Perspective

miss Him

2011-04-23T23:34:00.002+08:00

I miss Him. Haven't been talking to Him the past years until lately.
Did stations of the cross last night...and just that simple thing lightened my heart. I've come to realize that problems that i feel im facing right now is NOTHING. These are but my illusions of being incomplete. Dwelling on problems, be it work or personal is just a waste of time. I realized that I have more blessings to be thankful for than problems to worry myself with.

Despite the fact that I feel my relationship with Him is not as same as before...He never turned his back on me. He even gave me more blessings that I don't think I deserve. In my prayers, what I can only utter was Im sorry...quite a number of times. For not being there. For not keeping him in the loop (in work terms hehe).

I feel that I'm quick to lose my temper and patience because I dont have Him in my life. I'm even sometimes quick to judge. I dont know if this is just a holy week thing for me...but Im seeing life differently. I feel too that Im starting to thirst for His Words. To guide me. To embrace me again. and perhaps even give my life new meaning.

I am not perfect. Nobody is I guess. I've tried my best to be the best in everything that I want to do...but shamefully I admit I have not worked hard in my relationship with Him. Ive in fact somehow neglected Him...got caught up with worldly issues.

But I thank Him for loving me despite my imperfections. For not giving up on me though we havent been talking. Maybe He's been talking to me but I wasnt listening.

Just realized that maybe some of the things that are happening to me are happening because theres something missing in my life. And i tend to look around somewhere else to fill that gap but in fact maybe its just Him thats not in my life. Or at least Im not there for Him coz He never let me feel that He's not there.

my little toddler

2009-03-25T06:48:00.000+08:00

Drei has been walking solo when he turned one…and he loves it! He’s been playing with his “play bike” a lot, turning the handles left and right while he goes “vrrrmm..vrroom!” aaand he also does this while riding the vacuum cleaner. He has mastered eating with his fingers, and asking for his “nyum, nyum” or his rice crispies. He can now follow simple instructions like: throw this in the trash can, kiss mama, give this to papa, give mama a hug, brush your hair, etc. Drei has also mastered saying: mama, papa, t-ta (tita), wuwu (lolo), dei-dei (drei drei). He even loves dancing to Flo-rida and other upbeat songs.

He now recognizes and points to some stuff in his room when asked…like his snoopy clock, aircon, fan, burly (his bear), ball, book. He looks at his feet when you ask where are his shoes and plays with his imaginary airplane when he sees one in a book. Drei loves peek-a-boo and runs like crazy when Chito plays with him.

He’s been a handful but I love it when he kisses and hugs me…it makes me feel like the world will be just fine.

Guilty your honor!

2009-03-04T11:01:00.000+08:00

I wanted to blog something about me this time but the moment I was composing myself to write…my mind gets filled with happy thoughts of Drei. Drei keeps me sane. Everytime I get cramped with work and I forget to even breathe, I try to stop and think of him then I’m all fine and happy and all pumped up! Haha!

But then I also feel guilty at the same time since I feel like I haven’t been paying much attention to my Chito. I am TRYing sooo hard to balance everything. I am hoping that those little sweet moments that we have will be enough for now. Hugging him in bed while he’s soundly sleeping after I give Drei to his yaya to drink his milk. Or those times when I goof around, tickling and pinching him while we’re stuck in traffic. After we get home, I am guilty of watching TV after playing with Drei rather than spending quality time with him.

I’m guilty of being too critical. I haven’t been giving him room for any mistake. I wanted him to be perfect ALL THE TIME. I know he is trying to keep up with what I want from him and I’m praying soo hard that I stop being much of a perfectionist, and wanting things done and being thought of MY way. I even question his thought process!! Sheesh, I can’t believe I’m putting him through all these.

This has bothered me for quite sometime. And now…writing about it, admitting it to myself and letting others know about it, is certainly my wake-up call. I’m just so lucky that Chito has been putting up with me. Whew!

Chito is my rock. I will surely falter without him. He’s so much a part of me. As much as I show him how strong I am he just doesn’t know how much I need him in my life. Yihee! I love you hun! Lol!

I’m lucky to have my two boys: Chito and Drei. They both keep me grounded and my constant reminder of what matters most…

Drei on strike

2008-11-19T09:30:00.000+08:00

Drei was exclusively getting breastmilk for 8 ½ months until I got quite busy at work and I was required to travel. And travel meant me pumping and dumping my milk. I wanted to cry while I was pouring my milk down the drain while Drei was taking that darn milk formula! He’s been mixed fed for about a month now and I felt like I failed.

And for 7 straight days now, Drei’s on nursing strike. I didn’t know there was such a thing until I opened this up in an online community that I’m in. I was startled when Drei bit me while he was nursing. My initial reaction was to give him a stern No! while giving him the stink eye. He cried and pulled away. This happened twice in a span of 10mins. That was the last time that I nursed him, and everyday has been a struggle. It’s been a week since I last nursed him and I miss it. I miss our 30-minute bonding time where its only me and him…that we have our own little world. And the way he snuggles up to me at night when he wants to nurse while I cuddle him to dreamland.

I feel like breastfeeding is a blessing. Not all are given the opportunity to breastfeed but I felt like I took it for granted. And that maybe God is getting it back from me. The past week made me realize that it is indeed a gift…and I look forward to holding Drei in my arms while he nurses. I hope to win him back and I promise I will try sooo hard to keep nursing him until he self-weans.

Dear God, please help.

my bee's 1st trick or treat

2008-11-04T06:29:00.012+08:00

I was excited but hesitant. This will be the first time that Drei will be with so much kids at a time. Considering the number of times we’ll be riding the elevator (which drives him nuts!) and all the noise and confusion, I thought my Drei will go berserk.

It was a good 2.5hrs of craziness! HSBC held a Halloween treat for employees’ kids last week. We registered at the 10th flr at about 1pm. Drei was quiet at first, just looking at the other kids all dressed up. He enjoyed a few minutes of quiet time while he was 10 floors looking down at Ayala ave.

This was minutes before chaos!

Various departments at the TEC office dressed themselves up and their offices. Within the next hour, he was cranky. It was supposed to be nap time but there I was dragging Drei up and down the elevator, through the “trail” of the offices, and lining up for the treats.

He gulped on his milk, and then he was all charged up and perky! Drei got a lot of loot, where he munched on marshmallows and biscuits!

It was a fun but tiring day! But I’m happy that he put up with all the noise, the kids, and the new faces.

my celeb look a likes haha!!

2007-03-27T18:25:00.000+08:00

Supplier Ratings

2007-01-08T15:00:00.000+08:00

Ive posted this at the weddings@work yahoogroups...just want to share this with everyone
Rating:
5 – highly recommendable…our hats off!!
4 - recommendable…worth your money
3 - good…delivered just right
1 - poor …failed to deliver

CHURCH: Nuestra Senora de Gracia (NSDG)
Rating: 5++
The church was beautiful…as I expected it to be. Downside though was that it was raining like there’s no tomorrow and we weren’t able to take pics outside the church. But almost everyone who saw the church for the first time fell in love with it. I was so happy they loved it like my hubby and I did.

Good thing though that it rained coz we had a cool breeze. We were worried na mainitan yung guests coz the church doesn’t have aircon units but the rains had its benefits kahit papano hehe!

CHURCH FLOWERS: Kuya Melo (in-house NSDG)
Rating: 5++
I upgraded my flowers and added a measly 2k but it came out really elegant. I had calla lilies for my aisle flowers and I loved it!!

RECEPTION VENUE: Wack-Wack Golf & Country Club (Banquet A&B)
Rating: 4
I was worried that a 280 pax accommodation will come out too crowded…but it was just right. The place was worth more than the money we spent for it.

However, they accommodated an afternoon event in our venue so it ended up that VS&F wasn’t able to set up on time; though VS&F still managed to completely set up before majority of the guests came in

CATERER: VS&F Catering
Rating: 5++
FOOD: Superb! Our guests complimented the food…Im happy that they enjoyed it as much as we did.

SET-UP: Despite the fact that they had limited time to set up due to the prior event that wack-wack accommodated, they did good. Their table arrangements was more than I expected. It was actually what I requested…I just didn’t expect that it’ll come our really great…very elegant. I requested long stemmed white calla lilies in tall vases with 3 fishbowls with floating candles in light green colored water and I didn’t pay extra for it. It was sooo nice. That’s actually the first thing you’ll see in the venue. Our guests loooved it!

PHOTO/VIDEO: Chito Vecina Photography
Rating: 5++

Chito and his crew came to our hotel (1) hour ahead of schedule. Haven’t taken my shower yet that time, hehe! They were very professional and didn’t make us feel that they’re waiting quite long na. When they got in, they set-up their equipment and took pics of the rings, gown, etc. Francis, Chito’s assistant photographer made us feel comfortable too. Chito and I had a chat and he asked if Im having jitters etc. Im happy I got them.

They also played a slideshow of pics during the hotel preps and the ceremony, which wasn’t part of our agreement but they played it! We weren’t able to see it but our guests told us that the pics were great specially the candid shots (which is Chito’s specialty). They were the one of the last suppliers who left since they took some pics of us after the reception. I was super touched coz they really waited for us after we had some picture taking with friends and said our hello’s to our guests. Very professional and mukhang hindi pa rin pagod…like us!

OTD COORDINATOR: Posh Parties
Rating: 10!!!
Tess, Erika, and Aline are my dream team. They absorbed all the stress!! Haha! They’re off the charts that’s why I gave them a 10 for all their extra effort. When my couturier didn’t show up during my preps (this one’s a looong story!), it came out that my gown was a bit loose…since I lost more weight from our last fitting. Tess (of Posh Parties), without any hesitation, got a sewing kit and adjusted it herself. She didn’t let me or my mom stress about it. I was really touched…

I didn’t also feel that VS&F was not able to set up on time. Some problems came up but they told it to me after they already made a solution. I didn’t see them sweat! My in-laws and some of our guests told us that they were very professional and organized.

We got our emcee from VS&F about 3 days prior the wedding, but I was surprised that Posh parties was able to brief them well about the whole program and she did well too.

Worth more than the money we paid for them!! Highly recommendable.

MUSIC-CHURCH & RECEPTION: JJS ENTERTAINMENT
Rating: 10++
Oh yeah, they’re way off my charts too! They over-delivered though I haggled to death for the package rate they gave me, heheh! John (JJS Ent. Owner) was sooo easy to talk with. He was willing to work with you on anything. He suggested an acoustic quartet (which my husb and I loved) and it came out really good. He gave me a reaaally worth-it package and added a male vocalist to the acoustic group as a gift. I didn’t expect he’ll give in to my request since I selected some duet songs and some which will require a male vocalist. Ang galing din nung male vocalist…he sang “the way you look tonight” for our first dance…and it was sooo romantic.

I was soo happy too that ALL, mind you, ALL the songs I requested were played. Some of my closest friends told me that the music selection was so me, heheh! Si husband kasi gusto rock eh shempre wedding yun diba so I chose our super favorite songs and mine.

BRIDAL CAR: JJS Entertainment
Rating: 5
I had this packaged with our acoustic quartet. Our driver was on time and was very generous too in assisting me going in and out of the car since it was raining like hell that day. The car was a 2003 S series Benz, something like that…and got it for a REAALLY good deal. John (JJS Ent. Owner) was very very kind! Highly uberly recommended talaga!

ENTOURAGE FLOWERS: Mang Boy of Dangwa
Rating: 10++
Oh, I loved my bouquet…even Tess of Posh parties was surprised how beautiful all the flowers came out. I had about 5-6 dozens of deep red roses bouquet and the ento flowers were a combination of roses, gerberas, lilies, something something. Basta it was really nice… J

HMUA: Faces by Erika Saenz
Rating: 4.5
Erika made me look beautiful…she enhanced my features really well and my make-up withstood our long day and the weather too. She was there during the church pictorials to retouch…she made sure I looked perfect.

Im about to give her a 5 except for the hair stylist she partnered with. My hair looked good though…kulang lang sa hairspray that’s why Erika kept on fixing it during our pictorials. But overall…I’ve no complaint at all.

COUTURIER: Taal, Batangas supplier
Rating: 1
The nightmare of the year! I wasn’t really ranting during the preps here at w@w coz I was wishing the stress we went through were all worth it…but I’d say no. A friend recommended them and we just went to Taal once to meet them and try to figure out some designs etc. I wanted to save kasi and I regret it. The stress is not worth the savings we got. They said they don’t mind going from Batangas to Manila for the fitting coz they frequent Divisoria anyways.

So here it goes:
- our ento gowns are for first time use and was informed they’ll charge us about 500-600 each gown. Not bad huh? So I figured, I made a good find here. When they had the gowns done, they charged me 1500ea coz they used daw a different cloth/material. I let them have the freedom to choose (ano ba kasi alam ko sa cloth) but courtesy says they should have asked me first if its okay for me to pay more with their chosen cloth…the nerve di ba?
- During fittings for the ento and mine, they’d either be late by 2 hours or 2 days!!! Yeah 2 days, they’ll give all the excuses in the world
- Worst part of all, they didn’t go to my hotel preps to make sure the gown fit me well…what could be more worse than that? Buti na lang my coordinator was super helpful and we just adjusted it ourselves

But overall, I had the grandest time of my life…our guests told us that their favorite part was when we had our first dance and hugged like we were the only ones in the room. They said they felt how much we love each other. That made everything so worth it, knowing that people enjoyed our wedding and they felt how happy Chito and I were that day.

I’ll soon share some of our pics…happy preps to everyone!!! Super helpful w@w for clueless brides, and im uber thankful to everyone who has been very generous with tips kahit minsan lurker lang ako, I surely learned a lot.

WAAAHHH!!! Sorry long post po…Hth!

said i do to my bestfriend!

2006-12-20T14:39:00.000+08:00

After more than a year of preparation, we finally walked down the aisle last week. It was the happiest day of my life...almost all our family and friends were there, but more than anything I had my bestfriend, Chito to celebrate it with.

It rained the whole day but it didn't spoil the bliss that i felt. Should anything go wrong...i just knew i'd still have that smile on my face. It was a day that we both looked forward to. We exchanged letters during the wedding preps in the hotel. I composed mine in the morning while he did his before he slept the day before the wedding. It was heartwarming, and I cried like a baby hahah!

In his letter he said, "...honestly, I never thought I'd be as happy as I am now. I can't find enough words to describe how I feel this very moment. All I know is this, - I'm so excited to see you later, walking down that aisle and standing right next to me..." Isn't that so sweet? and further he goes - "...we've been together a little less than three years, but it's like Ive known you all my life...I just hope that during the time when we were a couple I was true to my word - that I'd make you the happiest girl in the world..." super heartmelting huh? "...know this baby - I will be with you every step of the way. I'll help you up every time you stumble, be there when you need me. Through all the good and bad times that may come, you're always going to have me to share them with - this is my promise to you which I'll keep you forever..."

Walking down the aisle was a mix of emotions. I said to myself i'll try not to cry a bit but the moment I was composing myself to walk, I was misty eyed. I saw that the church was almost full..saw my friends from college, my relatives, chito's friends and relatives. at the end of it I saw Chito smiling from ear to ear. I can feel his excitement from where I was standing. then halfway I saw my parents...it was bittersweet. I know they knew I was happy but deep inside I know Im leaving a part of me, physically that is...My family who I love dearly. Im close to both my mom and dad and I know they'll miss me.

As we walked, to Chito, his parents, and mich...the feeling was overwhelming. I saw Papa (chito's dad) teary eyed...and Chito giving me a smile that I will never forget. It was a smile that calmed me and made my happiness complete.

The whole ceremony seem so fast and we both cant help but smile and say our iloveyous every chance we could. When the priest finally announced we were husband and wife, we turned around and we were in awe. We didnt expect a church full of friends and family despite the bad weather...all we can say was "wow.."

When we got to wack-wack for the reception, there were some glitches...major that is. Stories on that on my next post na lang, pati our reviews on our suppliers. But i didnt let it spoil our day. I saw everybody enjoying, it was an icing on the cake. I saw some pics from our friends' multiply sites and we felt that everyone was happy...and that they had a fun time.

some friends say that their favorite part was when we hugged after we kissed in the church and during our first dance where "the way you look tonight" was sang really well by our acoustic quartet, and we hugged and danced like it was just the two of us in the room.

I'd say I'll marry Chito as many times I wish I could...I cant imagine having someone else beside me before everyone who means so much to me. He's my perfect match..and Im happy I said "i do" to my bestfriend

53 days til I walk down the aisle...

2006-10-18T13:57:00.000+08:00

I can't believe that we're getting married in less than 2 months! I anticipated lesser load by this time since I had one year lead time for the wedding preps but good thing I got a wedding coordinator..at least to just keep me sane, hehe!

These are the things ive done so far...

Church: Nuestra Senora de Gracia
booked since Oct 2005, pending completion of requirements

Reception venue: Wack-Wack Golf & Country Club BanquetA&B
booked and fully paid since Oct 2005

Caterer: VS&F Catering
booked since Nov 2005. 50% paid, flowers and cake for upgrade
-we'll try to achieve a similar look and feel with the pic above
-to finalize wedding guest list...and yes, the closer the wedding date, the longer the guest list becomes...

Hair & Make-up: Faces by Erika Saenz
to book within the month; trial make up done last tuesday

Photo & Video Coverage:Chito Vecina Photography
booked since Nov 2005; 50% paid; prenup pictorial done last tuesday. Pics above our some of our shots...

Couturier:Taal, Batangas supplier
50% paid; 2nd fitting of entourage and bridal gown turnover by Nov25. Share ko lang some of our pics above

Wedding rings: R&B Jewellery, Ongpin
Fully paid...arent they pretty?

Wedding coordinator:Posh Parties
booked abt 2 mos ago...finalizing our concept and working on the reception program and other details

Documents:
Got the marriage license last month! Yey!

Invitation: NONE YET!!!

Entourage flowers: NONE YET!!

I can more or less visualize our wedding na...and I'm super excited. I just know that it'll be beautiful!
Posh parties and I are working on it...I just know I'm in good hands...

and the countdown continues...

2006-09-05T21:25:00.000+08:00

Chito mentioned that he updated his blog...and yes, i almost forgot I had one. Ive been so preoccupied these past months and will still be until december.

I just switched to globe and got a new phone!

I've been a nokia user for gazillion years (haha! i meant, eversince)...but i find it easy to navigate. there are of course other nokia features that i prefer. but hey, with such a slim size (i sometimes put it in my wallet) and with the features that i need, who could ask for more. doesnt have 3g technology though but so far it's not been picking up here in manila (or the whole country for that matter), so why fuss?

Chito and I just got from the Makati city hall to apply for a marriage license. We got to see the mayor's office and their really nice conference roomcs...courtesy of Junjun Binay. Naaks! He's actually chito's classmate/friend from high school, who's been really kind and helped us get through the "perils" of dealing with govt offices for requirements. I was surprised that our city hall is really nice. It's like being in one of the good Makati CBD buildings...and even has some floors that can be a four-star hotel.

We've also attended the seminar required by the church (pre-cana seminar). and met some interesting couples. One were once just textmates, another, met through the internet...a couple in their 30s just knew each other 5months ago while the other have been together for 11 loooong years! But we were all in the same boat, taking the next step and putting our faith to our respective partners. Im happy that im going through this with chito. He's been really loving, supportive, caring, and being the bear that he is...super cuddly. hahah! I can't say i like his lovehandles but i really like pinching them and find it cute! (sometimes lang ah, but hey I dont mind some abs here and there!)

I'm a self-confessed Texas Hold'em Poker addict. I have equally addicted friends who bought a poker table and hosts our tournaments once a week (emil and roe-who by the way have a site where they'll post updates from our tournament... www.emilandroe.com/poker), i have my ever "pasaway" boss who doesn't mind if we play until the early hours of the morning on a weekday..and excuse ourselves from the office for just a few hours the next day, and of course Chito, who has been "bombarding" me with WPT videos on his Ipod and never fails to give a tip or two for me to improve my game. Haay, even my parents don't mind me playing. But of course they hate my early morning uwi everytime i play.

I recently joined a ladies poker tournament in QC. I placed 4th with 24 players. Not bad huh, for a 2nd-time tourney player. I'll post another blog i guess for some really interesting hands that i played and some where i've been outplayed...I just hope I'll get better pa...and earn us some moolah! hahaha!

Just finished my first term in grad school and so far so good. I'll be taking one subject this coming term (which starts on monday) since I'll be crammed with wedding stuff na til dec.

Chito and I have checked some stuff for our house..super mahal na appliances these days. We didn't know that a 6-burner stove costs 40K! sheesh, sana ok lang forever take out! We're also starting to plan our honeymoon. Third, (chito's bestfriend) offered us to stay at their place in australia (he and itin recently got a place of their own there). we just have to worry about our plane fare and pocket money na lang daw. Good thing Papa (chito's dad) works for Etihad, and we get plane tickets to any of their destinations. Downside though would be we'd have to stop over at Abu Dhabi before heading to Australia. Well, works for me...who wouldn't want free airfare? Im super excited na. We're still weighing our options. Would really love though to spend time with third and itin as well. Thanks Third for your offer, hope we can easily get our tourist visas (if ever). We'll keep you posted.

Til my next blog in 2007...hahah!

one bed weather coming up!

2006-07-24T14:24:00.000+08:00

i hate mondays, most especially if its such a gloomy day like today. Not to mention the rains to match it which makes it such an ideal day to lay in my bed and snooze til its time for dinner, haha!

its been raining like hell, good thing we have quite a light load this past week.

i miss summer...i miss the scorching sun...i miss the beach...

ice cream!!

2006-06-27T23:29:00.000+08:00

Your Icecream Flavour is...
Cookies 'n Cream!

Smooth and creamy with a few rough bits mixed in, you are a real treat! You are probably very popular amongst your friends. Remember too much of a good thing is not always good! Don't lay it on too thick!

What is your Icecream Flavour?

Find out at Go Quiz

wish i had more than one body...

2006-06-05T15:55:00.000+08:00

i recently started my mba classes in LaSalle, rcbc campus. I enroled in two classes and im enjoying it so far. It's a bit different now. Back in college, i remember i understood our lessons and all but i cant seem to fit it in the "real" world. But in gsb, you get to appreciate what you're learning because it helps you understand things that you deal with every day. (aside from the fact that i paid (half kay papa chito) for my tuition fee,..heheh)

Haay...i tend to push myself too much. Stress at work, mba, wedding plans, other "rakets," and this new business my boss and i are trying to put up. Then im on a diet pa. Goodluck na lang on my health.

college reunion

2006-05-09T11:15:00.000+08:00

had a long day last saturday! chito and i attended Carlo's wedding and then i met up with my college friends for dinner. I was expecting our usual group and some few others perhaps but i was soooo surprised to find about 10 more people i havent seen in yeeeeears!!

dinner was at thai ginger gbelt 3 and then we transferred to masas for some drinks. One thing u know, about 5 more of my blockmates was just at temple. Instant reunion talaga, we were about 20 there and we all had a blast. It was just nice catching up with what's been keeping us busy,..

sheesh, i almost forgot Leo blanco's first name, i just remembered that his surname was Blanco. they tortured me for quite a while before berl finally gave me a clue! super embarassing

ofcourse, everyone was quite surprised to see april and chey preggy! mommy april is due anytime while chey naman is next month. exciting sobra! saw april's 4d ultrasound image of her baby boy. he looks really gwapo!

Whew! Updates!

2006-04-27T17:06:00.000+08:00

Sheesh its been ages since i last wrote. Anyways, some quick updates. Hopefully i can keep it short.

Wedding preparations:
Our approved menu (its reaaaally good..i swear)
Cocktails : nachos,cheesesticks, peanuts, vegetable sticks & iced tea
Appetizer : Spinach cracklets
Salad : Ceasar's Salad
Soup : Clam chowder soup
Entrees : Steamed riceye w/ parsl
Baked macaroni (really creamy)
Lengua with mushroom butter sauce
Chicken teriyaki
Fillet of Lapu-lapu w/ tartar sauce (cooked on the spot)
Mixed vegetables w/ young corn and quail eggs
Dessert : Assorted cakes/pastries
Fresh fruits
Motiff: Maroon & Champagne(chito likes it too, so this should be final)
Theme: Calla lily (i like it simple & elegant)

Wedding dress: I've somehow made up my mind on how I'd like it to look like.
It's something like this:
Make up : c/o Ricci Chan (one of the Magandang Umaga Pilipinas hosts)
How do i look?

Church : upgrades finalized!
Venue : firmed up upgrades
**We dont have emcee yet though..Other details are quite minor and should be easy to handle.

Personal stuff:
1. 1 year na ko in LBC! and it didnt feel like it. time flies coz i really enjoy my work
2. i passed DLSU-GSB MBA exams. Hopefully i can manage my time well for this. Classes start this May
3. celebrated our 2nd yr anniv ni chito last feb.
4. I spent my bday in Bohol! it was really reaally nice and met some new friends too.

a couple from pque that we met there and this really nice Austrian who shared a lot about all the places that she has gone to. Of course we shared some really nice trivia about Filipinos

of course...we gotta go visit them:

and the choc hills,.it was...WOW!

5.I'll be going to bora...for free!! one of our corporate partners sponsored our trip. Pati si chito..free din. We'll be staying at the elizalde's beachhouse..im really excited!!

outreach at PGH cancer institute

2005-12-16T14:27:00.000+08:00

In lieu of our christmas party, LBC Development went to PGH Cancer Institute and gave donations, gifts, and some groceries. It was very moving since the children in the pedia ward were still all smiles despite their condition. They were very happy that there are other people who still care and are willing to share their time and blessings.

I guess most of us forget the spirit of chrismas. Its about sharing and sacrificing. I feel ashamed that I felt sad we won't have a company christmas party...but seeing these people who'll be spending their christmases in the hospital and the pain (emotionally and monetary) and fear that they have to go through everyday, makes me take one step back.

Most of us are fortunate enough to have "excess" time and money to go shopping for ourselves, family and friends. and yes, it would'nt hurt to give back to the society..

christmas and the new year

2005-12-13T12:58:00.000+08:00

Sheesh…days pass oh so fast. One thing you know Christmas season is over, hello 2006!! I’ve never been as excited as I am know looking forward to the new year. Chito and I will tie the knot next year…Dec 10 at Nuestra Senora in Guadalupe, Makati and reception at Wack-wack country club. We had to move to December so the Ines clan can go home for a 2 week Christmas vacation. We’re scheduling their “pamamanhikan” within the month just to formalize everything following an old Filipino tradition. It’s a bit nerve wracking knowing our families will finally meet for the first time…I mean what do we say when the “awkward” silent moment comes? Haaay…we’ll see.

******
Parties, parties, parties!!
In lieu of our Christmas party, LBC will have a one day outreach to PGH Cancer patients on Dec 15 (its also the birthday of my nephew who passed away 3 yrs ago).

On the 16th will be HSBC’s Christmas party at CCP…and yes…I am inviting myself, haha. Chito will try to sneak me in…I miss my HSBC friends big time. Can’t wait to party with them again. Chito will perform ulit (kina-career na nya to!). This time he’ll be one of the bar girls (from a scene in Miss Saigon) and as Ms. Hannigan (whoever that is) from the play Annie.

Our department will have a Christmas party on the 20th. Dinner, exchange gift lang, and endless chikahan. Then on the 30th, with my high school friends…at macky’s place.

I saw Mig Ayesa of Rockstar INXS about 2 weeks ago at GMA 7’s Christmas party for their advertisers. I almost screamed (if not for my boss who was with me,heheh). Mig’s cute and I so wanted to take a picture of him with me! Kainis, I missed my chance…I just snuck a pic of him with a girl in the venue’s bulletin board...hehe!

******

Xmas gift shopping
I finished shopping for all my nieces, nephews, and godchildren. But haven’t finished yet for my friends, officemates, babies for xchange gifts, etc. With all the frenzy in malls, goodluck na lang sa kin if I can finish em all in the next 2 weeks.

kids at heart

2005-11-08T15:27:00.000+08:00

I had one helluva weekend this week. Chito and I, with Glad and Alvin had a blast. Coming from his last day in graveyard shift last friday, Chito picked us up and headed to Something Fishy, Eastwood, for their now famous P80 buffet breakfast. Man it was good I should say…I was stuffed. Well we need to have fuel in our tank that’s for sure…we knew we’ll be walking for 2 hours in Avilon. Yeah Avilon zoo, this is at Montalban Rizal. This was far..but worth it. We almost got lost when we lost a turn…and we were already headed for the mountains. Geesh, good thing Chito asked around.

The extent of wildlife here is just...wow! It was my first time to see a Capybara (spelled something like that). It’s like a gargantuan rat…I had to use the word gargantuan coz “large” may sound small for it. Hahaha. They even had squirrels, skunks, raccoons, numerous birds (check out my pic with a reaaaly cute owl), snakes (even an anaconda), a jaguar (which by the way growled coz Glad and I were joking around, growling and all), sun bears, Malaysian tapirs (if I remembered correctly, we only have 2 in the country and its both in Avilon). If you guys have time you might want to visit this zoo. Now, I know how a tuko (gecko) looks like, hehehe…it’s nice.

It was so funny looking at this tortoise who turned over and took him decades trying to flip over..

We had to rest afterwards coz Chito needed some sleep, he was up for 24 hours straight! Afterwards, we had dinner at Chokoy’s. The best sisig in town. It’s near QC circle, I think. Alvin jammed with the acoustic performer and we all had a good time. Good food + good company + good music = good time! Glad meanwhile had too much alcohol intake and ended up “basag” but still wanted to play extreme jenga and taboo…that’s my girl!

The next day we headed to Caleruega in Tagaytay. The church was just breathtaking…and the view…just spectacular! Had light lunch at Hen Lin overlooking Taal, and coffee after at Starbucks, the cool breeze made us wanna stay there na lang…but we had another place to go to…Enchanted Kingdom! (everyday, everyday the magic is here…hehhe).

We rode Anchor’s Away twice, Space Shuttle (it was Glad’s second time to ride this after 8 yrs), Wheel of Fate, Rio Grande and even had some neoprints taken (with jologs behind us singing some Aegis or April boy songs,hhehe). I have lotsa stories of screaming paygots (faggots), ok lang kayo mga prens?, and stop “basa”-ing me stuff!

It was exhausting…but it was sooo fun…It really pays to have a break from work. It feels good to feel like a kid again..going to the zoo and a theme park.

one humiliating night...

2005-10-25T18:50:00.000+08:00

I’ll be sharing a recent “embarrassing” moment for me. Mabs, my college barkada celebrated his birthday last Friday in a greenhills restaurant (secret na lang muna where that is). I only knew about a handful, most of which are my blockmates. I’ve seen some of them La Salle and the others are his friends from work, bora, etc. So as we were drinking and making small talks with his colleagues in Colgate Palmolive, Mabs gave us a big bottle of vodka…I actually like Vodka sprite coz its sweet. Anyways, I mixed my own drink, and I was oh-so-generous with my every pour of vodka. By my third glass (btw, it’s a quite big drinking glass), I got a bit tipsy so I told chito, that’ll be my last. One thing you know I was having another glass and a tequila shot after. My tummy started to feel a bit funny so I decided we should go. But I went to the ladies room first, and I blew…bad! I knew I had to get out so we could go home na kagad and what do you know, as I left the washroom I knocked down a divider and found myself lying down on the floor.

I passed out, and then I heard some mumblings something like let’s help her out..etc. So I got up and they let me sit. I felt soooo bad…then chito got to me and took care of me…as well as about 4 more people, 1 staff was massaging my arm coz it hurts so bad, the guard was fanning me, another one was giving me water, another was helping me puke. Super eksena talaga…soo embarrassing. I was lying for more than an hour in 4 chairs.

The morning after, I had to have my arm checked coz it was swollen..and had to re-tell my humiliating story around 4 times as 2 doctors and 2 nurses asked me separately. I should’ve lied na lang coz my xrays and the prof fee were not covered by my health card. I had to tell my parents that I slipped, mama said we should sue the restaurant or file a complaint, etc. I just said that my sandals were a bit slippery na…and the resto had no fault with the incident.

Chito told me I should stay away from mixed drinks na since I tend to overdrink…I guess it’ll be tequila shots for me then, hahaha. Just kidding. About 2 or 3 bottles of sanmig light will do na the next time.

Pinoy Big Brother (PBB)

2005-10-20T15:26:00.000+08:00

Yeah, yeah condemn me for this entry,haha. I’m a self confessed reality TV sucker…but with this one, I’d say I am “forced” to watch this. We currently doing roll-outs for our campaign for our new product and we have creative intrusions in PBB. We got in after they had a one-day ban. We rode on its popularity, hopefully gain enough benefits from this.

I’d have to admit, when I first heard about this show, I got curious. I mean how can people stand watching this seemingly “uninteresting” common people? Well.. since as I said I was “forced” to watch this (yeah, yeah ethel keep telling that to yourself), I’d say it’s not boring at all. You get to make fun of them, how they sometimes talk about trivial things “intellectually,” you should hear their opinions, hahah. This gay guy Uma even broke down when he was prohibited from smoking for a day, and had to do with second hand smoke that his housemates are “willingly” puffing him with.

As clients, we got to tour the Big brother house. There’s this camera ring walkway surrounding the whole house. Everyone was sleeping except for 3 people. Sorry me, sam was sleeping as well (he’s such a cutie or maybe bec sha lang ang may itsura, pakshet). It was so funny going around coz it felt like going around a zoo or watching “lab rats.” Hats off to them, geesh I don’t think I can stand staying in one place for almost 2 months now and being with the same people whom you might not even like. But it’ll be hard for the staff as well since they’d have to monitor everything…I mean watch them even if they’re sleeping. Trivia pala:A staff told us it cost them around P120M for everything (including camera set-ups, interiors,etc) for the whole house.

It was so funny too standing outside the house for yb. We’d see cars passing by, actually slowing down just to take a glimpse of the house or take a picture of it. Some would actually go down and take pics (lots of em) and sometimes insist on going beyond the gate.

I gotta stop blabbing about this…I’m sure you think of me differently now..hahaa! Last na, met Marielle (the uplate version host) she is soo cute...very pretty girl.

Mares bonding

2005-10-05T13:04:00.000+08:00

My girls and I went out for dinner and videoke last Friday. We had a blast…and ate a lot at T bar, sponsored by Miray. She got promoted at work, and we’re all proud of her. And ate even more at Music 21 while we sang our hearts out and screamed like there’s no tomorrow.

There was videoke showdown between Alvin (Glad’s boylet) and Rommel (Kim’s fiancée). One sounds like Piolo Pascual and the other, Martin Nievera…and just when competition heats up…kami ang pangpasira!! Don’t get me wrong but we sing like diva’s **wink ** Afterwards we went to Starbucks Magallanes, our “heart to heart talk” tambayan.

We are all very opinionated and we love each other like sisters…and so, when one sister goes maniac in the love life highway…we’re each other’s highway patrol. But we can only do as much. Sorry I can’t get into detail coz we’ve said so much to our troubled friend. Too much things said and done.

We’ve all grown together..from our nene days in grade school up to now that we’re all successful in our chosen careers. We remain to be little girls once in a while…and reminisce the good ‘ol days.

Just to let you guys know my bestest girl friends…here’s how I see them:

Berl, the woman trapped in a cute baby girl’s body. I’m proud of her because she finished law school and will know in a few months time if she’ll be Atty. Santiago. I know she’ll make it, though. A smart, loving, cute girl…and will be married soon to Paolo. They complement each other and I’m really happy for them. Berl has been my confidant…she lets me see the bigger picture…that I’m strong and I can make it, no matter what.

Glad and I have been through a lot of ups and downs with a lot of boylets in between! Haha! Lots of heartaches, tampuhans, etc. She’s a very sweet girl…and loves her family more than anything in the world. A go-getter, almost always gets what she wants coz she knows what she wants. Would never settle for anything less coz she deserves it. A beautiful person inside and out.

Miray is our mommy. She doesn’t seem to tire taking care of everyone…that’s why I think Julia is soo lucky. Her mommy’s there…di sha iiwan like her father. Miray is such a sucker for romance…after what she’s been through I admire her for being strong and for never losing faith in love. What-a-trooper!!

Za has an genuine soul. She speaks her mind and never pretends to be someone she’s not…uber honest that some people may get offended but that’s the way she is. And I love her for that. She laughs her heart out whenever we all hang out. Hats off to this very responsible girl…she knows how to balance love, career, family, God…(not in that particular order)

Charl…the best!!! Lupet!!! Our stand up comedienne who never runs out of clever hirits. Very independent, one thing you know she’s in a land far, far away…without even saying goodbye. She changes her mind as often she changes her underwear. But as she said, it all leads to one goal. Whatever that goal may be. She can definitely light up any occasion and doesn’t mind laughing at herself. Our bunso but the most independent and bravest of all…

Zory on the other hand is our resident manang…hehe, just kidding. NBSB, but when guys get to know her deeper I’m sure guys will drool over her. She’s a very lovable person, she picks a lesson or two from what everybody has been through…so hopefully she won’t commit the same mistakes that some us did. She maintained her weight from highschool, Dang! I wish I can do that!

And of course, moi, Ethel. I’m our gimik / outing organizer. I make sure everyone would come…or else… hehehe! They know that I don’t take NO for an answer. It’s because I want us to have time to bond despite our hectic schedules. One thing you know, someone might be living abroad for good…or have their own families soon and will make it harder for us to hang out, all seven of us. So I take this opportunity that we’re all single and mid-20’s coz afterwards life will be more chaotic and complicated.

Rockstar: INXS

2005-09-26T15:20:00.000+08:00

I never liked rock n roll its like music with screaming people with zilch words to decipher. Only to learn from Chito that there’s like a number of genres of rock: death metal, glam rock, etc. (I forgot the others). Creep is the only rock song I know and I liked (probably because I never really wanted to hear the others)

But then I came across Rockstar: INXS. And yeah I’m a reality TV sucker…big time! That’s why I suddenly had “time” to listen to rock. I had the chance to watch it from the start…and probably about 2 weeks after, I learned from Third that Mig Ayesa was Filipino. After that, I was just so hooked! Even coming to office late just to watch the live telecast every Wednesday and Thursday. Yeah, yeah pathetic…addict…reality TV sucker. Call me names…hahaha!

I had my favorites. Of course there’s MiG as always…which I like only coz he’s Filipino. He a bit gay-ish for me. But I love him in his tight leather pants and open jacket. I love the way he puts himself together (or the show’s stylist for that matter). Marty’s voice is just…wow! And I love his rendition of Creep and the vibe I get from his original song: Trees. And there’s Ty. Great performer. I’m now listening to Creedence Clearwater’s Proud Mary and I think Ty’s version is way better… he manages to put soul in his songs. Just a thought…why does Creedence Clearwater pronounce burnin’ as boynin’?! what’s up with that?

JD…who we all know now is the new frontman for INXS…well, is just okay. He managed to give great performances but his working style is just odd…unprofessional. Maybe what’s important is the final outcome…but in the long run, his bandmates may have a hard time. Instead of doing rehearsals… JD might prefer dozing off…Maybe INXS liked his edginess…hopefully it works for them…

one rainy evening that blew me away…

2005-09-15T13:18:00.000+08:00

We celebrated our 19th monthsary yesterday. Chito has forgotten our monthsaries for the past 2 or 3 months. He said he’ll make up for it this time. He picked me up from my meeting and headed to somewhere I don’t know. He won’t say where we’d go but I had a place at the back of my mind…had an inkling he’d take me to Westin.

There was grueling traffic…and it was raining really hard. So to keep ourselves preoccupied and to let us still enjoy the evening (despite the weather)…I played the Acoustic Night live CD, and we sang…and I sang my heart out too.. Our fave song was there as well…Spend my life by U-turn. I feel so light whenever I hear that song.

Then we got to Westin. For starters, he knew that the first time I went there, I immediately fell in love with the place. (By the way, Westin was one of my accounts when I was still with an ad agency). He took me there when were still dating and we had a great time. When we got there, Café Plaza was under renovation but they set up the back end for those who’d like to dine.

The food…was really goooood.. there goes my diet…I ate a lot! Afterwards, we took a walk at the poolside / garden overlooking the bay. The grounds were wet but we felt we had to walk around coz we were so damn full! We talked about the first time we were there and how much we enjoyed each other’s company, etc.

Then we stopped and he asked if I wanted some mints…I looked and saw he was holding a diamond ring! I was speechless and kinda confused of what’s happening. He knelt (and the ground was still wet here) and asked “Will you marry me?” All I said the whole time he was kneeling was “seryoso ka?” I think I said a million of “seryoso ka?” he was just looking at me put it in my finger and hugged me. That’s the time I said “YES!”

I was soo surprised..it was really unexpected. The ring was soo pretty. It’s just an icing in the cake…I knew all along he was the one for me…he’s God’s blessing that I’d forever be thankful for.

I’m still kinikilig sobra…and I can’t keep but look at the ring and remember how God has blessed me with such a beautiful person coming into my life….

top 3

2005-08-25T18:55:00.000+08:00

three names you go by:
1. Ethel
2. Thel
3. hunny (by chito lang)

three screen names you have had:
1. prettyveda (I got a lot of msgs from Indians through this,badtrip)
2. ethel (corny ba?)
3. no more na

three physical things you like about yourself:
1. brown eyes
2. smile
3. butt (yeah baby,hehe)

three physical things you don't like about yourself:
1. fat legs
2. fat arms
3. fat tummy

three parts of your heritage:
1. honesty
2. fear of God
3. integrity
(parang pang mission-vision sa school, haha)

three things that scare you:
1. froooooogs (and I hate it that they make frog wallets, as if youre cool when you have those, eeewww talaga)
2. Big orange moon – this gives me the creeps (so it’s the orange moon, then the howling wolf, and the “thriller” sequence, hahah)
3. bad karma

three of your everyday essentials:
1. cellphone
2. kikay kit
3. palm pilot

three of your favorite musical artists:
1. Faith Evans
2. Ashanti
3. Barry white

three of your favorite songs:
1. Spend mylife with you by U-turn
2. Love like this by Faith Evans
3. Knocks me off my feet by Stevie Wonder

three things you want in a relationship:
1. Security
2. Love & friendship
3. good conversations

three lies and truths in no particular order:

lies:
1. im o.c.
2. im mature in all aspects (haha)
3. “its okay”

truth:
1. im in love (mushy, mushy)
2. God is just
3. im moody

three physical things about the opposite sex that appeals to you:
1. cute Eyes
2. nice arms
3. nice butt

three of your favorite hobbies:
1. dancing
2. Body jam/combat at fitness first
3. updating my scrapbook

three things you want to do really badly now:
1. watch tv all day till my eyes hurt
2. shop, and shop, and shop
3. Play with my niece and nephew

three careers you're considering/you've considered:
1. entrepreneur
2. be a professional singer (ha, I wish)
3. OFW (to get lotsa moolah)

three places you want to go on vacation:
1. Bangkok (to shop)
2. France (to unwind)
3. Bora or bohol (to relax)

three kid's names you like:
1. Kirby
2. Kirsten / Christine
3. Ashley

three things you want to do before you die:
1. hav a PDI feature as a success story in my chosen field
2. marry the love of my life (naks!)
3. enjoy my grandchildren

three ways that you are stereotypically a boy:
1. I pig out
2. I don’t know how to clean my toe nails (that’s why I always get pedicures)
3. I have a “jungle” bag (my phone would ring and I cant seem to find it in my small bag..hmmm…)

three ways that you are stereotypically a girl:
1. I love dressing up
2. I love kids
3. I’m very loving

three celeb crushes:
1. Paul Walker (too fast, too furious star)
2. Outback Jack (girls just love him)
3. uhm, wala na.

three people that i would like to see take this quiz:
1. zaza
2. hunny
3. miray

a million of firsts

2005-08-10T09:25:00.000+08:00

Yes, I’m already 25 and I just had my first trip out of the country. Pathetic ba? Travel is not a priority in our family that’s why I guess I’m bad with directions (may connection ba?) Perhaps I’m just defending my so called “ignorance” with directions. Well you know I could always ask so I shouldn’t worry getting lost. Anyways….enough of that. I'm digging my own hole.

Our sales and delivery team winners and the marketing department left for Singapore last Friday. We were the 2nd batch who went there and we were quite a big group, about 29. It was quite rainy here when we left here but when we got there, the sun was scorching hot!!

Singapore is a beautiful city I have to say. Philippines is about 30 years behind. All Singaporeans have their own flats (which are by the way 80% govt subsidized), which allowed the government to eradicate squatting. It was clean, no traffic congestion, no pollution, not much littering in the city (some areas near little India’s quite a mess). We reminded the winners on how strict Singapore is when it comes to law implementation. And they abided consciously. Maybe we can learn a thing or two from their country. We can still make the Phils a lot better if we will only make conscious efforts to change the system (as well as the government). A matter of mind setting I guess, but well we have more than a 100 years of changing this crab / colonial mentality we have. Perhaps there’s still light at the end of the tunnel…

Enough of the political shit…it ruins my mood…

Anyways, a million of firsts nga di ba? I had my first ever cable car ride. It was a different experience and the usual me, im all excited! It was a smooth ride and we got a better view of the city. I also had my first underwater aquarium experience. We were in a travellator which made the viewing easier. It was my first time to see an actual dugong (not just the stuffed toys I had), piranhas, and even over a meter long of aruana. I saw dory again (that fish in finding nemo). My first time to eat sri-lankan chili crab, man it was huge! And it was gooood! It was also my first time to feel like a foreigner…you know I sometimes make fun of Japanese, Korean tourists who come here…I bet they were making fun of us as well. My first MRT ride (in Singapore) too. Hi-tech, nakakaaliw we were looking where we will be inserting the card, but we just have to tap it sa sensor…aliw! And their cig flip tops, had photos of what looks like a rotten mouth! The government highly discourages smoking and puts a premium on the price. It was also my first time to walk at 11pm at quite a distance, with Donna (my officemate), to go shopping. We went to Mustafa center, and walked about 30 mins on what smells like a long stretch of stinky armpits! There were a lot of Indian stores, and Indians of course, and their stores would be playing this Indian music, it was soo funny.

It was my first to be an official photographer. It sucks, I usually want to be the subject…not the photographer. But it was okay…it was a job that came with me going to Singapore for free…well… Donna and I snuck a few photos of us two…(well it was around 58 shots, hahaha!) I was able to take a total of around a 100 shots… (minus photos of me and donna).

Overall, it was a good experience…learned a lot…about people…about diff cultures…about me, hahaha! I didn’t know I had such a capacity to go all night long walking just to shop!

I haven't mentioned, I bought a 5.1 megapixel digicam it was sooo nice. I gave in to temptation...I didn't had any plans of buying one coz i already have my ever reliable casio exilim (which i love by the way). It has optical and digital zoom, has a 2.5 inch screen, and is very handy like my exilim. Well, its the first conjugal property of me and my bear. There you go...one more first..

picture picture!

2005-08-09T07:25:00.000+08:00

Pose muna at this Koi pond at Mount Faber while we queued for the cable car

tv addict

2005-07-31T07:00:00.000+08:00

Sheesh, slept at 520am. I think I’m kinda addicted to TV (but I think “think” would be an understatement). I love ETC! started watching at around 1230am I guess, Elimidate was on that time, then change of heart, blind date, fifth wheel, and then lastly Starting over. In between commercials, I was playing Bejewelled, hahaha! My eyes hurt so much. Woke up at 12nn na in time for lunch. Mom prepared chicken tinola, it was so yummy!

And now I’m here in the office…found out that our radio partner wasn’t able to receive the new 30’s material I emailed him yesterday. So I had to go back just to resend it so we can still have it started by Monday, since this is our promo launch date.

Been stressed lately because of work…but I’m loving it…seriously…I’m not complaining. Sometimes of course there are suppliers / partners who are just so so hard to work with. I actually have only one agency on my mind right now…it’s for our marketing department to know and others to find out. I don’t want to badmouth anyone.

Have to go…

a different kinda date

2005-07-25T14:30:00.000+08:00

Chito and I had a slight misunderstanding last night. It was quite petty so we settled things na this afternoon. How can I stay mad with my guy who’s been very sweet, thoughtful, caring, and loving? How can I resist his lonely bear look? His clever remarks that make me smile? Naaks…

When he got here at home this afternoon, I wanted to hug him and pinch his cute chubby cheeks, but I tried not to…coz there were things unsettled pa that time. We went out and he brought me to that place behind Mall of Asia. It was five in the afternoon, the wind was blowing just fine, the sun almost setting. There were families gathered around for picnic, kids playing with their kites, and some riding their bikes. A breather from the usual Greenbelt crowd, or The Fort’s resto strip, or QC’s traffic. I only heard the water splashing, felt the gentle breeze through my hair, saw some parked cars and families just spending time together. We made up though we didn’t say anything…we just looked at each other and realized that it’s not even worth our time dwelling on this petty thing that we had.

I sometimes think what have I done to deserve such a wonderful person in my life. Having him beside me makes everything so worthwhile. At the end of each busy, crazy day, I look forward to seeing my hunny to seal it off with a hug and a kiss on my forehead. And yes, my day is done.

bittersweet

2005-07-25T13:14:00.000+08:00

Third already left for Australia yesterday. It was bittersweet. Chito was sad coz he’s best friend would be leaving for good but we’re both happy coz he’d finally be with his wonderful wife, Itin.

The mood in their house when we all said our goodbyes was kinda heavy…Tita Pechie, Maica, and I were crying. I remember telling Third nakakainis sya coz he’s making me cry. He hugged me and told me to take care of his bestfriend...and that if I need him, he’s there lang. I saw him holding back his tears, trying as much as possible to be strong…even his dad. I saw him walking around, trying to make himself busy so that he won’t get too emotional about all this stuff.

This guy’s the brother Chito never had. They grew up together, shared kalokohans, heartaches, foodtrips, etc. Chito was really sad, he says it feels odd that he’s not here anymore. He says this is totally different from the time he left Third in Naga, coz he’ll be in the land far, far away…hehe!

To Third, I wish you the best, no more sleepless nights for you. Finally, you’re with Itin na. You guys would always be in my prayers! We'll miss u here at home! Keep in touch!

girl friends

2005-07-24T08:07:00.000+08:00

My bestest friends (glad, miray, charl, za, zory) and me & chito hang out at Miray’s place yesterday. We pigged out a bit and had some drinks (except for me coz I was feeling kinda sick). Berl wasn’t able to join us (again) coz she had to study in time for her bar exams in 2 months.

We were on our usual hyper mode. Trying to outdo each other for the limelight. Coz everybody just wanted to talk. For some reason, we only had a topic or two about high school. This is kinda odd coz we are so used to reminiscing our good old high school days (which I, by the way, treasure so much).

We talked about venturing into business (confidential pa at this stage, naks)…and hopefully making it happen in the near future. I was thinking about it just this week and Za was doing some initial research about it na pala, and all mah girls liked the idea. We’ll soon meet on this…

We watched this horror film, Shutter, and we screamed our ass off. Charl and Glad already watched it but they still screamed like there’s no tomorrow. Za and Zory were plain sissy (haha,loveu mares!)…actually kasama na rin ako dun. Well, it was bearable naman except for some scenes where there was blood involved, oh yes baby, I have to shut my eyes or just look away just so I won’t throw up. But, I should say, it was just an “okay” film. I’ll give it 3 stars (5 being the highest). Naks, parang movie critique no?

Anyways, well, we don’t see each other that often nor keep in touch that much (except for me & miray, thanks to ym!). But whatever time’s lost, we seem to catch up in just one night of vodka sprite, ginpom, and a lotsa liempo and chips.

work hazards

2005-07-20T18:01:00.000+08:00

I started my "quest," (yes it was a quest for me) last year for a career in marketing...and after a year of working in an advertising agency and an experiential marketing firm, I'm now at LBC's marketing department. Doing what I love to do. I really didn' t mind working my ass off coz I tend to forget that I too, need some rest.

Just recently, my boss called my attention. He was saying that I need to delegate some responsibilities (since we're coming up with a nationwide promo that i'm overlooking now). I was involved with even the tiniest detail.

I even had to get the DTI permit (yes, queueing and stuff) coz I was the point person for formulating the mechanics. He said that he doesn't want my time wasted doing it coz I had more important things to do. I actually asked for help from another department who are helping us for this promo. I asked one person there if he can accompany me sa DTI since they consulted there na before. But what did i get? He asked, "pano tayo pupunta dun?" My jaw dropped. I couldn't believe he asked me that. I mean we can take a cab, it's not even a concern that should be raised. Cutting the story short, i went alone. He even wanted a sit-down meeting to discuss the mechanics. I'm like, duh? We already had a meeting on this, and i just made some minor revisions.

To make the matters worse, those guys from that dept told their boss that I wasn't working with them on this project. Told my boss that I can't rely on them since they would cause me to run behind schedule... everybody knows it. I mean if they really wanted to help they could've initiated and not wait for us to tell them what to do. My God, we're like in our mid-20's in marketing and they're like...well, i dunno how old. But old enough I guess to know some work ethics and essentials and old enough not to be told what to do.

I actually see it as a challenge. And i admit, i should delegate more. I have this tendency to trust people less when it comes to a project that I'm heading...that i tend to do most of the job. My boss told me, I can't be the foot soldier and at the same time the captain of the ship. Kind of a wake up call for me.

I'm learning a lot about marketing, about people, about me. And I'm loving it! No matter how stressful it may become.

Sorry, just had to take out this shit out of me.

everything happens for a reason

2005-07-19T04:00:00.000+08:00

I learned a lot from my previous relationship.
I became a person I was not. I loved myself less. Allowed myself to be vulnerable. I hanged on when its not worth the pain and tears. I hoped he would change. I disrespected myself by letting him hurt me. Treat me badly when I hardly displease him. It was always about him. That I need to adjust because he wants something else. That I have to understand him every single time. That I had no right to complain about us because he thinks my views are trivial. I let him put me down.

It was my fault. All these could’ve not happened had I not allowed him to do it the first time. I knew all along what I was made of. But I allowed him to change the way I think about myself. I was hurt soo badly. I cried until no tears fell and my eyes almost closed. Being with him makes me feel bad…makes me sad. But I still stayed.

As one famous philosopher once said…”anything that doesn’t kill you makes you better” And when things get even worse we say (everybody now…) “everything happens for a reason.”

I learned to value myself more and reassess the way I view relationships. I realized that sometimes what I want doesn’t necessarily mean it’s what I need.

But my relationship now with my Bear is all that I need and more. He appreciates the beautiful person in me. He makes me feel so loved, so cared for, so special. His soul fills up mine and his heart captivates mine every single day. He makes me feel like I can conquer the world. Having him beside tells me that yes at the end of each day, everything will be okay. I never thought I would feel such kind of love so pure and so true.

I’m grateful everyday having him in my life. I never thought that such kind of happiness that I feel right now would happen to me. I am just so overwhelmed knowing that God answered my prayers and gave me not what I wanted but what I needed.

I wouldn’t trade “us” for anything. I am the luckiest person in the world, coz my dream man came knocking at my door. A blessing that I would forever be thankful for.

my hunny bestfriend

2005-07-18T12:41:00.000+08:00

I quote the first line of one of the hit songs today…"who would’ve thought this is how the pieces fit?..."

I’ve always dreamed of someday meeting a guy bestfriend whom I’d simply be myself. No qualms, no pretentions. And yes I quote myself saying that if I see someone as my friend, that’s it. Period.

I came to know my guy friend…I didn’t mind if I looked unkept, be cranky at times and throw tantrums around. Be loud, bitch around, act crazy. I always said what was on my mind. It was so easy being with him.

We would have food trips. Crave for California maki almost simultaneously, go lunch outs with our officemates, go to glorietta for that San Francisco coffee brownie a la mode and stuff. I’d ask if I can hitch to work if its raining…coz I so hated bringing jackets or umbrellas. I’d rather get wet than bring those things with me. He didn’t mind.

We would take out our Hongky pal with our friends to gimiks, beach trips, food trips, etc. Hang out at Fraser place. Watch horror dvd’s. Some of my girl friends would make palibre and he’d readily do so. He’d watch over me. See if I’m getting drunk…wait till I get tucked in. He would share his breakfast sandwich me…coz I loved them. Soo yummy! He’d even give me my favorite chocolate bar if he has some at home or those Kraft cheese crackers that I really liked. He even took my friend and I home coz we stayed till the beauty parlor’s closing time.

One time I wasn’t feeling well and he asked if he could take me home just to make sure I’m okay. But I said I’m a big girl and I can take care of myself. Midway my walk in Paseo, I said I can’t take it anymore, I thought I can make it pa. He picked me up and brought me to my place. He took care of me.

I would open up to him, share my heartaches…He would listen and make me feel better after our conversation.

He never took advantage of our friendship. He respected me.

And then things became quite uneasy for me at some point. I had a slight hint when he would take on the role of being my boyfriend of some sort. He’d ask me by lunch time “Pa’no ka uwi?” I mean, it could’ve been less obvious if he asked me by end of office hours. He was obliging himself to take me home every chance there is.

But he was never my type. Not tall, got love handles, has chest hair. No attraction whatsoever.

I became indifferent. I didn’t want him to like me more than a friend. But he did. I would intentionally hurt him in more ways than one just so he would back off and think twice about me. But he was just there. He didn’t mind if I was being harsh…Hanging on to those moments that I’d be nice to him.

I quote from an old song “…what started out as friendship has grown stronger…”

I suddenly became nicer, more receptive. I admired his soul and loved his heart.
I soon found myself not minding if we were always together. He’d pick me up from my office in Ortigas, treat me out to dinner, bring me home. He’d do this everyday after work. Makati – Ortigas – Makati – Quezon city. He waited for me even if I stayed late in the office.

I felt so special when I’m around him. He made me very happy and content. He supported me all the way. He made me a better person. He never failed to look after me, and amaze me. I get moved with his feelings for me. Made things seem so easy for me. He inspired me to reach my dreams.

I realized that maybe I was looking too hard for my perfect guy. He was right in front of me, my bestfriend.

As I said, I’ve always dreamed of someday meeting a guy bestfriend whom I’d simply be myself. No qualms, no pretentions

And I quote again “who would’ve thought this is how the pieces fit?”

Opting for blogs

2005-06-23T11:43:00.000+08:00

Journals are passe, besides my handwriting sucks now...thats why I opted for blogs. Sometimes, it pays to write everything down., brain fart. I find myself learning more and giving direction to what I want.

I'm living my life...i love my family, my friends, my work, my officemates... and I got Chito (he's my bear, my real life bear, haha!)

first post
Yesterday, our department briefed our 2004 achievers for their trip to singapore this weekend. Some people can really be oh-so-irritating... like they just want to piss people off. And yes, we got a handful. Complaints, and impolite remarks were just flying all over the place. But well, he got what we wanted anyways so he won. bitch.