceful and happy forever. Happy birthday, Ate Weng! I love you...

Slacking on everything that matters

2008-10-21T01:50:00.000-07:00

I've been out for a while... I'm sorry but I just don't feel like writing for the past days. I don't even feel like mingling with other people for awhile.

I even want to avoid some people who makes me happy because I know that this happiness will not last and this friendship will not be good for both of us. Am I going nuts? Well, I guess not... I'm just trying to protect the lives of other people whho might be affected by my feelings and so I decided to just go away. Not for good, because I know that I can't... but just enough to make things lighter... enough for me to divert my attention to something else.

I'll be back, maybe tomorrow, maybe next week... I really don't know but I will.

Tag Fever

2008-10-08T18:25:00.000-07:00

Thanks to one of my cyber friends, Deborah Katy for this tag.

-----------start copy here---------

1. Link to the person who tagged you (see above).

2. Post the rules on your blog (this is what you are now reading)

3. Write 6 random things about yourself (see below).

4. Tag 6 people at the end of your post and link to them (This is only a game)

5. Let each person know they have been tagged and leave a comment on their blog

6. Let the tagger know when your entry is up.

-------end copy------

6 Random Things About Me

1. I am a 34 (almost 35 in a few days) year old lady who believes in happy endings and love at first sight.

2. I am more comfortable in having male friends than females.

3. I am a sensitive, loving person.

4. I seldom go out of the house without having breakfast.

5. I am a very shy person.

6. I LOVE reading books.

I would like to share this tag with my real and cyber friends:

Vinzer/Elbert/Dennis/Randy/May/Jirl

My Weekend: The feast of the Our Lady of the Holy Rosary

2008-10-06T18:04:00.000-07:00

I've been living in Sta. Barbara for three years now and it was the first time that I celebrated the feast of the Our Lady of the Holy Rosary. I was actually hesitant since I don't think my relatives would be able to come to my place. But when I asked my sister, she said yes, they're going to come.

So, last Saturday, I had to go to the grocery and shop for a lot of things. I don't have any idea what I will be cooking because I really did not plan for it. But while I was pushing my cart on the alley of the grocery, I thought well maybe I should cook "puchero" for lunch. I bought some pork, vegetables, banana, sweet potato and pork and beans in can. I also bought some ground pork for the spaghetti that the children always love. And for dessert, I bought some graham crackers, milk, cream and some wafer sticks. I'll be preparing some refrigerated cake.

When I was on the counter, I was shocked to see that I had bought a total of 5 grocery bags. OMG, how can I carry all these things??? I tried to do it, I have to do it. So, i balanced all the bags on both hands, walked out and reached the front of the mall. But I don't think I can go on any longer so I put down the bags on the sidewalk and decided to wait for a cab. But as expected, cabs don't really like going to my place since it's in the mountains and very hard to reach. I can't do this alone, I told myself. So, I called my sister and asked for help. Thankfully, she sent one of my nieces to help me and we were able to go home by 6:30 in the evening. We had dinner and I started preparing the refrigerated cake.

Along came Sunday... I woke up early despite sleeping quite late. I had to prepare breakfast for them since I told them to come early so they won't have trouble waiting for a jeepney. The arrived at my house as early as 8:00 AM, all the 10 children (including my 5-month old niece) and one of my sisters. My house was full of children running in and out of the house. The only times I kept them still was when I put on a video for them to watch and when they were eating. They were a handful but I am glad that they came even if I ended up cooking the whole day until 3:00 in the afternoon.

It was a tiring but pleasant weekend.

Wordless Wednesday: Alone in the moonlight

2008-09-24T20:13:00.000-07:00

Thanks to Engr. Elbert M. Malonzo for this picture!

My very close encounter with pick pockets

2008-09-21T18:25:00.000-07:00

While I am writing this post, I still can't believe what I did this morning. I am still shivering whenever I think of it.

Two of my nieces stayed with me for the weekend and agreed to go back home when I went to work this morning. So, we took a public transport and alighted at our destination altogether. It was 7:30 in the morning and we were walking side by side with each other. I was holding my younger niece on my left hand while the older is on my right. She had her shoulder bag on her left shoulder. As we were walking on that busy street (Shoe Avenue in Barangay Sto. Niño), I noticed two men walking very closely behind my older niece. I know these men to be pick pockets since I have long been observing them whenever I wait for a jeepney in the afternoon. So, I have kept calm, stayed walking, hoping that they would just leave since I don't think my niece got anything valuable on her bag except dirty clothes. But while I kept on walking, I am trying to look at my right to see if they're still there. And at that moment that I really turned my head to look, I caught the older pick pocket about to open my niece's bag pocket! I was so shocked, I don't know what to do and apparently what I did was to tell these bad guys in the vernacular, "kilala ko kayo" (I know who you are). I kept repeating that same line with the guy I caught and I noticed the other bad guy went to my left side and told him the same line. I guess they were intimidated and just left. They did not run, they just walked away calmly.

It was only when they left that I noticed my niece's mobile phone was on that pocket and that was what enticed those pick pockets to follow us. I was so nervous and still shivering when I came to my office. I will never forget this experience.

Just a few tips for you, guys:
1) never put any of your valuables on your bag's front and side pockets
2) always carry your bag in front of you, where you can always see it
3) be aware of the people around you wherever you are

My first tour guiding experience

2008-09-18T22:14:00.000-07:00

The Tourism Office had long been requesting me to be a tour guide since a lot of students, local government officials and non-government agencies are visiting the City and they are understaffed.

Two days ago, I was again called by a staff of the Tourism Office and asked me if I'm available since there are 120 students from a private school who requested for a City Hall tour to study about the local government's functions. I told her I'll have to see if I'm available and that I'll call again but actually there's another reason, aside from my busy schedule, that I've been trying to say No to their request... it's because I'm quite nervous and I don't really know if I can handle a tour guiding assignment.

But yesterday, I already said yes, I'm available. So, last night when I was in bed, I had been rehearsing in my mind what I'm going to say to them. I have already memorized my opening statement and some of the things that I'm going to say about the different offices they are going to visit. I slept on it and woke up early this morning, still a bit nervous but I told myself I have to do this and if I'm not going to do it now, when will I ever have the courage to do it.

So I went to the City Hall of Marikina 30 minutes before the visitors arrived so that I can prepare myself a little bit and talk to the other tour guides since they are more experienced than I am. When the visitors came, I was still nervous and when I said my first line I'm still nervous. But I had to compose myself, I had to be brave and so I guess it was on my fourth or fifth line that I tried to relax a bit and tried to act normally.

The tour went on for a little more than two hours and my final statement went out normally and I'm glad.

Thank God for my friends

2008-09-16T17:05:00.000-07:00

It had been a very trying and quite depressing weekend for me. There were a lot of things to think about, a lot of things that kept bothering me for a few days now and made me always cry. I know I'm not supposed to be a weakling like this but there are times that I just can't help it. There was even a time that I just wished I could die that very moment but I know it is a sin and I shouldn't even have thought about it.

Right at this very moment my life seems to be on hold. I am being observed by my doctor and it will take some time and some more tests before she could finally tell me what I am undergoing at the moment.

I just want to thank my friends through this post, who kept on praying for me, who kept on asking me how I am, who kept on telling me that I should be strong and trust God. I also thank my sister... my ate Weng who, despite having a lot of problems of her own, kept supporting me and loving me. I am so grateful for having all of you in my life. Thank you so much for your support and prayers.

I am trying to hold on, I have trusted God to give me strength to accept what is about to come but I am still praying that He will give me what I desire most.

Visiting my doctor... after two years

2008-09-11T23:51:00.000-07:00

Since I was a child, I'm never fond of going to a doctor... I can still recall the shots that made me cry when I was small but became bearable when I was a bit older.

Just this morning, me and my good friend went to the doctor, a gynecologist actually, because I wasn't feeling good and I thought it's about time I visit a doctor since it was more than two years since I last visited her. I went there because usually my menstrual cycle was always normal... until now. I was so nervous... but then my doctor just told me "you need to have an ultrasound and then we'll talk afterward". I was really nervous and my knees really wobbled when I went out of the doctor's office. I don't know what to think of, I don't know if I'm sick with something really bad... until now I still don't know. I'll be back to see my doctor later after work and I'll have her interpret the result of my ultrasound. For now, I can do nothing but pray that I'm not sick.

WW: A path to the land of beauty

2008-09-09T22:10:00.000-07:00

Thanks to my friend, Jason Benedict dela Paz for this photo!
Location: Daranak Falls, Tanay, Rizal

Submit site - SEO directory

SM City Marikina Mall opened with a blast

2008-09-09T01:40:00.001-07:00

Me and my friends were among the excited throng of people who came to the opening of the SM City Mall in Marikina last Friday (September 5, 2008). I excitedly finished my work and prepared to meet my friends.

We left at around 6:30 in the evening and since there's no other public utility vehicle plying that route, we took a tricycle. It was only a few minutes ride and just a few walks going to the front door of SM. We arrived there just in time to see the beautiful fireworks but we did not finish it because we want to start scrutinizing the mall from inside.

The mall is beautiful, it's got nice stores and restaurants although some are not yet open. It's got 8 movie houses, although I really don't know how it looks like at the moment. I have yet to try it. The food court is quite small or maybe I just thought it is small because it was full of people when we were there. The department store looks good and I'm looking forward to shopping there next time.

Here are some pictures I took from my mobile phone camera.

My favorite Great American Seafood Recipe

2008-09-07T20:31:00.000-07:00

Cooking is one of my favorite challenges in life. I call it a challenge because I am the youngest of all four siblings and the most protected by my parents and so I was not able to learn to cook when I was growing up. But now that I am already living on my own, I’ve been struggling to learn how to cook for myself and for my family and friends whenever they came to visit.

As I was learning how to cook, I found it to be a lot of fun especially when I find simple but delicious recipes in the internet that I myself can cook. That is why I liked the recipe of Chef John Currence of Mississippi. He is one of the participants of a cook off which is dubbed as the 2008 Great American Cook Off in Louisiana with his yummy recipe, Mississippi Redfish Courtboullion with Seafood Dirty Rice. His recipe is so simple yet it’s got a mixture of seafood and vegetables that really looked mouth-watering and healthy. Aside from the fact that I really love seafood with rice, I think this recipe is the best of all because anyone can cook it, the ingredients are not hard to find and not hard to prepare, and can be cooked in a lesser time. All its ingredients can be locally bought which means that you can be assured of its freshness. Domestic seafood is not only fresh but it's got all the health benefits intact unlike the frozen ones. If I’ll be cooking the same recipe at home, I would remove the Tabasco sauce so that even my nieces and nephews would enjoy devouring it.

If you would like to try preparing this recipe you may get it at www.GreatAmericanSeafoodCookOff.com. Aside from being able to download delicious recipes, you may also vote for your favorite chef and win a “Trip to New Orleans” prize package which includes two Southwest Airline round trip tickets, hotel, accommodations and dining experience. What’s more, there is no need to purchase anything to join the contest! Isn’t that great! And as if it's not enough, all you bloggers(like me)out there may also vote for your favorite recipe and get a chance to win that oh so free vacation by visiting their website, so hurry!

Thank God it's Friday!

2008-09-05T03:11:00.000-07:00

When I woke up this morning, what I have in mind is that me and my friends are going to the newly opened SM City Mall in Marikina after work today. The SM Mall had it's blessing yesterday, September 4 but it was only opened for the public today.

My boss, who was invited to the blessing yesterday told me that the mall is very beautiful but I want to find out for myself that's why I'm so excited to have my work done and meet my friends.

If we'll be allowed to take pictures, I'll be showing you some of it in my next post. I hope we'll not get disappointed because we really waited for this day to come. My only apprehension is that some people said that the SM City Mall is not accessible since there are no public utility vehicles plying that route at the moment. I wonder how we will be able to get there. One of my friends said that we're gonna have a fun walk getting there :D

Anyway, it's time to go, my friends are waiting for me. I just hope we'll have fun out there since it's Friday.

Journey CD Album + $10.00 yours if you join!

2008-09-05T01:59:00.000-07:00

Rate My Philippines is giving away a Journey CD plus $10.00 to those who wish to participate in their contest.

Joining is so easy, all you have to do is three (3) of the following or if you want, you can do all of them:

1. Write a short post about the contest
2. Join them in social networking (and they promise to join you)
3. Favorite their site in Technorati
4. Stumble them!
5. Be a do follow blogger by submitting your site to Blogs that Follow
6. Subscribe in their feeds (and they promise to subscribe to yours)

For more information just visit their site. Let's support the contest and support the Journey!

Welcome "ber" months

2008-09-01T19:51:00.000-07:00

Last weekend wasn't so great for me since I've been having some trouble deciding about what to do with my life at this time but then when I got to the office yesterday my co-worker was playing Christmas songs from his computer and I felt excited despite being emotionally down.

It's the first "ber" month of the year, 3 more months and it's gonna be Christmas again. When I was a child, my parents see to it that we get to wear new clothes for Christmas and New Year. Right now I was thinking how they managed to do that since we were very poor that time and my father didn't have a permanent job. But they do manage and I am really proud of them. Not that it's important to have new clothes but as a child, it really made me happy.

As an adult, Christmas still gets me excited, although not as excited as when I was a child. But I still love having Christmas and New Year's feasts with my family. Enjoying sumptuous dishes, watching the happy faces of my nieces and nephews while opening their gifts and attending Christmas parties.

Those are the things I enjoy most every year and as early as this month, I'm already looking forward to the season.

Blogs That Follow

World of Warcraft: Wrath of the Lich King Expansion Pack will be out soon!

2008-08-28T22:39:00.000-07:00

I got so excited when as I was surfing the net I learned that the expansion pack for the World of Warcraft's Wrath of the Lich King will be released on November 3 of this year. I silently told myself... don't you think you're too old to be excited with computer games? But then again, I'm still young at heart, am I not? ha ha!

When I was still living with my parents, I used to love playing computer games such as Red Alert, Generals, War Craft and simple yahoo games. I spend so much time playing that my mother would always scold me because I can't help her out with the household chores. I even skip meals or sometimes ask my nieces and nephews to bring something for me to eat in my room. I was really hooked! But it passes. I eventually learned how to control myself.

But now that I'm living on my own, I have lots of time in my hands and when I get tired of reading or watching movies, I turn my computer on and play games. That's why I got so excited that an expansion pack for the "Wrath of the Lich King" will soon be released. I already miss playing warcraft.

WW: Almost a butterlfy

2008-08-26T21:26:00.000-07:00

Location: Butterfly Farm, Barangay Marikina Heights, Marikina City, Philippines
Photo taken by: Engr. Elbert M. Malonzo... thanks so much, elbert!

Road tripping in the rain

2008-08-26T18:49:00.000-07:00

It was a rainy Sunday morning when me and my friends, Dennis, Elbert, Jabey, Randy and Vinzer went on our road trip. We were supposed to meet at 6:00 in the morning but due to the heavy rains, we were all a bit worried that our trip won't push through, thus we all arrived late.

We started our day eating taho (food made of soya and usually sweetened with melted brown sugar) in front of Marikina City Hall where we agreed to meet.

On board Randy's SUV, we proceeded to Daranak and Batlag Falls in Tanay, Rizal. It was my first time to go there and I was excited. We had to pay Php20.00 for the entrance fee. Since all of my friends, except Dennis, own a DSLR camera, they went on taking wonderful pictures and we pose for them sometimes (though we're not professional models, it was all for fun). I was always amazed at what they can do with a camera and I wish I could own one someday and learn the tricks of photography. The place is really beautiful although the paths were wet and slippery due to the rain. We explored every place we can reach and took pictures of every stone, insect, and water that we can see.

The next place we visited was an old, beautiful church in Pakil, Laguna. But since we arrived there at past lunch time, we decided to look from a place to satisfy our growling stomachs. There was only one karinderia (a small canteen selling cooked food) in the area and so we really did not have a choice. I remembered ordering sinigang but it was quite cold already. The food wasn't great but since we are all starving, we finished everything we ordered.

We immediately proceeded to the Church. They took pictures in and out of the church while I sat in a pew watching them, a little bit jealous of what they are doing. It was afternoon, we were quite lazy so we sat down on the stairs in front of the church while waiting for the others to finish. We, of course, had our picture taken there. We love having our group pictures whenever we go to a place.

Our next stop is the Japanese Garden in Cavinti, Laguna. There was a drizzle when we got there so we had to bring our umbrellas. They again took pictures while I was wondering why the place is called Japanese Garden since I can't find any plant, tree or flower that's different. I mean, there's nothing really Japanese about the garden. There are actually a lot of pine trees and it looks more like Baguio City. The place is beautiful and very nice for picnics. I wish we could have brought a blanket and some food. But then, I found the restrooms to be soooooo dirty. I wish they could hire somebody to clean it since they are charging entrance fees.

After having rested in the Japanese Garden we then went to visit St. Bartholomew Church in Nagcarlan, Laguna. But since it was Sunday and we arrived there late in the afternoon, a lot of people have already gathered inside the church awaiting for the mass to start. They took some pictures and we walked a few kilometers going to the Underground Cemetery.

We were however disappointed when we got there since the place was closed. But since the gate was made of iron grills, we just peaked through it and through the fence as well.

It was generally tiring but very much enjoyable. We did not allow the weather to dampen our moods... we went out to enjoy and that's what we did.

Wordless Wednesday: Daranak Falls

2008-08-19T20:09:00.000-07:00

Location: Daranak Falls, Tanay, Rizal, Philippines
Photo taken by: Randyblu... thanks so much!

Getting to know you tag

2008-08-13T23:37:00.000-07:00

I thank Deborah Katy for this nice tag!

Here are the rules:

1. List these rules on your blog.
2. Share 7 facts about yourself on your blog.
3. Tag 7 people at the end of your post by leaving their names as well as links to their blogs.

7 Facts you should know about me... Rizza

1 - WORK: I currently hold a permanent office job here in the Philippines and so far I'm enjoying what I do.

2 - EDUCATION: I am a graduate of Bachelor of Arts in English at the Polytechnic University of the Philippines.

3 - FRIENDSHIP: For me having a few but real friends is better than having a lot of untrue "friends".

4 - RELATIONSHIPS: I am not married but I am in a relationship at the moment.

5 - WWW: This is where I search for a lot of things I need, I can't live without it.

6 - FITNESS: This is the hard part haha. I don't have any fitness regime. I just get on without it.

7 - DREAMS: To have a family of my own and to live a comfortable, happy life till I grow old.

So I pass this on to: Mayet/Joy Burlinson/Marilyn/Dennis/Kate/Jirl/Junelle

Wordless Wednesday: Our Lady of the Abandoned Church

2008-08-12T22:14:00.000-07:00

Location: Barangay San Roque, Marikina City
Photo taken by: Engr. Elbert M. Malonzo

Dmegs Directory

My rainy morning

2008-07-31T19:17:00.000-07:00

It's a rainy day and the weather forecaster says that it's going to rain till the weekend. I had difficulty getting up this morning, I was so lazy but I had to force myself to get up since I still have to go to work today.

Since I got up so late, I just heated the water to have a little cup of coffee. I never had the chance to prepare breakfast for myself this morning but I had the chance to watch TV and wait for an announcement that there would be now work today he he. After the hot cup of coffee, I immediately hit the shower. Brrrrrrr the water was so cold! I don't have a heater in my shower since it takes so much electricity to maintain one so I had to bear the coldness of the water that seems to prick my skin.

I hurriedly got dressed after my shower and went out of the house wearing a jacket and taking with me a small umbrella. It was 7:15 AM, I normally go out of the house as early as 6:30 AM. I told myself, I'll be arriving in the office late today.

Before I even reached the gate of the villa where I live in, I already saw a long line of commuters and there was not even a single jeepney. Oh my, I really am going to be late! But it's my fault... I got lazy and got up late ha ha. But maybe my luck hasn't ran out yet... after 5 minutes of waiting, there came a jeepney and then another and another. I luckily got boarded on the 3rd jeep.

I was in such a hurry I even asked the guard before reaching the lobby of my office building if I'm already late and he said, "No, ma'am you're still 3 minutes early". Wow, I said, I made it! I'm not late!

Wordless Wednesday: Butterflies

2008-07-29T20:40:00.000-07:00

Location: World of Butterflies, Marikina Heights, Marikina City
Photo taken by: Jason Benedict dela Paz

The good thing about the fuel price hike

2008-07-29T16:36:00.000-07:00

Just this morning while I was leisurely walking on my way to work, I saw a group of men, around 8 of them who were biking. I observed that they are not the usual cycling enthusiasts since they are not dressed in cycling outfits. Some are wearing jeans and some are wearing shorts and they have their bags on their backs.

As I walk along, I saw a number of people walking on the sidewalks. People whom I observed are also on their way to their jobs. Some are dressed in casual outfits and there are some who are even wearing high heeled shoes and office outfits.

On the other hand, the news on TV says that the Metro Rail Transit (MRT) and the Light Rail Transit (LRT) are always packed with so much people that you don't need to hold on to the hand rails while the train is moving because there won't be any available space for you to move and there would be a lot of people all around you.

As I was contemplating on this, I have concluded that these are the effects of the continuously increasing fuel prices. People seldom use their cars anymore. Most people take the public transports like trains, jeepneys and buses.

But the good thing is, a lot of people are gearing up their old bicycles stocked in the garage or at the back of their houses for a long time. More people are making use of the sidewalks and the bicycle lanes here in Marikina.

I guess despite all the bad things happening around us we can say that still there are a lot of good things we can make out of it.

Just another survey: Oil Price Hike

2008-07-22T20:38:00.000-07:00

Wordless Wednesday: So stressed?

2008-07-22T18:41:00.000-07:00

Location: My house

This time my WW is not so wordless so forgive me guys. First, I would like to thank my friend, Vinzer for this picture.

These are my friends (from left to right) Jabey, Randy and Dennis on the picture. We just came from a day at the Butterfly farm and Pan Americana for a fun photo shoot. We decided to have fun in my house afterwards.

Describe my day tag... how's yours?

2008-07-22T00:38:00.000-07:00

I got this tag from my friend Marikenya. Thanks for the support, my friend!

Rules:
1. List 6 things that describe yourself today or yesterday.
2. Add your blog to the list. Feel free to add all your other blogs.
3. Tag other online friends you know.

I would like to describe what happened to me yesterday, here it goes:

1. I tried so hard to wake up early since we were assigned to host the flag raising ceremony and gladly I wasn't late but we were exposed to the sun for an hour and I was really sweating when it was through.

2. I donated blood for the 2nd time, I was still quite nervous and it lasted for exactly 30 minutes since the nurse said that my veins are very thin but I was very glad I did it.

3. I went back to work afterwards and was very busy in the office drafting some legislations.

4. I spend my break time trying to drop some cards to increase traffic in my blog.

5. I accidentally met a neighbor whom I have not seen for a long time, we chatted while we both waited for a jeepney to bring us home.

6. I came home earlier than usual, ate some bread, watched the news and slept till morning.

And now I’m tagging my friends –

Adi/Momeen/Emmyrose/Dennis/Dette/Jirl/Janny/Nanay Belen

FHM Magazine’s 100 Sexiest Women

2008-07-17T22:39:00.000-07:00

Thanks to Superbonngg, I was able to attend, for the first time, the FHM 100 Sexiest Women party with three of my friends. We arrived at the World Trade Center in Pasay City before 9:00 in the evening and as expected it was so hard to find a parking space since the tickets indicated that the event will start at 8:00 PM. We weren’t able to leave the house early though since the car we’re using is banned from the roads until 7:00 PM because of the number coding scheme. But we were able to find a parking space anyway, with the help of a funny man who runs around waving at cars to park on the side of the roads and on the islands in the middle of the road (for a fee of course and you’ll park at your own risk).

When we got inside the venue, unsurprisingly, there are a lot of men and a few women who were already gathered around the stage and there are a good number of them who are still roaming around having their pictures taken with the sexy models brought by the sponsors. My male friends were among them and I acted as the official photographer for the night. It was fun prodding them to go beside the sexy ladies and pose (they’re a bit shy at first). I myself wanted to pose beside the models too but there’s not even one woman who does it so got really shy and didn’t do it.

When we were through taking pictures, we went in front of the stage to watch the sexy models parading on the ramp. I find myself in the middle of a throng of men but I didn’t mind since I already expected the party to be dominated by men. I was there out of curiosity and to have fun as well. As hours go by, more and more men are coming in and the air conditioning units don’t seem to exist anymore. Everyone is sweating and my feet were getting cramped from standing for a long time while wearing stilettos. But then nobody seemed to mind and nobody wants to leave.

Everyone, including me, waited for the No. 1 Sexiest Woman… none other than Marian Rivera. We weren’t disappointed, she was the last to grace the ramp and she’s lovely.

The party was over at 12:00 midnight and by that time we were near exhaustion and we were really starving. Our night wasn’t over yet. We looked for a place to eat and we found ourselves in a seafood restaurant along Macapagal Avenue in Pasay. We ordered sizzling squid in oyster sauce, baked mussels and prawns with sweet corn sauce and cheese… yummy. We devoured the food as soon as it was served and for a time nobody uttered anything. We were really starved.

It was a long night, we were all sleepy and there’s nothing more to do but go home and sleep. It was a tiring but enjoyable night. A first time for me and I had fun.

WW: Nightscape Photoshoot

2008-07-15T23:29:00.000-07:00

Location: Marikina River Park
Photo taken by: Jason Benedict dela Paz... Thanks, Jabey for allowing me to post this photo!

High "Rice"

2008-07-15T00:21:00.000-07:00

From breakfast to dinner most Filipinos never miss having rice on their tables. Even if it causes us to be bigger, still we can’t give up eating rice. I, myself prefer to have rice for breakfast instead of bread so I try to wake up early every morning just to cook for myself so I can avoid having snacks while I’m in the office.

But for the past months the prices of basic commodities, with highlight on rice and petroleum products, have ballooned and became almost unbearable for middle class Filipinos to afford and the government hasn’t done anything about it.

Oh, maybe they did something… yeah I can remember seeing long lines of people on the sidewalk for hours under the heat of the sun waiting to buy 5 kilos of the cheaper rice (NFA rice as they call it) being sold by the government for Php18.00 per kilo. You cannot buy more but there are a lot of talks that they sell it to bigger companies for better profit.

It is so sad to think that while millions of Filipinos work hard to have a decent life and give their families at least three meals a day, there are a lot of politicians out there who spend their money on junkets, luxury cars, dinner meetings in high class restaurants, etc. And the saddest part is… they are spending the tax money that the government has squeezed out of the meager salaries of millions of Filipinos, including mine.

2008-07-05T01:57:00.000-07:00

Cute Tag: The Things I've done

2008-07-03T18:31:00.000-07:00

Tags are important to us blogger and I appreciate sis Vicy for this tag.

Rule:
Place an X by all the things you've done, or remove the X from the ones you have not.

This is for your entire life!

Gone on a blind date X
Skipped school X
Seen someone die X
Been to Florida
Been to Mexico
Been on a plane X
Been lost X
Been on the opposite side of the country
Gone to Chicago
Swam in the ocean
Felt like dying X
Cried yourself to sleep X
Played cops and robbers when I was little
Recently colored with crayons
Sang karaoke X
Paid for a meal with only coins X
Did something you told yourself you wouldn't X
Made prank phone calls
Laughed until some kind of beverage came out of your nose X
Caught a snowflake on your tongue
Danced in the rain X
Written a letter to Santa Claus
Been kissed under the mistletoe
Watched the sun rise with someone you care about X
Blown bubbles X
Made a bonfire on the beach
Crashed a party
Gone roller-skating X
Gone Ice-skating
Gone skinny dipping

1. Nick-name? Rizza
2. Mother's nickname? Janet
3. What is your favorite drink? Coke
4. Tattoos? None
5. Piercing? Ears
6. How much do you love your job? I like it very much.
7. Birthplace: Marikina
8. Favorite vacation spot? Beach
9. Ever been to Africa ? Nope
10. Ever eaten cookies for dinner? Yes, a lot of times.
11. Ever been on TV? Yes
12. Ever steal any traffic signs? Nope
13. Ever been in a car accident? Yes, but thank God it's just a minor accident.
14. Was it your fault? Nope
15. 2 Doors or 4 Doors? Just the side mirror
16. Salad dressing? Ceasar
17. Favorite pie? Egg Pie
18. Favorite number? 7
19. Favorite movies? I am Sam, Sex and the City, I-Robot
20. Favorite holiday? Christmas
21. Favorite dessert? cake
22. Favorite food? anything, i love to eat
23. Favorite day of the week? Friday
24. Favorite brand of Body soap? Skin White
25. Favorite TV show! I don't have any
26. Favorite smell? Benetton Cold
27. What do you do to relax? Lay in bed and read a good book.
28. Do you have a message to your friends reading this? Thanks for my really good friends who stayed with me through ups and downs of my life.
29. How do you see yourself in 10 years? Contented, with 2 kids and a bit old.
30. What do you do when you are bored? I play computer games or read.
31. Furthest place you will send this message. I just hope it reaches the end of the eart, if possible :)
32. Who will respond the fastest? i'm really not sure
33. Who will LEAST likely respond? the bussiest person i'll tag

And now I'm passing this tag to Angela W, Marky, Sven-Marvin, jirl

Wordless Wednesday: Got milk?

2008-07-01T22:37:00.000-07:00

This is supposed to be a wordless wednesday but I can't help but introduce to you this cute little baby. She's Carlisle, she's 3 months old and the first daughter of a proud daddy, my officemate Ruel Lucas a.k.a. Super Bonnggg of FHM.

Flame of Friendship

2008-06-29T19:46:00.000-07:00

I started blogging because I was inspired by a friend of mine and now I have gained more friends because of it. Thanks to Dette for this tag of friendship!

The Flame of Friendship

A symbol of spirit of unity.
The burning icon of love.
Undying picture of hope.
The hot symbol of oneness.
The Flame of Friendship.

And now it's your turn to flame yourself!

Meet new friends. Discover friendship. Make bonds.
Copy this post starting from the PICTURE ABOVE to the end
and add your blog on the list below.
Let's start FLAMING!

-----------------------------------------------------------
The People Who Accepted The Flame of Friendship
-----------------------------------------------------------
Tiklaton: We are the witness
Janeth Vicy's Life Journey
Muthahood Crib
Thoughts, Experiences and Reality
(now, you follow!)
OOOPSS!! Don't forget to invite your friends!
_________________
END COPY HERE

And now I'm tagging you guys! Please keep the flame burning...

Marikenya
Dennis
May
Debbie
Meg
Cathy
John B
Deborah Katy

Wordless Wednesday: Passing through...

2008-06-24T19:06:00.000-07:00

Montemar, Bagac, Bataan
Photo Courtesy of Engr. Elbert Malonzo. You may add him through his multiply account for more fascinating pictures at http://accemm.multiply.com

My "Peaceful" weekend

2008-06-24T18:31:00.000-07:00

Last Friday, I went home experiencing just a little rain shower. The wind was cold and it was really a good time to sleep. I actually had a peaceful sleep that night.

The following day, I wasn't really planning on going out since I intend to tidy up the house a bit and do my chores but I had overslept. Not because I didn't sleep well, but because it was raining and I felt so lazy. So, I curled up in bed, embraced my pillow and covered myself with a heavy blanket. I slept till about 10 o'clock in the morning and told myself, I'll just do my chores tomorrow when the rain stops.

Sunday came... I was told via text by someone overseas that he watched TFC and heard that there was a storm in the Philippines. I even got a text from a friend at 5:30 in the morning that the power went out in their place already and was asking me if we still have it in my place. Oh, my God! I never thought the rain would end up to be a storm and to top it up, the power went down. My cell phone is running out of battery and I'll be out of touch in a few hours.

But well... I cannot do anything about it anymore. So I just stayed in bed with my book and started reading and when I got hungry, I got up and cooked a sumptuous breakfast for myself. I remember having pancit canton, siomai, bread and coffee. I really treated myself to such a big breakfast since I have nothing else to do and I think the weather made me put up an appetite.

After breakfast, I went back to bed with my book in tow. The wind was really blowing so hard and I got a little frigtened and there was a lot of rain really. I can't even look out from my window because I'll surely get wet with all that rain and wind.

The night came, I had dinner with candle light. It should have been romantic if I were not alone but I'm not that lucky.

I got bored sometime during the day since there really wasn't anything much to do but I survived, nothing bad happened except for the car cover being torn almost in half by the gusty wind.

The power went back the following day (Monday) and so I ended up having a very long weekend. I wasn't able to go to work since my uniforms are still in the laundry hamper, thanks to my being lazy. But then everything went well... it was still a very peaceful weekend for me.

Wordless Wednesday: Down the tree trunk...

2008-06-17T21:33:00.001-07:00

Photo taken by: Sir Randy

Everyone... meet my Dad!

2008-06-17T19:37:00.000-07:00

My childhood was simple... I grew up in a small, wooden house with a big lawn and a lot of trees. Although the place was not ours, we stayed there for a very long time. I grew up with loving parents and three sisters. I'm the youngest and according to many... the most loved and pampered.

My father was a carpenter, a very simple man who was not given the chance of an education since he belongs to a big, poor family. But I can still recall that despite not having studied, my father can work out my math assignments easily. I just have to read it to him and he can easily solve it for me. I believe that if he was only given a chance, he could have been a very successful man.

My father did not pamper us with lavish things since he cannot afford it but I can still remember how happy I am whenever I woke up and find a box of curly tops chocolates under my pillow or whenever he comes home with a paper bag full of sweet lanzones. There was even one time when he came home with an old fire truck that was about to be thrown by his client but he gladly saved it and brought it home for me. It was a little boy's toy but I was very happy to have it. It's red and it's got a ladder that can be pulled out and extended and I really had a great time playing with it.

May father, despite his very small salary, was able to bring us all to school. He always tells us that we should never give up studying even if we don't have money in our pockets, even if we have old, torn shoes and even if the uniforms we wear are only given by a rich neighbor. He taught us the importance of having an education and striving to be successful.

He never gave up on us... especially me. I have grown to be what I am today because of him. And I know that wherever he is right now, he is happy to see what kind of person I've become.

Tatay, mahal na mahal kita! Happy father's day!

Breast Cancer Awareness: The Tag for a Cause

2008-06-13T22:04:00.000-07:00

Having cancer in the family has made me not only conscious of this disease but afraid as well, although there are many ways to easily detect breast cancer now, it is still good to be careful and be aware. I thank, Marikenya for this tag for a cause.

June is the Breast Cancer Awareness month and this blog tag’s objective is to spread the information on this killer disease.

Facts you need to know about Breast Cancer:

• The first sign of breast cancer usually shows up on a woman’s mammogram before it can be felt or any other symptoms are present.

• Risks for breast cancer include a family history, atypical hyperplasia, delaying pregnancy until after age 30 or never becoming pregnant, early menstruation (before age 12), late menopause (after age 55), current use or use in the last ten years of oral contraceptives, and daily consumption of alcohol.

• Early detection of breast cancer, through monthly breast self-exam and particularly yearly mammography after age 40, offers the best chance for survival.

• Ninety-six percent of women who find and treat breast cancer early will be cancer-free after five years.

• Over eighty percent of breast lumps are not cancerous, but benign such as fibrocystic breast disease.

• You are never too young to develop breast cancer! Breast Self-Exam should begin by the age of twenty.

(Resources: American Cancer Society National Cancer Institute Komen Foundation)

You can help save lives of many women by spreading the word about The Breast Cancer Site and clicking on the pink button many times as you can. If The Breast Cancer Site receives 8 million clicks on the pink button in June, their premier sponsor -Bare Necessities- will donate $10,000 for more free mammograms. CLICK the pink button today!

To my blogger friends, please help this tag rolling to reach more and more women and even men, everyday.

Cathy / Karen / Dette / itsjusmeli / Amy Shipp / Snippets / gypsy at heart /

WW: A view from Anawangin, Zambales

2008-06-11T03:34:00.000-07:00

Thanks to Engr. Elbert M. Malonzo for this picture! You may check out his multiply account for more fascinating pictures: http://accemm.multiply.com

The benefits of being a PPP postie!

2008-06-10T20:35:00.000-07:00

I had been blogging for more than two months now through the prodding of my friend. Just recently, she also encouraged me to join PayPerPost, one the widely known paid posting sites.

I immediately signed up and waited for the approval of my blog. The day after I signed up, I immediately got a reply from them and told me that my blog lack some requirements that I first need to fix before I can re-submit it for approval. And when updated my blog to meet the requirements, the approval came on the same day that I re-submitted my blog. The response was so immediate and I really felt happy about it.

A lot of opportunities are open for me to write about things that I love, things I enjoy and topics I'm most familiar with and I'm so eager to start posting it in my blog. However, as a postie I also have a responsibility to adhere to the rules provided by PPP such as the word of mouth ethics.

So, far everything had been enjoyable for me and I'm glad that the other members are very friendly and very helpful and take time to guide a newbie like me.

This would really be a great time to enjoy posting and getting financial benefits as well. What I’m planning to do is to raise enough funds to open another blog that would be in my own domain.

Freebies for Marikina Residents

2008-06-04T23:30:00.000-07:00

Marikina City Vice Mayor, DR. MARION S. ANDRES is sponsoring free Medical Services and Legal Consultation every Thursday (starting today, June 5, 2008), 9:00AM to 4:00PM, at the City Council Session Hall, 2/F New Justice Hall Building, Sta. Elena, Marikina City.

The Free Services are as follows:

*FBS
*Urinalysis
*Blood Typing
*Reflexology
*Eye check-up (with free reading glasses)
*Ear piercing (with free earrings)
*ECG (for 40 years old and above)

The free services also include Free Hair Cut for men and women. Members of the Philippine Army have pledged their support on this endeavor as part of their service to the community.

In addition, Job Applicants may attend a Free Seminar Workshop on Interviewing Techniques which will be held on June 7, 2008, 1:00 to 5:00 PM, at the City Council Session Hall. Mr. Richard Samboa, a call center training manager, will be the guest speaker for the seminar-workshop.

WW: The Calmness of the Sea

2008-06-03T20:10:00.000-07:00

My last summer getaway?

2008-06-03T02:32:00.000-07:00

This summer was so much fun for me. I had been into beautiful places such as Bacolod, Zambales, Taytay and now... Pangasinan.

I was invited to join my former office's summer outing in Puerto del Sol, Bolinao, Pangasinan. I gladly joined because I know that it would be so much fun and I want to be with my friends again. We were supposed to be leaving Marikina as early as 4:30am but we overslept. So, the others left us and agreed to meet us in Luisita, Tarlac. We left Marikina at around 6:00 am and we were able to get to the meeting place as soon as we can.

We arrived in Bolinao at 11:30 am, it was quite a long drive. It was only then that I found out that Bolinao is the last town in Pangasinan. We were screaming with glee when we reach the resort. Finally, after long hours of driving we can see the beautiful landscape of Puerto del Sol, the beautiful cottages, the white sand, the calm and peaceful sea, the swimming pool and the jacuzi.

We were welcomed with drinks and a necklace made of small sea shells. We had an outdoor lunch after a few minutes and since we're supposed to check in at 2PM, the rooms were not yet ready by the time we finished our lunch. But it was okay because we were allowed to stay in the huts were we can lie down and get some fresh air. The huts are beautiful, with curtains all around. We also took our time taking pictures all around the resort. It was a sunny day but we don't really mind for as long as we get to have our pictures taken.

After a little more than an hour of waiting, we got into our room. It was airconditioned, with two beds, a balcony and a bathroom. It was really cute, I really like going out on the balcony where you can see the pool, the sea and the beautiful landscape.

We rested for a few hours, watched cable TV, take a few winks and then we went down at around 6PM and played billiards. I really don't know how to but I enjoyed it. Dinner was served after an hour. After dinner, we went directly to the pool (we've already worn our swimsuits when we left the room). The water was unexpectedly warm and I enjoyed it very much. We even tried the jacuzi, but we didn't enjoy it that much. But we enjoyed taking pictures while we're on it.

We went back to our rooms when we got tired of playing around in the pool. We were supposed to drink but I guess we didn't know that we were still tired from the trip. I actually dozed off first and when I woke up at 5AM, it was sunrise.

We went down to try the sea this time. The water was shallow and just knee deep so we just walked but we dare not reach the breakwater since they said that beyond the breakwater the water would be 40ft. deep. I don't want to find out and I think nobody did.

We posed for some pictures again (I think that's what we did most of the time) and then had breakfast and got dressed to leave. We bought a few things in the souvenir shop before we finally left the beautiful Puerto del Sol (Port of the Sun).

It was a wonderful, fun-filled summer getaway. Will this be my last for this year? I don't really know.

Public Speaking Anxiety

2008-05-28T17:54:00.000-07:00

I was inspired to write about public speaking because of my friend who is very bright but is soooooo afraid of speaking in public. He's even trembling when he speaks to some people.

I was amazed when I read an article saying that fear of death is only second to fear of public speaking. It made me think and say to myself, yes I think it's right. Even I, am afraid to speak in public most of the time before. I am even afraid to attend seminars and workshops for fear that I would be asked to speak in front of other people. But fortunately, I have learned how to manage (although not totally eradicate) the feeling of fear and nervousness whenever I speak in front of a group of people. I still feel nervous but I can survive speaking in public.

Most of the time we fear speaking with a person in authority or a person who has a higher position than us. We feel intimidated, I guess that's the correct term. But why? For me, it was for lack of self confidence and for being overly shy. When I was young, I am not an outgoing person and I would rather read a book than talk to other people. But now that I'm working, there's always a need to speak to some people and I had to muster enough courage to do that.

There's another factor that makes us afraid of speaking, it's being unprepared. More often, we are confident to talk about a topic that we know very well so that's one way that we can do to boost our confidence.

I can't give a definite advice on how one can overcome the fear of public speaking but I can say that this fear can definitely be conquered.

As Bertrand Russell said,

"To conquer fear is the beginning of wisdom"

WORDLESS WEDNESDAY: RAFTING IN VILLA ESCUDERO

2008-05-28T00:44:00.000-07:00

Location: Villa Escudero, Tiaong, Quezon
Photo taken by: My friend, Hanzel

Tagging of the Tags, The Ultimate Bloggers’ Meme

2008-05-26T23:28:00.000-07:00

Sharing tags is one of the important ways for making not only friends but social network as well. And I thank Marikenya for sending me this tag.

In turn, I would like to share this tag with some of my new friends and readers. I hope you can find time to tag your friends as well.

monaco / UnderHeavens! / Meng / Selif / stevenhumour / maria lourdes / Herbert / Kirhat / CTN / maline

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

1. Me and Mine 2. Creative In Me 3.Little Peanut 4. Pea in a Pod 5. Sugar Magnolias 6. Chez Francine 7. Le bric à brac de Cherie 8. La Place de Cherie 9.Super Nova and Sweet Pain 10. Avee's Adventures 11. Fil-Am Stories 12. Air Sick 13. Essay of Life 14. All About Reviews 15. From PI With Love 16. A Mom's Note 17. Tasteful Voyage 18. Beauty Kikay 19. Everyday Life 20. Fil-Oz Blog 21. More on Health 22. Ozlife Begins 23. Rants and Ramblings 24.Taurian’s Bible 25. What A World 26. Jcelyn's Journal27. Pinay Mom in Czech Republic, 27. Pinaymama's Diary 28. Breath Technology 29. Marikenya 29. Rizza 30.

Yes or No to Death Penalty?

2008-05-21T18:35:00.000-07:00

The gruesome, senseless and very violent killing of ten human beings (9 bank employees and 1 client) recently in a bank in Laguna made me shudder and weep not only for the lost lives but for their families as well. It made me ask questions like, Why do the robbers have to kill them?, Why don't they just take the money and flee?, Why did God allow it happen to those people?

This incident has made me angry, made me speak ill of those people who committed this crime. And for a lot of people, to revive the death penalty seems to be the answer to this problem. But, is it? It made me think about it too since I had been hearing this issue for a few days now. And as if it's not enough, just this morning my officemate showed us an email he got containing the pictures of the victims which were taken from the crime scene. There were even 3 persons who were lying face down on the floor, with gun shot wounds on their heads. I assume they were made to lie face down on the floor by the bank robbers but even if they did, they were still killed.

If I would only use my emotion to decide, I would say, yes the people who did it should be killed too. But we can't just do that. We have to consider a lot of things like the justice system here in the Philippines. The manner of determining the innocence or guilt of a suspect here in the Philippines is quite unreliable. A lot of people can be corrupted. What if the suspect is rich and he uses his money to bribe some people just to clear his name and point to someone else as the killer or rapist? These are just a few of the things we need to consider, there are a lot more that I haven't mentioned here.

As for me, I still have to really think hard before I can decide. For now, I still believe that God allows things to happen for a reason but don't ask me what his reason is because I have been asking that question too.

Two days of fun in San Narciso, Zambales

2008-05-20T01:14:00.000-07:00

I was in San Narciso, Zambales last Wednesday and Thursday with my officemates. It was our time to unwind, enjoy and make new friends.

We left Marikina at exactly 5:00 AM on Wednesday and we arrived in Crystal Beach Resort at 8:30 AM. We passed the newly constructed Subic-Clark Expressway and traffic was so light. It was a very enjoyable and pleasurable bus ride.

I immediately checked out the room assigned to us, the girls were supposed to be in the air conditioned rooms while the boys will be in the well-ventilated rooms hehe, as in electric fans(they agreed to that anyway). But in the end, I agreed to stay in the non-airconditioned room with my other lady officemate because the air-conditioned rooms were so small. We stayed on one of the boys' rooms.

I immediately left my bags, got my cell phone and shades and went to the beach with a friend. I have to check out the sea and take pictures. It was our first time in that resort and nobody knows what it really looks like. We've seen some pictures from their website but it's quite different when you look at it by yourself.

As we found out, the sea was not actually good for swimming because the waves are so big, it is actually a surfing beach. But my spirit was not dampened, I did not intend to swim anyway and besides the waves are really spectacular. What we did was to try to beat the waves but we did not win. One wave after the other came and brought us tumbling and laughing at the same time. I stayed in the water for only a few minutes but I really loved the experience.

We had a sumptuous lunch and we played "quiddler" (a short-word game) afterwards. Time really passes by so fast and we didn't notice that it was already time for dinner. It seems like what we did there was to just eat and play and have a good time and I told myself... THIS IS LIFE!

We left the beach with smiles on our a little bit sun-burnt faces but with high spiritS.

Bluer than blue

2008-05-12T18:39:00.000-07:00

Have you tried contemplating on the lyrics of the song "Bluer than Blue" by Michael Johnson? Last night, after a tiring day in the office, I played a cd with mellow songs to try to relax me and the first song I heard was Bluer than Blue. My mind was still active despite being tired and the lyrics of the song got into me:

"After you go I can catch up on my reading, after you go I'll have a lot more time for sleeping. And when you're gone it looks like things are gonna be a lot
easier, life will be a breeze, you know I really should be glad..."

I have experienced living with someone for almost two years, it wasn't always smooth sailing. Being together with a person who has different likes, different points of view would most likely pave for disagreements. Sometimes it's healthy not having to always agree with each other, being able to exercise your patience when discussing things, being able to measure your maturity.

But there are times when you want to just be alone... do all the things you want to do, be totally independent. It should make me happy living on my own now but to be honest... it's not. I love the independence, I love the peaceful days but as the lyrics of the song said, "the nights will sure be colder".

I'm living on my own for almost two months now, I try my best to become independent, I try to make every day pass without shedding tears but it will always be... bluer than blue.

The wonders of being a mother

2008-05-11T23:29:00.000-07:00

Yesterday I sent text messages to most of the mothers I know just to greet them a happy mother's day since it is a very important day for all the mothers and that's the cheapest way I thought that can make them to at least smile for a second. Almost all of them replied and said thank you but there's one reply that hit me and made me cry. This is her reply to me:

"I pray someday in God's time you will experience the wonders of being one"

I am not married yet but I have a fiance and we've been longing to have children of our own. I have a lot of nieces and nephews since almost all of my sisters are already married. I have somehow experienced how it is to take care of children.

I have seen them smile when their children are happy and I have seen them cry when they're sick. But I am quite sure the feeling is different when it's your own child you'll be taking care of.Having children can bring out a lot of feelings... a lot of emotions. It is not always easy to raise children, it's got a lot of challenges too. But as my friend said, being a mother is "worth it".

For now, all I can do is wait for the right time and pray hard for God to give me what I desire... to be a mother someday.

Relationship... on a woman's point of view

2008-05-10T01:30:00.000-07:00

Women are a lot different compared to men in handling relationships. Most women tend to be a lot serious when it comes to loving the opposite sex, though there are some who do have the tendency to play around a little.

Some women lose their own personality when they are with the men they love just to make themselves fit or compatible with each other. There is a tendency for women to try hard to be liked by their partner but in a way now showing their own characteristics. They tend to hide what they really are especially during the first few months or years of the relationship.

While there are some who just can't accept how men are. Most women would say men are insensitive, men don't worry about women, men generally don't care about their partners as much as women do. But have we thought of what men thinks about us? Of how overly sensitive women tend to be, of how women worry so much and how we sometimes seem to be holding a leash on their necks.

Think about it, guys... there are so many differences between a man and a woman but there are also a lot of ways to cope with a relationship without having to sacrifice so much as to lose our own self. We just have to learn to be a little open minded, accept the differences and learn to love the man that we have despite of what he is or just get out of the relationship if you think you can't handle it.

A Tribute to my Mom

2008-05-05T01:17:00.000-07:00

I can still recall when I was a child that whenever I get sick or hurt or whenever I am happy... the first person I call on to was my mom. She was my first teacher, my first friend. She was the one who thought me almost everything when I was still small and don't even know how to tie my shoe laces yet.

As the youngest child in the family, I can feel that I was more often favored by my mom in many ways and I was always under her protection whenever my sisters or other children try to bully me. I never felt afraid whenever she was with me.

I even remember crying everytime she went out on an errand without me in tow. I get really sad and disappointed whenever she leaves me at home. But that was when I was still small. When I grew up and was already in high school, I no longer get excited when my mom asks me come with her. I liked being with my classmates and my other friends and no longer with my mom. I don't know how she felt then but now I'm sure that it saddened her... that I hurt her whenever I decline to go out with her.

As I grow older, my mom and I seldom went out. When I had my job, I neglected my mom. I remember some occasions that I still go out with her but it was not as often as when I was a child.

I have changed but I know for a fact that my mom did not. She was still there whenever I was heart broken, whenever I have problems. We may not be that close anymore because of me but she still takes care of me. She does everything for me, cooks for me, takes care of my clothes and all the other chores at home.

When she got very sick, I know she was really in pain but she won't show it. I often hear her crying at night when she thought we're already asleep but I did not even ask her why.

And now that she's gone... I felt bad. There are a lot of things that I should have done to make her feel better, to make her happy. But it's too late for that now she's in heaven now.

Nanay... i know you're with God now and you're no longer in pain... I just want to say I'm sorry... for everything and I love you so much!

My first plane ride

2008-04-16T22:31:00.000-07:00

It was one month before my actual trip when i learned about it. I was tasked to browse the website of Philippine Airlines to look for possible flight schedules on the way to Bacolod. I had no idea that I am the one who will be travelling to that place so I just went on to do it without asking any questions.

I had the flight booked for March 26 at 5:45 in the morning and the flight back to Manila on March 29 at 4:45 in the afternoon. Everything is settled. That was when I was told that I am the one who will be attending that four-day seminar in Bacolod. It was a mixture of excitement and nervousness. It's going to be my first plane ride after all! And to top it all, I won't be going on that plane with a bestfriend, a boyfriend or even a family... I'll be taking that plane with none other than... my boss!

A week before our flight, I was already thinking of some reasons why I should not be the one to go to Bacolod but I can't think of anything! And I know for a fact that my boss would surely get offended when I decline the offer to go out of town on a seminar. So, I decided that I should go. It was only the day before the flight that I packed my luggage and told myself to be brave. I have been trying for days to stop thinking about it but then, this is it, it's going to be tomorrow! Naturally, I wasn't able to sleep that night. I even got up from bed before the alarm sounded off.

We were in the airport an hour before the flight, I tried my best to be relaxed. We were just waiting for boarding time, we got the emergency exit seats, we've checked in our bags and we're all set.

I once heard an advice that if I should take a plane for the first time, I should not take the window seats but I guess it's not my lucky day after all. I was given the window seat. Before the plane even started its engine the flight stewardess approached us and said that if anything happens they will be needing our assistance and that we should read the brochures tucked at the back of the seats in front of us. Wow, that's a big responsibility for someone who has not even seen a plane up close before!

When everyone was settled in their seats and buckled up, the captain thanked everyone for choosing Philippine Airlines and the plane started to taxi on the runway. I took a series of deep breaths and braced myself for whatever will happen. But you know what? When the plane went up and left the runway, I told myself, is that it? Wow, my first ferris wheel ride is even worst than my first plane ride!

All my fears vanished when we were already up there and the buildings started to get so small and I saw the beautiful sky. The fifty-minute plane ride was short after all.