Sa Durungawan... (Ikalawang Yugto)

My most wanted: STARBUCKS City Mugs Collection (Series 4)

2011-06-30T05:14:00.018+08:00

It's been a long while since my last entry. Let me update everyone with the lastest on my collection. Here we go...

From my Spring 2009 vacation in Australia.

My friend Alvin and I spent a few days in Melbourne.

It's been Sydney where I spent most days.

Jakarta: from the June 2011 vacation of Tina and Wlad. This was their birthday present for me. Too bad they missed my bday party.

Ligawa went on a work trip to Shanghai June 2011 but when I told her that I have the Shanghai mug already, she just got me the China one since I didn't have this yet.

My first-ever mug was from Vienna when I went on vacation winter of 2002. The 2010 series was from the Padua family. Thanks to Sharon and Lester.

My former boss Arjay (with wife Marix) would normally go places and get me my favorites. They went to Taipei last year and got me this.

In my short vacation in Singapore (Nov 2010), Tina, Bam and I initially went to a Starbucks store too late in the evening so they were closed. We had to buy this from the mall near the Singapore flyer.

April 2009 was when my family went to Shanghai for a short vacation.

Still from Arjay and Marix when they went to Seoul.

San Diego: It was at a Starbucks store in Huntington Beach in Orange County where I got this from. Thanks to Leanie for suggesting to get coffee that time of the night. I got a few others from the same store actually.

Sacramento: ... still from the same store in Huntington Beach.

Jai was on a work trip Feb 2011. This was his pasalubong from his client facility in Portland.

Marrk one of my trainers was sent to North Carolina for a product training for a new client. This was his pasalubong.

My friends know how deeply in love I am with New York. Too much love that I have two of these! One was from Lester's US vacation and the other from Marky's side trip to NYC during his business trip.

It has been Steven's dream to be part of a music festival in Country Music capital -- Nashville. This was his pasalubong June 2010 when he had to be on vacation one month post implemention of our new project hahaha! He really had to do this or else... FO! j/k ;-)

After a nice fancy dinner at Nobu in Malibu, we stopped at the nearest Starbucks store and I grabbed this. Still part of my Los Angeles Spring 2011 trip.

Funny how I got the Las Vegas mug (still) from Huntington Beach but on the same leg of the trip, I had a connecting flight to LV and I actually could have bought one there.

Flor's mom and sister are based in Texas. She asked her mom to get me this from Houston.

It was Holiday 2010 when Ligaya was back in California for her vacation. This was her pasalubong together with the nice Coach coin purse as Christmas present.

It was during the day tour to Boston (Spring 2011) when I totally left the tour group when I saw a Starbucks store near the old city hall. hahaha!

Last Set -- courtesy of my very good friend Jia (with the help of her dear friends in LA who have been jetsetting the past months).

Orange County, California

(There's a duplicate of this one actually from my good friend Joyce who lives in OC).

Washington D.C.

Jia was in Baltimore a day ahead of me. They had a extra day to go around Washington DC before I followed the day after.

Seattle, Washington

Denver, Colorado

Chicago, Illinois

Austin, Texas

Know Your Leaders Series

2010-08-24T04:22:00.003+08:00

This is the full version of my interview for the August 2010 edition of SYNAPSE - The Monthly Aegis PeopleSupport E-Magazine.

We know you as Jeff Inandan, Associate Vice President, Operations (Emerging Markets). What is the other side of Jeff that our readers don’t know?

I have a collection of Starbucks city mugs. It started when I went to Europe in 2002. I have over 50 mugs now (and counting). These are mostly from my travels and some of them are from peers who also travel a lot. I really appreciate friends who would just surprise me with their “pasalubong” to be added to my collection.

When did you join Aegis PeopleSupport? Please share with us your growth within the company.
From PS Batch 22, I started October 2001 as an agent for NSI (Batch 11). I was part of other programs such as NSI VIP, Fandango.com, MavComm. Experian has just started when I got transferred via promotion as a Team Supervisor. I had a stint in the Cebu site then got promoted as a Team Manager for the implementation of Direct Response Cebu. In 2007, I joined the Travel & Consumer Vertical managing some of the Shared Accounts – Black & Decker, Armani Exchange, Teleplus, Agoda, Bissell, Avery Dennison and ProFlowers. It was in the Retail group when I moved to the Senior Manager role and eventually to AVP with newer accounts such as 1800Flowers and HireRight.

Please share with us your journey prior to joining Aegis PeopleSupport.
My very first job in 2000 was in an outsourced provider called 800 Aces for Citibank cards. After a year, I joined the Billing Disputes and Merchant Sales of Citibank Operations as a customer service representative.

Being a leader, people look up to you and talk about your success. But what are the three achievements that are personally close to your heart?

I guess part of it will be the professional growth via promotions I’ve had in the company over the past eight and a half years. I still consider it as an achievement whenever peers or previous direct reports seek for my help or take on matters related to work. Whenever they succeed, I also feel accomplished somehow. I’m saving the 3rd one as my biggest personal project yet, getting myself my own house! It’s another type of fulfillment when I achieve my goals in the set timeframe.

How would you want to be known as?

I’d like to be known as someone who has positively influenced and encouraged people to do better whether at work or elsewhere. Someone who would always outperform himself.

Please share with us your most memorable professional and personal moments.

Whenever I get together with friends from the old PeopleSupport batches, we always reminisce how we were ages ago. The huge AVAYA box-type callmaster always makes me smile especially when I remember all my boo-boos of not being on mute whenever I had to. I also had my share of going through the rough stages of being an agent – irate callers, hundreds of calls waiting, etc. I’ve always taken pride whenever I got commendation calls or exceeding upsell or sales targets! Many APS agents now may not know that once there was the convenience store called BINGO in Valero St. where we took most of our lunch breaks (30 minutes back then for an 8-hour shift). Those were good times!

Who do you regard as your role model(s) and why?
Aside from my direct superiors both previous and present, I really admire the leadership and management style of Gil Grissom of CSI. Yes, you got it! They’re mostly unorthodox but really sound and well-thought of. He facilitates intelligently that makes it inexcusable to ask unintelligent questions.

What is that one thing you wish to change?
I’ve always been a believer that excellent performance is brought about by good training, proper coaching and support from superiors. Gatekeepers would be the right mindset and optimistic attitude towards work and team. In this industry, it’s mostly the behavioral aspect of employees that people have challenges on. I’d love to see the day when everyone goes through that paradigm shift and be all at the same page where their leaders have imagined them to be.

How would you describe your family?
I grew up in the province in a small family with two other brothers. Now with two nephews and one niece, I’d say we’re more bonded. I remember when I started working, it took a few years for my family to finally accept my working hours. My mom kept on asking me to get moved to the morning shift but she eventually got used to it.

What are the most important events in your life?
When I started to live independently from my folks (with the financial freedom and responsibility of course) – this takes the cake! I’ve learned how to provide for myself and of course give myself some well-deserved rewards. I wouldn’t have developed some of my skills if it wasn’t for this bold move.

Please share with us some of your favorites:
Movie – I like to watch movies that feature different places with plots that make me think. The Bourne & Transporter series are classic examples. I also enjoy the romantic comedies.
Actor / Actress – Matt Damon, Pierce Brosnan, Sean Connery, Sandra Bullock, Nicole Kidman
Food – I love my own cooking but my favorites are adobo and sinigang. Cebu’s got a wide range of delicious food and delicacies – like the lechon.
Eating Joint/s – I really enjoy the buffet at Circles at the Shang and Spiral at the Sofitel. I also wish Manila has a Nando’s Chicken outlet and Hurricane's Grill just like in Australia.
Holiday Destination – New York City, San Francisco, Vienna, Sydney, Boracay

What is your message to those who also have dreams of making it big in Aegis PeopleSupport?
Aside from striving to be the best in what they do, always be hungry to learn new and innovative things at work. The company has a lot of growth opportunities for every commendable employee. Trust me, people in management are always in the look-out for individuals who deserve a break. There’s really no fixed formula for success but some of the things that came in handy for me were initiative, resourcefulness, independence, self-motivation, sharp and quick thinking/decision-making. My other favorite is “providing people (especially your bosses or clients) the answers even before they ask questions”.

Crispy Liempo

2010-08-24T02:31:00.001+08:00

Ingredients:

750 – 1000 grams of liempo

Marinade:

Soy sauce
White vinegar
2 tablespoon of Lee Kum Kee chili garlic sauce
1 tablespoon of banana/tomato ketchup
1 tablespoon of Lee Kum Kee oyster sauce
Finely chopped onion and garlic
3 tablespoon of calamansi
Maggi Magic Sarap
Whole rosemary
Sage
Black pepper

Here’s how:

Mix all marinade ingredients using a wide bowl or container. Add more soy sauce or vinegar if desired.
The normal liempo cuts from the supermarkets are usually pretty long, so better cut them in halves. Get the liempo submerged in the marinade.
Let it sit for at least two hours (though overnight is the best).
This requires a semi-deep frying procedure (i.e. about 2 – 3 cups of oil to fry 3 – 4 liempo cuts).
A technique is to just “partially” cover the pan while frying and let the air in.
Constantly check the liempo to avoid getting burned too quickly. The color can change drastically because of the soy sauce to remember to keep an eye on the pan. It may take a good 3 – 4 side turns before a piece gets nicely cooked.
Once the liempo has turned gold-to-dark brown, let them air dry. This should give them a nice crispy texture.
Cut them into bite sizes and then ready to serve.

Shrimps in Chili Garlic Sauce

2010-08-24T02:22:00.002+08:00

Ingredients:

350 – 400 grams of medium shrimps

2 tablespoons of Lee Kum Kee Chili Garlic Sauce

1 Large garlic, finely chopped

1 medium white onion, finely chopped

Sili labuyo 4 – 6 pcs. (or more if desired)

¼ cup of butter

Half a can of Sprite

1 tablespoon of Thai fish sauce

¼ cup of coconut milk

1 tablespoon of Thai minced lemongrass

Thyme

Salt & Pepper

Maggi Magic Sarap (optional)

Here’s how:

Sauté onion and garlic in butter. Add a little bit of oil to avoid butter getting burned.

Add chili and the Lee Kum Kee chili garlic sauce and fish sauce. Mix well.

Immediately add the shrimps and continue on with the sautéing.

Add sprite and the coconut milk. Cover and let it simmer for about 5 minutes. Maintain medium to low heat.

Stir occasionally. Add the rest of the spices for added flavors.

Once cooked, let it sit on the pan for a few more minutes for the shrimps to absorb the flavor.

Jeffie's Adobo Recipe

2010-08-24T02:18:00.002+08:00

Ingredients

750 grams to 1 Kilo of pork cubes
A good 2x3 inches cut will do
1 large white onion or 2 medium-sized red onions
6 cloves of garlic, chopped
Butter / oil
¾ cup of soy sauce
½ cup of white vinegar
2 medium-sized bay leaves or laurel leaves

Other Optional Ingredients:

Maggi Magic Sarap
Rosemary
Sili Labuyo
400 grams of baby potatos
1 – 2 tablespoons of white sugar

Steps

Ø Boil the meat in medium to slow fire for about 45 minutes.
Ø Immediately add dash (or two) of black pepper, magi magic sarap, rosemary
Ø Stir constantly.
Ø Check if the meat is close to tender.
Ø Retrieve the meat from the pan and set aside the broth.

Ø Sautee the garlic and onion in butter and oil.
Ø Add the meat and give it a good and consistent stir for about 5 minutes.
Ø Add the soy sauce and vinegar.
Ø Add the broth – just enough to soak all the meat.
Ø Cover the pan and bring to a boil.
Ø After the first boil, stirring constantly (i.e. every 3 – 5 minutes) is recommended. This goes on for the next 30 – 45 minutes.
Ø Halfway through, add the baby potatos. Constant stirring is still recommended.
Ø Add more pepper or chili if desired. Sugar (optional).
Ø The liquid/sauce in the pan should be about less than half at this point. The meat should be super tender (almost about to break easily once poked by a fork).
Ø The adobo should be finished at this point but:
o If you want it a bit dry, let it stay for about 10 more minutes until the desired amount of adobo sauce if left in the pan. Note though that the oil may be all over at this point especially if the meat used has pork fat/skin. (this is yummy too especially if used as rice topping!)
o If you want more sauce, you may add about half a cup of the broth.

Suggested side dish: hard-boiled egg with tomatos

Adobo is best served NOT right after its cooked. If you want to enjoy adobo for dinner, cook it during lunch time. Let it set in cold-to-room temperature. Microwave re-heat should be okay.

WANTED

2010-08-19T09:51:00.000+08:00

I’ve been asked soooooo many times if I have a neon sign that says “WANTED: complicated relationship material” or I posses some magnetic force inside that attracts people with convoluted or twisted (views on) relationships. Guess what, the worse part is – I’m usually drawn to them! And to make it all eff’d up, I’d usually find myself drowning already without knowing if I could still get our of that mess.

Without sounding such a wretched charity case here, I get to foresee the not so good things that could happen even before they do. Seriously! The predicament always lies between which “reality” should I go for. I know, I know… the fact that I can (almost ALL the time) build a roadmap in my head of all possibilities, from the most trivial to the unthinkable extremes, I still end up with the not so wise choices. Talk about monumental disappointment and epic fail huh!

Being the control freak that I am, I still get some surprises every once in a while. It makes it somehow intellectually insulting that something slipped through the cracks!

… all these bring me to a few points. What should be my full proof basis to make a decision? Up to what extent should I just let myself hold on to a yet subdued hope of being happy? Where shall I stand in the saying ‘no pain, no gain’? What should be my calculated risk factors? Where do I draw the line between being hopeful and realistic? Between expectations and assumptions?

I’ve always wondered if indeed everybody has at least one part of their life that’s empty. I mean for someone who has accomplished most life goals – good education, skyrocketing career, breathtaking travels, fabulous friends, loving family, and some other finer things in life – what else could one ask for? You’re right! There’s one part of the equation that seems to be missing – having that significant other to share all these things with. To some people, the above mix is actually quite pretty good and as a matter of fact a milestone to some. Not too shabby if I may say. But then again you’d meet people who would (probably) rather trade a thing or two for that seemingly slick hit from cupid. There are those who’d simply like a buffet treat for themselves! And truth be told, there are those who just don’t care!

To the hopeless romantic type (for a lack of a better term), having to deal with the “doesn’t care” type is just like rubbing salt to a wound. Oh btw, they also come in other similar forms such as “I don’t know yet” or “I’m not sure” varieties. In this situation, you’d wish that no distraction comes along the way and time becomes your best friend. Do you wait? For how long? Do you take that as a challenge to your probably hurting ego? Or do you just simply shut the door and move on? I think we all know what the IDEAL answer should be. Problem is, you don’t take it, hence going back to that cycle of making terrible choices amidst knowing the most prudent options! Your projected best self still looks perfect and composed from the outside but feeling absolutely awful on the inside. Snaps to you!

Then you take a moment to yet again attempt to become rationale about it. If I take the road less traveled, am I strong enough to take the fall? Or maybe, just maybe, there’s someone else out there waiting and willing to embrace every bit of me, even the torn pieces. Lo and behold, there is! I’m sure there is someone out there, maybe someone who has been right there all along. You just don’t look hard enough.

Maalaala Mo Kaya...

2009-11-08T15:48:00.003+08:00

Let's do a little bit of reminiscin' here, shall we? =)

Jeff’s Bangkok Trip & Tips

2009-08-20T02:30:00.017+08:00

I’m pretty sure there have been to many travel and personal blogs about some do’s and don’ts in Bangkok … I’ll join the bandwagon.

August has the 30’s temperature (in C) and 80’s humidity. It’s effing scorching hot hot hot!!!

Bringing a bottle of mineral water is always advisable though you can buy one practically anywhere for about 10-20 Baht. The buko juice (20-25 Baht) is a must try! It’s naturally sweet and creamy.

Tuktuks can be tourist traps! Most drivers would rip you off by charging over 300 Baht for a five to ten-minute ride (with or without traffic).

If you’re going to any of the floating markets, just enjoy the experience and riding the boat. Don’t shop there – items are usually priced double or triple. You can buy something to eat though.

Temple visits would definitely be part of everyone’s itinerary. Note that certain temples have appropriate dress codes. The Grand Palace has the most expensive ticket for THB 350. The other temples’ “donation” or ticket prices range from Thb 20 – 50. Others, absolutely FREE!

If budget is not a major issue, an organized tour will work for you. Tours would normally include hotel pick-up and drop off plus lunch. Although tours can take much of your time than the usual. I personally recommend http://www.city-discovery.com/ in fact me and my friends took the Khlong tour and we experienced the different side of Bangkok via the Chao Phraya River.

Maps can be confusing at times so it’s also safe to ask for directions from the locals but make sure to ask at least two or three different people to check for consistency. You can get a relatively better English street conversation in Thailand compared to China. Oh btw, get your hotel address written in Thai by the concierge. This may come in handy in directing your cab driver back to your hotel.

Factor in heavy traffic in your city travels but if you’re used to the Metro Manila scene, you’ll be just fine. You can take the train (BTS - Silom & Sukhumvit lines) on some of your trips.
Night life ends at 1am. Deal with it.

Expect long walks when touring sights and nearby temples. One way to ease those tired legs and feet would be the Thai massage. It’s 150-200 per hour on the average but in the shoppers area, it could range from 200 – 400 per hour.

Although shopping usually comes last in the itinerary (of course you’d prioritize spending on tours and food first right), try to resist buying stuff during your tours since there are places with great bargains. Chatuchak weekend market is number one on the list. Brace yourself here because an entire day is not enough to browse through each and every stall. Pratunam district, Platinum Mall and Suan Lum night bazaar would come in next.

You can get very affordable tailored clothes and suites (especially in the Pratunam district) and get everything finished in like 9 hours. I think I saw some shops that can give you about 1,000 – 2,000 baht for a complete suit already!

Don’t be afraid to try the authentic Thai street foods such as the noodles (30-40 baht), pad thai (30 – 45 baht), etc.

Always ask the taxi driver to use the meter for a more accurate fare.

Thanon Khao San is the backpackers district. It’s very busy and almost everything is relatively affordable. And mind you, there’s San Mig light and Pale Pilsen here!!! Woohoo!!!
When Thais say spicy, they mean it! Just enjoy the food.

Thais are not culturally heavy on tipping for services provided. A little generosity wouldn’t hurt though. They’d be more than appreciative of that gesture.
If it’s your first time to visit the city try to get as much travel tips from friends who have been there before or better yet, get them to come along with you.

Try to arrange everything prior to your trip – hotel reservation (google it first and check out the location, reviews, rates, etc), airport transfers, tour package inclusions, etc. But if you’re the adventurous type, I guess you can just hop on the plane and take it from there.

Enjoy Bangkok! I did... and I'd love to come back. =)

Taking the back seat

2009-06-11T02:47:00.001+08:00

I’ve always said that driving for over an hour makes me cranky – not to mention jammed roads, having no one to talk to while driving (either I’m usually driving alone or my pax are sleeping ugh!). And time and again I say “I’d like to take the back seat and indulge myself in being a passenger sometimes”. Thing is, for the two sets of my immediate friends, I don’t get that chance really. For the first group of friends, most of them don’t drive. Alvin does but he has expired driver’s license and from the looks of it, he doesn’t have plans of renewing it anytime soon. Ayee on the other hand doesn’t feel comfortable driving in the metro. So here comes my second group of friends. Whenever we meet up, they usually bring their own cars. Boo-hoo for me.

I’ve been feeling low for the past week. Some emotional distress here and there – okay, it’s all but the never-ending saga on my lovelife really. I’ve been taking the backseat on this ride for the past 9 months, would you believe? Stupid, I know. But what can I do? It was last week when the unimaginable just happened. How else am I supposed to feel when “they are back together, or should I say having the time of their lives again” right in front of my face? For over a year I’ve never seen them together really and I’ve never wanted to know much about them – “them”. What you don’t know won’t hurt, right? Here comes devastation. Sadness. Confusion. Anger. What else?

I was fervently hoping that I’d feel nothing close to what just happened to me from the other people I care about – yes, my dear friends. Guess what, I’m wrong (well at least as of this writing). You know that feeling when you want to feel extra special, get much care and attention from other people especially when you need them most? Now that’s what I need right now. With all humility I say it now because I’m not usually the type who’d ask friends to do special things for me. I’m doing those things for them most of the time really. It’s just now that I want to get a free pass… I want to feel that somehow, I’m priority 1 in someone’s life even for just a single moment. Boy that will really mean a lot to me.

Forgive the drama but this is the human side of me. It’s just a depressing thought sometimes when people around you have been used to seeing you too independent, super strong and resilient. It’s like they’d find it absurd to see you being weak, needy and hurt sometimes.

I try to tell myself that this too shall pass and the only best person I can always rely on – without any hesitation, doubts or questions – is myself.

Multiple choices

2009-06-04T02:27:00.000+08:00

Put a check mark on the corresponding item that applies to you.

A) Mahal mo siya pero hindi ka niya mahal.
B) Mahal mo siya pero may mahal siyang iba.
C) Mahal mo siya pero hindi sya mahal ng mahal niya.
D) Mahal mo siya pero ang taong mahal mo ay niloloko ng mahal nya.
E) Mahal mo siya pero hindi mo magawang kalimutan siya.
F) Mahal mo siya at patuloy mo siyang minamahal sa kabila ng lahat...
G) All of the above.
H) None of the above.

Why I curse MMDA…

2009-04-30T23:52:00.010+08:00

I’ve lived about five years of my stay in Makati in an apartment adjacent to the MMDA building. Needless to say, I see everyday what the enforcers are doing, what the apprehended drivers have to go through, among other things.

On March 17 about noon time, I went home to my apartment. The gate was closed so obviously I had to get out of the car so I can park inside the compound. Of course, kelangan kong itabi muna ang kotse sa gilid sa may labas, di ba? Daig ko pa ang tinamaan ng malas when my front right tire got flat dahil may pako sa may gilid ng gutter! Ay sus! Imagine, nasa labas na ako ng bahay ko nyan ha!

One MMDA officer knocked my window pa nga to tell me na my tire got flat. So I stayed another 5 minutes inside the car to call my brother (who was just upstairs) to ask for help kasi nakakahiya man aminin, I don’t know how to change flat tires teehee! So finally I went up sa apartment to talk to my brother. The moment I got back to the car, there’s this surprise na – I got a ticket from an MMDA office (different from the one earlier) and he just left it on my wind shield. Sabi nung isang mama na nakatambay dun sa tabi ng kotse ko, they told the apprehending officer that I got a flat tire and then I just went up to get some help.

Of course, what did Jeff do? This is something na hindi ko pinalampas, ako pa! I know it was just what, 300 pesos penalty for “obstruction” and “illegal parking” daw but it’s not about the money. It was simply the stupid manner that the ticket was issued! Ano ba naman yung hintayin ako for a few minutes at pinakinggan yung sinabi nung mga tao? One other thing that made me more angry was this. I told the officer na sige, I’ll take the consequences and pay for it but he can probably help me get my tire fixed. Ang at magaling na nilalang, eto ang sabi “eh sir, hindi na namin trabaho yan!” (in a condescending tone). Oh san ka pa lulugar nyan? At nagwating talaga ako!

We reached filing the complaint in the Traffic Adjudication Board. Filed some papers, etc. I almost got dismissed kasi feeling ata nila it was just a so-so complaint. Kung hindi pa ako nagsabi na I could simply call my lawyer para ayusin, eh hindi pa sila gagalaw. Two weeks daw ang processing but of course I didn’t believe it – for sure mas matagal pa. Knowing how inefficient government employees are, ugh!

I followed up the case personally sa 7th floor office nila kasi andun na daw yung papers for signatures and approvals. Mind you, there were like 3 signatories and like 5 or 6 approvers before the paper could finally come out! The resolution or recommendation was already made but again, red tape and all, kung kani-kaninong pontio pilato pa kelangang dumaan ang papeles. I initially had to talk to Mr. Red Maniego. When he pulled out my papers, he immediately said, “na-reject ang request mo…” sabay fold ng papers. Sabi ko, I need to see it and I need to have my own copy. He said, hindi ko daw pwedeng makita yung papeles. Aba! Aba! Aba! Ano ka, hello?!?! So I insisted. The resolution reads that my ticket should be cancelled based on their assessment. In other words, mga pirma na lang kulang for documentation and approvals. Ang matandang Maniego, naiinis, he forwarded the papers to Ms. Lourdes.

Ang sabi ng isang personnel duon na si Lourdes, kelangan pa daw akong dumaan sa “clearance” to check if i have any other filed violations on their records which would take about a day to check before the complaint papers proceed with the rest of the process. Sya na daw magbibigay sa department na next na pipirma. After a few days I went back only to find out that it didn’t leave her desk after the clearance part. Ang sabi nya, “eh kasi naman sir, bat di nyo kagad fina-llow up! Madaming papeles dyan sa lamesa ko, hindi ko lahat magagawa yan isa-isa!” Nakow!!! At ako pa may kasalanan ngayon!!!! Kumusta naman!

It was Wednesday holy week I think when I had my 3rd visit at ang sabi wala pa rin daw! I had to escalate it to the OIC sa department nila si Miss Mila. She asked one of her staff, Jerick to get another approval from Ms. Cora’s office at the 3rd floor. So I had to tell her the entire story again blah blah blah. After her, last signatory na daw yung General Manager so maybe after mga 2 days.

I let 4 days pass just to be sure, you know. I can follow up daw sa 7th floor kay Ms Mila or kay Jerick. Pagbalik ko duon, di pa daw napirmahan, excuses excuses! Puro, “if, then” ang mga sagot saken like “sir, if napirmahan na yun, andito na dapat yon”. Eh nung pina-pa trace ko, di naman mahanap. Escalated level na naman until Ms Mila assured me that my papers were still for the GM’s signature. So I was advised to go back after about 2 days. I went back the following week talk to Jerick and another guy. Naka-leave daw si Ms Mila kaya I have to return na lang! Aba! Aba! Aba! Syempre hindi ako pumayag sabi ko I need to know and see for myself this time kung nasan na ang mga papers ko! I was told na kung tapos na pirmahan dapat nasa TAB (the department where it all started) sabi ko I don’t want to go there kung hindi sure so pakitawagan kako. Ayan sabi wala daw sa TAB so ang tanong, nasaan na?!?!?

Habang ako’y nagfe-facebook (yung status ko kahapon hehe), eh sya’y naghahanap at naghahalughog ng mga folders sa kung saan saan! Isinama pa nya ako sa GM’s office at sabi ng assistant duon eh wala naman daw don! Konting-konti na lang talaga at mag-eeskandalo na ako... pero sige try to be cool pa rin, konting anghang na mga statements lang pinapakawalan ko here and there... After mga 20 minutes, guess what kung nasaan ang APPROVED papers ko --- nasa TAB! Kung saan itinawag na early na initially sinabing wala daw duon! Ay sus!

Imagine nyo na lang what do other people – mga drivers, hindi nakapag-aral, mahihina loob etc – would have to go through on similar situations. Nakakaawa talaga kasi pinagmamasdan ko sila nung mga visit ko sa MMDA sobrang parang helpless sila tapos lahat ng empleyado napaka antipatiko at bastos kung sumagot sa mga tanong. Most of the people who got tickets or impounded vehicles were very polite naman and they share stories kung bakit sila andun.

It’s just so sad that we are paying our dues and taxes to the government only to be served poorly by these employees! It’s already a huge issue that they obviously have poor coordination and processes, the very basic courtesy and etiquettes are not even there when they deal with customers!

My conclusion: masunog na sana MMDA building with all its effing idiot employees! Pampasikip sila sa mundo! Har!!!!

Moving on... eeerrrrrrr

2009-04-23T04:27:00.002+08:00

Here’s an irony in breaking up with someone, you get to spend more quality time with each other post break-up compared to the time you were together. You might even seem like a couple now more than before. Some would ask how is this even possible.

I realized, if you haven’t burned any bridges with your ex, why act bitter now, right? There’s just one clear and present danger if you try to be the meek and forgiving ex: resurfaced feelings or worse, loving the person more now. You’re friends would probably nag you until the whole $&#! blows right open or knock some sense in you especially if you’re the one who got dumped in the first place. You’d hear lines such as “why bother calling?”, “why spend time?”, “why exert all the effort?”, etc. etc. etc. Of course these are all under the premise of your good old friends looking after you. Oh so sweet and caring but no, you’d still do what your gut tells you. You still insist on the feelings you have until maybe such time you can’t take it anymore.

There will be moments when you’d wake up in the morning and decide to “move on” also known as don’t initiate any form of communication or interaction with the ex. It could simply be a turning on the cold shoulder if you want to put it that way. But deep inside, there’s this hope that he’ll ask you what went wrong or probably even insist of seeing you because in the first place, there’s nothing wrong with being friends now.

The dilemma begins. Do you keep the brand new honest-to-goodness non-romantic friendly relationship with your ex or completely drop everything and just focus on moving on, seriously? Let’s admit it, the latter most of the time requires not talking or even seeing the person who broke your heart. Every time you feel like you’re in the right path of the moving process and the suddenly your ex shows up and treats you so nicely (even way better that you were treated before), ugh! Expect that everything shatters! It brings some feeling of immobility. It makes you indecisive, irrational at some points. In other words, you’re screwed!

Really, I think nothing and no one could ever know when it will stop or where something else would begin. If there’s one thing I’ve learned in relationships, it’s being not too cerebral all the times. Indulge in both the joys and pains of relationships. Just try not to end up too pathetic and miserable. There are ways to do it with so much class and sophistication!

Obviously, I wrote this because this is coming from I’d say real life experiences. I know, I know… friends will raise their eyebrows but to those who have been through all these will share the same sentiments.

Chefars Christmas Party 2008

2008-12-10T01:39:00.006+08:00

Here are some pictures from our Christmas Party last Dec. 6, 2008 at Galileo Enoteca Makati and Ascend.

Khaye, Ayee & Marz

Gracie, Lulay, Jai (& Tabong)

Donn & Jeff

Madz & Keiko

Ash, Jai, Ayee, Lulay, Marz, Gracie, Nick & Aris

Gracie, Rowie & Aris

Nick & Lulay

Donn, Zha & Jai

Donn, Jeff, Ayee, Aris & Ash

Keiko, Ayee, Madz & Donn

Madz & Donn

Donn & Jeff

c/o PhotoFunia.com

2008-10-17T04:21:00.001+08:00

When lightning and thunder strike

2008-10-07T03:51:00.000+08:00

I officially hate lightning and thunder!!!

I just bought a lot of new DVDs last week in preparation for a hiatus from everything and everyone for the weekend. Since most of the US TV Series have started their new season the past few weeks, I made a plan of starting off from their respective ‘last seasons’. As a matter of fact, I was enjoying “Dirty, Sexy, Money” and “Dexter” when I decided to also spend time watching on a Monday.

I switched on the TV and plugged my almost 4-year old Philips DVD player to set the mood. Just when I thought the weather was just perfect – it was raining and cozy, and then came this series of lightning and thunder! And then there was this super loud combo… the TV suddenly turned off by itself and the stand-by power (i.e. the red light) of the dvd player was gone! I pressed the remote control of the TV and it went back on. However, it wasn’t the case for the DVD player. Of course I did the basic troubleshooting stuff and it wasn’t working. I wanted to do some sort of a CPR for my dvd player but I don’t know anything about electronics. Ugh.

To my dismay, the authorized service center of Philips can no longer be traced! So I’m now left with those repair shops on the side streets. I know that dvd players nowadays are just like buying 10 fraps from Starbucks but I guess it’s the sentimental value of my first-ever dvd player. Besides, I got it for more than 3 or 4 times the value of a normal player now! Hmp!

I can’t believe this, even in my gadgets I have ‘moving on’ issues?! Damn.

A letter for you

2008-09-26T08:53:00.001+08:00

Hal,

For almost five weeks, yesterday was the first time we were in the same room, not to mention we bumped into each other more than twice. I admit, I froze and as a matter of fact I was still in awe until I left the office. I do have a confession to make. The thought of seeing you again has been hanging over my head, ugh. I’ve been trying to picture what would be the best scenario that can happen if we see each other. Of course none of my ideas came to reality yesterday.

I now realize that it wouldn’t be you to wave at me first or to nod or even say hi. No judgment but I just thought that’s not your kind of thing. It was really more of my thing. And yes, I should have acted maturely and at least said hi to you. I wanted to know how you were doing. I wanted to hear you are doing great and having a fabulous time. I was somehow hoping to get that feel of exuding happiness from you.

Okay, I’ll let all my guards down right here, right now. I mean after all, what’s the point of still keeping something from you anyway? You know from the very start I’ve been very open of what I think and feel towards you, us, and our situation. I guess it really wouldn’t make much of a difference now. So there goes my disclaimer. Jeez, my thoughts are all over the place! I’ll just go with the flow here.

There have been so many times that I looked up your name on my cellphone soooooo tempted to call you or just send you an sms. Buy hey, I’ve been able to keep a good job in my self-restrictions you know hehehe. I feel that there’s just so many things that I want to tell you. Surprisingly, I am not expecting that there’s still something left out from your letter that you have to tell me. When I read your letter, I never shed a single tear. I thought I was brave. I thought it was a good sign that I’d be able to move on rather quickly and forget about you… until yesterday. I was wrong. It all dawned at me that the feelings have not in any way been gone at all. It may have just been my ego that said “you were just someone I used to love”. When I got home, I didn’t want to reach the point that I had to sleep or be alone but I had to. That moment, I cried. I cried not really knowing the reasons why. It just felt like there was a huge pile of block on my chest. There were questions that I’m not sure I want answered. There were thoughts and hopes that things will get better. But who the hell knows what’s gonna happen?

I want to ask you if we can at least be friends, though we were really never friends before so… I’m not even sure if that is a good idea, at least for now. If we become friends, for sure I’d have to deal with the fact that I cannot hold on to any possibility of us getting back together again. Of course this is my problem, not yours. Question is, can I handle that? I think I could answer my own question now. Part of me is still hoping that there could still be a chance for us this time around. I’m torn between my promise of not easily giving you up and what should be the ideal decision – letting go completely. It took a great deal of courage for you to come to terms with what you really feel towards me and our situation when you wrote that letter. Doing it in person might have been too much for you to handle. But really, I appreciate your honesty. I don’t want to argue with you and what you wrote because those are your thoughts. You actually made your point pretty clear on that letter and I’m not sure if you would have been able to do just the same if you were telling me everything in person (that is, while witnessing how my heart breaks while I cry buckets of tears maybe).

A good friend of mine once told me how come I still have feelings for you. He was telling me it might help to think of the not-so-good things you’ve done to me or the things about you that tick me off. Thing is, all those were part of the reason why I loved you, why I still do. It wasn’t just all about the good stuff about our relationship or your good side that I have accepted and loved. It also included what you were not able to do or say, it didn’t matter how many times I had to say okay if we can’t see each other, or the things about you that made me angry. After all, these defined you… the ‘you’ that I’ve learned to love. Tell me, should I just let go of my promise to you? You never really asked me to stop loving you. You never asked me to undo everything. And even if you did, I’d probably still go the other way.

Anlabo mo namang kausap

2008-09-19T04:42:00.003+08:00

This is so funny but true! Come on, everyone is I bet guilty of at least a couple of these shady replies.

Example ng mga hindi tamang sagot sa maayos na tanong:

1. Kumain ka na?
-Busog pa ako.

2. Anjan ba nanay mo?
-Bakit po?

3. Anong oras klase mo?
-Mamaya.

4. San kayo galing?
-Diyan lang... dun!

5. Paano mo ginawa yan?
-Madali lang.

6. Bakit ka wala kahapon?
-Absent ako

7. Anong oras na?
-Maaga pa!

8. Saan ka na?
-Andyan na ko, wait lang!
-Malapit na.

***Lifted from one of those spam emails... hehehe***

How to deal with “moving on” issues

2008-09-18T01:16:00.003+08:00

Let’s first set some perimeters around here. If you’ve been dumped, stood up (on dates even) or cheated on, then I guess you better read on. Maybe we can include those suckers for romance who somehow get wound up with people who can’t commit, those poor souls that experience unrequited love, those in long-distance love affairs that can’t seem to work, in other words all that other people would normally give their sympathy to. Perhaps one should automatically come to his senses when any of the above happens to him. Perhaps there really would come a time when we should ask ourselves, “is it time to move on?” Here’s what I have:

1) Have a solid support group of friends whom you can vent out to. These people most likely are the ones who know the ins and outs of your life and the love department too. Once you get to pour out your emotions verbally, try to not have the same conversations over and over again. And let them swear that no reports about “the one who must not be named” should be shared to you even if you twist their arms.

2) Don’t hesitate to cry or even do the über melodramatic and Oscar-winning moment but please do it privately and sparingly if not once.

3) Avoid “forbidden” places and people. You don’t want to get yourself caught off-guard with that “WTF! What am I gonna do?” look on your face.

4) Get rid of anything that will remind you of your sweet memories – pictures, gifts, etc. Even the mp3 files on your cellphone! But don’t overdo it though, there’s no need to return the gifts given to you, just keep them in a storage room or something.

5) Don’t watch movies that have love story themes. The funny or scary ones usually come in handy.

6) No looking out the window while it’s raining outside (and love song playing in the background). Oh please, this is just so pathetic!

7) If there’s an obvious pattern on the relationships and dates you’ve had, try to indulge yourself with some change the next time around.

8) Keep yourself busy and productive. Take on new and exciting projects at work. Engage yourself in a new hobby. Read books. Go on out of town trips.

9) Don’t let yourself be left alone. Always tag along your best pal with you! This is not just to keep you company but to immediately safeguard you from any untoward events of bumping into someone you’re not ready to see. Of course, proper orientation and briefing applies to the helpful friend.

10) Avoid people who talk negatively about love, relationships and their ex’s. Bitterness is so 12 years ago! The last thing you want to feel is this after being heartbroken you know.

I’m sure there’s a whole lot of ways to deal with moving on issues and yes, they may vary from person to person. What may work for some may not necessarily work for others. One thing will surely remain common though, once someone DECIDES to move on (and be successful at it), it damn feels so good to fall in love again!

My Nephews

2008-09-16T23:17:00.004+08:00

Gabriel and Miguel already gave their Tito Jai one helluva time when they were playing -- Jai's jeans got ripped! Don't ask which part! Lol.

The kids with Tito Donn.

Jeff & the city

2008-08-30T11:21:00.018+08:00

The first thing I noticed the moment I walked out of the JFK Airport was the weather – it was so friggin’ humid! Ugh! I guess it was some sort of a transition for me before I head home to Manila since it was pretty much the same feel. My cuzin (Kuya Lito) was kind enough to pick me up from the airport and his family hosted a buffet dinner in a Chinese restaurant near their home in Queens. It was late dinner actually since the clock was 3 hours ahead from my departure city in the west coast. I was looking forward to going to the city before I went to bed.

Chinatown and Little Italy
My other cuzin (Ate Cora with husband and youngest kid Gillian) took me for a little sneak peek of Manhattan. We initially went to Battery Park hoping we could go to Staten Island but jeez, the queue of tourist was just crazy and besides, we had a kid with us so we decided to head to Chinatown for late lunch and some shopping.

Times Square
One’s night-out in New York City will not be complete if you’ll not stroll along the bright lights of Times Square. The midnight still looked as busy as ever! After all, it’s the city that never sleeps!

Empire State Building
Some $19, about an hour of falling in line, multiple security checks (i.e. the one similar to the airports) and only a couple of bites of my roasted turkey sandwich for lunch, I finally sat foot on the setting of the very romantic scene in Sleepless in Seattle. The view of the entire New York City and some parts of New Jersey was indescribable! Of course the Chrysler Building was one of the more familiar spots from the top of the Empire State. After watching three times the entire seasons one through seven of Sex & the City, the building’s image (next to Cynthia Nixon’s name on the opening credits) left some kind of permanent mark on my head.

Staten and Ellis Islands
There were hundreds of people lining up in the cruise trips in Battery Park. My cousin Lorena and I figured we could save time and effort by lining up simultaneously in the ticket and queue lines – of course she took care of the ticket while I waited for her. It was just brilliant! Hint hint for future travelers. A two-hour lining up and cruising didn’t include setting foot on the islands per se but you’ll get a close look of Lady Liberty.

Café Lalo
Francis and I woke up on a rainy Saturday summer. It was about time for brunch and this didn’t give us a good signal at first. I thought, hey this cannot happen! It was my last Saturday in NYC and I had so much to do. I can’t remember if I did a sundance but my prayer kinda worked. The rain stopped as we headed to Café Lalo (www.cafelalo.com) at 201 West 83rd St. – the eyeball place of Kathleen Kelly (Meg Ryan) and Joe Fox (Tom Hanks) in You’ve got mail. The place was a little crowded by noon time. We had to wait for about 10 minutes to get seated.

Broadway
Watching the 19th century setting musical Spring Awakening is definitely one of the highlights of my NYC trip. What’s going to Broadway without that kind of experience? Winning 8 Tony Awards including best musical for 2007 would say more than enough reason for me to spend almost a hundred bucks for the balcony ticket! The music (by Duncan Sheik), the cast and the story twists made it all contemporary in so many ways. I never had a single dull moment watching it, seriously. As a matter of fact, I was almost close to getting teary-eyed in some of the scenes. Somebody else was crying while watching… hush hush (Hi Francis!).

The Met
The famous “steps” of The Met… the other side was under construction though.

The New York Palace Hotel
You know you love me… Do I hear “X.O.X.O.”? You got it! This luxury hotel in Madison Avenue suddenly became an instant tourist spot, especially to the young ones. Thanks to Serena, Blair, Dan, Nate, Chuck, Jenny and the rest of the Gossip Girl folks who are making waves in worldwide television.
Central Park
I think I only got to stroll in the West and East side of Central Park because obviously it was too huge! Francis was telling me how splendid the entire park looks like during winter. Sighs… On the west end is The Plaza Hotel (Home Alone 2 – one of my favorites!). There’s a whole of activities anyone can do in the park – including making out in public!!! Oh yes, we passed by a couple doing just that!

I left my heart in San Francisco

2008-08-30T10:11:00.010+08:00

Arriving at LAX 50 minutes before my flight to SFO proved to be a not so good idea. While self check-in is the newest thing in airports, getting your boarding pass is another. Of course you still have to go through the same procedures for checking in your luggage. And speaking of… I got to SFO 45 minutes ahead of my suitcase! It was on the next plane from LA to San Francisco since I checked in too close to the departure time. Sorry naman!

Stanford
A good friend of mine, Djen picked me up from the airport and we headed to Stanford for super late lunch. We visited the University afterwards.

Santana Row (San Jose, CA)
Northern California’s Rodeo Drive, this upscale shopping center in SJ was the next stop for me. Take note, my suitcases were just in Djen’s car! Here I met a few more friends – Paolo (former officemate in PS), Paul (co-editor in DLSU school paper) and Jun-Jun (housemate in college). I thought I’d have a hard time getting them together in one place but everything went smoothly, thank God! New faces were there too - Pete (Paul’s boyfriend) and Mark (Jun’s housemate). We had a few drinks in downtown San Jose then went to a Korean videoke bar.

It was a great Monday to wake up to for me and Paolo. He took the day off from work to be my tour guide. We woke up at about 11AM but I didn’t worry a bit since it’s summer and 8PM means the sun will still be up. I craved for some Pinoy food so we went to downtown Milpitas a few miles away from his place in San Jose. Barrio Fiesta was closed on Mondays for kitchen cleaning so we went to this Filipino restaurant called Kalesa (http://www.mykalesa.com/ ). How can you resist crispy pata and gulay na pinakbet? You just can’t!!! It was just me and Paolo but the food really was good for four starving guys. Reasonably-priced meal at under $30, it was just the carbo-loading we needed for a long day of touring Frisco.
Bay Bridge
Passing through the Bay Bridge in Paolo’s car (with sun-roof open) was just amazing. The weather was so perfect and you could feel the breeze on your face while seeing the skyline of the entire city.
Golden Gate Park
One funny part when Paolo was navigating was when we passed by the Golden Gate Park and he uttered how nice it was to have some photos right there. I was like, yeah it would be and then took a snap shot while the car was moving. We parked about a hundred meters away from the park and I decided to stroll along yet another gorgeous garden. We were planning to leave the car and walk to the bridge but when we checked the map, boy it was too far! Of course the wisest thing to do was to go back and drive.
Golden Gate Bridge
It was quite foggy and breezy when we reached the end of the bridge, I think it was the north end. Anyho, our spot had quite a clear view of the Alcatraz too. I thought I’ve seen Sean Connery’s movie anyway so why bother going there? After all, I’m not really a huge fan of prisons hehe.

Palace of Fine Arts
It was under construction when we were in the area but the ambiance was still captivating.

Victorian Houses
A trip to San Francisco would not be complete if you don’t pay attention to the beautiful Victorian houses. They’re just everywhere!
Lombard Street
Considered to be the “most crooked” one-way street in the world, Lombard is still passable by small to medium-sized vehicles. I’d say the flowers of summer add to the elegance of the said tourist spot. I bet the houses and apartment here are uber expensive.
Pier 39, Fisherman’s Wharf
Here’s another of SFO’s signature spot! There’s a whole bunch of restaurants and shops here for everyone’s delight!
Union Square
If you want to take a good tour of this part of the city, I’ve only got two suggestions – either by foot or by tram but you may find the latter’s route quite limited though. Some tour packages actually include the tram ride to and from the Wharf passing by Lombard then going to Union Square.

Spell L-A-X !!!

2008-08-21T06:08:00.013+08:00

In LA, most people would say "Oh, that place is just near! It's only a 10-minute drive." Guess what, those 10-minute travels felt like hopping from Alabang to QC!!! But hey, thanks to the freeways for making things a little convenient. Yes, I know that traffic in LA can get really bad but nothing compares to Manila road jams! Ugh!

Arriving in LAX on a Wednesday afternoon, I was trying to hide both my excitement and fear (that I might get lost or something). Thank God I googled some "how-to's" like getting to my first destination (Brea, CA) via the Super Shuttle service van. After 45 minutes and $40, along with other passengers who the driver dropped off at different locations, I got to my hotel -- The Embassy Suites Brea. It was just beside JC Penny and Macy's. I figured, I could use my idle time "malling" instead. To my dismay, I had to pinch myself and get reminded that I was still on a business trip at least until Friday lunch time.

The fun begins here...

OUTLET Stores (Citadel, Los Angeles)

I did some nice shopping with Teta (my editor in the college school paper). Boy, you really could get a lot of good stuff at very reasonable prices! Only problem was... most stores didn't have my size! I got a couple of shirts from the teens section would you believe?

Universal Studios
This was definitely on top of my list! Geez, you need like two days to go through what Universal City has to offer. The Simpson's ride was the most recent addition this year and it was really fun. Kids stuff? Yeah... but for grown-ups too! Thanks to college friend Polee for showing me around.

This is the closest I could get to the Scavo house in Wisteria Lane!!!! Woohoo!!!

West Hollywood

... need I say more?

Hollywood Hills

Serenity in Michigan

2008-08-21T05:51:00.004+08:00

How can you ever beat a lovely summer day in Lake Michigan? It's just so lovely! In my recent US trip, I wasn't really able to spend that much time checking the town and the other tourist spots. Oh well, I wouldn't feel bad, after all I was on a business trip here for one of my clients. Anyho, my clients were just so kind enough to drive me around town and have those sumptuous meals. Overall, everything was still worth it!

At the John Collins park, a superb restaurant called Rose's was the place to eat at! Just look at the view outside... breath-taking! My cold mojitos started that wonderful dinner. Funny thing, it felt weird initially having dinner while the sun was still so up at seven in the evening. Here's my eastcost summer!

My most wanted: STARBUCKS City Mugs (Part 3)

2008-08-21T05:03:00.012+08:00

After a long time, I'm back to blogging! And here's a bonus treat especially to my fellow Starbucks city mug collectors -- here are the newest mugs in my collection. Enjoy!

===================================================

Shanghai, China
I was surprised when Hannah (colleague at work) learned about my collection and she initially asked me if I wanted to have a mug from Spain since she was visiting. You’d never guess what was my answer… She was going to Barcelona for a visit to her family as far as I can remember. She was not able to find one out there but luckily, in one of the trips of her partner, they were able to manage getting me a city mug from Shanghai! Up until now, I always update Hannah with my collection. She’s always thrilled to hear what new mugs I got.

Jakarta, Indonesia
There’s not much story here… just kidding! But come to think of it, yeah. This is in fact the second mug that Les (i.e. Singapore mug) gave me. By this time, it was just before he decided to move back to Manila for good. He was just on a summer vacation – we went to Boracay, when he got me the mug from Jakarta. I’m still hoping that Starbucks would open in Vietnam anytime soon! I just happen to have so many friends frequenting the country for cryin’ out loud!!!

Tagaytay, Philippines
Being true to form, Claire (who was very instrumental in my Amsterdam mug), texted me when she and her husband were in Tagaytay. I remember planning to drop by Starbucks Tagaytay the last time I was there since I heard some gossips that there’s a mug for the city too. Obviously I didn’t believe it that time… Thanks to Claire and her husband for squeezing a quick purchase of the mug on a husband-wifey date!

Macau, China
If there’s an award for the most number of city mugs contributions amongst all my friends, it will surely go to Tina! In one of her Asian trips, getting me my mug has always been a part of her itinerary! Thanks to Wlad too for tagging her along his trips. I’m also waiting for some European trips you know. I could use some addition to my mugs from there! Hint! Hint!

London, Great Britain
This one’s from Tina too! Wlad got this initially for her I think I couple of years ago. I’ve been making ligaw for this mug to be given to me as a gift but Tina won’t just budge until finally, at the eve of my birthday, he came to my station with the mug on her hand. It was a nice birthday present!

Australia
Marl who initially promised to get me the Jakarta and KL mugs, finally fulfilled his promise. It was a super hectic work schedule in India prior to going to Sydney when Marl got me the mug. He was actually able to save up on his birthday gift for me coz he got back to Manila a few days after my bday! Smart-ass! ;-)

Germany
CJ, my former boss had always known about my collection. The moment he learned about it, he sort of committed to put in his “contributions”. He was meeting up with his family in India during his almost-one-month vacation middle of this year. His brother was coming from Munich and I think he really pushed for the mug. Too bad, the mug wasn’t available yet in Starbucks India.

Sacramento, California
Karen (a colleague from work) and I were at the same work area for a time when I transferred to our office’s main building. I overheard her talking to some friends about her sister coming to the Philippines from California. Of course I didn’t hesitate asking her where she was coming from. The instant I heard Sacramento, I asked her if she could ask her sister to buy a mug for me. Being the sweet and kind Karen like what she has always been (since she was handling my teams as my QA analyst), she said yes. One more thing, she is in Florida right now and boy she is definitely going to look for a mug for me. Her location might not guarantee the merchandise but for sure she would try looking.

Make me not love you anymore

2008-04-17T10:54:00.001+08:00

Make me not love you anymore
Take away these feelings I’ve known long before
I’m reachin’ out to you but don’t take my hand
Even if it pains me, I would understand

Let’s forget yesterday’s promise of a bright tomorrow
Some things just can’t be… they’ll just be full of sorrow
I know I can’t have anything more
But my mind tells me not to settle for anything less either

I drown in your ocean of sweetness
I gasp amidst the air of your thoughtfulness
Can you not be there when I call your name?
I’ll pretend I’m just losing in a kid’s foolish game

Can we go back to the days when we were strangers?
In romance and true love, we weren’t believers
Can we simply just live and co-exist?
Not telling each other what have been missed

Rivers on a reversed flow
Melting ice cream in the hands of an Eskimo
Thunderstorm in the Sahara
A beautiful sunset in Japan

What does it have to take
To make me not love you anymore?

Nag-iisa, Wala ka na

2008-04-17T09:43:00.004+08:00

Here's a song from Noel Cabangon that I must say, really touched my heart...

papalubog na naman ang ilaw
nagpapaalam na naman ang araw
ang gabi ay muling mamayani
at ang lamig ay hahaplos sa pisngi

ilang araw na ang lumipas
magmula nang ika'y magpaalam
ilang gabi na ang nagdaraan
ang pag-iisa'y tila na 'di na makayanan

ngunit kailangan kong indahin ang lamig ng gabi
ngunit kailangan kong tanggaping wala ka na sa tabi
nag-iisa, wala ka na
wala ka na, nag-iisa

ala-ala'y nagbabalik sa isip
mga larawan ng bawat sandali
pag-ibig nating sinumpaan
‘pinangako sa liwanang ng buwan

ngunit kailangan kong indahin ang lamig ng gabi
ngunit kailangan kong tanggaping wala ka na sa tabi
wala ka na, nag-iisa
nag-iisa, wala ka na

ngunit kailangan ko nang masanay
at tanggapin na lumisan ka na nang tunay
ang lahat lahat ay bubuti ang pag-ibig ay mananatili
lagi’t, lagi hanggang sa walang hanggan.

AUDIO (http://guides.clickthecity.com/clipcast/?v=54)

So many questions ...

2008-04-17T08:30:00.001+08:00

Do you know how it feels when all your life you thought you’ve got all things figured out only to know that there could still be this one thing that you are so uncertain of? Scared. Confused. No matter how much thinking you do, it still feels like there’s no answer to your questions. It may even seem like your head’s going to fall of with your brain popping out!

How do you feel numb to your own feelings for the one person who have hurt you so bad?
How do you erase the history you had with someone?
How do you stop hating yourself for doing and saying stupid things that you end up regretting about?
How do you seize your heart from beating too fast when your eyes meet?
How do you not care anymore amidst the thoughtfulness and kind words?
How do you ensure that the things that run inside your head are the ones spoken of truthfully?
How do you accept that it’s no bliss to love someone especially if they don’t love you back?
How do you make yourself smile after the sleepless nights and melancholic mornings?
How do you unplay the tunes that you sang together?
How do you distant yourself from the one person who’s just a stone throw away?
How do you unlove someone especially if you’re the only one loving?
How do you rise again after everything has been said and done?

If I have the answers to these questions, I’m not even sure if I would feel relieved. If things were the ideal, I don’t even know if I would be happy. The fact of the matter is, I don’t exactly know what I would like to happen. I just can’t seem to figure out really what it is that I want. I guess I would just have to have faith that wherever life takes me, I’d come out a strong and better person still believing in the beauty and miracle of true love.

Comments on my Starbucks City Mugs Collection

2008-04-02T01:45:00.002+08:00

I'm so overwhelmed and thrilled by the responses I’ve been receiving about my Starbucks City Mugs collection! See, it’s still a work-in-progress really and I have big plans to expand my collection. Right now I don’t have any duplicate mugs yet therefore I’m really not into trading or selling any of them. I kinda love them equally since most of them are from friends who get to travel as well.

I’ll surely keep this blog updated with other photos and info of my collection. In fact I have a few newer mugs which I haven’t taken the photos of, by the way, that I’d like to share to everyone real soon!

Thanks again!

Satisfied Urge ... Indeed

2008-03-30T20:02:00.003+08:00

What: Jeff's lunch break (with co-managers)

Where: Brothers Burger - Convergys branch

When: March 29, 2008 (Saturday, between 3-4 AM Mnl)

Jeff: Nath, can you buy me na lang onion rings, I'm not that hungry.

Nath: Okay.

Jeff: Thanks!

Nath: Jeff, there are no onion rings!

Jeff: Ugh. That sucks! I won't eat instead.

Nath: And the gurl behind me also wanted to order onion rings.

*** After 5 minutes ...***

Jeff: Miss, there are no onion rings, really??!!

Miss: Sir, there are no onion rings... I'm sorry.

Jeff: You mean there are no onions at all? Or there are onions but they are just not 'breaded' yet? (A little irritated already)

Miss: Sir, there are no onion rings... I'm sorry.

Jeff: Tell you what, I'll go to your kitchen and check for the onions and slice them myself! (Voice a little louder than the usual)

Miss: (Trying to put a good smile and composure) Sir, I'll ask our chef.

Jeff: So what now?

Miss: Sir, there's onion rings for you now.

Don't I just love getting my onion rings?!?!?! Hehehe ...

Bisita Iglesia 2008

2008-03-30T14:35:00.015+08:00

On the second year of our barkada's Holy Week tradition, the Bisita Iglesia 2008 turned out to be another yet wonderful experience for us. Due to scheduling issues, we had to do it on a Black Saturday instead of the "usual" Good Friday. Here are some images...

Manila Cathedral: It was still a classic tourist spot (especially for the Koreans) even on a Holy Week !!! Are they even Catholics? I totally have no idea!

This walk towards the Manila Cathedral in the steets of Intramuros would pass the tourist walks of Italy. I wish the faces of Old Manila would be saved for the next generations. Sighs.

San Agustin Church. The church was closed. Ugh.
(Lod, Marl, Aya, Me, Cathy & Mike)

Malate Church: This is so cute! One "church-ly" way of putting it I guess. Hehehe.

Malate Church: Me, Marl, Aya, Cathy & Mike.

Redemptorist Church: The famous Baclaran church has flat screen TVs all over the place! I guess for song lyrics and all. Cute.

St. James Church: Of course, AAV had a pretty tight security even on Holy Week.

Aya, AD, Cathy, Lod, Marl & Mike

Chapel of the Forgiving Lord: This Paranaque chapel has got to be on top of my list! It's just so beautiful! Oh and by the way, it has an orphanage. I think the whole place was practically built through sponsorships.

Very nice interiors!

Just take a look at that!

This is just a "grand" entrance, literally -- with these huge and intricately designed doors!

The last stop was Presentation of the Child Jesus church in BF homes.

Boracay 2008

2008-03-28T14:29:00.013+08:00

Let's talk about nice natural lighting...

Enjoying my pinacolada under the summer heat. Simply lovin' the sun, the sky and the sand!

... still a breath-taking and captivating view of the sunset ...

I tried some skim boarding action right there... it was fun!

Yeah, you could tell ... this must have been Lastikman's skim board!

A Boracay vacation would not be complete without a picture taken near the Groto in Station 1.

There were fewer small boats in the shores of Boracay now... Goodie!

Dizzy from a night-out? Yes... but that didn't stop me from getting a good shot of the sandacastles!

I would have loved trying this for a water sport! Haha!

Lunch at Pearl of the Pacific... ***sighs***

My name means...

2008-01-19T11:02:00.000+08:00

What Jeffrey Inandan Means

You are fair, honest, and logical. You are a natural leader, and people respect you.You never give up, and you will succeed... even if it takes you a hundred tries.You are rational enough to see every part of a problem. You are great at giving other people advice.
You are friendly, charming, and warm. You get along with almost everyone.You work hard not to rock the boat. Your easy going attitude brings people together.At times, you can be a little flaky and irresponsible. But for the important things, you pull it together.
You are loving, compassionate, and ruled by your feelings.You are able to be a foundation for other people... but you still know how to have fun.Sometimes your emotions weigh you down, but you generally feel free from them.

You are wild, crazy, and a huge rebel. You're always up to something.You have a ton of energy, and most people can't handle you. You're very intense.You definitely are a handful, and you're likely to get in trouble. But your kind of trouble is a lot of fun.

You are a free spirit, and you resent anyone who tries to fence you in.You are unpredictable, adventurous, and always a little surprising.You may miss out by not settling down, but you're too busy having fun to care.
You tend to be pretty tightly wound. It's easy to get you excited... which can be a good or bad thing.You have a lot of enthusiasm, but it fades rather quickly. You don't stick with any one thing for very long.You have the drive to accomplish a lot in a short amount of time. Your biggest problem is making sure you finish the projects you start.
You are very intuitive and wise. You understand the world better than most people.You also have a very active imagination. You often get carried away with your thoughts.You are prone to a little paranoia and jealousy. You sometimes go overboard in interpreting signals.
You are usually the best at everything ... you strive for perfection. You are confident, authoritative, and aggressive. You have the classic "Type A" personality.

You are balanced, orderly, and organized. You like your ducks in a row.You are powerful and competent, especially in the workplace.People can see you as stubborn and headstrong. You definitely have a dominant personality.

What's" Your Name's Hidden Meaning?

Life is…

2008-01-05T09:04:00.000+08:00

Life is waking up in the mornings with your favorite breakfast on the table. It’s that ‘just-about-right’ warmness of the hot coffee you just made. Life is getting that last scoop of peanut butter on your loaf.

Life is not forgetting to take your medications before heading to work. Life is not seeing the cat paw prints on your car’s windshield. Life is passing through traffic lights when they’re all green. Life is a hard rain when your car is too dusty.

Life is at least getting one email that will make you smile amidst the hundreds of mails you go through each day. Life is when a stranger smiles at you and greets you “good morning”. Life is a surprise lunch invite from a dear friend you haven’t seen in a while. Life is finishing up an hour early of the day’s work. Life is listening to your favorite song on the radio three times upon switching from one station to another.

Life is fighting that desire to call your ultimate crush. Life is getting a good mix of mojitos. Life is an hour overseas phonecall from a friend. Life is an updated playlist at the videoke. Life is not falling in line to withdraw cash from the ATM. Life is finding a charger when your cellphone runs out of battery.

Life is putting my thoughts together. Life is getting this read by people.

Life is simple. This is my life. I’d like to continue living it the way I’ve lived it.

My most wanted: STARBUCKS City Mugs (Part 2)

2007-12-29T03:43:00.001+08:00

Los Angeles, California
A good friend of mine, Polee sent me this sms one time telling me that he has this surprise -- a Starbucks city mug! My pangungulit finally paid off. He was supposed to go to SanFo and meet up with AD who was on vacation so he could hand over his gift for me. Too bad, I think he got too busy that he was not able to see him. The other plan was just to send it to me via courier but I said it would just be too expensive. A friend from the office flew in to LA for a few days and I graciously asked the favor of getting the mug for me. Unfortunately, Polee was not able to meet her. Finally, his mom paid him a visit and voila, the mug was on its way to the Philippines!

San Francisco, California
Porky had a good laugh when he bought this mug for me. He said why don't I just buy white mugs and have them printed with whatever city or country I want. Hahaha! Anyhow he was able to meet up with AD and handed him my mug as his pasalubong for me.

New York City, New York
Francis (see his blog link on my homepage) initially pledged an NY city mug to me. So I told him specifically what to look for -- the old design. The poor boy circled the entire borough of Manhattan (of course I'm exaggerating!) to look for the classic design but luck was tough. AD only stayed for a couple of days in New York and the mug was still yet to be bought. AD then decided to just buy me the NY mug with the new design.

Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

AD is one of my "more~than~a~decade" friends who happened to get a US vacation with his folks. His dad had this seminar thing there and of course he had to stay. After all, they checked in at Ritz! The city mug was AD's pasalubong to me. There were a lot of Starbucks stores near the hotel so he didn't have the chance to forget about me.

Las Vegas, Nevada

Dexter, an officemate and a good friend gave me the Toronto city mug. When he learned that one of his co-trainers, Vinnie was going on vacation, he told her to get me the mugs. Thanks to Vinnie, the Vegas mug is just one of the two city mugs she bought for me.

Nagoya, Japan

On his way to the US, AD got stuck in Nagoya airport. Silly him, he texted me and asked if I already have a mug from Japan only to find out that he already bought one for me without even getting my response. This was were he had a photo opp with Che-che Lazaro. hehehe. Connect?

Baguio, Philippines

It was 1999 when I last visited the summer capital of the Philippines. Just recently, we had to go to Baguio for a business trip. On one breezy night, me and my officemates were headed for some coffee. I approached the cashier and saw the mug! And your guess is just right - I immediately grabbed my wallet and paid for it! Another funny thing though, Jean (who gave me the Cebu mug), texted me and asked if I already have the Baguio mug. I read the sms 5 minutes too late boo-hoo. She wanted to give me the mug as a christmas present.

Hawaii, USA

One of my former reps from Cebu, Khaki was scheduled for a short trip to Hawaii for his stateboard exams of sorts. Of course I asked him to get me a mug from Hawaii.

Cancun, Mexico

This was the second mug from Vinnie.

Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia

It was another friend of mine (Marlon) who pledged the KL and Jakarta city mugs to me since he always goes there practically every month! It had to be Dexter who bought me the KL mug when he had a vacation there.

My Gondola Ride

2007-11-16T11:20:00.000+08:00

Vaguely you whispered the cries of your soul
Echoing conspicuously what your heart longs for
Nothing seems to make sense, even the wisest wouldn’t take chance
It’s the ambiguity that distinct your passions at a glance
Charmed by the thrills of your pursuit in life
Estranged from my world, I’m now wandering in your bliss

As the journey continues, fondness grows as we go
Living each moment holding your hand in my mind
Astonished, in awe, I try to come back to my senses
Gone these hopeful thoughts, I’m forced to let go
Only time can tell if things will remain my wishful thinking but
Now I know for certain, my fascination belongs to you…

Shining Star

2007-10-09T01:43:00.000+08:00

by Get Far

The way you look at me
The way you touch me
The fire in your eyes
Makes me sweat
Makes me shiver inside
There's nothing I can do about it
'Cause nothing seems so true
When I'm beside you
Am I dreaming?
Go here and just hold my hand
Naked, perfect, so beautiful
You turn me up and down
I was spinning round and round
You never get enough, baby don't
You're a shining star

The way you look at me
The way you touch me
The fire in your eyes
Makes me sweat
Makes me shiver inside
There's nothing I can do about it
You're my soul mate, my summer and my faith
Come, fill me up with love
Your kisses are better than wine
There's nothing I want more than you girl

Let's hear it!

All this time

2007-10-09T01:38:00.001+08:00

by Sylver Logan

I close my eyes
I don't want to see no more
Because your not in my vision, there's no open door
And you won't let me in and can't quite sink in
Because if only you were happy
What was I thinking?
Ooo... Ooo...

**Chorus**
I had so much of you, I couldn't dream last night
I feel the touch of you, even though you're not by my side
Can't get enough of you, because you made the darkness light
And after All this time
You still possess my mind
And fter All this time
I still want you in my life
After All this time, I still want you in..... my life
Mmmm
Gonna break the walls
Gonna make you love me some more
This may be a game to you baby
Mmmm
But I refuse to ignore
The love you had for me
In the past
Thought it would last
But it came to an end
I'm not the same without you lately
Want to share my dreams with you baby
Ooo... Ooo... Ooo... Ooo...

**Chorus**
I had so much of you, I couldn't dream last night
I feel the touch of you, even though you're not by my side
Can't get enough of you, because you made the darkness light
And after all this time
You still possess my mind
And after all this time
I still want you in... my life****
Oooh... Oooh... Ooooooh!
Oooh... Yeah Yeah Ooh!
I had... So Much!
I had... So Much!
I had... So Much!
I had... So Much!
I said I had... So Much!
I Had... So Much!
Oh!
**Chorus**
I had so much of you, I couldn't dream last night
I feel the touch of you, even though you're not by my side
Can't get enough of you, because you made the darkness light
And after all this time
You still possess my mind
And after all this time
You Still feel so right
And after all this time
I still want you in... my life!
Oooh...
O-oh! O-oh!
In my life
Feels so right!
In my life
Oh
In my life
Still want you in... my life.
Oh
Oh
I had so much...
Couldn't dream last night
Wanna feel your touch...
Even thought you're not by my side
I had so much...
Oh
Couldn't dream last night
feel your touch...
Oh
Even thought you're not by my side
Oh yeah.

Hear it!

Play. Pause. Stop.

2007-10-09T01:36:00.000+08:00

Masarap maglaro at makipaglaro
Minsan, kailangan ding magpahinga o kaya’y tumigil nang panandalian
May pagkakataon di naming maski ano pa ang mangyari,
Maski sino pa ang magsabing hindi maaari,
Kailangan ring huminto – dahil lang sa ito ang kagustuhan.

Naalala ko lang… ako nga pala ang tanging may hawak ng sariling manibela ng buhay ko...

The lesser evil

2007-10-03T11:23:00.000+08:00

Have you ever feared of committing to someone because you enjoy having a good time errrr fooling around? I'm not sure (smirk) if this brings a different kind of "high" but for sure it brings a little something.

I'd rather have the above instead of fooling around while being committed to someone.

Ergo, I choose the lesser evil haha!

Filler: Four Things About Me

2007-09-29T08:50:00.000+08:00

FOUR JOBS I HAVE HAD IN MY LIFE:

1. Telemarketing Officer for Credit Card Acquisitions
2. Customer Service Officer for Credit Card Operations – Billing Disputes and Merchant Sales
3. eRep … supervisor
4. Manager for Service Delivery – Operations (Call center professional! Yes!)

FOUR MOVIES I WOULD WATCH OVER AND OVER:

1. The Little Rascals (1993 version)
2. My Best Friend’s Wedding (walang kokontra!)
3. The Little Rascals (1993 version)
4. The Little Rascals (1993 version)

FOUR PLACES I HAVE LIVED:

1. Quezon/Batangas
2. Taft Avenue / UN Avenue , Manila
3. Cebu City
4. Guadalupe Nuevo, Makati

FOUR TV SHOWS THAT I WATCH:

1. Grey's Anatomy
2. LOST
3. Heroes
3. The Buzz!

FOUR PLACES I HAVE BEEN ON VACATION:

1. Vienna , Austria
2. Prague , Czech Republic
3. Munich , Germany
4. Bohol

FOUR PEOPLE WHO EMAIL ME:

1. Rona
2. AD
3. Marl
4. People @ work of course!

FOUR OF MY FAVOURITE FOODS:

1. North Park Yang Chow Fried Rice
2. Adobo na luto ko
3. Sinigang na super asim na luto ko or ng kapatid ko
4. Isaw (well-done please) sa kanto

FOUR PLACES I WOULD RATHER BE RIGHT NOW:

1. Zurich
2. London
3. New York
4. Amanpulo (hayyyyyyy)

FOUR FRIENDS I THINK WILL RESPOND:

1. Rona (para mag react lang)
2. Paan (pag nag post ako sa blog ko)
3. Lesley
4. Tina (most likely para mag react!)

Two friends... In love... Married!!

2007-09-22T09:48:00.000+08:00

My best wishes to very good friends Elaine and Reyan -- you guys rock! I can't believe I've known you guys for over 15 years and for most part, you have been good friends of mine. I really wish you well...

...can't wait to become godfather of your future kids!

The Heroes Personality Test

2007-09-22T09:43:00.000+08:00

My Score: Mr. Bennet

I scored 62 Idealism, 41 Nonconformity, 41 Nerdiness

The Heroes Personality Says:

Congratulations, you're Mr. Bennet! You are one mysterious person with mysterious motives. Despite all the mystery, it's clear that you believe what you do is for the greater good, and you are obviously a well-educated person in your field. Your best quality: Dedication to your work/organization/etc. Your worst quality: Keeping too many secrets

Mytunes: Current Playlist and Favorites

2007-09-14T09:24:00.000+08:00

Christian Bautista: Just a love song...LIVE!

Beautiful in my eyes
Only reminds me of you
Trying to get that feeling again
More than you'll ever know
Blue eyes blue
If ever you're in my arms again
You

Erik Santos: Your Love

Kailanman
Youre love
Say you'll never go
Maging sino ka man

NINA:

I do
What if
I didn't mean to make you mine
Someday

MYMP: New Horizon

Nothing's gonna stop us now
Only reminds me of you
Back home
Crazy for you
Every breath you take

What If

2007-09-13T13:50:00.000+08:00

by Nina

I often wonder just how can it be
But everytime I think about it
Seems impossible to me
I wanna touch you, call out your name
Would you be my love, would you be my friend
Would you feel the same

What if wishes all came true
And each one had a star
That would keep it shining brightly
However near or far

What if a miracle appeared
And heaven was here for us to see
Oh what if you, were to fall in love with me

I imagine, a picture in my mind
You and me we’ll be together
Together for all time
Like in the fairytales
Where everything comes real
Would you take my hand, would you understand
Just how I feel?

It’s not impossible
It’s not impossible
It happens each day
People find each other
Fall in love with one another
It happens this way
It’s not impossible
It’s not impossible
I don’t believe
If I close my eyes
If I make a wish
You’d be loving me

What if wishes all came true?

2 New things

2007-09-13T09:32:00.001+08:00

Gusto ko lang i-share very quickly and very briefly -- a couple of things i just did na hindi ko inakalang magagawa ko...

1) Alam n'yo yung parang "small desk microphone" na ginagamit sa pagtawag ng order from the fastfood's cashier to the kitchen? I'm sure alam n'yo ito! Using my charm (ehem) sa ate sa counter, ako naka-try ako na ako mismo ang tumawag ng order namin sa Chowking! At syempre pa feel na feel ko ang bawat salitang sinabi ko tulad ng:

For dine in: Lumpia Lauriat!

Ang mga kuya sa kitchen napangiti na lang dahil may kasunod pa akong "good morning" na closing spiel! Aliw!!!

2) Sa sobrang antok at pagod ko kahapon, tinakbuhan ko ang isang traffic enforcer (basta naka yellow yung manong) sa may Ayala Avenue -- dun sa kanto ng traffic light bago umakyat ng tulay papuntang Edsa! Hindi ko first time na "mag-beat" ng yellow light -- okay fine, it was already red! Ang first time ko ay ang humarurot nang todo nang senyasan ako ng manong dahil nga hindi nakalampas sa paningin nya ang minor violation ko. Of course di nya na ako hinabol maski nakasakay lang sya sa mobile unit nya. Effort nga naman siguro yon!

Wala lang... share ko lang...

Shutter

2007-09-11T18:26:00.000+08:00

It always feels good to finally get to that conviction that you have moved on and now trying to live a better life if not happier. When you don’t see the things and people that remind you of the past, it seems that things are a lot breezier! Before I get too carried away, I gotta admit that yeah, this is just a wishful thinking. The fact of the matter is, some twisted ghosts of your past would always have their wicked ways of sneaking up from behind.

I was looking for some archived emails when I came across a couple of conversation exchanges I had with some friends. It had some excerpts of my (used to be dearest) friend’s thoughts on my supposed cold shoulder treatment to him. For a few seconds I felt like there was a speeding bullet that just came through my chest. After all this time I really never thought that it would still have that effect on me. And yeah I admit, it was a bit excruciating and I hated it! I’ve been telling myself and the whole world that I’m so through with all that yet it felt weird somehow.

I may still be right though. It’s just probably natural reaction on my part. Oh please, cut me some slack will yah! Can I get at least some credit for trying?! But seriously, I think what will make everything all okay is if and only if I can totally shut off some people in my life including everything that happened. Imagine if could see a doctor who’d do an “Eternal sunshine of the spotless mind” treatment to me. That I’d love to see! Heaven knows I’d do anything to have that one.

I wonder if it’s just useless going overboard or sounding like a broken record on this. Oh well my thoughts on these/them have never been under wraps anyway so why bother? I may never be too certain of what the future holds for me after all these but one thing is for sure, I can’t simply forget everything until hell freezes over.

Pa 'experience' naman!

2007-09-05T10:33:00.000+08:00

1) tv reporter na nakikipag-unahang makasagap ng scoop at headlines. yung tipong sa gitna ng war o kaya may background na helicopter na may search and rescue operation sa isang super typhoon.

2) chef sa isang restaurant ng 5-star hotel. gusto kong magluto na may time pressure tapos yung magagarang mga kagamitan sa kusina. tapos gusto ko rin yung mag garnish ng kung anu-ano sa plato. ako rin ang magse-serve sa guest para may personal touch.

3) empleyado (na authorized to make big decisions) sa BIR, Customs, LTO, LTFRB. maski 1 week lang!

4) chief of staff ng isang senador

5) masahista

6) lagarista

7) barista sa Starbucks with rotating assignments/deployments sa iba't ibang bansa. maski walang sweldo okay lang!!!

8) personal alalay ni Keannu Reeves

9) intelligence officer ng gobyeryo. or asset ng FBI

10) kabet!

Pakialamero Mode

2007-09-05T10:17:00.000+08:00

Can I just pay my share of Php 44,000 to the Philippines ’ foreign debt? I wonder if this is somehow gonna give me my financial freedom, wahahaha! Too bad all 88 million Filipinos owe this much. Terrible, even the infants are counted (I think!). President GMA has acquired more debts than all of her predecessors combined, yikes!

*****

Mr. Palengke himself, Mar Roxas has been doing his homework recently. Somebody from his recent Baguio visit boldly ‘announced’ the arrival of THE NEXT Philippine President! How’s that for super early electioneering! Now I see the reason why he is not yet married to Korina Sanchez. I mean come on, both of them would have their own gains for waiting. Let’s see in 2010.

*****

What’s the buzz between CFC-Gawad Kalinga’s Tony Meloto and Frank Padilla? I just read on the papers that there are some splinter groups that have been formed. For the longest existence of CFC this is the first time I’ve heard of some form of intrigue amongst the key people (at least). I hope this gets settled coz GK is one of the best achievements of CFC I must say. I had some first-hand GK experience too a long time ago.

Maligayang Kaarawan, Rona!!!

2007-09-04T03:29:00.000+08:00

Ang space na ito ay inilalaan ko sa iyong kaarawan...

Wala na akong nais sabihin o di kaya'y isulat pa

Alam kong nauunawaan na ng puso mo ang mga pangarap namin para sayo

Sa halos labindalawang taon ng ating pagkakaibigan

Eh wala ka nang maitatago pa, hehehe!

Maligayang kaarawan! Mahal ka namin!

My most wanted: STARBUCKS City Mugs

2007-09-02T11:27:00.001+08:00

VIENNA, Austria
When I went to Austria during the winter of 2002, Starbucks was just put up then. Austrians were of course not as fond as Americans (and Pinoys at that) on the foreign brand. Of course it’s still different when you sip your coffee in your favorite coffee shops in Vienna or perhaps even in Paris !

I found myself in the counter getting myself a cup of coffee, a blueberry muffin and a city mug! That’s when I started collecting these giant coffee mugs!
BANGKOK, Thailand
Later that year, I told a friend of mine that I wanted to start collecting these mugs. And guess what, she said she will bring me one from BKK. Rei went there for a short vacation.
MANILA, Philippines
I think I bought one for myself during the Christmas season of 2002. I got it from Starbucks 6750 (which happens to be the first-ever branch in the Philippines ). I remember spending a quiet “ME Time” there reading a good book (Sighs).

ERRATUM: The Manila mug was actually a birthday gift from a good friend, Mean Jean! It totally slipped my mind, sorry... :( No wonder I used the statement "I think" above, hehehe.

When my mom kept the mugs in the kitchen cupboard the idea of collecting totally slipped my mind for such a long time. And I really mean it! You’ll see later.

DUBAI, United Arab Emirates
My brother has been working in Dubai (Hilton Hotel) for over 2 years now. It was during his first month-long vacation when he brought me the city mug (May 2007). He said all the other items I was asking him to “buy” for me are too expensive. Not to mention he probably sensed that I somehow had this wicked plan of not paying him. Hehehe!

Oh by the way, I remember I was staring at the Starbucks store in Dubai Airport (which is really huge! And I mean huge big time!) but for some reason I didn’t buy it. Perhaps it was because I was too excited for my connecting flight to Munich then. Oh well bottom line is, I was still able to get one after a few years.
SINGAPORE
About a couple of weeks when my brother gave me the Dubai city mug when my former boss and good friend Lesley asked what I wanted for ‘pasalubong’ for his Manila vacation. He’s based in HCMC, Vietnam but has been touring around Southeast Asia for some work stuff. I remember he said I gave him a good idea that he’s just going to make the city mug a generic pasalubong to his other friends. Of course he ended up just getting one! I think he didn’t want to have too many items on his hand-carry. But hey thanks again Les!
CEBU, Philippines
I stayed in Cebu from October 2005 to April 2007 and during this time my initial reflex when I stepped into the first (then) two Starbucks shops was to get myself my favorite! But I said, hey I’m staying here for good anyway so I can buy anytime. Funny thing was I already relocated back to Manila (sometime holy week of this year) and yes, the Cebu mug wasn’t in my possession yet until Jai gave me city mug as an early birthday gift!

PARIS, France
Wlad is one of the few non-Pinoy people that I get to hang out with here in Manila . He’s a French businessman introduced by a good friend – Tina. I remember telling him stuff in Tagalog all the time and it’s amazing that he usually understands most of what I say or pretends he gets it then asks somebody later what the heck was it really. I think it was about a couple of months ago when he went to his home country for a visit to his family. And of course, he was kind enough to give me the city mug upon returning home. (Ayos ka talaga Wlad! Videoke na ulet tayo dali!).
HONGKONG
Tina and Wlad planned their HongKong trip a few months ago until finally they pushed through. Tina already promised that she will buy me my mug once she gets there. And she did. She actually texted me when she finally got me the HK city mug. On her last day (I think), I didn’t know that she was supposed to go to Macau as well. Guess what, when she got back she said, “Jeff, I was holding a Macau city mug and I texted you if you wanted me to buy it too but you didn’t reply…” And that was the same day my damn phone got busted! Aaaaarrrgggghhhh!
MADRID, Spain
It was Miguel’s first birthday party (July 2007) when I saw some of Lulay’s relatives from Spain . I think they were here on vacation or something. At that time I didn’t have the thick face to tell her to ask her cuzins to get me a mug. And besides, they just got to the country and even if they go back, it’ll probably take sometime before they go to the Philippines again.

I remember it was only after a few weeks when I finally get to talk to her again. She mentioned she wanted some ‘real-deal’ Spanish sardines from Madrid because they’re so delicious she said. I blurted “why don’t you ask your cuzin to get me a city mug for my collection? J ” We parted ways with a big smile on my face because another cuzin of hers was just going to Manila in 2 or 3 days time. The following week she gave me the mug as a gift! (Thanks again Lulu and cuz!)

COLORADO, USA
This has quite a funny story. Augee (officemate and Rascal Alumna) was scheduled for a client-sponsored visit to their Colorado office. Before she left I was so excited to make my ‘bilin’ about the mug of course. She ym’d me one time to confirm that she already got me my Starbucks but it was a tumbler that she got me… Hehehe. Too bad she was already in San Francisco when I got the message. But it’s okay, for this one it’s the thought that counts! J

The USA is yet a huge continent for me and my city mugs to conquer! Got two other officemates who went to the US (both for client-sponsored visits) and tried searching for my most wanted but funny thing was, there were no stocks at the stores they visited. And I think the client offices were kinda far from the Starbucks stores.
AMSTERDAM, The Netherlands
A co-TM (in our office’s other building) heard about my fascination to the city mugs. I was paying her work area a visit one time when she told me if I want to get one from The Netherlands coz her husband was flying back to Manila the following week. Of course I said yes right away to Claire!

We talked about the other cities to get the mugs from since her husband is back to Europe again! Yahoo!
TORONTO, Canada
Dexter was supposed to leave for Canada (client visit) with a co-manager at the office. When the other manager had everything delayed I thought, hey what about my Starbucks? I realized later on that Dexter was already in Toronto . So I emailed and ym’d him a million times (not really, about a couple I guess) and he was like not replying! Until finally he told me on his last day in Toronto that he is getting me my mug! Yey!
LEBANON
A former officemate, Lovely now works as an FA for Qatar Airways. We used to be assigned in the Cebu office about a year ago. I courageously emailed her and asked her how she'd been and of course asked a little favor if she could get me some mugs. Obviously, she travels all over because of her line of work. She was excited to hear about my collection and she said she will squeeze in getting me my Starbucks mugs during her travel. She sent (through another FA friend of hers) the city mug from Lebanon! Thanks Lovely, aside from giving this as a gift! The next ones are of course on me.

I’ll surely have more to say about my future Starbucks city mugs since most of my friends and relatives are now so involved in my collection! How I wish each mug is equivalent to each country I visit. Well who knows maybe soon, my travel plans will be based on the mugs I have from countries and cities I haven’t visited.

Bumblebee daw ako!

2007-09-01T10:54:00.000+08:00

I AM
86%
BUMBLEBEE Take the Transformers Quiz

Bumblebee
As an Autobot spy, Bumblebee is the ultimate robot in disguise. What he lacks in size and strength, he makes up for with courage. He enjoys the company of humans and would do anything for his Earthly friends.

Like Bumblebee, you are good by nature. But beware because mischievous thoughts sometimes tempt you. You want to be a leader and show some promise, but you have much to learn. In addition, you stick to the basics and don't need all the encumberances of modern technology.

Some interesting Pinoy facts and trivia

2007-09-01T08:37:00.000+08:00

PB Com Tower, Makati
- 93rd tallest building in the world
- A 55-storey building constructed year 2000, with 88 feet in height
- Prior to its construction, Philam Life Tower in Paseo held the Philippine record. When I started working for PS as an agent, our office was at the 12th and 14th floor!

President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo
- Ranked 45th in Forbes’ Most Powerful Women in the world

Davao City
- The residents of Davao City claim they live in the world ' s largest city. They are talking about the land size of the city that covers 2,212 square kilometers. Most of these areas, however, are distributed as forests, coconut groves and rice fields. In comparison, New York , the largest city in the United States , has an area of only 787 square kilometers while the whole of Metro Manila covers only 636 square kilometers.

Asian Institute of Management
- The Makati-based Asian Institute of Management (AIM) is richly considered as one of the top business schools in Asia . In the year 2001, it received the Beyond Grey Pinstripes Award for having MBA programs that integrate social, environmental and sustainability topics into business training. The award is a joint project of The Aspen Institute Initiative for Social Innovation through Business (Aspen ISIB) and World Resources Institute.

Pinoy Planetoid
- The minor planet Biyo, which has a diameter of four to nine kilometers and was formerly called planet 13241, was named after Dr. Josette Biyo, a teacher at the Philippine Science High School in Iloilo City who won the International Excellence in Teaching Award during the Intel International Science and Engineering Fair (Intel ISEF) held in Louisville , Kentucky in 2002. The Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) Lincoln Laboratory in the United States game the name.

Henry Sy and Jaime Zobel de Ayala
- Tied at the 349th spot of world’s billionaires according to Forbes.com
Both with $2.6 billion net worth
- Isn’t it obvious that the biggest and most ‘extravagant’ malls in the country are owned by either of them?!

PLDT
- Ranked at the 1,321 spot of the world’s largest public companies
- Sales ($2.37B); Profits ($0.64B); Assets ($4.46B); Market Value ($9.01B)

Josie Natorie
- A Filipino-American fashion designer has been making waves in the New York fashion industry. Josie Natorie, who was born in Manila in 1947, owns and manages Natorie Lingerie. In 2001, she was one of the Asian-American awardees of the nonprofit Asians United to Raise Awareness (AURA) Fund.
- Natorie was already a successful stockbroker and investment banker even before she established her lingerie business. She had served as the head of the Manila branch of Bache Securities and as an executive of the investment banking division of Merrill Lynch.
- I remember when she introduced her perfume line before. I think it didn’t quite make it.

Cebu City
- Oldest Philippine city (earliest European settlement established by Spanish conqueror Miguel Lopez de Legazpi in 1565)
- Calle de Colon (which is also in Cebu ) happens to be the oldest street in the country
It’s like Quiapo and Divisoria! That’s where the good bargains are!
- The oldest fort in the country is Fort San Pedro – construction began in 1565.
I wonder where my pictures of the fort are…
- The University of San Carlos (USC) in Cebu City is considered as the oldest school in the country and in Asia . Formerly known as the Colegio de San Ildefonso, it was founded by the Spanish Jesuits on August 1, 1595. This makes the Cebu-based university older than the University of Santo Tomas (1611) in Manila and Harvard University (1636) in the United States .

Prospero Pichay
- AC Nielsen says Pichay spent a total of P202.746 million in radio and television spots, making him the top ad spender among the senatorial candidates. But experts say his ad campaign was among the worst of the lot, and not only because it failed to land him in the top 12.

Miguel Zubiri
- Of the neophyte senators of 2007, Migz Zubiri, with net worth of Php 43.3M is the wealthiest amongst the newly-elected young senators.
Thanks to wife Audrey Tan who also comes from a rich clan

Antonio Trillanes IV
- The Oakwood mutiny leader – now senator has been considered the poorest among the newcomers in the Senate with P2.2M net worth
- Oh, he happens to have a P60,000 liability – government salary loan before the Oakwood mutiny. I bet the funds went to financing it!

DLSU Tuition Fees
- I remember not so long ago when I had a full load of 21 units in a term in the College of Engineering , my tuition fee was about P 18,000 – P 21,000 per trimester. I just learned that now, it’s just about half of the fees EXCLUDING laboratory, miscellaneous, etc.
I haven’t seen a 2007 EAF but I could imagine one term would cost about 50 grand! Jeez!

*excerpts from Forbes.com, txtmania.com, infoplease.com, gmanews.tv, pinoyvote.info.

Sa Kaarawan ni Psycholoves para sa kras nya

2007-09-01T08:32:00.000+08:00

Bading ka raw, ‘yan ang sabi ng marami
Ewan ko kung maniniwala ako sa mga sabi-sabi
Nagba-basketball ka at borta pa… kaya parang ‘di naman
Chicks kaliwa’t kanan, may crush sayo ‘di mo ba alam?
Hindi ko nga maintindihan bakit sayo’y nahuhumaling
Ikaw ang laging hanap sa kaibigang Bumbayin
Noon okay na sakin na makita ka
Gets ko naman… ‘di ako umaasa
Carry lang naman sa’kin na maging kabit
Okay lang, basta sa bandang ilalim ako sasabit

*eto ang aking pa-bertday kay psycholoves para ialay nya sa kras nya...

A glimpse of a god’s face

2007-08-30T09:17:00.000+08:00

Traces of your smile that besieged the entire place
Raging from all directions, blatant looks dawned upon you
Intrigued, why a delightful visage graced the floor
Summer is yet to come but radiance beamed through
Tender and sweet, you always seem to be
Angel in disguise, others may see
Nothing but a timeless beauty, you are to me

Gorgeously you danced the night away
As light as a feather your body did sway
Yearning for some lovin’, your soul has whispered
Not in a million years I’ll have that delivered
Only when everyone else has stopped, I’ll seize the moment
Rest in my arms, I’ll hold you and say goodbye to the glimpse of a god’s face

each beginning could only speak of anyone but you…
...

Just can't help it

2007-08-24T18:22:00.000+08:00

It was during our earlier days in my first account in PS when Chona Mae's blog was born and it was a sure hit! She's still a character up to now. It was just earlier today when I got the chance to go over her blog again and read the entries from the beginning. I so want to laugh real hard but I haven't gotten the chance to read her blog from the house -- see right now I'm at the gym (while waiting for a friend of mine to finish his work out) and it's obviously quite public.

And because I so love Chona Mae's character so much, she just got a spot on my favorite links. I wouldn't be surprised if one day her character (along with the others on her blog) will be part of a sitcom or something hehehe.

La Salle Cheers

2007-08-21T13:37:00.001+08:00

I'm sure you guys missed these!!!

La Salle Spelling

La Salle Spelling, Set! 1-2-3!

La Salle Spelling!

La Salle Spelling

Ready!

*Ready!

1-2-3!

*L-A-S-A-L-L-E

* La Salle , Rah!!!

Who's To Win This Game

Who's To Win This Game, Set! 1-2-3!

Who's To Win This Game? * Green!

Who's To Win This Game? *White!

Green! *Green!

White! *White!

Fight! *Fight!

*Green, White, Fight!

*Green, White, White, White!

*Go, Fight, Fight, Fight!

*Green, White, Go, Fight!

*Green, White, Fight!

*Green, White, White, White!

*Go, Fight, Fight, Fight!

*De La Salle! De La Salle!

*Fight, Team, Fight!

Zama Zipa Zam!

Zama Zipa Zam, Set! 1-2-3!

Zama Zipa Zam!

* Zama Zipa Zam!

Ready!

*Ready!

1-2-3

* Zama Zipa Zam! (1-2, 1-2-3, 1-2, 1-2-3)

*Fight!

(Repeat 3x)

Win, Team, Win!!

Rektikano

Rektikano, Set! 1-2-3

Rektikano!

*Rektikano!

Ready!

*Ready!1-2-3

Rektikano, Keene-keena (2x)

Rektikano, Rektikano,

Rektikano! Rah! (2x)

Seez-boom-bah! (2x)

Boom-rah-boom-rah

Boom-rah-boom-rah (2x)

Sis-boom-bah

La Salle , Rah!

Haydee Three Times

Haydee Three Times, Set! 1-2-3!

Haydee Three Times!

*Haydee Three TimesReady!

*Ready!1-2-3

*Haydee, Kaydee

Kala Wala Waydee

Kala Wala Wingo Dingo Daydee

Hush, Kush

Kala Wala Wush Wush

Kala Wala Wingo Dingo Dash

(Repeat 3x)

*1-2-3

*Animoooooooooo La Salle!

Boom-ma-kaya

Boom-ma-kaya, Set! 1-2-3!

Boom-ma-kaya!

*Boom-ma-kaya!Ready!

*Ready!

1-2-3

*Boom-ma-kaya! I-ma-ka-diwa (2x)

*Boom-ma-kaya, Imakadiwa! (3x)

*Fight, Team, Fight!

Strawberry Shortcake

Strawberry Shortcake, Set! 1-2-3

Strawberry Shortcake!

*Strawberry Shortcake!

Ready!

*Strawberry Shortcake!

1-2-3!

Strawberry Shortcake

Blueberry Pie

V-i-c-t-o-r-y

Victory, Victory

Is Our Cry

De La Salle, De La Salle

Heidi High

Derecho La Salle

1-2, 1-2, 3-4 )

1-2, 1-2, 3-4 )
D 1-2, 1-2, 3-4 )

L 1-2, 1-2, 3-4 )

S 1-2, 1-2, 3-4 )

U 1-2, 1-2, 3-4 )
D-L-S-U!DLSU, Derecho La Salle!!!

http://www.dlsu.edu.ph/athletics/cheers.asp

I bet you were trying to do or at least remember the actions to go with the cheers! hehehe!

A Stormy Weekend... Not!

2007-08-20T16:18:00.000+08:00

My friends and I tried to spend our weekend "as usual" despite the storm which as of Saturday early morning has destroyed some 70,000 homes in Taiwan. Ergo, the rain was not as bad as the earlier part of the week.

***********

It was the week of the 2007 Moonrise Film Festival at the Robinson's Galeria Cinema. Rona's boyfriend was the editor in one of the docu-entries for the fest. It was a no-Oscars or FAMAS kinda thing though. I guess maybe because the theme was about the environment. It just feels awful to see lack of support from our people and the government likewise for activities with such cause.

***********

Finally I had the chance to see one of the most talked-about Pinoy movies of the year -- A Love Story. Generally the plot is nothing new but I think the writers did a good job on the screenplay. For those who've seen the movie can definitely relate, I bet! With quite a heavy heart Aya and I left the theater talking about how 'affected' we were. Hahaha! But seriously, I think nobody would want to be in either Joanna's or Carrine's place.

***********

We saw this nice little resto at the 2nd floor of Gale. Oooopppsss, I take it back! I meant cute! Yeah, for real! This cute restaurant called Chaikofi has this New York diner type of interior and lay-out. I think it's just about 100 sqm in size yet they were able to maximize the space even the edges that hold some "table-for-two" spots. Your usual pasta and chicken dishes were there -- the ones quick and easy to prepare. Their selection of green and black tea is definitely a must try! I had the Ripe Mango Green Tea and Aya had the Four Seasons Black Tea. Both were superb! We'd love to go back there. I learned that they have stores in Rob Place Manila, Mall of Asia and SM North.

http://www.chaikofi.com/

***********

It was about past midnight when I went for a night-out with a good friend of mine. We met a few interesting people through a new friend we met a couple of weeks ago. I only had 3 glasses of vodka tonic/seven since I thought I might end up being the driver again because of 'you-know-what' events and surprises. And guess what, I did another self-fulfilling prophecy yet again. I just decided to have a good meal at North Park together with Roly, Engel and George. We had a nice time talking about your usual stuff on love and relationship, while having this Chinese Food Feast! Went home a little past 5 in the AM.

***********

I felt so tired I fell asleep on the sofa with my jeans on! It felt silly that I got up after about 5 hours of sleep and not able to snooze again, darn! That Sunday became a TV day for me instead. I decided to just have lunch and told myself will get a good dinner later on. I fell asleep too early -- 6PM and woke up after 13 hours! Hahaha!

***********

Didn't get the chance to get back my car today since it's a non-working holiday for most people. Too bad I can't get it tomorrow since my plate is on color coding! I promise to really take good care of Oscar... :-)

***********

My Friendster horoscope for today reads:

Your best friend might be the most wonderful person on earth, but they aren't the person you should always be counting on in your life. They are there for moral support, but they can't fix everything that you think is broken right now. The stars say that you should spend time today building up your relationship with yourself -- because in the end, you always have to be able to rely on yourself. The great news is that self-nurturing is a very fun thing to do!

I say:

You should not always count on your best friend even if they always count on you. I mean after all, they counting on you clearly indicates some form of independence from your end. So what are the chances that you can't handle your own mess?
And yes, they can't fix everything that you think is broken... so much so if the brokenness is because of that person.

***********

'Pag minalas ka nga naman

2007-08-15T12:11:00.000+08:00

'pag minalas ka nga naman
parang sunod-sunod 'di mo mapigilan
Linggong masakit ang ulo dahil puyat kagabi
pag gising ang maling akala'y may pagkaing nakahain

'di makalakwatsa kasi walang pera
'di rin makapag road trip, ang kotse nasa kasa
makapag-gym na lang nga, ay katamad mag biyahe
dvd marathon na sana pero pulpol rin pala

ilang hithit sa sigarilyo kahit hagupit ang init
tambak na labada wala ring magawa
bitbit ang bag na singbigat ng isang bata papunta sa mega
sa hapunang maalinsangan butas pa ang bulsa

late ng tatlong minuto, timesheet ngayo'y buhol-buhol
sa report na isa-submit, mas gusto ko pang magpunit
suporta mula sa 'taas', umasa pang pagbibigyan
larong sinimulan, bahagyang tagumpay natikman

pakisuyo ng kaibigan, hindi ko napagbigyan
libreng lunch buffet sa hotel... sayang
mahimbing na tulog pero pero limang oras lamang
suot pa'y pinagpawisan kaninang umaga

late na sa opisina at wala pang hapunan
kaliwa't kanang isyu sa inbox, kumusta naman
di man sinasadya, inosenteng nilalang ang napagbuntunan
kawawa naman maski walang kasalanan

magsalita o manahimik, tiyak may masasabi
ano pa nga ba, mga mensahe ako'y pinutakti
bumagyo pa kung kailan may naka-plano na
ayon argumento sa kausap, daig pa ang summer

uuwi ka na lang, mga nakasimangot at nakakunot
eto ako basang sisiw dahil sa malakas na ulan
goodluck naman, kapag nabinat pa
tambak na labada... tambak pa rin

'pag minalas ka nga naman
ano bang mayroon sa linggong ito
at ano pang mayroon sa araw na ito
malas....

ang nakakainis na malas. tsk tsk tsk.

I've got Series! What about you?

2007-08-13T09:10:00.000+08:00

I've been hooked to quite a few tv series for quite sometime now. Aside from the fact that most of these tv shows have good reviews, I just get to watch them whenever convenient -- DVD copies you bet! I don't really care if I'm behind a few episodes from what are being showed on cable tv or in the US but as long as I am able to watch say a complete season, I'm good.

Not only do these shows have interesting plots and storylines, they have admirable characters that I'm sure everyone can relate to! Oh yes... you know that sigh or nod that you unconsciously do whenever a character says or does something that somehow "you"? That's what I'm talkin' about.

LOST: Dr. Jack Shepard

The character of Matthew Fox is fascinating yet peculiar. He has been the sort of 'leader' of the survivors of Oceanic flight 815 on the island. I guess because he's the doctor and on most part, injuries are just always there and a doc comes in very handy. Initially (or even on some parts) he didn't want to take the lead even on non-doctor concerns but I guess it just comes out naturally! I mean come on, people already have this high regard of him and they'd usually come to Jack and ask what does he think about this and that. He's got this charm that can simply get everyone's attention each time he says something -- and people listen mind you.

One other nice thing I like about Jack is his convictions. Once he says something that he'd do, he really does it no matter what. If it's time to give up or compromise though, he's not too egoistic. In the love department, I think it's a totally different story though! I think he's got too much pride on that at some point haha!

Dr. Shepard projects himself too well that it takes some time or quite an intrusive person to get to know the other side of him that has some issues. Overall he's a classic example of how one should manage perception.

CSI: Gil Grissom
One of William Petersen's dialogues that really caught my attention was when he said "because you don't see it, it doesn't mean it's not there." This man would always leave the viewers in deep deep thinking -- can be irritating but gets your neurons working which is I guess nice.

The teamwork among his subordinates is exemplary. He's got this indirect yet motivating, challenging and encouraging ways of empowering his peers. He doesn't just spoon-feed them with the what's and the how's of their work. Of course forensics experts have to be scientific and all but Grissom's logic (even on things outside the crime scene and lab) is just way beyond what is required of his job. I just love the guy!

HEROES: Nathan Petrelli

The Congressman from New York played by Adrian Pasdar. First off, I like his superpower -- he can fly! Yey! This gets me thinking really, this is the NOW-FUTURE Peter Pan haha! Believe it or not, up to now I still feel that I have this certain capability that I can somehow fly! Absurd or funny huh?! But yeah, I don't know but I guess this is just the child part of me that I can't simply let go.

This elder brother of Peter (Petrelli) is such a proud and secretive person but what I like about him is his genuine love for his younger brother. He'd do anything for Peter's sake.

Nathan knows what he wants and he does what ever it takes to get it. He can be too driven by his aspirations and priorities that at some point he has to sacrifice some things and even some people he loves. Oh well, some harsh part of reality that we have to accept I guess. There you go, the "no pain, no gain" theory.

Nip/Tuck: Sean McNamarra
One of Miami's top cosmetic surgeons -- along with his bestfriend and business partner Dr. Christian Troy. Dylan Walsh's character may seem to be too silent and reserved but wait until best bud Christian pokes him! Between the two of them, Sean is on the conventional side of things. He sticks to the protocols (of the business and life in general) as much as possible. He has been regarded as the better doctor but he doesn't make Christian feel that way. In fact his humility extends by always telling his best bud that he couldn't make it to the cosmetic surgery business without him.

I so love their partnership and friendship. When they argue, they really argue but it's just so nice to see how they make it up with each other. I just can't get the part when they found out that Sean's eldest son is actually his bestfriend's! Christian had a thing with Sean's wife. But guess what, at the end of the day, even when Sean and Julia got separated, it was Christian who stayed. This is really difficult and I'm saying this because got a similar thing that happened to me. I tried it but it just didn't work. Oh well..

Grey's Anatomy: Meredith Grey
I actually have quite a few favorites in the people of the Seattle Grace Hospital but this online diagnosis said that I'm a Meredith! The online diagnosis (http://abc.go.com/primetime/greysanatomy/quiz/greysdiagnosis/index) says:

"You don't always make the right choices, but you get points for trying, bouncing right back, and starting over. For being so "dark and twisty," you have a surprisingly sunny outlook on life. You're quick to jump into new relationships but just as quick to jump out. After the example your parents set, learning to trust someone else takes just about everything you've got."

I quite agree on most part except I guess about the relationships part which really comes as a scarcity to me. This is what I get for being too cautious, worried and careful. I don't want to put in my character analysis of Mer since there's gotta be a over a million of these already on the net since everybody knows her! I gotta say this though, I find wisdom in her narrations on each episode.

Blog Day (Interrupted)

2007-08-12T16:23:00.001+08:00

I was looking forward to writing my new entry today but two of my good friends came over at nakipag chikahan while watching THE BUZZ!

Oh by the way, on last night's night-out with friends, i just realized my role after a series of Saturday gimmicks with them: I have to stay sober coz i end up driving for them! Good thing I usually don't bring my car on weekends when I'm with them. Oh well, as long as they are happy and enjoying, I'm cool with that. They have low threshold in alcohol tolerance that is...

KKK

2007-08-10T11:45:00.000+08:00

(Kikoy Kit Ko)

This is one of the most private blog entries I have. Yes, you got the title right, Kikoy Kit. I’ll share with you what’s inside my precious kit that I bring everyday. Come on, take a look!

Kenneth Cole Reaction (for men) EDT
The first time I smelled this, I fell in love with the scent right away! Of course I’m exaggerating – I was torn between this one and Burberry Summer but I ended up getting Kenneth Cole. Oh by the way, I got a good deal with this too! It came with a 100-ml aftershave – cologne too. It smells sweet and “citrus-sy” which is the way I like my perfume!

I usually keep two types of scents with me. One stays at home and one I always bring around. For some reason I feel like there’s some sort of emptiness when I don’t have my perfume on. I have Guess (Man) as my second perfume. I’ve consumed about 2/3 of the 100-ml bottle already before I bought the Kenneth Cole.

My ever favorite is Clinique Happy for Men. They say that perfume has a way of blending with someone’s skin (or even sweat, seriously!) and I guess this is true. I’d usually spray like a dozen times (no kidding!) at the start of the day and by the time I put my clothes to the hamper, it still smells nice. I’ve had about close to a dozen bottles of Clinique already for the past seven years! Love it!

Bench Fix Styling Stick
Behold this hair wonder! Actually Bench has a promising set of hairstyle products especially for men. The hair clay is also a good one. The stick is just terrific! It gives the hair the wanted ‘hold’ that’s not too shiny. And guess what I like about this the most, say after washing it off on your hair with just water – ah, you can get that ‘out-of-bed’ stylish look after fan-dry.

Cream Silk Leave-On
If I simply want those frizzy hairs to tame down a bit, the leave-on will do the trick! And it smells good by the way.

Bath & Body Works® Body Cream (Pink Grapefruit)
A cousin of mine from New York sent this to my mom recently. I went ahead and tried it – ummm it smelled really nice. Target areas: elbows, knees and ankles! One time when I walked into our room I thought “hey, do we have an air freshener with that pink grapefruit scent?” -- Oooppsss, I figured, it was just my brother who tried it on. The smell totally occupied the entire room.

Pond’s Facial Wash / Kojic Soap
I have such an oily face so I really have to take time to freshen up and water would not just simply do it. I always need soap or facial wash. From my dermatologist, kojic soap usually gives that rosy cheeks effect. It can be quite stingy if you leave it on your face a little longer than the usual.

Pond’s Facial Toner
Twice a day or whenever washing the face with soap and water is impossible and I feel icky already – the toner saves the day. It cleans the face at the same time which is really what I’m after.

Olay Total Effects

Before I took my dermatologist’s prescription, Olay Total Effects already gave such nice reviews from friends after about 2 weeks of usage. It really lightens up the face, helps removes dark spots and those scary dark areas – eye bags! Oh by the way, Olay also has 15 SPF sunblock!

Sunblock
I’ve never been too particular about sunblock before but since it’s now prescribed then I don’t have any choice. But seriously, I only apply this Sunblock (chemical-free SPF 30) whenever I’m gonna be out in the sun in the morning or afternoon. Usually I’m home already before 10AM. In other words, this is just on a need-be basis.

St. Ives Eye and Face Stress Gel
Talk about daily stress! Literally, I think everybody needs something to cool us down. This gel has this soothing cool effect when applied to one’s face. Put the gel on the area below the eyes and the rest will follow. If applied to the entire face, I think this also serves as a moisturizer at the same time!

Colgate, Toothbrush & OraCare Mouthwash
It has been Colgate for me eversince – yeah since childhood! Yeah, yeah, I know, I also had a taste of that super mint strong toothpaste – MAXXAM! Aarrrggghhh! At home I prefer to use just the plain white Colgate. I carry the Colgate Fresh Confidence (green or blue) brand elsewhere. Having a toothpaste and toothbrush all the time is always a life-saver especially in last-minute sleep-overs. OraCare mouthwash adds on to that fresh breath feeling!

GreenCross Isopropyl Alcohol (with moisturizer)
Usually after smoking or before eating, it’s always nice to disinfect right?! And what better way to do it than with a brand that has moisturizer!

Deodorant
A must-have especially if there’s a gimmick or somewhere else to go to after gym. I switch brands each time I finish one.

Johnson’s Baby powder
If I feel like I’m gonna sweat a lot like a 10-year old, I’d shower myself (especially my back) with baby powder. Remember how our moms used to put towels on our backs whenever we play like horses? Hehehe.

Ascorbic Acid
One way to fight stress – take vitamins! Once a day is good enough for me.

Shampoo & Conditioner
Do you always like the shampoo and conditioner at your gym? Or maybe, at a friend’s house where you slept over at? It wouldn’t hurt if you carry a sachet or two.

Better than you. Better than me.

2007-08-07T08:36:00.000+08:00

career-driven (e.g. manager na at least)
mas mataas sweldo
mas magarang kotse
mas nice na house
college graduate (with honors and/or distinctions)
student leader (or awardee)
has socio-civic involvement
loves the art
appreciates movies, plays, musicals
enjoys a good read
writes well
can carry a tune (plus points if can sing very nicely as in with soul)
well-travelled
street-smart
enjoys knowing and discovering trivial stuff
can bring out a good laugh
can blend in with friends
excellent cook
high EQ
decisive
quick thinker
plans ahead
loves kids (can tame kids)
can argue with me
can make me raise the white flag
can stand by me
can work with me
can fight with me
can fight for me...

... this is why I'm now affraid

... this is why I'm now hesitant

At least I can breathe now...

2007-07-31T07:33:00.000+08:00

going...

going...

going...

and hopefully gone...

FOREVER...

with much gratitude,
jeff

... the way we used to be

2007-07-30T01:41:00.000+08:00

Going down memory lane has always been enjoyable and meaningful to me. It gives some mixed emotions and realizations among other things even if some of those moments just repeatedly go over my head. Hell yeah, it's sort of a "cant-snap-out-of-it" nostalgia of roller coaster feelings. Sometimes I find myself going through some boxes of old pictures, or browsing my phone's picture gallery (and inbox, drafts, outbox mind you), or having a 'weird' grin when something or someone similar from the past in on the tube, or reading greeting cards, or cleaning and the attempt to dispose old junk, or simply having a solemn period alone... just moping.

I'm always fascinated whenever an image or a memory flashes through my head and suddenly, most often than not, you somehow get to that same old feeling that you had when that moment happened as if you are experiencing the whole thing over again -- except of course you're not. and yeah, I'm not talking about deja vu.

A thought just came to me... Can you really miss situations that are most likely going to happen again? People that you are already with or for sure spend some quality time with? But what moved me to write all these is what i think it is... I truly miss those situations that are most likely not going to happen again. I miss those people who i valueD so dearly yet have become too distant with. Too distant for me to think that I am never going to connect to them the way I used to. And I say these points as I make them more concrete.

I miss not going home after work right away because we'll have breakfast at LKG or go to the mall or just hang out somewhere.
I miss sleeping over with everyone there saying we're not staying up late because we all have to get up early... yet ending up staying late anyway because of endless chat or heart-to-heart sessions.
I miss hearing someone asking someone else buy some ice from the nearby store.
I miss eating pancit canton together in the green (and white) plastic plates we bought (not to mention we used to eat on the floor).
I miss not missing tv because the it was busted and we simply enjoyed the mp3's from the pc.
I miss the "kwek-kwek" and squid balls day every Saturday mornings.
I miss having at least one in the group drunk each time we go to Kroc.
I miss at least 15 people trying to get hold of 4 microphones just to sing.
I miss the 'press cons' and meetings that used to get everyone updated.
I miss burning our lungs out at Starbucks G4 after a good movie.
I miss complaining why all soaps in the bathroom are either colored orange or pink (i.e. those skin whitening or whatever bars!)
I miss going to work together.
I miss taking breaks and lunches together.
I miss everybody knowing every important thing someone has to share.
I miss going to Divisoria haggling for whatever items.
I miss the simple lives we used to live then.
I miss the the fact that some complications we had were not mostly because of our own tangled together.
I miss us.
I miss the way we used to be.

I really do...

I feel sorry to even think that these can never happen again... I guess I don't want to push my luck and take chances. So much has been said and done. I guess I'd keep everything in the treasure box.

SLUM BOOK (hehehe)

2007-07-02T14:07:00.000+08:00

1) Starting time: 3:25 PM (EST), June 29, 2007

2) Your Name: Jeffrey Umali Inandan

3) What are your nicknames: Jeff, Jeffie, Dieph

4) School: De La Salle – Lipa; De La Salle University - Manila

5) E-mail: jeff_inandan2000@yahoo.com

6) Eyes: black

7) Hair: black but I love to change hair color every once in a while

8) Pets: Hate ‘em!

9) Siblings: 2, they are twins!

~~**HAVE YOU EVER**~

10) Been so drunk you blacked out: drunk but didn’t black out though. That’s way too much!

11) Taken any illegal substances: Nope. Seriously!

12) Gone out in public in your pajamas: Yeah! To move my car, to buy something at the nearest store.

13) Missed school b/c it was raining: Yes but not during college days unless classes were suspended.

14) Set any body part on fire for amusement: Hell no!

15) Ever kept a secret from someone: Not just from someone, from a lot of people. Everybody does this, come on!

16) Who knows your deepest secrets: My closest friends.

17) Wanted to hook up with a friend: Yeah. Never worked.

18) Cried during a movie: Yup. But I get teary-eyed most of the time in MMK!

19) Had a crush on a teacher: Nope.

20) Ever thought an animated character was hot: Nah.

21) Ever at anytime owned New Kids on the Block stuff: No.

22) Planned your week based on the TV Guide: Funny… but yeah!

23) Prank called someone: yeah! Those who prank called me! Hahaha!

~~**FAVORITES**~~

25) Shampoo: Pantene, Rejoice, Lux, Sunsilk (I change brands each time a bottle gets emptied then revert back to the other brands)

26) Soap: Safeguard (Green or Orange); Dove; Ivory (Green)

27) Color: Green!

28) Day/Night: Night

29) Summer/Winter: Summer! Love the beach. And oh well, there’s no winter here in the Philippines. Though I love Europe’s winter! J

30) Online smile: Oh ayan! :-)

31) Lace or satin: For what? Parang alam ko na.. hehehe

32) Cartoons/Anime: The Little Rascals!!! Problem Child

33) Do you have a boyfriend/girlfriend: As of this writing, no.

34) Like anyone: Oh geezzz!!! Super duper like!!! T.G. and A.R.

35) Who have you known the longest of your friends: Lester, Aya, etc (13 years); Rona, Marl etc (11 years)

36) Who is the shyest: None! hahaha

37) Who do you go to for advice: Lester, Aya, Marl, Rona, JM, Van, Jai, Keiko, Gracie

38) Who do you get the most surveys from: Aya, Marl, Rona, Rhods, Ad

39) Who do you cry with: Aya, Marl, Rona, Jai, Keiko, Gracie, and the rest of Chefars

~~**IN THE LAST 2 WEEKS HAVE YOU**~~

40) Cried: almost.

41) Cut your hair: Uh huh! Just did yesterday!

42) Exercised: Yeah! I go to the gym three times a week.

43) Worn a skirt: nope. Duh!

44) Been mean: Ay nako! Ay nako! Ummm… I hope not but yeah.. I think I was mean to some few friends.

45) Been sarcastic: Almost always the past 2 weeks! Ha!

46) Met someone new: Oh yeah! Exciting actually.

47) Talked to someone you have a crush on: nah. But a friend of mine is arranging for that big day! For the second one, yeah. Just did... finally!

48) Missed someone: Always. But I’m trying not to miss them… Bad.

49) Hugged someone: Yah! A lot actually! Some friends who greeted me during my birthday

50) Fought with your parents: Nope. It’s been a while. Kinda got tired of that. I’ve grown up!

51) Wished upon a star: Yes! Cute.

52) Laughed until you cried: No.

53) Played Truth or Dare: Nah. Don’t want the mess after the game… if you know what I mean.

54) Watched a sunrise/sunset: Beautiful.

55) Went to the beach at night: nope. Last month yes I did.

56) Spent quality time alone: yah sure. Got “me time” every week or so.

57) Read a book for fun: not recently.

58) Ate a great meal: Always!

59) Are you lonely: next question please.

60) Are you happy: in most aspects of my life yes!

61) Are you talking to someone online: intermittent – yeah!

~~**DO YOU BELIEVE IN~~**

62) God/Devil: yah..

64) The Closet Monster: Nah.

65) The Big Bang Theory: Yah.

66) Heaven/Underworld: Uh huh! Especially when I’m in an airplane or on a ship/boat.

67) Superstitions: Yah.

68) What's a name you'd rather be called: Tristan. Kevin.

69) Who named you: My mom I think.

70) Backstreet Boys or NSync: N’Sync! I love “This I promise you”

71) When was the last time you showered: before coming to work

72) What color pants do you have on right now: jeans, duh!

73) What song are you listening to right now: none but the last I played while I was on the shower was “Heart of mine”

74) What was the last thing you said: “Okay, bye!” -- from a short meeting with the team

75) What is right next to you: A display cabinet full of Price Pfister faucets!

76) What is your computer desk made of: Wood with the partitions and all.

77) What is your phone number (optional): check my email signature.

78) What was the last thing you ate: Rice and Adobo (a few hours ago)

79) Where do you want to go on your honeymoon: Venice. Paris.

80) Who do you want to spend the rest of your life with: Whoever is God’s gift for me.

81) How many buddies do you have on your PM list: a whole lot as in 250++ but only 150 or so online right now.

82) How's the weather right now: just about right. Rained earlier.

83) Have you ever smoked pot: yeah. Never liked it. Never tried it again.

84) What did you do last night: went to work.

85) What is the best thing you find about the opposite sex: They can be very loyal and lovable.

86) How are you today: Sleepy. Only got 5 hours of sleep. L

87) How do you eat an Oreo: I don’t eat Oreo! Wanna know why? Because everybody loves it!

88) Who makes you happy: Of course the usual… and now got something new… the thought of T.G. gawd!

89) Fav cds: Hed Kandi

90) Fav dream: Can’t remember my dreams lately.

91) Have you ever won any special awards: yah. Just check ‘em out at my house. Got quite a few of them :-)

92) What do you want to be when you grow up: I’m already a grown up! I guess when I was a kid, I wanted to be a newscaster! hehehe

93) End time: 4:54 PM (EST)

You taught me...

2007-06-28T09:14:00.000+08:00

You taught me to enjoy even the little things around me.
You taught me that spontaneity is as good as being well-planned.
You taught me how to trust easily.
You taught me to think profoundly.
You taught me to open up myself.
You taught me to realize things that define friendship, love and being in love.
You taught me to become selflessly in love.
You taught me to become stupid in love.
You taught me to miss you.
You taught me to want you.
You taught me to love you.
You taught me the meaning of love's pain.
You taught me to understand beyond imagination.
You taught me to sacrifice endlessly.
You taught me to forcefully hate you.
You taught me how to love you still even stronger.

... but you never taught me how to get over you... you never taught me how to forget you... you never taught me how to 'unlove' you...

... so please let me do this my way... the best way I know how...

Twenty Seven

2007-06-26T09:54:00.000+08:00

Sa tinagal-tagal ko nang hindi nagsusulat dito sa blog, parang di na ata ako marunong! hahaha! At sa dami nang nangyari saken the past year, dami ko rin gustong isulat pero nakakatamad... hahaha... Pero sige i'll try na nga lang...

One year na rin akong walang lovelife. I couldn't say naman that i didn't have the chance (ulet) pero hindi lang talaga sapul. Para ngang I'm most likely to believe na lapitin ata ako ng mga komplikadong relationships at mga tao. Parang ang malas talaga... I really don't know what to feel everytime my good friends tell me na I didn't deserve those (i considered) special people in the past. Kesyo sa actual relationship daw eh sobrang martyr ako... which is well, most of the time true. I guess it's part of my personality. I may come too tough and strong to others and at first glance/encounter pero once you get to know me, ayun na! Pati sa lovelife ganun din... sobrang daling magpatawad.
Ayokong magsalita nang tapos pero siguro hangga't maari ayoko na ng office romance. Juice ko po! Sangkatutak na ang mga intriga, hirap pa i-maintain! Gusto ko lang na parang equal footing lang kami pag getting to know each other part kasi minsan talaga naiisip ko (and like what my other friends tell me) na parang because of what i have come to establish sa career ko (modesty aside) at sa reputation ko kaya parang "to be conquered" ang approach... sad noh? :(
3 is indeed a crowd. Minsan sinubukan kong maging "unconventional" when it comes to patching things up in my failed relationship. After losing my ex then later finding out na sila na ng bestfriend ko, ay good luck naman di ba?! Of course i went through the anger stage and all... it came to a point naman din na the three of us were really doing well... in fact people around us were surprised how i was able to manage that... not for too long though... daming issues and and hirap talaga especially on my part. The 3 of us just didnt work...
I wanted to let go but u wouldn't... I figured out that you actually did this already when the unexpected and unimaginable happened to us... I feared that I would still continue to love you even if you're inlove with someone else or worse done and over with it. I tried finding new love but somehow there was you again... sneaked up from behind... Why do i feel that you just want yourself to be happy? Why do i feel that you just want me stuck with these feelings for you? Why do i feel that you just want to experience and explore everything and wait for you until you become ready? Why do i feel that you dont want me to move on? One thing is for sure I know: I become more okay when we are not together...
Kaya ngayong TWENTY SEVEN na ako siguro mas magiging maingat na ako sa mga decisions ko in life... more mature... but at the same time i'd try to have more fun as much as possible... :)

YES... It's over but not quite

2006-07-06T05:39:00.000+08:00

It was the eve of our 3rd month when I pulled the plug.

It was during my birthday week (the week after our supposedly 3rd month) when I finally came to my senses that I could not go on this way. I'd like everything to be back to where we were before.

I need not write the details here but one thing is for sure -- no matter how hard I try, no matter how much thinking and planning I make, it still boils down to one fact -- I still love TLC. I don't know how or until when, I'm holding on to whatever I have and whatever I can give.

To you:
Cliche as it may sound, if time and space is what you need, sure you now have them. I just hope you realize how much I love you so. It hurts so bad... but what else can I do?

Just let me love you the way I know how... nothing more... nothing less...

Even if… Because…

2006-05-24T21:48:00.000+08:00

Even if you play dumb…
Even if you are vain…
Even if you are stubborn…
Even if it irritates me sometimes to make you brush your teeth…
Even if it drives me nuts to make you cut your nails…
Even if you don’t read books…
Even if you don’t understand motion pictures…
Even if you are talkative…
Even if you behave like a child most of the times…

Because you are witty more than you’ll ever know…
Because I’m learning a lot of things from you as well…
Because I simply love the way you look…
Because you like to be taken care of…
Because I like to take care of you…
Because you are not ashamed of what you do not know…
Because you know how to learn new things…
Because you like pictures and drawings, no dialogues…
Because you want to be heard…
Because I like to hear your thoughts…
Because you bring joy and laughter…

Even if it might sound Greek to you… I’m saying all these
Because these are just some of the thousand reasons why I love you…

I used to think...

2006-05-10T21:19:00.000+08:00

01 May 2006

Lately I’ve been learning to unlearn some things for various reasons. I guess I'm already at the mature stage where I wouldn’t think that I’ll be at the losing end. For the longest time, I think I’ve operated in a WIIFM scheme especially on big things that I’ve to put so much time and effort on. Yeah, yeah… call me selfish or childish but that’s how I am.

Guess what, I’m trying to do a recall of the things (so far) that I’ve started to unlearn – in other words, have adjusted to, sacrificed, compromised, gave up. Oh yes, even I couldn’t believe it myself. For the right reasons… for the right person…

I used to think that in relationships, both parties would have to invest equal time with each other (or at least have the equal effort of trying to).

I used to think that you have to know all the things that both of you are doing for each other.

I used to think that you can’t say NO to the one you love.

I used to think that lovers will find it really difficult to be friends too.

I used to think that a self-centered person can be selfless for the one he loves.

I used to think that I cannot fight for the one I love.

I used to think that my dreams and aspirations will be absolute as I reach them – no negotiations applicable.

I used to think for “me, myself and I”, now there’s also “us and we”.

I used to think that I’ll never fall in love again…

TEN Things I hate about you ... (with rebuttals)

2006-04-27T16:01:00.000+08:00

TEN things I hate about you…
TEN things I hate about you… " the resbak"

1) You don’t eat your breakfast but you always remind me to have mine
1a) You always remind me to eat my breakfast just to let me think that i must tell you to eat yours too!

2) You can’t cut your nails on your own without being forced to do so
2a) You do cut my nails but I end up doing it myself.

3) Most of the time your approach to anything and everything is like a laughing matter
3a Most of the time you are very serious and you dont have any past time just to make you happy. thats why im trying my best to make you feel better.

4) You make me “pikon” first before you show up and tell me it’s a surprise
4a) You are always pikon even if you already knew that it was a surprise just to prolong the climax of what you’re feeling at that moment.

5) You just keep my “notes” and never write back
5a) You always give me notes and letters even if you know that i hate to read. but im taking some time and consideration by reading those msgs that you give me.

6) You take a ride home with me and then ask the driver to drop you off elsewhere – and you’d just say “bye” and leave me with a goofy smile
6a) You take me for a ride and simply convince me not to leave you and secretly tell the driver that he must not stop whenever, wherever.

7) You mimic me with what I’m supposed to tell you. In fact I think you’ve come to memorize my usual lines on you
7a) You are always reiterating all the things that you've been saying that’s why I’ve memorized all those lines.

8) You don’t tell me what’s going on your head most of the time
8a) You dont know how to figure out whats going on in my mind and then you'll end up being pissed and pikon.

9) You don’t know how to say “NO” to other people (oh yes, including your friends)
9a) You dont know how to understand me -- why and what are the reasons why i say YES to them -- in fact i know that, that must be a NO NO.

10) You simply know how to make me not mind everything I just said by letting me know and making me feel how much you love me
10a) You simply dont know how to mind something thats why this secret is now the no1 talk in this community and you are very conceited because you know that i love you so.

Hmmm… what the heck, I guess I wouldn’t love you as much as I do if you don’t have the ten things I hate about you…
Hmmm... what the heck, I guess I wouldnt love you as much as I do if you dont have the ten things I hate about you too...

TEN things I hate about you...

2006-04-27T15:56:00.000+08:00

TEN things I hate about you…

1) You don’t eat your breakfast but you always remind me to have mine
2) You can’t cut your nails on your own without being forced to do so
3) Most of the time your approach to anything and everything is like a laughing matter
4) You make me “pikon” first before you show up and tell me it’s a surprise
5) You just keep my “notes” and never write back
6) You take a ride home with me and then ask the driver to drop you off elsewhere – and you’d just say “bye” and leave me with a goofy smile
7) You mimic me with what I’m supposed to tell you. In fact I think you’ve come to memorize my usual lines on you
8) You don’t tell me what’s going on your head most of the time
9) You don’t know how to say “NO” to other people (oh yes, including your friends)
10) You simply know how to make me not mind everything I just said by letting me know and making me feel how much you love me

Hmmm… what the heck, I guess I wouldn’t love you as much as I do if you don’t have the ten things I hate about you…

I believe that angels brought me here

2006-04-27T15:54:00.000+08:00

I Believe
by Fantasia Barrino

Have you ever reached a rainbow's end?
And Did you find your pot of gold?
Ever catch a shooting star?
Tell me how high did you soar?
Ever felt like you were dreaming,
Just to find that you're awake?
And the magic that surronds you,
Can lift you up, and guide you on your way.

I can see it in the stars across the sky.
Dreamt a hundred thousand dreams before
Now I finally realize.
You see I've waited all my life for this moment to arrive,
And finally,
I believe

When you look out in the distance
You see it never was that far
ohh no Heaven knows your existance
and wants you to be everything you are
ooh theres a time for every soul to fly
its in the eyes of every child
its the hope the love to save the world and ohhh we should never let it go

chorus

(Yeah Yeah Yeah Yeah Yeah Yeah Yeah)
I believe in the impossible,
If I reach deep within my heart (Yeah)
Overcome many obstacles,
Won't let this dream just fall apart
You see I strive to be the very best,
Shine my light for all to see
Cause anything is possible,
When you believe ( I Can see it in the stars across the sky)
Yeah, yeah (Dreamt a hundred thousand dreams before)
Now I finally realize
You see I've waited all my life for this moment to arrive
And finally
I believe
ohhhhhhh yeah
I believe
Oooooh Yeah Yeah
(Love keeps lifting me higher)
I believe in love
(Love keeps lifting me higher)
higher higher higher higher

(Love keeps lifting me higher)
yeah-hea yeah-hea hea hea hea yeah
(Love keeps lifting me higher)
Love keeps lifting, love keeps lifting me higher
(Love keeps lifting me higher)
You oughtta try it for yourself
lifting me higher yeah yeah
(love keeps liftin me higher)
i believe i believe in love
(love keeps lifting me higher)
love yeah yeah yeah yeah yeah yeah
(love keeps lifting me higher)

higher higher higher higher higher
(love keeps liftin me higher)
love keeps liftin love keeps lifting me higher

Angels Brought Me Here
by Guy Sebastian

It’s been a long and winding journey,
But I’m finally here tonight picking up the pieces and walking back into the light
Into the sunset of your glory where my heart and future lies
There’s nothing like that feeling when I look into your eyes

My dreams came true when I found you; I found you, my miracle

If you could see what I see
That you’re the answer to my prayers
And if you could feel the tenderness i feel
You would know it would be clear, that angels brought me here

standing here before you
Feels like I’ve been born again
Every breath is your LOVE
Every heartbeat speaks your name

My dreams came true right here in front of you my miracle

If you could see what I see
You’re the answer to my prayer
And if you could feel the tenderness i feel
You would know it would be clear, that angels brought me here

brought me here, to be with you
Ill be forever grateful, oohh forever thankful

My dreams came true when I found you my miracle

If you could see what I see
You’re the answer to my prayers, oh...
And if u could feel the tenderness i feel
You would know it would be clear that angels brought me here

You know i love you baby
And if you could feel the tenderness i feel
You would know it would be clear, that angels brought me here

Jeff’s Simple rules of trust and friendship

2006-04-27T15:53:00.000+08:00

1) Don’t put your friends in the limelight of gossips.
2) If trapped in a dead-end situation wherein you can’t help other people not to talk about your friend negatively or maliciously, the least that you can do is SHUT UP.
3) If curiosity seems to kill you, be honest and straightforward to ask your friend about the issue.
4) Respect your friend’s choice not to share anything and everything to you. There’s what you call proper timing. Don’t worry, it won’t make you less of a friend.
5) Betrayal in any form is not acceptable. Once betrayed, expect that you’ll be permanently considered NON-existent just like a low-life living creature!
6) No amount of apology can ever bring back a friendship.
7) I don’t get mad… I TRY not to get EVEN (God help me on this!)
8) You’ll hear nothing much from me, just be ready for the ultimate cold shoulder treatment! As cold as a dead corpse.
9) I don’t take back in the TRASH that I’ve thrown away!
10) I can still wish these trashes to be recycled by others though. J

One month & going strong...

2006-04-20T11:24:00.000+08:00

Akala ko noon sa taong mahal mo, kapag nasaktan ka at umiyak nang sobra, sa hiwalayan ang ending n’yo. Akala ko noon, kapag naghiwalay kayo ng mahal mo (ano man ang dahilan), yun lang ang dahilan para lubusan kang makaramdam ng sobrang hinagpis at sakit.

Nagkamali ako… may mga pagkakataong hindi kayo nagkakaintindihan o kaya nama’y may mga problema na sobrang nakakasakit ng damdamin ng bawa’t isa, pero hindi naman ibig sabihin ay KAILANGAN n’yo nang maghiwalay. Maski pa gaano kasakit ang nararamdaman n’yo, hindi naman nawawala agad ang pagmamahal sa isa’t isa. Buti na lang I held on… hehehe…

I still feel that everyday is still a learning experience with life and love… I thank God I found you…

Too Dark for a Black Saturday

2006-04-20T11:00:00.000+08:00

15 April 2006
Black Saturday

It has been a week full of agony and misery. I try to pause and look back, what have I done? Why do these things happen? All the while I thought I could be as happy as I imagined… amidst all the troubles inside my world because I have you with me. It hurts to see you in pain… losing your belief in yourself and your confidence. But what pains me more is seeing you get so consumed with the harsh reality of life – what just happened to you. I’d like to think that at the end of the day, it will ultimately be up to you to bounce-back and pull yourself together. Sure you need time to be alone, to think things over, to reflect even… so you can face the world again, so you can continue to live and to love. No matter how rough times get, these challenges are telling us to be on our toes and continue the fight. Easier said than done – I know – but the work doesn’t end there especially when there’s someone sharing the world with you.

I’d still like to believe that I’m sharing that real with you. I know neither of us wanted things to be this way. I’d like to face each and every obstacle head-on but I can’t do this alone. The love that I selflessly committed to you cannot simply withstand the rain all by itself. I professed my love for you believing that we started sharing our lives together – our dreams and even our fears. But where are you now? Each day I try to get the much needed strength to survive and carry on with the next. Hoping to finally find you there – to work things out and make everything all right. I don’t know for how long I’ll keep on believing… I’ll keep on hoping… that anytime soon, things will be back the way they used to be.

I really can’t believe where I can get the will to continue to hold on to our love. I don’t want to think that I may have given so much – so much so it hurts a lot. I also don’t want to think that I may have not been the person lately you wanted to love. A lot of things are running through my head now but I simply won’t give up on this until I hear it from you.

Do we really have to go through all these? It wasn’t too long ago when we started things so happily. We said we’ll stay together no matter how difficult things might get, no matter what other people say.

As I burst into tears, I’m thinking of the chances we’ve been missing to clear things out. I wish it was simpler. I wish it was easier. I really feel sorry that we have to deal with all these. If I could only make things easier for you…

Never have I been so willing and eager to work thing out like this to the one I love. I guess in loving you came along the commitment that I’ve feared and avoided for the longest time. With you I felt free, became willing to take bigger risks in life and take chances. I know things are not always certain but with you I feel like I can conquer anything just as long as you hold my hand.

I don’t want to think that I’m starting to be alone in this journey that we started together. Please shed some light in this wilderness I’m in. It’s difficult already as it is but things seem to be more complicated since I don’t hear from you. Please let me know if everything is still worth fighting for…

Sa mga tagasubaybay...

2006-04-15T23:42:00.000+08:00

I'll post more blog entries hopefully within this week. Been so busy with work among so many things...

Mejo marami pa rin akong kailangang ayusing mga bagay na personal... pero wag mag-alala, mananatiling updated itong blog ko once i get the chance to write everything... basta yun...

Isang Panayam...

2006-03-31T15:26:00.000+08:00

1. Buong pangalan?
Jeffrey Umali Inandan

2. Anong nararamdaman mo ngayon?
Masaya. Naiihi.

3. Bakit yun ang nararamdaman mo?
Una, masaya ako dahil sa beybi ko… Pangalawa, naiihi ako dahil ang dami ko atang nainom na tubig kanina.

4. Saan mo gusto pumunta ngayon?
Sa banyo.

5. Kung may yayakapin ka ngayon, sino?
Ang beybi ko siyempre.

6. Kung may chance kang bumuhay ng tao, sino bubuhayin mo?
Si Ferdinand Marcos para tapusin nya na lahat ng dapat nyang tapusin at panagutan ang dapat panagutan!

7. Anong kanta ang lagi mong kinakanta?
Sa ngayon… eto “you were just a dream that I once knew… never thought I would be right for you... I just can’t compare you with anything in this world… you’re all I need to be with forevermore…”

8. Sinong katabi mo ngayon?
Beybi ko…

9. Kung papipiliin ka, sino pipiliin mo:mahal mo na di ka mahal, o mahal ka na di mo mahal?
Wala kasi mahal ako ng mahal ko…

10. Sinong gusto mong makausap ngayon?
Mga friends ko na wala dito sa Cebu (i.e nasa Manila or other countries)

11. Kung hindi ka ikaw ngayon, sino ka?
Isang scribe sa Egypt in today’s modern time.

12. Ano pinakamalungkot na nangyari sa'yo?
having to go through heartbreaks…

13. Anong kanta ang gusto mong i-play?
I’ll never go… far away from you… even the skies will tell you that I need you so for this is all I know I’ll never go far away from you…

14. Kung bibigyan mo yung mahal mo ng bulaklak ano yun?
Gumamela para makapagpa lobo pa sya! hahaha

15. Anong talent mo?
Ang corny ng tanong pero sige… kumanta, sumayaw, magluto (if this is considered). ay meron pa pala... magpaAMO ng mababangis na paslit!

16. Ma-pride ka bang tao?
Kinda lalo na dati pero ngayon di na masyado.

17. Anong bagay na gusto mong makuha ngayon?
Targets ng team ko!!!

18. Sinong artista ang kinalolokohan mo ngayon?
Wala naman… ay meron! yung isang artista sa Gulong Ng Palad kasi kamukha sya ng beybi ko.

19. Sino ang kinakainisan mo ngayon?
Ang isang taong di ko dapat kainisan dahil dapat ko siyang irespeto. Haaayyyy….

20. Anong pelikula ang gusto mong panoorin?
Madami dahil last na napanood ko ay Cheaper by the Dozen 2. 

21. Kung bida ka sa isang pelikula,sino gusto mong leading man/lady mo?
Ayokong mag-artista eh hehehe…

22. Kung di mo pangalan ang pangalan mo ngayon, ano ang pangalan mo?
I guess yun pa rin pero Jeff lang siguro (yung nickname ko)

23. Kung may gusto kang balikan sa nakaraan mo, ano yun?
Yung nasa Europe ako pero this time non-winter season naman.

24. Masaya ba ang kwento ng buhay mo?
Masaya. Kontrobersiyal. Nakakatawa. Nakakaiyak.

25. Kung papayagan kang pumatay ngayon, sino ang papatayin mo?
Parang ayoko kasi baka makulong ako.

26. Sino ang pinakaimportanteng (mga) tao ngayon sa buhay mo?
Of course given na ang pamilya ko at mga kaibigan ko. At shempre and beybi ko.

27. Ano ang pinaka-pangarap mong maging nung bata ka pa?
Maging doctor at news anchor. hehehe

28. Kung singer ka, sinong singer ang gusto mong maka-duet?
Si Stevie Wonder para sa isa sa mga classic at favorite kong kantang LATELY.

29. Sa tingin mo, bakit kailangang magmahal?
Dahil “love makes the world go round” cliché pero totoo.

30. Isang pelikula na talagang iniyakan mo?
Magnifico

31. Ano ang pinaka-ayaw mong ugali ng isang tao?
Mandaraya. Sinungaling at Bastos.

32. Anong theme song ng buhay mo?
Warrior is a child.

33. Kung pwede mong i-rewind ang oras, ano gagawin mo?
May mga bagay akong hindi na lang sasabihin at gagawin.

34. Kaya mo bang pakawalan ang taong mahal mo?
Honestly… ngayon parang di ko ata kaya dahil ngayon lang ako nagmahal nang ganito.

35. Motto mo tungkol sa love sa mga oras na ito?
Dumarating sa ‘di inaasahang pagkakataon…

Blues clues

2006-03-28T17:44:00.000+08:00

Sino ang BEYBI mo?

single or taken-- taken. Walang aangal.

special someone?-- bitaw!

crush or in love?-- love shempre

anung ngs2han mo sa knya?-- ang buong “siya”

you want him/her to be your bf/gf?-- n/a (hulaan mo kung baket)

why?-- n/a ulet. Ang kulit

what if you're meant for each other?-- wish ko rin yan….

a "boy/girlfriend material"?-- uh-huh

turn offs?-- wala naman po

may nangliligaw/nliligwan ka ba?-- wala. It’s not proper anymore. See answers on above items.

gs2 mo p bng mgtnong ako?-- ok ra.

ok lng sayo?-- carry on.

seloso/selosa ka ba?-- minsan. Pag tinotopak ako

may pnagseselosan k ba ngayon?-- wala naman po.

pwede bang makahingi ng clue tungkol sa love mo?-- sige try natin…

ano favorite color nya?-- green

schoolmate mo?-- nope.

kilala ka nmn?-- but of course!

ngkikita ba kayo?-- at least 5 times a week

tingin mo, gsto ka rin niya?-- more than dat. Sinabi na nya sakin eh.

anung initials niya?-- secret! Di na pwede yan. Masyadong give-away na pag nagkataon!

may code name ba siya?-- meron pero di ko sasabihin...

describe your lovelife?-- …came along when I least expected it…

Some questions...

2006-03-28T17:43:00.000+08:00

I’ve been through with love… with all the hurt and old pain…
And yet here you come in an ordinary day…
A smile… a text… a call…
Am I climbing up again just to fall???

‘Yan ang mga katagang nanggaling mula sa isang taong malapit sa puso ko. Masasabi ba talaga nating “tapos na” tayo sa larangang ito? O kaya nama’y pinagdaanan na natin ang lahat? Oo nga’t minsan nakakasawa na at nakakapagod na ang masaktan nang sobra sobra.

Bakit kaya ganun? Kung kalain ka halos umikot at mainip sa kahihintay ng isang “someone” biglang may darating? Kung kailan feeling mo hindi ka handa.. kung kailan tila napaka-komplikado ng mga bagay-bagay. Wala ba talagang perfect timing para dito? Bakit di pwedeng umayon ang lahat ng bagay, tao at pangyayari sa iyong kagustuhan?

Kailangan bang magsimulang muli sa kawalang katiyakan? Kakayain pa kayang magmahal upang masaktang muli? Mahihigitan ba nito ang kasiyahan mula sa mga nagdaan?

Siguro nga’y mas mabuti pang hayaan na lang ang tadhana ang syang magdikta kung ano ang mga mangyayari. Isa lang ang napakahalagang bagay na makasisigurado na maipagpatuloy ang lahat ng ito… ang kasiyahan ng damdamin sa kasalukuyan…

Cebu?! B?

2006-03-16T16:48:00.000+08:00

Ang bilis ng panahon. Mahigit limang buwan na akong namamalagi dito sa Cebu ng dahil sa trabaho. May mga bagay na meron dito na wala sa Maynila at meron din naming kabaliktaran. May mga bagay/taong kinailangan isakripisyo para sa ibang mas mahalagang bagay sa buhay ko… kung kaya ako nandito ngayon. Gusto ko lang mag-senti kaya ibinibigay ko sa inyo ang…

Sampung bagay sa Maynila na nami-miss ko…

1) Sumakay sa airconditioned bus mula Ayala hanggang Edsa.
> Paano naman kasi walang city bus dito sa Cebu. Yung tipong minimum fare lang. Tatlo lang ang alam kong mode of public transportation dito sa siyudad: jeep or multicab, taxi at habal-habal (i.e. motorcycle -- not tricycle ha – na bumabiyahe at kaya ang hanggang limang pasahero!)

2) WENDY’s
> Oo walang bacon mushroom melt at frosty dito!!! Ayon sa aking napag-alaman, dati raw ay may Wendy’s dito ngunit sa di mawaring dahilan ay wala na ngayon.

3) 7-11 at Mini-stop
> Sa dinami-dami ng convenience store (particularly 7-11 and mini-stop) sa area ng Valero, maniniwala ba kayong walang ganun dito?!?! Oo! The closest they have is “C24”. My goodness, nakaka-miss din pala ang mga tindahang ito kahit na mag-aamoy fried chicken ka maski 5 minutes ka lang sa mini-stop or maski palaging tunaw na ang slurpee sa 7-11 hahaha!

4) Mga “walkway at underpass”
> Ngayon ko lang mas na-appreciate ang walkway at underpass. Dati, puro reklamo pa ako kapag mahaba ang lalakarin namin (e.g. from Paseo to Landmark) to think covered walk naman ang dadaanan namin. Sa sobrang init dito sa Cebu, nakakatuyo ng dugo ang mga pagkakataong kailangan mong maglakad.

5) G4. Greenbelt. Eastwood. Powerplant.Greenhills.
> Napakaraming malls na pagpipiliaang puntahan. Dito kasi sa Cebu they only have Ayala Center and SM. The rest are not comparable to the Manila-standard malls. Wala ata akong maalalang time na may “midnight madness” dito sa mall.

6) Redbox
> Ang isa sa favorite kong puntahan twing Saturday lunch time! Nakakaganda ng boses ang audio hehehe. Cebu has Pod5 and K1 but still nothing compares to Redbox. Syempre pa nakakamiss din yung mga regular kong ka-back-to-back-to back song numbers…

7) Ang mga nagkalat na Jollijeep sa Makati
> Napaka convenient talaga dahil isang baba mo lang sa office, mamili ka na lang ng jollijeep na bibilhan mo ng tingi-tinging yosi at kung anu-ano pa. I think 500 pesos per day ang rent nila dyan ha ayon sa kaibigan kong si Ate Angie.

8) TAHO sa umaga
> Maski sa napakaagang oras ng alas-tres ng madaling araw, may makikita kang nagbebenta ng taho especially sa mga call center area.

9) Mga TV shows na hindi available sa regional area. Hahaha!

10) Family and friends… needless to explain… (senti music on queue)

I love Cebu because…

1) Most (if not all) taxi drivers here give change to their passengers! Oh yes, maski P2.50 pa ‘yan, don’t be surprised if hahabulin ka pa nila just to give you your change. Sa Manila… needless to explain!

2) The city is just so close to nature especially to the beach! Mactan is like half an hour drive. You also have Danao, Dalaguet, Moalboal atbp. And of course, BOHOL is just a boat-ride away!

3) The food is so affordable! You can have a decent meal for as low as 30 pesos in your regular cafeteria set-up.

4) Special mention restos:
> AA’s for the grilled meat and seafood (try grilled KITONG da best!)
> CnT for their delicious “mang tomas”-less lechon
> CASA VERDE for their baby back ribs (mind you, the size they serve would cost no less than 600 bucks in Manila!)
> SUNBURST for their crispy chicken skin (good luck sa cholesterol) and yummy chopsuey plus rapsang wepaks ng nokma (Hi to B’ley and Omeed)
> THE DESSERT FACTORY for my favorite ‘kinamatisang lechon kawali’
> DING QUA QUA for their Chinese cuisine buffet at only 165 pesos!

5) Eto quiet lang ha… you know those TIMEZONE stubs on your AYALA movie tickets that you can only be good on purchase date? Well, well, well… here in Cebu, timezone folks are accepting even up to one month old stubs! That’s why I enjoy playing here.

6) The everyday traffic situation is too tame compared to your regular EDSA or SSH morning and evening rush!

7) The overall environment upon exiting the office area is not stressful compared to Manila.

8) You can get a whole body massage for only 250 pesos and a foot massage for 50 bucks! Beat that!

9) Most of the people I work with here are so accommodating. I can say that at this point, wala pang bahid ng pulitika sa sistema ng mga katauhan nila. Mas tame ang mga intriga at nang-iintriga dito.

10) Lastly, I love Cebu because I simply choose to do so…

… I’ll be home soon…

YM Status can be so controversial...

2006-03-14T15:55:00.000+08:00

"Not at my desk", "Busy", "Be right back", "Stepped out", "On the phone" and "Available".

These are your DEFAULT (and generic... and boring...) yahoo messenger status selection. I don't think I'm in any way referring to any of these as 'controversial'. I'll further stress my point by starting with a brief background.

I only started to use yahoo messenger way back 2003 when almost everyone in the office had it. At first I was enjoying chatting with people who are just a few arms length away -- yes i know looking back, it was so silly! Eventually, ym became an inevitable communiation tool at work. There are things at work that you need not necessarily email someone about. Of course if it's email you have to be as professional as possible even when discussing things with a co-worker who happens to be a friend too. Calling someone is not always a guarantee that you can talk to that person and it doesn't give you the excuse to have delayed responses! hahaha. Basta!

One thing I've noticed, my ym contact list are mostly people from the office. I'll only add you up if there is an 'official thing' that I have to communicate with you. And for those people who know me, I rarely respond right away if the messeges are personal. Sorry guys... but those are last priority. :-) An interesting part of ym'ing is checking the status of the people on your list.

You'll see status written on different languages. Some would show mood or emotions. Others would put messages intended for certain people. Yung iba nga, mga parinigan pa ang nakalagay sa status! Parts of songs and poems would always top the charts! As for me, I usually get mine from the movies I watch or from the books that I read. These are things that strongly agree with... or sometimes, opinions and situations that I can totally and ridiculously relate to!!!

Here are some of those I've used in the recent past (see comments and controversy rating (via *****) as well):

1) Horizon is an imaginary line that receeds as you approach it...
*I wouldn't be fooled again.... hahaha!!!

2) Every problem is an opportunity in disguise...
*Trying to convince others (or myself even) that problems can indeed be viewed in a different manner... in a way that would make you feel a little better (hopefully).

3) The hardest thing is loving someone and having the courage to make them love you back...
****What's further irritating is the fact that sometimes you simply don't (and can't) choose the person you are going to love. In the ideal world, why would someone expect to be loved in return eh sya naman ang nakaramdam ng pagmamahal towards another person. I mean the feeling to begin with it totally 'independent' of what the other person might feel, di ba?! Basta ganun!

4) Do not shake the hand that will stab you...
***Just be careful in trusting the people you work and deal with.

5) You are a walking contradiction ... and I find it rather quite fascinating...
*****It's funny how some people 'walk' the total opposite of whatever they are saying. If someone tells you that he/she doesn't feel anything special (or romantic) towards you and yet would do extremely sweet things to you... aba ewan ko na lang. Pero guess what, minsan nakakaaliw din itong mga taong ganito! They add up some spice and mystery in figuring out where to position one's self.

6) ...'Cause just around the corner's not enough...
**Yes! I can be so demanding especially to those people I love and truly care about. Call it KSP or anything but the likes of me needs more assurance on almost anything. I guess subconsciously I'm expecting that I'd be treated the way I treat others who are dear to me.

7) I just came to the point where I couldn't remember any of the reasons why we are together...
*****Ayokong dumating sa point na sasabihin ko ito first-hand! I mean parang naglolokohan lang kayo neto eh, you're with someone tapos di mo alam kung baket. Eh good luck naman kung san kayo dadalhin ng relasyon ninyo! I always get ym inquiries each time this becomes my status... hahaha!

8) True love is your soul's recognition of its counterpoint in another...
***Masyadong high-level na 'to! Baka dumugo ilong ko... next item please!

9) In order to follow that heart, I must do the wrong thing...
****It's really difficult that sometimes, when we're inlove, we tend to do 'wrong' things (at least in other people's perspective) just so we feel satisfied... happy... fulfilled... inspired. But doesn't this make everything null and void? Wouldn't there be some feeling of guilt?

10) I have the worse thing to fear than what's in the jungle...
**And so I thought sometimes that my jungle (the workplace) is full of wild beasts... I came to a point when I realized that there are bigger fears that I should worry about... most of them unseen...

11) Sometimes you have to see what you are not in order to see what you are...
*This is so true... especially at times when you feel like you are worthless, ineffective, inefficient, unproductive, etc... it's looking at the glass as half-full not half-empty.

12) Just because you don't see it, it doesn't mean it's not there...
***How can you believe in something that you don't see... like love? At least you have your inner senses to feel it, right?! Just be careful, you might be assuming things wrong... oooopppsss... that could hurt a lot!

13) You are all that keeps me from slidin' into some dark place...
*****It gives me some sort of (immediate) relief to know that there could be someone or something that I can hold on to for me not to backslide... not to give up... BOX-OFFICE status ito! Daig pa ang Enteng Kabisote!

14) I wish it was simpler... I wish it was easier... and I'm sorry...
*****Nang sinabi kong di na kita mamahalin, akala ko'y mapaninindigan ko... sana nga ganun lang ito ka-simple at ka-dali... pero hindi... Pasensya na ha...

15) If some lives form a perfect circle... others take shape in ways we cannot predict or always understand...
**trying to form my life in the most spontaneous way possible. There's some form of excitement of the unknown. (I'm sure may mag re react dito pag nabasa nya... )

16) The abilities say 'win' but the attitude says 'lose'...
*Sayang lang mga taong ma-abilidad, matalino, may talent... kaso mo kapag buraot (pardon me) ang ugali, wala ring kwenta. Or moreover kung sobrang daling mag give-up, nakakapanghinayang lang...

17) (pandesal+ketchup+orangejuice) + (kanin+gatas+asukal) = ?
***Yan ang kay Aga at Kristine sa All My Life... My version: (Kaning lamig + Ovaltine powder) = Brings back the child in me...

18) Just tell me when to stop and I will... but don't ask me how or where it all began...
*****I'd rather stop loving you if you want me to but I cannot possibly put into words or reason why or how everything began... No matter how hard I try, I just can't seem to figure things out. I guess that's just the beauty of falling in love, it just happens without planning or expecting things...

19) He starts with the answers he wants and devices the questions to get them
**Bad trip kaya mga taong ganito... pero sometimes ganito rin ako hahaha!

20) It is in changing that we find purpose...
*Bitaw!

21) Life is manageable enough if you keep your hopes modest. The minute you allow yourself sweet dreams, you run the risk of crashing them down...
***Some form or reality-check huh?! On the otherhand, I think I'd still go for dreaming the bigger dreams... taking the big leap... taking big risks... If i do and find success in it, yahoo! The bigger the gains, right... Yun nga lang pag lumagpak ka, ARAY!!! But it's all a matter of how you survive and how resilient you are. Just move on and learn from it.

22) This is not a game but you keep playing it...
****Imagine how difficult your situation might be if you are trying to figure out who's going to tell who first in the game of love! Yes! Sa isang taong mataas ang pride at takot sa rejection, napaka hirap nito. Even if you try doing the first move, you won't simply just lay down all your cards until you get some form of assurance. But what if the other person is exactly on the same page?!?! Then there's a big problem! You'll end up doing the waiting and guessing game who's going to raise the white flag first!

23) The easiest way isn't always the best...
*Pwede kayang "doing it the easiest way yet coming up with the best..."? Hehehe try ko lang... baka makalusot!

24) Sometimes it's the people outside your world we confide in the best. But once you do... confide, share with someone, they're no longer really outside...
**Oo naman, wala na talaga sila sa labas! But seriously the nice thing kasi when confiding to people you don't really know is that you start everything with no judgment -- blank slate. The challenge is finding someone you don't know well that you can trust!

25) Why do things that start off so promisingly always have a way of ending up in the dump?
****Oo nga.. bakit nga ba? Someone help me understand... :( Sobrang believer pa naman ako ng happy endings...

26) A clean break is easier. You can reset it... and it heals, and you move on. But if you leave things messy or things dont get put right, then it just hurts... Forever....
*****Ouch!!!! to the nth power! That is why having proper closure is very important in any kind of relationship (that you are about to end of course). I know that this is so idealistic but it will eventually benefit both parties.

========================================================

I guess that says it all for now...

Starting Over

2006-03-14T15:42:00.000+08:00

This is so weird... I feel like a newbie doing this to think this is the 3rd time that I'm re(starting) my blog. It has been a loooooooooong while since I made this sort of journal. I guess for those people who frequent other people's blog would think that my blog entries are like "office memos" hahaha. HINT HINT: The things and the thoughts I've been translating into letters have mostly been work-related. Oh yes, poor me... what a boring life.

But what the heck, I think I have more time now to do this so I say whatever i want to say here hahaha! Just so my entries are organized (the way I would want them to be... walang pakialamanan please!), i'll put a separate entry on my first blog. :-)