as i was browsing through files on my desktop i saw this video i did back in 2005 when we had our christmas party at ali's house. it was a reggae-themed party and what made it really fun was that mostly everyone was there. while seeing this made me feel really nostalgic about the fun parties and friendship we built back then, i am happy to have known a lot of these folks. these times were indeed the great times!
June 07, 2008
nothing to do
the thing about long weekends that is fun is that its only fun if you have managed to set plans to do something. while i appreciate the luxury of doing nothing, it can get pretty boring. i've been watching a whole lot of films since last night - shutter (the hollywood remake), the fifth element (i just had to see it again), chaos theory and just finished the spiderwick chronicles. i have to say i'm already suffering from movie overdose. in between, i've been catching up on episodes of how i met your mother which i have to say is pretty hilarious. there's definitely plenty of stuff to watch but right now i need a break. juli was asking if i was interested in hiking pinatubo sunday through monday but my skin is a wee bit sensitive right now so sun exposure is a no-no. might go to the mall tomorrow though since my nephew wants to go out and play. its hard to say no to the kids.
arrrghhhh, nothing much to do. gas prices increase by the week. its too expensive now to go around. that sucks big time. road tripping is a no-no.
arrrghhhh, nothing much to do. gas prices increase by the week. its too expensive now to go around. that sucks big time. road tripping is a no-no.
May 30, 2008
busy life. not enough time.
this past week has been kind of busy - mostly in the social front and so-so workwise. i got some good news monday that finally gave me peace of mind. tuesday was a late invitation to the premiere of SATC at powerplant - it was free so who was i to say no. workwise, still working on this side project and had to meet up with the guy who was going to do the coding for some enhancements i was working on. my desktop started acting up wednesday and it has gone from bad to worse. i was smart enough to move all of my personal files to an external hdd while the machine was still operational so that is a big relief. that was over 80GB of information. i decided to skip work after lunch thursday and planned to get the desktop repaired but the store i frequent was closed down for inventory count. rotten luck. watched indiana jones with the MBA'ers at glorietta 4 settling instead of gb3 where we realized how expensive seeing a film is nowadays. the film was alright - it didn't really get me all that excited really but i'm not going to talk about it less i spoil it for those who are still planning to see it on the big screen.
ali texted friday and invited us for dinner and coffee. we (ali, allan and i) feasted (i use this word because that was what we did literally) @ TGI Fridays on potato wedges, chicken fingers, caesar salad, cajun pasta and a full slab of ribs. yes, that was just for three people - and the funny thing was that we finished almost everything. pig-out galore. to cap the night, we indulged in a big mug of moroccan mint tea at coffee bean. it was fun hanging out with the old blue gang - we used to do more of this but being in different companies and meeting new people, it can't be helped that hanging outs like this happens seldomly. i think the great thing is that despite our own individual adventures nowadays, we've developed some sort of lifelong bond.
it wasn't planned but a good friend from HS was in the neighborhood so we decided to hang out and catch another flick (yea, yea i just said movies are becoming an expensive past time). so we decided to catch "caregiver" (yeah, don't really care about the raised eyebrows) and i have to say that it wasn't as emotionally gripping as i was expecting it to be. i know its pretty effective if (insert laugh here now!) if i shed a tear or two at the cinema. yeah, the gripping melodrama of some pinoy movies is my guilty pleasure.
in between all of these social activities, i did try fixing my desktop by reinstalling its OS. the first time i got it working before i went to bed only to find out the frakkin' thing won't boot up morning after. so i did a fresh install again, and it did work for a whole day until the automatic updates install screwed it again. this time the desktop was dead for good. i had the hard disk replaced, bought a UPS too and did another fresh install of the OS. so far it hasn't been acting up. three things i figured out here: one, it was a good thing i backed-up all my files when the problems was still minimal so all my files are intact. two, the sort of jitters i get watching films isn't because the desktop was slow, it was because of the hard disk. and three, i realized i know how to set-up my pc (software-wise) back to how it was from scratch.
vain alert: its sunday now and i'll be going out (again) in a while. will be having lunch with my HS friend - libre e and then we're going to take a sidetrip to check-out this dermatologist somewhere in marikina. supposedly, she's a great alternative to belo and calayan. i think i need some relief since i haven't been liking so much how i look like in the pictures. the thought of getting older this month is killing me - hence the need for some intervention. and no, i'm not going in for something drastic like getting work done or botox (lol), just some good regimen to get back some of that baby glow.
ali texted friday and invited us for dinner and coffee. we (ali, allan and i) feasted (i use this word because that was what we did literally) @ TGI Fridays on potato wedges, chicken fingers, caesar salad, cajun pasta and a full slab of ribs. yes, that was just for three people - and the funny thing was that we finished almost everything. pig-out galore. to cap the night, we indulged in a big mug of moroccan mint tea at coffee bean. it was fun hanging out with the old blue gang - we used to do more of this but being in different companies and meeting new people, it can't be helped that hanging outs like this happens seldomly. i think the great thing is that despite our own individual adventures nowadays, we've developed some sort of lifelong bond.
it wasn't planned but a good friend from HS was in the neighborhood so we decided to hang out and catch another flick (yea, yea i just said movies are becoming an expensive past time). so we decided to catch "caregiver" (yeah, don't really care about the raised eyebrows) and i have to say that it wasn't as emotionally gripping as i was expecting it to be. i know its pretty effective if (insert laugh here now!) if i shed a tear or two at the cinema. yeah, the gripping melodrama of some pinoy movies is my guilty pleasure.
in between all of these social activities, i did try fixing my desktop by reinstalling its OS. the first time i got it working before i went to bed only to find out the frakkin' thing won't boot up morning after. so i did a fresh install again, and it did work for a whole day until the automatic updates install screwed it again. this time the desktop was dead for good. i had the hard disk replaced, bought a UPS too and did another fresh install of the OS. so far it hasn't been acting up. three things i figured out here: one, it was a good thing i backed-up all my files when the problems was still minimal so all my files are intact. two, the sort of jitters i get watching films isn't because the desktop was slow, it was because of the hard disk. and three, i realized i know how to set-up my pc (software-wise) back to how it was from scratch.
vain alert: its sunday now and i'll be going out (again) in a while. will be having lunch with my HS friend - libre e and then we're going to take a sidetrip to check-out this dermatologist somewhere in marikina. supposedly, she's a great alternative to belo and calayan. i think i need some relief since i haven't been liking so much how i look like in the pictures. the thought of getting older this month is killing me - hence the need for some intervention. and no, i'm not going in for something drastic like getting work done or botox (lol), just some good regimen to get back some of that baby glow.
May 25, 2008
when we grow old
"lola" is in the hospital since a few weeks back, they found her unconscious in the bathroom floor. The stories remain sketchy about what really happened but we decided to visit her today. seeing lola after quite some time made us realize how fragile and old she's become. she's much thinner than last i saw her (which was a long time ago) but at despite her ripe age of 87, she was still a very sharp woman. we weren't really close to her growing up, "lolo" was much more affectionate so we as "kids" were naturally drawn to him. we did spend more time with mom's parents growing up even though they kind of lived a few blocks apart. we decided to drop by my aunt's house since she was also confined in the hospital a few weeks back. the good news is that she looks quite good today. i looked at their house and the compound we used to play in during childhood and everything looks different. that piece of history of our childhood is long gone now. we went to Christ the King memorial chapels right after because the husband of mom's friend passed away yesterday. he was 72 and was in the hospital also recently.
looking at my lola and my aunt, i realized how lucky they are to have gotten this far in life. in my head, i kept on asking myself if i will be as lucky to be bestowed such a long and colorful life, or even whether i want to. maybe right now, my head's at where i prefer not to but i guess as time passes, you learn to appreciate life more and you tend to hold on to it harder. i just don't like the idea of growing old alone, having to depend on people to take care of me. one thing i realized i never want to be is a burden so i prefer a quick getaway when the time comes. The part that sucks being at this age in life is that the realities of life becomes more and more certain. Getting sick, problems with money, problems with family, being heartbroken, death ... they're stuff you have to deal with even if you don't want to. growing up can really be a drag. its no wonder peter pan wanted to stay in neverland. right now, i'm wishing neverland was real.
looking at my lola and my aunt, i realized how lucky they are to have gotten this far in life. in my head, i kept on asking myself if i will be as lucky to be bestowed such a long and colorful life, or even whether i want to. maybe right now, my head's at where i prefer not to but i guess as time passes, you learn to appreciate life more and you tend to hold on to it harder. i just don't like the idea of growing old alone, having to depend on people to take care of me. one thing i realized i never want to be is a burden so i prefer a quick getaway when the time comes. The part that sucks being at this age in life is that the realities of life becomes more and more certain. Getting sick, problems with money, problems with family, being heartbroken, death ... they're stuff you have to deal with even if you don't want to. growing up can really be a drag. its no wonder peter pan wanted to stay in neverland. right now, i'm wishing neverland was real.
May 22, 2008
david cook - idol 2008
DAVID COOK
American Idol - Season 7 Winner
A well deserved win by a really awesome talent. 12 million votes more proves everybody has taken to david cook's more versatile and appealing sound. after hearing him be proclaimed this season's winner, i couldn't help but feel ecstatic - truly a happy, happy, joy, joy moment. cook made a lot of people happy today - me & my friends included.
natural high - that's what it feels like.
American Idol - Season 7 Winner
A well deserved win by a really awesome talent. 12 million votes more proves everybody has taken to david cook's more versatile and appealing sound. after hearing him be proclaimed this season's winner, i couldn't help but feel ecstatic - truly a happy, happy, joy, joy moment. cook made a lot of people happy today - me & my friends included.
natural high - that's what it feels like.
May 21, 2008
American Idol Finale
Its finally here!!! While David Archuleta is an admirable singer, i am a solid DAVID COOK fan. COOKIES for the win!!!
Here are the performances from tonight's show in the spirit of this whole idol brouhahaha
Round 1
Round 2
Round 3
DC's take on "The World I Know" is awesome!
Here are the performances from tonight's show in the spirit of this whole idol brouhahaha
Round 1
Round 2
Round 3
DC's take on "The World I Know" is awesome!
May 18, 2008
on the side of me
the thing i like about coincidences is that they seem to be right smack when you least expect it. and more often than not, some coincidences are just the right thing you need at the right moment. maybe its an answered prayer or God's way of reassuring you about the problems that weigh heavy. in this case, i found this song just flipping through the channels and i immediately fell in love with this song.
on the side of me
corrinne may
I’m not the easiest person to love
I’m often the one who lets things go unresolved
Yet you choose to be
on the side of me
on the side of me
Yet you choose to be on the side of me
on the side of me
I’m not too proud of some things
I’ve done in my life
The skeletons in my closet
Are too big for me to hide
Yet you choose to be
on the side of me
on the side of me
Blessed Charity
You’re on the side of me
on the side of me
Everyone needs a friend to hold
when it’s cold outside
and there’s no place to go
Everyone needs a friend to hold
all alone I cried
there was no place to go
I remember when nobody cared
but you
I’m not the easiest person to love
But you, you’ve opened your heart to show me what I’m worth
‘Cause you choose to be
on the side of me
on the side of me
What a mystery
You’re on the side of me
on the side of me
Everyone needs a friend to hold
when it’s cold outside
and there’s no place to go
Everyone needs a friend to hold
all alone I cried
there was no place to go
I remember when nobody cared
Nobody cared
But you…
Yeah you choose to be
on the side of me
on the side of me
on the side of me
corrinne may
I’m not the easiest person to love
I’m often the one who lets things go unresolved
Yet you choose to be
on the side of me
on the side of me
Yet you choose to be on the side of me
on the side of me
I’m not too proud of some things
I’ve done in my life
The skeletons in my closet
Are too big for me to hide
Yet you choose to be
on the side of me
on the side of me
Blessed Charity
You’re on the side of me
on the side of me
Everyone needs a friend to hold
when it’s cold outside
and there’s no place to go
Everyone needs a friend to hold
all alone I cried
there was no place to go
I remember when nobody cared
but you
I’m not the easiest person to love
But you, you’ve opened your heart to show me what I’m worth
‘Cause you choose to be
on the side of me
on the side of me
What a mystery
You’re on the side of me
on the side of me
Everyone needs a friend to hold
when it’s cold outside
and there’s no place to go
Everyone needs a friend to hold
all alone I cried
there was no place to go
I remember when nobody cared
Nobody cared
But you…
Yeah you choose to be
on the side of me
on the side of me
May 17, 2008
Freaky, Fun Friday
one very effective way out of desolation is have a night out with friends. last night proved to be no exception cause we definitely had a great time. it probably wasn't the best of times since one of our friends S is in the hospital for surgery but in some way, most of us needed it - distraction. eric, tm, jap, dino & myself had a great dinner and dessert at conti's. we were laughing and taking photos of our food and dessert and keeping ourselves updated even if we just hanged out the previous weekend.
annie finally was able to join us when we moved to roadhouse in high street. instead of coffee, we decided that at a time like this, alcohol was the better choice. its nice to see everyone very comfortable with each other already. there's trust, respect & love in this group and a genuine appreciation about everyone present that night. each of us had our stories to share - some sharing more than the others. at other times it felt like the lines between what was appropriate and inappropriate was getting blurry but we're all adults there so no judgments.
i must have been more exhausted than i realized (late night thursday, long-distance driving friday and again late night friday) because after downing my 2nd (yes, 2nd) SML, i went to the restroom to take a leak. i felt my heart beating really fast and i might not have catched my breath fast enough because everything went blank. Fcuk, i BLACKED OUT. it was like a 2 or 3-second kind of thing but i was disoriented after and just realized what had happened. That was pretty scary and i realized when i got home that i must have hit my face somewhere because i have a tiny bruise on my face. 2 bottles, that can't be the cause of it. i can hold my alcohol very well, thank you very much.
so today (saturday), i am going to rest. that incident pretty much freaked me out. hahaha, ok not really a laughing matter cause it might be something serious but life is short and i want to have fun.
annie finally was able to join us when we moved to roadhouse in high street. instead of coffee, we decided that at a time like this, alcohol was the better choice. its nice to see everyone very comfortable with each other already. there's trust, respect & love in this group and a genuine appreciation about everyone present that night. each of us had our stories to share - some sharing more than the others. at other times it felt like the lines between what was appropriate and inappropriate was getting blurry but we're all adults there so no judgments.
i must have been more exhausted than i realized (late night thursday, long-distance driving friday and again late night friday) because after downing my 2nd (yes, 2nd) SML, i went to the restroom to take a leak. i felt my heart beating really fast and i might not have catched my breath fast enough because everything went blank. Fcuk, i BLACKED OUT. it was like a 2 or 3-second kind of thing but i was disoriented after and just realized what had happened. That was pretty scary and i realized when i got home that i must have hit my face somewhere because i have a tiny bruise on my face. 2 bottles, that can't be the cause of it. i can hold my alcohol very well, thank you very much.
so today (saturday), i am going to rest. that incident pretty much freaked me out. hahaha, ok not really a laughing matter cause it might be something serious but life is short and i want to have fun.
May 13, 2008
the only certainty
i recently learned that one of my aunt is in the hospital - we heard some news before that she has been sick. this time around, she's gone from better to worse. from what we've heard is that her liver and kidneys are no longer functioning properly that her blood is poisoning herself already. what is more heartbreaking is that her kids do not even make time to be with her in the hospital - other people stay there to take care of her. even her grandchildren do not even make an effort to help out. they're not well-off sure, but this is their mother who took care of them growing up and who is still taking care of them until she was able. my sister and mom visited my aunt today and they told me she was so happy to see them. the doctor said not to get hopes up and that the family should be prepared. i don't think she knows what is happening - how bad her condition is. i know its not good to say this but i feel sorry she got stuck with ungrateful kids. i wouldn't be surprised if none of them sheds a tear when she leaves this place. i will pray that God gives my aunt lita strength, peace and for Him to take away her pain.
i write this today as a testament that I will never abandon my mom in her hour of need. When the day comes, i will be there to hold her hand and i will let her know how thankful i am that she was mine.
i write this today as a testament that I will never abandon my mom in her hour of need. When the day comes, i will be there to hold her hand and i will let her know how thankful i am that she was mine.
another day in love
for most, the only songs they probably remember from stephen speaks would be "passenger seat" and "out of my league" and no one else probably remembers who exactly were the vocalists for that group. by chance during my browsing moments in facebook, i managed to catch an ad showcasing TJ McCloud who incidentally was one of the singers for the group stephen speaks.
i found his new album on the web and i found the familiar sound of his voice quite soothing. not to mention, the lyrics of his songs aren't too bad either. so i thought it was a good idea to write something about it seeing that lately the inspiration to blog about anything has left me - hopefully not for good.
i found his new album on the web and i found the familiar sound of his voice quite soothing. not to mention, the lyrics of his songs aren't too bad either. so i thought it was a good idea to write something about it seeing that lately the inspiration to blog about anything has left me - hopefully not for good.
May 08, 2008
the prize of your efforts
watching this season's american idol, i can't help but feel happy that syesha mercado made it all the way to the top 3. she's not even my favorite (me, being a COOKIE fan all the way) but her journey through this season is phenomenal. I can't think of any other contestant who's been consistently in the bottom than her - but through painstaking effort, she survived. Granted she's not among the best vocal performers this season, i can see how much of herself she gives to her performances and that is probably why she's still there. so what if she's not going to win this contest - cause my fearless prediction is that its going to be a DC vs DA finale, finishing third is no mean feat. so congratulations syesha, you have done a great job.
despite becoming a pseudo-insensitive prick, i realized how much i always root for the underdog or at least feel for them. there's been countless times when i was teary-eyed watching films where the underdog triumphs over the adversities. i cry watching period films where white folks discriminate against black folks (that discrimination is something i will never, ever understand). my guess is one of the reasons for this is that i feel some emotional connection at being the underdog. and maybe i don't have the same sob stories but i feel for them because i know how tough it can be in the real world. there's always people who would try to put you down, who would pass up on you for whatever reason, or maybe just don't like you for who they perceive you are. while being different can make life harder, there is immense joy in winning over the adversities.
i should know. been there. done that.
despite becoming a pseudo-insensitive prick, i realized how much i always root for the underdog or at least feel for them. there's been countless times when i was teary-eyed watching films where the underdog triumphs over the adversities. i cry watching period films where white folks discriminate against black folks (that discrimination is something i will never, ever understand). my guess is one of the reasons for this is that i feel some emotional connection at being the underdog. and maybe i don't have the same sob stories but i feel for them because i know how tough it can be in the real world. there's always people who would try to put you down, who would pass up on you for whatever reason, or maybe just don't like you for who they perceive you are. while being different can make life harder, there is immense joy in winning over the adversities.
i should know. been there. done that.
May 06, 2008
in the name of love
i received an announcement yesterday that a colleague was moving from chengdu (where he works) to pudong. i thought it was just one of those moving from one city to another kind of situations until i got a seemingly personal email from my colleague. now he and i as far as i remember were never particularly close but we did get a chance to work together a few years back. he said that the real reason he is moving is to sort of further his relationship with his girlfriend who was based in pudong. he said that they have been trying to work out a long-distance relationship for quite some time - and probably he realized that if he wants to make this work then he needs to be physically available. wow.
the engineer in me runs through the scenarios and looks at risks and probabilities - wait, that must be the obsessive-compulsive in me instead. i think that is a leap of faith and i've seen a lot of people placed in the same situation before and until today. but honestly, how many of us have done things "in the name of love" that either we treasure and we remain proud of it and at other times, we shudder at the thought of how foolish we seemed back then. looking back, i try to lock all of the foolish and stupid and "i would rather die if i do that again" moments in my "part of the bitter past" safe. lock and key thrown out to the deepest part of the ocean. i hope that being more mature, i'm less susceptible to bouts of foolishness except that at times i still am.
love is really a tricky thing. it makes us laugh, it makes us cry. i love the way it makes me feel - happy, excited, eager, hopeful sparkly eyed and yet hate the fact i can't think straight at times. i hate being in love with all the wrong people, while trying to convince myself that they're the right one. i've learned to deal with all the heartbreak, with all the letting go and with all the need to forget. sometimes i feel like i've gotten so used to it that i'm starting to turn into an unfeeling beyotch. having been independent for a long time, i don't know if i'm going to be able to be ready for a relationship. i like the idea of having someone but i'm not sure if i'm ready for all the constant dates, the constant calls and texting and togetherness. i realize that maybe i'm not that romantic at all.
somebody kill me now. lol.
the engineer in me runs through the scenarios and looks at risks and probabilities - wait, that must be the obsessive-compulsive in me instead. i think that is a leap of faith and i've seen a lot of people placed in the same situation before and until today. but honestly, how many of us have done things "in the name of love" that either we treasure and we remain proud of it and at other times, we shudder at the thought of how foolish we seemed back then. looking back, i try to lock all of the foolish and stupid and "i would rather die if i do that again" moments in my "part of the bitter past" safe. lock and key thrown out to the deepest part of the ocean. i hope that being more mature, i'm less susceptible to bouts of foolishness except that at times i still am.
love is really a tricky thing. it makes us laugh, it makes us cry. i love the way it makes me feel - happy, excited, eager, hopeful sparkly eyed and yet hate the fact i can't think straight at times. i hate being in love with all the wrong people, while trying to convince myself that they're the right one. i've learned to deal with all the heartbreak, with all the letting go and with all the need to forget. sometimes i feel like i've gotten so used to it that i'm starting to turn into an unfeeling beyotch. having been independent for a long time, i don't know if i'm going to be able to be ready for a relationship. i like the idea of having someone but i'm not sure if i'm ready for all the constant dates, the constant calls and texting and togetherness. i realize that maybe i'm not that romantic at all.
somebody kill me now. lol.
April 23, 2008
no more drama
it really is good news - that life has been kind of smooth sailing of late. it feels a bit uninteresting that i can't find anything to write about. there's not a lot of melodrama akin to what life was a few months back. the paranoid in me wonders if this is a sort-of calm before the storm but the better, more optimistic side of me believes its a welcome reprieve. there's something unnerving on knowing exactly where you are right now. the certainty is a joy-killer. life seems to be at a standstill. in more ways, i should be happy that there isn't really a lot to think about these days. everything seems to be flowing in a constant rhythm ... and i can never get used to living such a boring life. i'd hate to think i am a masochist but there is something about uncertainty that makes you look forward to it. i'm sure i won't go around searching for the next big rock to bash my head with but maybe i am not really seeing things as i should. maybe the calm is an opportunity to do something different - to read about photography, of lightroom, of photoshop and whatever's handy to learn. maybe this time is a time of reflection - to ponder on what needs pondering. i should try to think more about the future, put some plans in place. it probably would be nice to move to oz at the urging of some of my good friends and i'm tempted to. whoever said we always have choices was right, we always have - except some choices were never really options to begin with. i wish i could be a little more selfish but my head's not wired that way. so i have to rethink of a way to have the life i could have had given my new circumstances.
maybe life right now is bit boring - and i realize, boring isn't necessarily bad. at least for the time being.
maybe life right now is bit boring - and i realize, boring isn't necessarily bad. at least for the time being.
April 20, 2008
a reminder of sorts
i agreed to attend pilates with juli yesterday at the fitness first branch in southmall and while i was driving, i realized that i didn't have my wallet with me. i had no money, credit card, driver's license not even my fitness first card. i didn't want to go back to the house for two reasons - one, is that i will be late for the pilates class; and two, i had driven already a good distance from our house and driving the rest wasn't that risky (i am such a model citizen, lol!). i fortunately had my company ID at the car so that sort of takes care of my access to the gym but i still didn't have any money. i thought walking around the mall with my gym clothes on was already funny, but being in a mall without any money was probably worst.
fortunately i managed to borrow some money from allan when he joined us at the gym later because juli & i decided to grab a bite to eat. its been a long time since i was faced with buying food on a strict budget - that's what having work affords you, the ability to just order what you want and sort out how much it cost later. it reminded me of life back in college when i had to budget everything from my allowance. life on a budget can be hard. i wasn't one of those rich la salle kids who had hefty allowances but we weren't poor either. i think having to add up in my head what i wanted to order so i don't overspend was a reminder that we don't have unlimited resources (i'm talking about money here). and its wise to keep that in mind. so far i've been extremely good at keeping my credit cards in order but i haven't been that strict in terms of spending within a budget. that little incident maybe is a reminder to start now.
fortunately i managed to borrow some money from allan when he joined us at the gym later because juli & i decided to grab a bite to eat. its been a long time since i was faced with buying food on a strict budget - that's what having work affords you, the ability to just order what you want and sort out how much it cost later. it reminded me of life back in college when i had to budget everything from my allowance. life on a budget can be hard. i wasn't one of those rich la salle kids who had hefty allowances but we weren't poor either. i think having to add up in my head what i wanted to order so i don't overspend was a reminder that we don't have unlimited resources (i'm talking about money here). and its wise to keep that in mind. so far i've been extremely good at keeping my credit cards in order but i haven't been that strict in terms of spending within a budget. that little incident maybe is a reminder to start now.
April 17, 2008
graduation's almost here
the graduation march is next saturday already. after three and a half years, this chapter of my life is finally coming to a close. i can finally say that i have a Master of Business Administration major in Supply Chain Management degree! Lupit di ba? Will this open new doors for me? I hope so - i think for the most part, job hunting is 50% luck/timing and 50% credentials. i've always believed that timing is the key to everything.
back in college, the idea of the graduation ceremony wasn't too appealing at first. and initially, i decided to go through it for mom's sake. when i got there, i'd have to say i was happy to see my friends and my classmates and realized that the graduation is an important milestone. while college was indeed a rite of passage, graduation marks our entry into the real world. this may not be true for those who have had to shoulder responsibilities at an early age but for most of us, it was the beginning of responsibilities and problems, problems and more problems.
next saturday, i am once again going into that same ritual - this time around mostly with people i haven't really known long. i am fortunate that i'm marching along with some people i've developed real friendships with and that is what's going to make this event memorable. yeah, school's over. "no more teachers, no more books. no more teachers, dirty looks."
back in college, the idea of the graduation ceremony wasn't too appealing at first. and initially, i decided to go through it for mom's sake. when i got there, i'd have to say i was happy to see my friends and my classmates and realized that the graduation is an important milestone. while college was indeed a rite of passage, graduation marks our entry into the real world. this may not be true for those who have had to shoulder responsibilities at an early age but for most of us, it was the beginning of responsibilities and problems, problems and more problems.
next saturday, i am once again going into that same ritual - this time around mostly with people i haven't really known long. i am fortunate that i'm marching along with some people i've developed real friendships with and that is what's going to make this event memorable. yeah, school's over. "no more teachers, no more books. no more teachers, dirty looks."
April 16, 2008
metamorphosis
having taken the reins of providing for the family for quite some time now (my sister, thank God and your prayers, is healthy enough to go back to work - not full-time, but somewhat part-time as a consultant for her previous employer), not only are my priorities changing but i'm actually enjoying some of the household responsibilities. is this the end of my social life as i know it? one of the things i always look forward to is going to the grocery, pass through all the aisles and dump a mixture of needs & wants into a very accommodating cart. there's just something about going to the grocery that's fun for me - specially the realization that i am fortunate to be able to provide this much to the family. doing grocery, mind you, employs a lot of skill - planning, budgeting, memorizing, cost-benefit analysis and not to mention the physical exercise you get from walking and carrying the bags. blame it on the engineer in me for over-analyzing. i having done this for a while, i've become more price-conscious and aware which is a great thing. its like this habit i've developed of checking all of the gas prices at every gas station i come across when driving - like i can tell that gas here in paranaque is 10 cents cheaper than the gas being sold near the big blue. i'm amazed by my own obsessive-compulsiveness.
while this is not a review, i'd have to say that S&R is such a great place to go grocery shopping. they have an awesome selection of meat, frozen goods and some of the stuff i used to buy at Costco when i was in the US. I've even seen them selling Nyquil which i think is one of the best meds to take during a cold bout. South Supermarket is also one of the better groceries because they have a great seafood section (don't like their meat section that much) and vegetables too. plying various supermarkets helps you know which place is best for what. the only thing i hate when going to the grocery is that it sort of puts a big dent in my credit card but i guess it can't be helped. we need to eat.
being grocery-trained and price conscious i guess helps support any culinary aspirations i have right now. this is the problem, i have too many areas i want to explore and not really know which to do first. culinary, photography, business? its even hard to fit gym time in there because my nephew has football camp wednesdays and fridays. i am so doing double-duty right now. its still fun though - having to do something different than the rest. for one, i'm no longer thinking about myself. and that is cause for hurrah!
while this is not a review, i'd have to say that S&R is such a great place to go grocery shopping. they have an awesome selection of meat, frozen goods and some of the stuff i used to buy at Costco when i was in the US. I've even seen them selling Nyquil which i think is one of the best meds to take during a cold bout. South Supermarket is also one of the better groceries because they have a great seafood section (don't like their meat section that much) and vegetables too. plying various supermarkets helps you know which place is best for what. the only thing i hate when going to the grocery is that it sort of puts a big dent in my credit card but i guess it can't be helped. we need to eat.
being grocery-trained and price conscious i guess helps support any culinary aspirations i have right now. this is the problem, i have too many areas i want to explore and not really know which to do first. culinary, photography, business? its even hard to fit gym time in there because my nephew has football camp wednesdays and fridays. i am so doing double-duty right now. its still fun though - having to do something different than the rest. for one, i'm no longer thinking about myself. and that is cause for hurrah!
April 07, 2008
mac is back
the good news is that i finally got mac back - hmmm "mac" isn't such a bad name. i am going to start calling my macbook "mac" from now on. the good news is that mac seems healthy so far and i am using him as i write this post.
so yeah, i'm back being an part-time apple user. i have to admit though that my fascination with mac hasn't waned since i got him. now that he's back in top shape and i need to do two wedding AVPs, its a great opportunity to practice using mac.
so yeah, i'm back being an part-time apple user. i have to admit though that my fascination with mac hasn't waned since i got him. now that he's back in top shape and i need to do two wedding AVPs, its a great opportunity to practice using mac.
sleep overs
having decided that going on an out of town trip was badly needed despite the short notice, we all agreed that it was easier to sleep over ali's house friday night. the plans originally was for us to drive to zambales really early in the morning of saturday but friday night, we were having second thoughts about going and was trying to figure out if we could find an alternative place at the eve of a long weekend. we decided to stop looking around midnight when we ended up empty handed with all the places we were trying to check-out. we we're just going to think about the "where" in the morning.
we ended up drinking a bottle of bailey's - the minty kind. allan, juli, arlene, ali and myself talked about the recent announcement of the big blue including our sentiments about it and the future. the idea of unemployment in a way scares us because we have responsibilities and its easier to talk about it flustered with alcohol. its also exciting in a way because it opens up to new opportunities and creates a fresh start. the sleep over was timely in a way and its easy to talk to these people because we've been friends for quite some time and they already know the whole story so there's no need for more background. times like these, its comforting to be with friends. i really miss those "kapihan" sessions we used to have, whether those that we had at starbux in tagaytay or those cheap "nescafe's". we've shared a lot of things back when almost everyone hanged out at the "yosihan" area. a lot of things and feelings are poured over at that area - and while most of us quit already (me included, two years now) - those times were a great pick-me-up.
i feel lucky that despite having different jobs now, most of us still find time to hang-out. we're still connected more than ever and its a relief that our relationships have developed into a lifelong bond. i hope that when rlin eventually moves to the US when she gets married or when juli finally settles in malaysia or singapore or when allan moves to oz, we are still going to keep in touch. on the other hand, i should keep in touch to get some free board & lodging and tour guides when i visit those countries.
we ended up drinking a bottle of bailey's - the minty kind. allan, juli, arlene, ali and myself talked about the recent announcement of the big blue including our sentiments about it and the future. the idea of unemployment in a way scares us because we have responsibilities and its easier to talk about it flustered with alcohol. its also exciting in a way because it opens up to new opportunities and creates a fresh start. the sleep over was timely in a way and its easy to talk to these people because we've been friends for quite some time and they already know the whole story so there's no need for more background. times like these, its comforting to be with friends. i really miss those "kapihan" sessions we used to have, whether those that we had at starbux in tagaytay or those cheap "nescafe's". we've shared a lot of things back when almost everyone hanged out at the "yosihan" area. a lot of things and feelings are poured over at that area - and while most of us quit already (me included, two years now) - those times were a great pick-me-up.
i feel lucky that despite having different jobs now, most of us still find time to hang-out. we're still connected more than ever and its a relief that our relationships have developed into a lifelong bond. i hope that when rlin eventually moves to the US when she gets married or when juli finally settles in malaysia or singapore or when allan moves to oz, we are still going to keep in touch. on the other hand, i should keep in touch to get some free board & lodging and tour guides when i visit those countries.
April 02, 2008
the beginning of the end
there's something about today that seemed off - everybody seemed giddy and you can hear the mutterings of people as they pass by. a lot have speculations about the announcement this afternoon - some may deny it but it has been news that has been floating around for a while ... hmmm, like for the past 1.5-2 years (lol!). surprisingly, there was free meals at the cafe today - not that i needed it since i sort of have an abundance of meal stubs. but its free, and i'm filipino - and we should never refuse grace when it hits you in the face. in hindsight, it seemed like feeding the people was timed maybe to soften the blow.
at 2pm, it was announced - the Big Blue is closing --- in 6 to 9 months. i think the timing was what hit the people like a brick wall. We knew it was coming but we didn't know it was that soon. in a way, for those tenured, the "enhanced" separation package is very attractive. i, who has been scouting for other opportunities, sees this as an additional blessing. it was very emotional during the q&a, some broke down and others asked direct, poignant questions. from my point of view, the real reason is politics and eversince i felt that that "somebody" never really liked the site. he said it was performance last time, and now they say the building is no longer viable structurally in the long term. for a company that prides itself on being strategic, that line of reasoning doesn't make sense. listening to the questions, i felt a pang of guilt that i was looking forward to this news. i wanted a confirmation so i can start to move on but others would have preferred never to hear this kind of news.
from what was shown, for my tenure, the package isn't bad. but money doesn't last a long time and it would be a gift to find a job as soon as the package is available (God willing!). in more ways, God has been very gracious - maybe the reason i haven't heard back from the companies i am applying for is because i needed to wait for this package. i get a bit anxious at the prospect of not having work, having been employed for the last 12 years. life would be easier if i had to think about myself only - but there are 4 people i need to feed and thank God my sister is working again.
the news is going to hit the others hard. i can tell because everyone looked teary-eyed leaving the room. for most, it is really the beginning of the end. hopefully for most, there's a new beginning that awaits.
at 2pm, it was announced - the Big Blue is closing --- in 6 to 9 months. i think the timing was what hit the people like a brick wall. We knew it was coming but we didn't know it was that soon. in a way, for those tenured, the "enhanced" separation package is very attractive. i, who has been scouting for other opportunities, sees this as an additional blessing. it was very emotional during the q&a, some broke down and others asked direct, poignant questions. from my point of view, the real reason is politics and eversince i felt that that "somebody" never really liked the site. he said it was performance last time, and now they say the building is no longer viable structurally in the long term. for a company that prides itself on being strategic, that line of reasoning doesn't make sense. listening to the questions, i felt a pang of guilt that i was looking forward to this news. i wanted a confirmation so i can start to move on but others would have preferred never to hear this kind of news.
from what was shown, for my tenure, the package isn't bad. but money doesn't last a long time and it would be a gift to find a job as soon as the package is available (God willing!). in more ways, God has been very gracious - maybe the reason i haven't heard back from the companies i am applying for is because i needed to wait for this package. i get a bit anxious at the prospect of not having work, having been employed for the last 12 years. life would be easier if i had to think about myself only - but there are 4 people i need to feed and thank God my sister is working again.
the news is going to hit the others hard. i can tell because everyone looked teary-eyed leaving the room. for most, it is really the beginning of the end. hopefully for most, there's a new beginning that awaits.
April 01, 2008
what lies on the horizon
there's going to be an announcement tomorrow - about what is anybody's guess. the invitation says its about the roadmap - something which we know for a long time there doesn't seem to be any. maybe its what most have been waiting for, that finally the journey with which the big blue embarked on 30+ years ago is finally coming to a close. is this what we all have been praying for? maybe through God's eternal goodness, the stars will align and i'd find a new career and get a good package. everybody is anxious and hopefully whatever the news is, its good news.
crazy thing called love
watching "love affair" made me remember how nice it would be to have someone to love, to have a last call for the day and to just have a hand to hold with when life seems so overbearing. i watched "love affair" only because it came into one of the conversations while driving to la luz a few weeks back. i cried watching the last scene of "love affair" making me re-affirm that i am indeed a sucker for happy endings.
maybe someday it would be nice to find someone who i can share life with but i've come to terms with being alone at least for the time being. not everyone finds their fish in the sea, much less end up with their meant-to-be. i, right now, settle for the life i have - its not perfect but there are still a lot to be thankful for. a few sundays ago, i finally realized what true love is while attending church - true love is what i feel as i carried my sleepy nephew in my arms. as his arms draped around my shoulders, i realized how much i love this little kid - that i would do everything for him. if i will be able to feel like that again on somebody, then i would know how to be in love again. but right now, i am settling for what and who i have because i gave up already trying to find the right one.
maybe someday it would be nice to find someone who i can share life with but i've come to terms with being alone at least for the time being. not everyone finds their fish in the sea, much less end up with their meant-to-be. i, right now, settle for the life i have - its not perfect but there are still a lot to be thankful for. a few sundays ago, i finally realized what true love is while attending church - true love is what i feel as i carried my sleepy nephew in my arms. as his arms draped around my shoulders, i realized how much i love this little kid - that i would do everything for him. if i will be able to feel like that again on somebody, then i would know how to be in love again. but right now, i am settling for what and who i have because i gave up already trying to find the right one.
March 30, 2008
life ain't that bad
after getting back from a nice trip in boracay, i was inclined to be in the office the last two days of last week since my managers were here for a visit. i was prepared for the worst for my focal download but everything turned out quite alright. i'm happy that things sort of worked out in the end. we had a sort of an open forum during their stay and we talked about the much controversial "future". the good news is that they seemed to be in the camp of looking at our best interests and since this topic is a bit sensitive for most, i am not going to give any more details. it gives me pause though because i'm once again faced with two choices - one is to continue pursuing other opportunities outside or second, to wait it out until a probable announcement. its somewhat difficult to make that choice because we don't know when that "announcement" is going to happen. this year? next year? can i still wait that long when i've been itching to move out since the last quarter of the year past. waiting it out has its merits so maybe its not really such a tough decision to make.
March 20, 2008
AI7 : Top 11 Results
American Idol Season 7 Top 10
Bottom 3 :
Carly Smithson - safe!
Kristy Lee Cook - safe!
Amanda Overmyer - eliminated!
Bottom 3 :
Carly Smithson - safe!
Kristy Lee Cook - safe!
Amanda Overmyer - eliminated!
March 18, 2008
mac update ... and some other stuff
or more aptly - the lack of it. i called up the power mac center at greenbelt but they said the technician is still "diagnosing" it. and the thing is, they'll be closed tomorrow because of the holy week and the latest they will be able to get back to me will be monday next week. at which time i would already be enjoying the sun, sand and salt water in boracay. the only thing i am praying for is that hopefully being good this holy week and doing my catholic duties will spare my macbook from any major repair expenses.
=-=- OoO -=-=
the stitches on my neck were finally removed today. its a relief not to have a big bandaged plastered on my neck today onwards. the doctor said i should refrain from exposing it to the sun though so that is a bit of hassle next week. still, bandage gone is a big consolation.
i'm liking this new show "new amsterdam" about a detective who is immortal. the main character is that guy from the "wimbledon" movie who was the best friend of paul bettany. in some angles, he reminds me of david boreanaz (of "angel" and "buffy" fame), rather the slimmer look-a-like. the plot is quite interesting and i am hoping that this series, while a mid-season filler, picks up enough audience to not be some flash-in-the-plan show. four more weeks though and most of our favorite shows will be staging their return. can't wait for grey's anatomy, house and the rest.
=-=- OoO -=-=
i'm liking this new show "new amsterdam" about a detective who is immortal. the main character is that guy from the "wimbledon" movie who was the best friend of paul bettany. in some angles, he reminds me of david boreanaz (of "angel" and "buffy" fame), rather the slimmer look-a-like. the plot is quite interesting and i am hoping that this series, while a mid-season filler, picks up enough audience to not be some flash-in-the-plan show. four more weeks though and most of our favorite shows will be staging their return. can't wait for grey's anatomy, house and the rest.
March 15, 2008
i'm on the list
De La Salle finally released the list of graduates and i'm happy to say that my name is ON THE LIST! Yay! After 3.5 years of slaving over homeworks, cases and presentations and burning the midnight oil reading text books (ok, so this last part is so not true), i'm finally done with graduate school. Ok, so there's still some slight sting from not graduating with honors because i missed it by about 0.02 points (giggle!) but no use crying over spilled milk now.
Master of Business Administration major in Supply Chain Management has a pretty nice ring to it. That looks good on my resume (lol). I got my measurements for my toga yesterday. Graduation is on April 26.
Now what would be a fitting graduation gift for myself?
Master of Business Administration major in Supply Chain Management has a pretty nice ring to it. That looks good on my resume (lol). I got my measurements for my toga yesterday. Graduation is on April 26.
Now what would be a fitting graduation gift for myself?
friendster is so last season
wasn't it just a few years back when the whole friendster fever swept over everybody in the philippines? i think everyone wanted an online profile and a social networking tool. i don't really check my friendster account that much anymore - just the occasional posting of pictures for anyone who would care.
nowadays, i'm pretty much hooked on FACEBOOK. so yeah its basically the same thing except that it has gazillions of add-ons that gets you crazy hahaha too much applications that i still have 55 requests pending and will probably just stay that way. what is funny is that i'm addicted to the MY HEROES ABILITY and PETROLHEAD applications - the former being to be the most powerful "hero" and right now i'm already at level 25 (lol!) and in petrolhead (some sorta racing), i've managed to upgrade my car twice already. i just find its a good way to pass time when online, uhmmm ok, add that to scouring the net for american idol studio recordings (i'm missing na lang yung top 16 performances). The other cool thing is the texas hold'em application - really can turn you into a gambler. good thing gambling isn't really for me so i just play with it occasionally.
so yeah, facebook is the new thing - at least for us who just discovered it recently.
nowadays, i'm pretty much hooked on FACEBOOK. so yeah its basically the same thing except that it has gazillions of add-ons that gets you crazy hahaha too much applications that i still have 55 requests pending and will probably just stay that way. what is funny is that i'm addicted to the MY HEROES ABILITY and PETROLHEAD applications - the former being to be the most powerful "hero" and right now i'm already at level 25 (lol!) and in petrolhead (some sorta racing), i've managed to upgrade my car twice already. i just find its a good way to pass time when online, uhmmm ok, add that to scouring the net for american idol studio recordings (i'm missing na lang yung top 16 performances). The other cool thing is the texas hold'em application - really can turn you into a gambler. good thing gambling isn't really for me so i just play with it occasionally.
so yeah, facebook is the new thing - at least for us who just discovered it recently.
if there's a mac god somewhere ...
i honestly don't know what happened but when i tried using my macbook two days ago, the dang thing won't turn on anymore. i felt so bad as i tried every troubleshooting method i read on the apple website to no avail. the tragedy of this is that the warranty expired last feb 24 - so its a good couple of weeks for it to break down on me. i checked if buying an applecare extended warranty was a good idea only to realize that it was going to cost me 10,000 pesos for it. uhmm, that felt really exorbitant so i just decided to bring it to the power mac center at greenbelt. so its going to be 500 pesos for the diagnosis - yes, they charge as much as consulting a real-life doctor. i'm praying whatever is wrong with it isn't the motherboard with the service girl telling me if it turns out to be the motherboard, its going to cost 40,000 pesos - suddenly, forking out 10k for an extended applecare doesn't seem so exorbitant anymore. so if there's a mac god somewhere, i am hoping he bestow some mercy and make it a minor, easily resolvable, cheap problem. i still need to build my quadcore pc and there are still a lot of bills to pay.
if it turns out that the motherboard is the problem, i don't plan on spending another 40k to get something i use like 3-4 times a month repaired. if that's the case, its pretty much the end of my being a mac user.
if it turns out that the motherboard is the problem, i don't plan on spending another 40k to get something i use like 3-4 times a month repaired. if that's the case, its pretty much the end of my being a mac user.
March 13, 2008
March 11, 2008
Stronger Woman
my favorite girl is back, better and stronger than ever. i knew right away it was her the first time i heard this song. she just have that distinct voice and sound that i love so much.this boy needs fixin'
i went to my ortho yesterday to finally have my other third molar extracted. honestly, while i wanted to get it over with, a part of me doesn't want to go through the pain like the last time. the injections pretty much is the easy part, its the actual extraction that hurt like hell before. surprisingly though come extraction time, we breezed right through it. my ortho kept telling me to stop him if i needed more anaesthesia but i didn't - it wasn't really painful. it was just uncomfortable to say the least. i guess the anaesthesia were all in the right places this round so i should be thankful for that. the other thing i should be thankful for should be that my teeth weren't as bad to begin with and that was maybe why the discomforts of adjustment weren't that bad after a while. what remains true is that braces, adjustments and tooth extractions feels more like torture than anything else. that's the price to pay for wanting to have perfect teeth.
today, i went to a plastic surgeon to have this wart-like growth on my neck removed. i've had since i was still a kid and since our company health card covers it, i decided it was time to have it removed and take advantage of the benefit. i was surprised that instead of a dermatologist (or something), i was consulting with a plastic surgeon. suffice it to say, i knew i was in better hands. the procedure was pretty quick, probably a good 30 or so minutes and i didn't really feel any pain except for that strange feeling of knowing a part of you is being sewn up. i'm actually sporting a big bandage on my neck right now and turning my head takes a bit of an effort. no heavy lifting, no physical exertion - there goes my gym time. i took ponstan a while back and will be taking my antibiotics in a while. hopefully the sutures won't sting so much as the anaesthesia wear off.
tomorrow, i'm going back for the results of another consult. i'm really gettin' old - but its a good thing these procedures i'm doing are more aesthetic rather than because of some life-threatening illness. i should be thankful for that. but still, hospitals = gloom, regardless of whatever reason you go there.
today, i went to a plastic surgeon to have this wart-like growth on my neck removed. i've had since i was still a kid and since our company health card covers it, i decided it was time to have it removed and take advantage of the benefit. i was surprised that instead of a dermatologist (or something), i was consulting with a plastic surgeon. suffice it to say, i knew i was in better hands. the procedure was pretty quick, probably a good 30 or so minutes and i didn't really feel any pain except for that strange feeling of knowing a part of you is being sewn up. i'm actually sporting a big bandage on my neck right now and turning my head takes a bit of an effort. no heavy lifting, no physical exertion - there goes my gym time. i took ponstan a while back and will be taking my antibiotics in a while. hopefully the sutures won't sting so much as the anaesthesia wear off.
tomorrow, i'm going back for the results of another consult. i'm really gettin' old - but its a good thing these procedures i'm doing are more aesthetic rather than because of some life-threatening illness. i should be thankful for that. but still, hospitals = gloom, regardless of whatever reason you go there.
March 09, 2008
goodbye's not forever
we received van's sad news last friday that her dad, after month's battling with the big C, finally passed away. the news sort of dampened our spirits what with our scheduled trip to the beach over the weekend. it has been a tough time for van and her family, most especially her dad. i haven't met van's dad so much to have familiarity but i've been friends with van for a long time already. this is the thing about being an adult that i hate - its a time to face up to bigger realities of life, bigger eventualities and inevitables. we all know death is certain but its never an easy thing to accept.
over the last few times i've managed to catch up with van, it was difficult to talk about what her family was going through. there's something about these difficult times that turns kids into adults, that sheds immaturity and makes someone more responsible. i guess in some way, facing up to bigger problems makes you realize that playtime is over. like i said, being a grown-up sucks.
Daddy Pio is now with the Lord. No more pain and suffering. We should all pray for the eternal repose of his soul and pray for strength and peace for van and her family.
over the last few times i've managed to catch up with van, it was difficult to talk about what her family was going through. there's something about these difficult times that turns kids into adults, that sheds immaturity and makes someone more responsible. i guess in some way, facing up to bigger problems makes you realize that playtime is over. like i said, being a grown-up sucks.
Daddy Pio is now with the Lord. No more pain and suffering. We should all pray for the eternal repose of his soul and pray for strength and peace for van and her family.
March 07, 2008
March 06, 2008
the road ahead
people are abuzz nowadays regarding what we have already known for quite some time. its probably one of the more pressing reasons why there seemed to be an exodus in the past couple of years. there's no confirmation yet but the rumor mill is in overdrive regarding the seeming inevitable. i say a lot of people are just waiting until they hear the official announcement - until that time, people will continue to speculate. for some, its probably a cause to worry but for the others its probably what they have been waiting, even asking for. for me, i've made my peace with whatever happens. i do still worry but tomorrow is tomorrow and its better to live in the here and now.
the somewhat good news is that while its been a really slow process, jfc/rr updated that they haven't managed to find the time to screen through the other candidates. it means my application is still active and there's still reason to hope for the best. maybe this is all a timing thing - that God in His eternal goodness will be giving me the best of both worlds - a package and a new adventure. while that's probably hoping for a whole lot, sometimes you just get a windfall of luck.
when you least expect it, there seems to be a whole lot of windows opening. i think opportunities do abound and its just a matter of really looking for the right one. there's some sidelines that may happen - cross my fingers - really a chance to earn some extra cash. its too early to say how it will pan out but believing it can happen is a first step.
the bit of bad news is that most likely our plan to attend the singapore grand prix this september may not happen. most of the freakin' tickets that's affordable are sold out - there's a few remaining at the grandstand. the best seats cost 40k pesos - and i'm not really too keen on spending that much. in my head, its a toss-up between the singapore grand prix or a nikon-D80. and yeah, the nikon D80 is winning.
the one thing to look forward to is me and some friends are off to the beach this weekend. we're starting summer quite early this year.
the somewhat good news is that while its been a really slow process, jfc/rr updated that they haven't managed to find the time to screen through the other candidates. it means my application is still active and there's still reason to hope for the best. maybe this is all a timing thing - that God in His eternal goodness will be giving me the best of both worlds - a package and a new adventure. while that's probably hoping for a whole lot, sometimes you just get a windfall of luck.
when you least expect it, there seems to be a whole lot of windows opening. i think opportunities do abound and its just a matter of really looking for the right one. there's some sidelines that may happen - cross my fingers - really a chance to earn some extra cash. its too early to say how it will pan out but believing it can happen is a first step.
the bit of bad news is that most likely our plan to attend the singapore grand prix this september may not happen. most of the freakin' tickets that's affordable are sold out - there's a few remaining at the grandstand. the best seats cost 40k pesos - and i'm not really too keen on spending that much. in my head, its a toss-up between the singapore grand prix or a nikon-D80. and yeah, the nikon D80 is winning.
the one thing to look forward to is me and some friends are off to the beach this weekend. we're starting summer quite early this year.
March 04, 2008
great article
chanced upon this article while taking a 5-minute break from work. its fitting considering the state of the economy right now. thanks to lifehack.org for the great article.
how to prepare for a layoff
how to prepare for a layoff
Lately, it seems like every day brings yet another headline about impending corporate job cuts. Maybe you’ve even heard rumors that your own company is planning to downsize. Could your job be at risk?
Unfortunately, in today’s world, no job is ever 100% secure. Layoffs have become standard operating procedure for many companies. They hire when business looks good and cut jobs when results fall short of estimates. And it often doesn’t matter how good you are at your job or how hard you work.
Nobody relishes the idea of becoming suddenly unemployed, but a layoff doesn’t have to be the end of the world. The key to minimizing the stress and negative fallout is to prepare now for the possibility of a pink slip.
Trust me, I speak from experience. In more than twelve years of working for large corporations, I’ve lived through countless downsizings, reorganizations, and mergers. In most cases, I survived to work another day. However, I twice found myself among those packing up their desks and turning in their employee IDs. The first time, I was caught unprepared. The second time, I was ready, willing and able to embrace my layoff for what it was — an opportunity to finally make a career change that I had been dreaming about for years.
Follow the advice and you too can make sure layoffs won’t knock you for a loop:
- Stay in the Game – First and foremost, never stop looking for new career opportunities – even if your current job feels comfortable and secure. You never know when your dream job might open up. Keep your resume updated and make sure that the right recruiters have your phone number. You should always have a passive job search in progress. That way, you’ll always enjoy a steady stream of job leads and you’ll have a head start on landing your next position if you get laid off. This may sound like obvious advice, but few people truly take it seriously until it’s too late. Don’t allow yourself to be lulled into a false sense of security. When the layoff rumors start buzzing, goose your passive job search and get a little more active about exploring your options.
- Demonstrate Your Value – To increase your odds of hanging onto your current position, do whatever you can to show your manager the value that you provide. This is no time to be modest. Make sure you document your contributions and ensure that your boss understands how much harder her job would be without you.
- Don’t Take Any of It Personally – While it doesn’t hurt to demonstrate your value (see above), keep in mind that even the most valuable employees can be laid off. Layoff decisions are based on many factors. Sometimes, it’s about who was hired last. Sometimes, it’s about who makes the most money. Sometimes, there is no clear reason for who winds up on the chopping block. Don’t let rumors and speculation mess with your head. There’s only so much you can do to influence whether or not your name will show up on the layoff list. Don’t waste energy obsessing about what might happen. Channel your energy into figuring out your Plan B.
- Build Your Emergency Fund Cut back on discretionary purchases and put as much of your paycheck into your emergency savings fund as you can. Financial planners recommend that you should have enough in your emergency fund to cover your expenses for between three and six months. Hopefully, if you do get laid off, youll also have a severance package that will help you pay the bills. However, the more you can sock away, the more peace of mind youll have if the axe falls.
- Do Your Research Find out what kind of severance packages your company has offered in the past. Chances are that some of your colleagues have survived previous rounds of job cuts and can give you some general guidelines regarding what to expect. With a little luck, you might be pleasantly surprised at your companys generosity and realize theres no reason to panic.
- Do Your Housekeeping Often, when layoffs are announced, employees are rushed out the door and given little time to pack up and say goodbye. This is generally to prevent unpleasant scenes. However, if you think you might be facing a quick heave ho in the near future, you’d be smart to pack up your important possessions in advance. Make copies of work samples, performance reviews, and other key documents. Make sure you transfer all of your contacts to your personal computer. Start lugging home your extra pairs of shoes and family photos.
- Remember to Look on the Bright Side At worst, getting laid off is a temporary trial (and you will get through it, I promise). At best, your layoff may be the kick in the pants you need to find a more fulfilling job. I interviewed dozens of successful career changers for my forthcoming book and many of them spoke of being thankful for their layoffs (some of them volunteered or even begged to be let go). Their severance packages gave them the time and opportunity to pursue the careers of their dreams. If youve been unhappy in your current career path, this layoff may be your chance to explore your options.
March 02, 2008
sunday reflections
i like going to Church alone because not having distractions (to be tempted to talk to someone, etc) helps me focus my attention on what the priest is saying. you see, i actually have a very short attention span, my mind just wanders off from one thing to another. Hearing mass and trying to stay still for an hour and a half can make you restless but more attuned to the people around you. You notice familiar faces - like this guy i realized looked familiar because he was from the same high school except he was two years older. I realized, after being away for so long, that filipinos are still inherently religious. there's still a lot of church goers - singles, committed, courting, families. looking at them, i couldn't help but think of what life would be like if had a family of my own - some one to go to Church with, kids to play with. it would have been nice to live in the mainstream. i realized though that if i had that life then it would have been really hard to take care of my other family. i would probably need two jobs to support my nephew (lol). it dawned on me that that which i can't have i actually already have. i have my nephew. i have my not-perfect-at-all family. so things kind of works out. i guess the only thing missing right now is having someone - your last call for the day. but maybe that's not for everyone, so i am not holding my breath.
February 29, 2008
AI7 : Top 20 Results
the second set of four contestants bid AI7 farewell. alaina leaving is a complete shocker. i thought she deserved to stay longer than some of the other girls. once again, america never fails to surprise us.
February 27, 2008
antibiotics and dizzy spells
still pretty much shaken up by the whole episode with my ortho yesterday, i was a bit feverish yesterday. though not so much so to warrant staying in bed but enough to take things a bit slower today. i need to take my antibiotics except that i'm actually allergic to penicillin/amoxicillin that the doctor prescribed erythromycin instead. i guess the only thing about this drug is that its more powerful and it can cause a bit of a stomach discomfort (read in tagalog as "sinisikmura"). i took my meds right after i've had my bowl of oatmeal and glass of orange juice and realized that maybe mixing that meds with the orange juice is not a good idea. still not sure but i can say that i haven't felt great since this morning. i had another serving of food to make sure that its not because i haven't eated enough but earlier on, i had a severe attack of dizziness. i was seated working on my laptop when it came so suddenly i thought there was an earthquake. my desk literally seemed like it was flipping right in front of me. that scared the sh*t out of me mainly because if that happened while i was driving, i would have seriously gotten into an accident. i can't wait to get out of this drugs - damn getting that wisdom tooth extracted. damn these braces. vanity can really screw you over.
February 26, 2008
50% less wiser
when i decided to have get my braces, my primary reasons were to close the widening gap between my two front upper teeth and benefit from the pain and suffering of adjustments to jumpstart my getting fit strategy. i did manage to hold off eating a bit when biting and chewing became unbearable after adjustments but the pain and suffering unfortunately tapered off the more aligned my teeth became until eating once again became a pleasurable experience.
fast forward to this year what with my ortho telling i need to get my wisdom teeth extracted so the final leg of the alignments will work properly. ok, so after delaying the inevitable since i got back from my trip, i finally decided to pay him a visit today. i could have said i can't do it today but i decided there was no use delaying and i asked him to take the first one off. he gave me 4 shots of anaesthesia instead of 2 and i have to say the whole experience still felt like i was a POW and i was being tortured into revealing some sort of top secret information. ok, so maybe i am exaggerating but no kidding, despite the numbness it was still quite painful. when he was doing the sutures, it wasn't really that bad and almost an hour after, the left side of my mouth still feels numb. the experience was quite traumatic and i'd have to go back two weeks from now for the other one to get extracted. i'm already expecting it to be more painful because the other tooth is planted deeper. so two weeks from now, march 11 is going to royally suck.
fast forward to this year what with my ortho telling i need to get my wisdom teeth extracted so the final leg of the alignments will work properly. ok, so after delaying the inevitable since i got back from my trip, i finally decided to pay him a visit today. i could have said i can't do it today but i decided there was no use delaying and i asked him to take the first one off. he gave me 4 shots of anaesthesia instead of 2 and i have to say the whole experience still felt like i was a POW and i was being tortured into revealing some sort of top secret information. ok, so maybe i am exaggerating but no kidding, despite the numbness it was still quite painful. when he was doing the sutures, it wasn't really that bad and almost an hour after, the left side of my mouth still feels numb. the experience was quite traumatic and i'd have to go back two weeks from now for the other one to get extracted. i'm already expecting it to be more painful because the other tooth is planted deeper. so two weeks from now, march 11 is going to royally suck.
February 22, 2008
February 21, 2008
i can eat again!
today was the first day i could finally eat sorta normal food but i wanted to make sure that my 10-day detox isn't going to go to waste that i decided that instead of the usual, i am going to try and eat healthy. i'd have to say that having to eat healthy in some ways isn't quite fun. i started the day off with oatmeal - the plain, sugarless not even fruit-flavored kind which thankfully with the addition of some blueberries made it bearable. yuckness #1. lunch was great though - wheat bread, slice of turkey ham, lettuce, tomatoes and dijon mustard. i helped myself to 24 almonds. yumness. i forgot though that in between meals, i gave in and finally tasted the banana bread and carrot-apple muffins that my sister made which i have stayed away from for two whole weeks. they were quite good but for some reason, i'm not really craving as much sugar right now. i roasted a rosemary marinated chicken tonight and had a good serving of skinless chicken breast and some steamed spinach and mixed carrots, peas & corn. one of the things i've discovered is that plain yoghurt taste is super yucky - the only thing that made it salvageable for me was i mixed it with some blueberries whose natural sweetness made it bearable. otherwise, yuckness #2. yeah, being healthy isn't as easy as it seems - if it was, all of us would be looking fit & healthy. but like they say, its always the bad stuff that's delicious.
one of the cool new things i decided to buy of late is the 9-minute marinator. yeah, blame it on tuning in to those tv shopping channels. but i've been eyeing this one for quite a while now and read that it really does work. so far i think it does work with some of the dishes we tried. i'll probably know for sure when i do the barbecued ribs over the weekend. i'd have to say its a pretty expensive cooking gadget and i'll slap myself silly if it proves to be a dud. so far though, i am satisfied.
one of the cool new things i decided to buy of late is the 9-minute marinator. yeah, blame it on tuning in to those tv shopping channels. but i've been eyeing this one for quite a while now and read that it really does work. so far i think it does work with some of the dishes we tried. i'll probably know for sure when i do the barbecued ribs over the weekend. i'd have to say its a pretty expensive cooking gadget and i'll slap myself silly if it proves to be a dud. so far though, i am satisfied.
February 18, 2008
getting back to normal
so yes, i managed to complete all 10 days of the "Master Cleanse" program last sunday. Yes, 10 days of having nothing except the lemonade concoction. this was my first attempt at detoxifying my body and final tally - 10.2lbs less than when i started. again, i look like i have a jawline (lol!). 10.2 lbs in 10 days isn't too bad. i'm now breaking off from the detox program and today, i had orange juice galore for the whole day - managed to finish all 2 liters of it.
as i promised, i went to the gym after finishing up work - faithfully did a 20-min stop & go cardio and did my weight training. i didn't really care if i was only using 5, 10 & 15lbs dumbells but i decided to start slowly lest i overexert myself and find myself too sore the next day. i've had that happen last time effectively preventing me from going back to the gym the rest of the week. its pretty hard to do more abdominal exercises because i think i have a weak back or i might not be doing these abdominal exercises properly. tomorrow, i'll do the hip-hop abs here at home --- yeah, i need to get back in shape (for the fans! hahaha).
one thought-provoking thing kept popping into my head the whole time today and more when i was shopping at S&R after my workout. i was talking to a colleague today and we talked about our future in our current organization. we realized that what happened to some good friends (who got retrenched) can very well happen to us too. we agreed that whatever amount we will be getting isn't really going to last very long - and there is truth to it. the thought of not having a job mortifies me - and makes me more determined to figure out a plan B. i am praying that rr/jfc gets back (as they promised) this week and bring forth good news. i am in serious need of a new adventure - a fresh start. God-willing, i know that there is good news coming in the horizon.
as i promised, i went to the gym after finishing up work - faithfully did a 20-min stop & go cardio and did my weight training. i didn't really care if i was only using 5, 10 & 15lbs dumbells but i decided to start slowly lest i overexert myself and find myself too sore the next day. i've had that happen last time effectively preventing me from going back to the gym the rest of the week. its pretty hard to do more abdominal exercises because i think i have a weak back or i might not be doing these abdominal exercises properly. tomorrow, i'll do the hip-hop abs here at home --- yeah, i need to get back in shape (for the fans! hahaha).
one thought-provoking thing kept popping into my head the whole time today and more when i was shopping at S&R after my workout. i was talking to a colleague today and we talked about our future in our current organization. we realized that what happened to some good friends (who got retrenched) can very well happen to us too. we agreed that whatever amount we will be getting isn't really going to last very long - and there is truth to it. the thought of not having a job mortifies me - and makes me more determined to figure out a plan B. i am praying that rr/jfc gets back (as they promised) this week and bring forth good news. i am in serious need of a new adventure - a fresh start. God-willing, i know that there is good news coming in the horizon.
February 14, 2008
survey. survey. survey (from my classmate hazel)
can't you tell i'm bored?
1. What time did you get up this morning? 6am
2. Diamonds or pearls? Diamonds
3. What was the last film you saw at the cinema? one more chance, i think (lol!)
4. What's your favorite TV show? grey's anatomy, house, brothers & sisters, bsg
5. What did you have for breakfast this morning? a glass of lemonade concoction
6. What's your favorite cuisine? chinese>japanese>spanish>american>italian in that order
7. What food do you dislike? Blood stew (eeewww)
8. What is your favorite chip flavor? BBQ
9. What's your favorite CD at the moment? everything on my ipod's LSS playlist
10. What kind of car do you drive? Honda CRV
11. Favorite sandwich? Ham & Cheese and Crabstick sandwich from Oliver's
12. What characteristics do you despise? Backstabbing beyotch
13. What is your favorite type of clothing? Jeans, shirts & havs
14. If you could go anywhere in the world on vacation. Where? Europe
15. What color is your bathroom? Blue
16. Favorite brand of clothing? American Eagle Outfitters, Springfield
17. Where would you retire to? Either near the beach or somewhere in the country
18. Favorite time of the day? Mornings - reminds me that i am alive
19. What was your most memorable birthday? All of my birthdays are memorable
20. Where were you born? Mandaluyong
21. Favorite sport to watch? F1, World Cup, Volleyball
22. Were you named after anyone? Probably from someone who is royalty (lol)
23. Do you wish on stars? When i was a kid
24. When did you last cry? I don't cry anymore
25. Do you like your handwriting? I have very nice penmanship
26. If you were another person, would YOU be friends with you? BFF
27. Are you a daredevil? Oh yeah, i'm an adrenaline junkie
28. Do looks matter? Only if you are superficial
29. How do you release anger? I bitchslap anyone caught within the warpath
30. What were your favorite toys as a child? Hmmm i don't think i had any favorites
31. What class in High School was totally useless? Work Education
32. Favorite movies? Under the Tuscan Sun, LOTR, Matrix
33. What are your nicknames? Jay. I don't respond to anything else.
34. Do you untie your shoes when you take them off? Of course. I love my shoes too much.
35. Do you think that you are strong? I get by
36. What's your favorite ice cream flavor? Vanilla Bean forever!
37. What are your favorite colors? Blue, White, Green & Red. I look great in those hues.
38. What is your least favorite thing about yourself? I can be super OC
39 What color pants are you wearing? I'm wearing shorts right now.
40. Last thing you ate? My lemonade concoction, naka-detox kasi ako!
41. Favorite song? With You by Chris Brown
42. If you were a CRAYON what color would you be? Blue (Red daw is the ultimate slut color)
43. Last person you talked to on the phone? My classmate, Mark.
44. What is the first thing you notice about the opposite sex? Her clothes
45. Favorite drink? Water
46. Do you wear contacts? Nope, i have 20/20 vision
47. Favorite day of the year? Christmas
48. Endings happy or sad? Happy definitely
49. Winter/summer? Summer, i get to go to the beach!
50. Hugs OR Kisses? Why can't i have both?
51. What is Your Favorite Dessert? Carrot cake with cream cheese frosting
52. What Book(s) are you reading? None, i don't feel like reading lately.
53. What is on your mouse pad? A Black canvass
54. What Did You Watch Last night on TV? American Idol
55. Favorite Smells? I love anything citrus - it smells clean.
56. Stones or Beatles? Let's just say i'm not such a big fan of the oldies
57. Where's the furthest you've been from home? Arizona
1. What time did you get up this morning? 6am
2. Diamonds or pearls? Diamonds
3. What was the last film you saw at the cinema? one more chance, i think (lol!)
4. What's your favorite TV show? grey's anatomy, house, brothers & sisters, bsg
5. What did you have for breakfast this morning? a glass of lemonade concoction
6. What's your favorite cuisine? chinese>japanese>spanish>american>italian in that order
7. What food do you dislike? Blood stew (eeewww)
8. What is your favorite chip flavor? BBQ
9. What's your favorite CD at the moment? everything on my ipod's LSS playlist
10. What kind of car do you drive? Honda CRV
11. Favorite sandwich? Ham & Cheese and Crabstick sandwich from Oliver's
12. What characteristics do you despise? Backstabbing beyotch
13. What is your favorite type of clothing? Jeans, shirts & havs
14. If you could go anywhere in the world on vacation. Where? Europe
15. What color is your bathroom? Blue
16. Favorite brand of clothing? American Eagle Outfitters, Springfield
17. Where would you retire to? Either near the beach or somewhere in the country
18. Favorite time of the day? Mornings - reminds me that i am alive
19. What was your most memorable birthday? All of my birthdays are memorable
20. Where were you born? Mandaluyong
21. Favorite sport to watch? F1, World Cup, Volleyball
22. Were you named after anyone? Probably from someone who is royalty (lol)
23. Do you wish on stars? When i was a kid
24. When did you last cry? I don't cry anymore
25. Do you like your handwriting? I have very nice penmanship
26. If you were another person, would YOU be friends with you? BFF
27. Are you a daredevil? Oh yeah, i'm an adrenaline junkie
28. Do looks matter? Only if you are superficial
29. How do you release anger? I bitchslap anyone caught within the warpath
30. What were your favorite toys as a child? Hmmm i don't think i had any favorites
31. What class in High School was totally useless? Work Education
32. Favorite movies? Under the Tuscan Sun, LOTR, Matrix
33. What are your nicknames? Jay. I don't respond to anything else.
34. Do you untie your shoes when you take them off? Of course. I love my shoes too much.
35. Do you think that you are strong? I get by
36. What's your favorite ice cream flavor? Vanilla Bean forever!
37. What are your favorite colors? Blue, White, Green & Red. I look great in those hues.
38. What is your least favorite thing about yourself? I can be super OC
39 What color pants are you wearing? I'm wearing shorts right now.
40. Last thing you ate? My lemonade concoction, naka-detox kasi ako!
41. Favorite song? With You by Chris Brown
42. If you were a CRAYON what color would you be? Blue (Red daw is the ultimate slut color)
43. Last person you talked to on the phone? My classmate, Mark.
44. What is the first thing you notice about the opposite sex? Her clothes
45. Favorite drink? Water
46. Do you wear contacts? Nope, i have 20/20 vision
47. Favorite day of the year? Christmas
48. Endings happy or sad? Happy definitely
49. Winter/summer? Summer, i get to go to the beach!
50. Hugs OR Kisses? Why can't i have both?
51. What is Your Favorite Dessert? Carrot cake with cream cheese frosting
52. What Book(s) are you reading? None, i don't feel like reading lately.
53. What is on your mouse pad? A Black canvass
54. What Did You Watch Last night on TV? American Idol
55. Favorite Smells? I love anything citrus - it smells clean.
56. Stones or Beatles? Let's just say i'm not such a big fan of the oldies
57. Where's the furthest you've been from home? Arizona
american idol - top 24
yes, i'm a self-confessed american idol fanatic. there's just something about it that's really addicting and something about cheering for your favorite that makes it worthwhile to see. there seems to be a whole lot of talent this year - not reminiscent of the horrible sanjaya malakar season. i could be wrong of course - how everybody fares remains to be seen. but here's the top 24 - who are you rooting for?
February 07, 2008
fat boy
the realization of how much weight i've gain over the past six months hit me like a brick wall. over the past month, i've been building up the supplies needed for a much needed detox diet even buying some of the supplies during my trip. i've made up my mind that i need to start this detox tomorrow. weighing in at 190lbs is career topping if i may so with me being the skinny kid back in high school. age really has a way of screwing up your metabolism and the stress-free, laid back life i've grown accustomed to over the past year is really showing. gym has gone back to being my charitable institution but i seriously plan to make a comeback - this time with a major purpose. i'd really like to work on achieving my "body for life."
hopefully i get to lose all 25lbs, get back to a cool 165 and finally be able to wear my S & M-sized shirts again.
hopefully i get to lose all 25lbs, get back to a cool 165 and finally be able to wear my S & M-sized shirts again.
Tiger in the Year of the Rat
- It will be a mixed year of good and not so good (not bad) and a year of learning new skills; investment opportunities and career change with some slight negative side to the year although if you follow my advice you can have a great year.
- The rewards for the year can be very good if you are prepared to work hard and able to accept some changes, the changes will be good for you although it may not seem it at the time.
- This year can also be a year of learning and this is why changes are frequent as it could be learning a new job, ideas that you have had in last year whether for a new business, career or new hobby, this is the year you should put them in place.
- It is a better year for those in paid employment rather than self employed.
- 2008 will be a busy year and whilst all should go well with career and finance you can overlook partners needs, so make sure you make time for loved ones whether it is your wife, boyfriend, Mother, sister or best friend.
- The single Tiger will find a few offers but you will need to choose carefully as it is hard to tell a book by its cover.
- A mixed year for finances and investments and make sure you read the small print as the annual stars suggest legal issues and back stabbing, so be careful.
- Make sure you leave time for yourself and try to relax more as stress can be an issue and you may feel down at times, whatever is on your mind right now it WILL pass.
- Although overall it should be a good year for the Tiger please be positive as you can suffer from sadness.
- For further protection wear some hematite beads or place some hematite beside your bed.
- In 2008 you should use the four pillars enhancers. If there is one month in the year to tread carefully it will be in October 2008, so please remember this month.
- Be careful of gossip/slander and people who are jealous of you, they may try and make you look bad.
- Young Tigers born in 1998 should do well this year.
- In October you should be careful of accidents with knives so if you have children of this age keep them away from sharp objects.
- To enhance romance and career in 2008 place four pieces of hematite crystal along a very auspicious i-ching coin placed in a bowl of still water, this cure is very important in 2008 as is the Four Pillars Taiyang enhancer placed in the inter-cardinal compass sectors SW-SE-NW & NE.
- Take extra care in the months of April, June, October and November and make sure you check back with us monthly to get your updates for the month.
- Your lucky sector: (astrological zone) is the Northeast (52.5º - 67.5º) of the home or office.
- Although the northeast is your astrological zone, this may not be the best direction for you to face when seated at work or doing anything important.
- If you are relocating your desk this year to face one of your favourable personal directions, please be aware of the directions and locations of the annual afflictions in particular south and northwest in 2008.
- You are in affinity with the Pig/Boar. For your protection, you should have a key chain pendant of a Pig.
- Be careful if your main door, bedroom or office or any other important room is located in the south, northwest or west this year 2008.
- If your office or bedroom is located in the southeast or southwest please be aware that in the months of April & July 2008 make sure you place a Wu Lou or six Chinese coins tied in a row with red ribbon for the month especially if you are not in good health or very stressed.
- When at work, you may sit facing the south direction if this is one of your personal good directions, but do not sit with your back to the south or you may find unscrupulous people working against you or you may encounter undue gossip and back stabbing during the year.
- Because the south has the three killings and Sui Po combined with the #5 bad luck star this makes the south very undesirable in 2008 and considering I have my office in the south one cure I shall definitely be using and one that is an intricate and an exceptionally powerful cure in 2008 and can only be used in certain years is by placing a six metal Dragon hanging Pagoda.
- The reason you can only use this cure in the south is because the Dragon is part of the three combinations (San He) and if placed correctly not only can it cure the negative effects of the south in 2008 it can also enhance a very inauspicious area making it an extremely powerful cure and enhancer.
- North is where Tai Sui With Tai Sui (Grand Duke of Jupiter) , you may rely on him for support in that you may sit with him in the north and face the south.
- Do not confront him (Grand Duke of Jupiter) by undertaking any renovation or construction works in the north or by sitting in a position that is directly opposite him (south).
- In 2008, this means do not sit with your back to the south facing north even if this is your best direction.
- Most traditional Chinese families would place a Pi Yao and a gold coloured three legged toad in the south of the home facing north or if your main door is in the north, place it just inside the door facing north.
- Sui Po (The year breaker) year breaker occupies the division directly opposite Tai Sui Grand Duke, which for 2008 is south.
- You should treat this area (The year breaker) the same as the other annual afflictions with no groundbreaking work, renovations or any noisy activities.
- If disturbed this area (The year breaker) can and normally will cause immediate health problems especially for the elderly, so please be very careful.
- If you have to carry out work or emergency repairs in the south place a six hollow metal rod wind chime (if you are using the 2008 cures kit you do not have to think about it) between the building and where the work is being carried out.
- To soften the effects of the year you should hang six Chinese coins tied with a red ribbon and place it in the northwest of your home or office this year to control the #2 star.
- You should also place a six rod metal wind chime in the south along with a set of six Chinese coins tied together with ribbon in your home this year to weaken the #5.
2008 Predictions
February 04, 2008
i'm back
having no internet connection for the past week was torture there were times i thought i was going to go out of my mind not having the liberty to check my email on a whim. so finally today, after calling everyday since tuesday they (pldt) finally sent somebody to fix the damn thing. a word of warning, if you are subscribed to pldt mydsl, good luck dealing with their customer service - they're pretty much useless. expect at least a week of outtage (if you are lucky) before they endorse your request to the service technician. anyway, i am just glad to be back online - means i have the liberty to start working from home again. yay, for that.
in the past week till today, both the remaining prospects i have called back for my final meetings. i managed to set-up the jfc/rr meeting after emailing them i was back in manila when surprisingly i received a call from a/ for the closing meeting. i think i did well in both meetings because i knew i was in my element during the conversations. i just know because words flowed effortlessly and finding the right words to say to the questions came instantaneously. while i was very hopeful, i also expect that neither of the last two prospects will probably be able to match the x/sg package. i will know soon and i remain hopeful the package is going to be good.
i'm excited at the prospect of going on a new adventure.
in the past week till today, both the remaining prospects i have called back for my final meetings. i managed to set-up the jfc/rr meeting after emailing them i was back in manila when surprisingly i received a call from a/ for the closing meeting. i think i did well in both meetings because i knew i was in my element during the conversations. i just know because words flowed effortlessly and finding the right words to say to the questions came instantaneously. while i was very hopeful, i also expect that neither of the last two prospects will probably be able to match the x/sg package. i will know soon and i remain hopeful the package is going to be good.
i'm excited at the prospect of going on a new adventure.
January 31, 2008
disconnected
since i got back monday, the internet connection at home is still not working. today is day 4 and i've been calling to follow-up every day for the past three days. despite my still existing bouts with jetlag, i had to drive to the cavite plant two days in a row now - what a sacrifice (lol)! its almost three weeks of downloading backlog and i'm going to have a hard time catching up seeing the shows i love.
i honestly can't imagine being this disconnected. its torture not being able to surf the internet or blog even. the last two weeks of blogging hiatus was a welcome change - being quite busy and tired from the whole day meetings, my head was too tired by day's end to even think about blogging. now that i'm back and still disconnected, there's nothing a whole lot to do at home than watch tv (which i rarely do these days) and try to shake off this jetlag. it'll be easy to just pop some sleeping pills but i make it a point on not taking any sleep aids during the weekday. if i haven't managed to get back my sleep cycle, i'll probably take some friday night.
so please pldt .... fix my darn DSL NOW!!!
i honestly can't imagine being this disconnected. its torture not being able to surf the internet or blog even. the last two weeks of blogging hiatus was a welcome change - being quite busy and tired from the whole day meetings, my head was too tired by day's end to even think about blogging. now that i'm back and still disconnected, there's nothing a whole lot to do at home than watch tv (which i rarely do these days) and try to shake off this jetlag. it'll be easy to just pop some sleeping pills but i make it a point on not taking any sleep aids during the weekday. if i haven't managed to get back my sleep cycle, i'll probably take some friday night.
so please pldt .... fix my darn DSL NOW!!!
January 30, 2008
hard choices
taking the last two weeks to think things through proved to be time well-spent. in more ways, i think God rewarded me with the signs i prayed for and i found it wasn't really that hard to convince myself i was making the right decision. i would have preferred to convey my decision via e-mail when i got back but my internet was down (for the last two days, frak!) and as much as i wanted to delay getting back at them, i received their follow-up call yesterday. after the phonecall, i decided to send them an e-mail using my mobile phone.
"Thank you for your interest in offering me a place in your prestigious company.
It is unfortunate that at this time, due to the current state of my family, we have decided that it is best for me to stay for the time being. I am very thankful for this opportunity and wish you all the best. I hope that I will have the pleasure to work with you in the future."
a lot of friends had all given very sound advice and i have read and taken all of it to heart. some of you may feel i squandered a perfectly good opportunity and maybe i did but i know in my heart this decision was right for me. there was a fleeting feeling of loss after i told them about my decision but after seeing my nephew, getting hugged and showered with kisses, i couldn't imagine life without him. i know some of my friends would not agree with my decision - believe me it was a hard decision to make because in some ways, moving abroad was like a dream. i realized though that some dreams are better left where they are because the reality is this - where i will be happy is with my family, and there's not enough money they can offer to replace that.
"Thank you for your interest in offering me a place in your prestigious company.
It is unfortunate that at this time, due to the current state of my family, we have decided that it is best for me to stay for the time being. I am very thankful for this opportunity and wish you all the best. I hope that I will have the pleasure to work with you in the future."
a lot of friends had all given very sound advice and i have read and taken all of it to heart. some of you may feel i squandered a perfectly good opportunity and maybe i did but i know in my heart this decision was right for me. there was a fleeting feeling of loss after i told them about my decision but after seeing my nephew, getting hugged and showered with kisses, i couldn't imagine life without him. i know some of my friends would not agree with my decision - believe me it was a hard decision to make because in some ways, moving abroad was like a dream. i realized though that some dreams are better left where they are because the reality is this - where i will be happy is with my family, and there's not enough money they can offer to replace that.
January 27, 2008
back at it again
i'm back at the airport again. i am about two hours early for my flight to LA and i sit here staring once again into a near empty gate. phoenix isn't busy right now but its going to be soon since next week is going to be the superbowl. i'd have to say that i love arizona despite the heat - i have friends here and a lot of memories and experiences made. if things work out, i don't know if i will be able to come back.
the last week has been a flurry of activities. one face to face after another dragged for so long i felt worn out by the end of it. my colds has been on and off which is likely of my own doing for not getting restful sleep nightly. i ate so much the past week that i hardly believe what the weighing scale says now. i have resolved myself that there's no escape to gaining a whole lot of weight during this trip. seeing gizie and how good she looks now from all the gym workout and healthy eating gives me motivation to go back to the gym.
still an hour to go and i'm running out of things to say. i hope i get better during the trip because i don't want to come back all sickly. i'm going to miss az.
the last week has been a flurry of activities. one face to face after another dragged for so long i felt worn out by the end of it. my colds has been on and off which is likely of my own doing for not getting restful sleep nightly. i ate so much the past week that i hardly believe what the weighing scale says now. i have resolved myself that there's no escape to gaining a whole lot of weight during this trip. seeing gizie and how good she looks now from all the gym workout and healthy eating gives me motivation to go back to the gym.
still an hour to go and i'm running out of things to say. i hope i get better during the trip because i don't want to come back all sickly. i'm going to miss az.
January 24, 2008
time's almost up ...
i am in the last leg of this trip. i still do have mixed feelings about leaving on saturday - can't wait to get back home to see my friends and my loved ones (my sweet sweet nephew) but at the same time wanting to postpone having to make a decision.
i've been up late almost every night since i got here - there's just me and these trips to the other side of the world. i get jetlags pretty bad. over the past week, i've shopped mostly for the fam which in a way is uncharacteristic of me since i usually shop more for myself. this time though, i feel like buying clothes is not a worthy investment (yes, i still treat clothing as investment --- may ukay-ukay na kasi hahaha) cause i think i've gained too much weight that i am a size bigger than what i usually wear. so NOT a lot of clothing for me. i've mostly packed already having the done the due diligence of packing early to see where everything fits - and so far, i think i need to be creative packing some of the remaining stuff.
over the last couple of weeks, well-meaning friends have shared a lot of their thoughts regarding the SG offer. I'd have to say friends were split into two - those who thinks i should take it and those who think i should stay. coincidentally, i asked both my mom and sister about it and they both have differing opinions. i did ask my nephew about it and of course he wants me to stay. in a way i think i would have been leaning towards accepting the offer when i got back the last week UNTIL i got the call from jfc/rr. that sort of threw a wrench on everything. honestly, despite the opportunities that SG offers, my heart tells me that i would be happier staying - seeing my nephew grow and being with my family and my friends. there's still some more time left to think about it. so yeah, time's almost up.
i've been up late almost every night since i got here - there's just me and these trips to the other side of the world. i get jetlags pretty bad. over the past week, i've shopped mostly for the fam which in a way is uncharacteristic of me since i usually shop more for myself. this time though, i feel like buying clothes is not a worthy investment (yes, i still treat clothing as investment --- may ukay-ukay na kasi hahaha) cause i think i've gained too much weight that i am a size bigger than what i usually wear. so NOT a lot of clothing for me. i've mostly packed already having the done the due diligence of packing early to see where everything fits - and so far, i think i need to be creative packing some of the remaining stuff.
over the last couple of weeks, well-meaning friends have shared a lot of their thoughts regarding the SG offer. I'd have to say friends were split into two - those who thinks i should take it and those who think i should stay. coincidentally, i asked both my mom and sister about it and they both have differing opinions. i did ask my nephew about it and of course he wants me to stay. in a way i think i would have been leaning towards accepting the offer when i got back the last week UNTIL i got the call from jfc/rr. that sort of threw a wrench on everything. honestly, despite the opportunities that SG offers, my heart tells me that i would be happier staying - seeing my nephew grow and being with my family and my friends. there's still some more time left to think about it. so yeah, time's almost up.
January 19, 2008
catching up
things have been quite hectic the last few days with the face-to-face and all the post-meeting stuff that had to be taken cared of that there was never really any good time to write. its pretty cold in arizona right now at -2 deg celsius that in the first two day's i had a terrible cold which abated pretty quickly after taking tylenol cold multi-symptom. i still have been sniffling the past two days though but taking the tylenol cold (night) gave me a really great night's sleep. so i'm ready to do some shopping later on.
one of the great news for this week has been, i would say, an answered prayer. i received a call from jfc/rr around midnight three days ago informing me that they are going to set up a meeting. there's no formal offer yet of course and its still a risk, and before receiving this call, i was already leaning more on accepting the SG offer after much debate. now i am not so sure.
in my first week, i've managed to buy a few pieces of clothing that i really needed but i've been happily shopping clothes and shoes for my dear nephew. i just couldn't resist it, a lot of really great clothes for him. today, i'd start shopping for the fam. its a good and bad thing that i'm not in my best shape right now - good, because i'm not really too keen in buying bigger sized shirts right now, and bad, because i can't buy new clothes. Go figure.
last night, giz, larry and myself had dinner at oregano's. we ordered quite a handful, more than what the three of us could finish. oregano's is one of our favorite restaurants. great pizza. great salad. and a really awesome pizza cookie dessert topped with two scoops of vanilla bean ice cream. giz and larry have both been really great hosts during my stay here. they've really been taking good care of me and i'm so inspired by gizie's dedication to healthy living nowadays. its time i do the same when i get back - for now, i have to enjoy this trip.
lastly, annie (bless her heart) did such a wonderful thing for me this week that i am very very thankful for. grad school released a schedule to file for an application-to-graduate and all the due dates pretty much were impossible for me being here in the US. annie completed all of my requirements, even advanced the PHp2.2k payment so i can march during the graduation ceremony this coming march'08. Thank you Annie! And yes, i would have done the same thing for you!
one of the great news for this week has been, i would say, an answered prayer. i received a call from jfc/rr around midnight three days ago informing me that they are going to set up a meeting. there's no formal offer yet of course and its still a risk, and before receiving this call, i was already leaning more on accepting the SG offer after much debate. now i am not so sure.
in my first week, i've managed to buy a few pieces of clothing that i really needed but i've been happily shopping clothes and shoes for my dear nephew. i just couldn't resist it, a lot of really great clothes for him. today, i'd start shopping for the fam. its a good and bad thing that i'm not in my best shape right now - good, because i'm not really too keen in buying bigger sized shirts right now, and bad, because i can't buy new clothes. Go figure.
last night, giz, larry and myself had dinner at oregano's. we ordered quite a handful, more than what the three of us could finish. oregano's is one of our favorite restaurants. great pizza. great salad. and a really awesome pizza cookie dessert topped with two scoops of vanilla bean ice cream. giz and larry have both been really great hosts during my stay here. they've really been taking good care of me and i'm so inspired by gizie's dedication to healthy living nowadays. its time i do the same when i get back - for now, i have to enjoy this trip.
lastly, annie (bless her heart) did such a wonderful thing for me this week that i am very very thankful for. grad school released a schedule to file for an application-to-graduate and all the due dates pretty much were impossible for me being here in the US. annie completed all of my requirements, even advanced the PHp2.2k payment so i can march during the graduation ceremony this coming march'08. Thank you Annie! And yes, i would have done the same thing for you!
January 15, 2008
can i leave him behind?
my sister tells me my nephew misses me back home. she sent me a text message while i was at the airport that my nephew cried after i got off the car and said he was going to miss me. jacob can be so dramatic sometimes - but that kind of sweetness, love is nothing short of genuine. i really miss him already. my sister says jacob always says he misses me (with tears in his eyes pa) everyday. it makes it harder to consider leaving him if i decide to move to singapore. the clock is ticking and i need to make a decision soon. so far, with all the people i've talked to, it seems that going for it is the right thing to do. maybe i know the answer to begin with and i am just afraid to accept it. i'm still praying for the sign - and to hopefully not have to be apart from my nephew who i love with all of me.
sicky sicky
it must be the cold, the lack of sleep, the long flight - but i felt sick the whole day yesterday. the meds knocked me out last night that i didn't even realized it was past 9am already. giz and larry were already at the office by then but giz was kind enough to leave me breakfast at the microwave. i spent the day working and dozing off, not necessarily in that order but it was hard to concentrate because i was feeling weak the entire time. since giz was going to the gym after work and larry was going out for pool night, i decided to prepare dinner instead. it was the first time i was doing this dish but it was simple enough that it turned out nicely - chicken cordon bleu. and instead of frying it, i baked it in the oven so it was healthier. the mushroom gravy needed a lot of adjusting (might have put a little too much salt) before i managed to get it right. probably too thin for others but i thought it was just the right consistency to slather onto the chicken and brown rice. yep, its easier to eat healthier here.
January 13, 2008
in between worlds
sitting around waiting for my connecting flight, i realized how lonely traveling can get. there's a lot of people traveling but most know no one during the flight. we all sit around minding our own business while the whole world pass by. airports, for me, feels some kind of limbo - its a way between worlds where you leave people you know behind and then move on to the next gate where you meet people you know. for more than 18 hours, it felt like i was in limbo. traveling, after some time, can suck the life and joy out of you - specially when you are traveling alone. excited to finally be back almost seven months from last time i was here, i know i am going to enjoy the shopping, the dining out and seeing friends i've made here in chandler. in some ways, being here so much over the last couple of years makes me feel so at home. its a good thing this trip is going to be only two weeks because i already miss the fam back home specially my nephew, who cried when they dropped me off the airport saying he was going to miss me. two weeks for the trip is not so good because it means i have to make a decision soon. this week is going to be a very busy one for me and hopefully the week after is lighter. i should get a headstart on my shopping tomorrow!
January 09, 2008
considerations ...
the thing about having to make decisions is that its hard when you have a lot of factors to consider. i've been quite open to a few close friends about this whole adventure that i decided to take a few months back and today was no different. there is just comfort in being to hear what they have to say - like taking all the variables and inputs before making any calculations. i was beset the whole day on what's the best way to make a decision that i decided to invite car & bel and take solace in prayer - and what better way to do that than go visit the chapel where the pink sisters pray. yes, i find peace in prayer and i (and my family) went to this chapel a couple of times during the trying times. if there was a way to make a sound decision, this was it for me.
i realized talking to friends that what is being offered is quite good. doing the math, its a very good offer if i was single or if my family would be with me in SG. having to support them in manila and having to live independently will mean the expenses sort of doubles. that puts quite a big dent on "supposed" savings. peso per peso, at the same salary, it definitely is much more advantageous to stay in the country.
the other more major factor is the thought of not seeing and being with my nephew feels unbearable. if going there is a sure way to provide him with a secure future, that is the sacrifice to make. its not me trying to be a hero, its me accepting the responsibility that we owe it to him to have a future. i told him last night i was going to ride the airplane and will be away from home and he hugged me and told me "i want you to stay here, uncle!" what can you say to that? and more importantly, how will you feel about that?
i am praying deeply for the local company i am interested in to make an offer that i can compare to. this is definitely going to be something that will occupy my head at least for the next couple of weeks. foregoing this opportunity is an option definitely. take a chance and wait for the rr/j to make an offer or if that doesn't work out, continue to look for other prospects and risk getting a similar salary (which probably still isn't bad).
right now, i am praying for a sign.
i realized talking to friends that what is being offered is quite good. doing the math, its a very good offer if i was single or if my family would be with me in SG. having to support them in manila and having to live independently will mean the expenses sort of doubles. that puts quite a big dent on "supposed" savings. peso per peso, at the same salary, it definitely is much more advantageous to stay in the country.
the other more major factor is the thought of not seeing and being with my nephew feels unbearable. if going there is a sure way to provide him with a secure future, that is the sacrifice to make. its not me trying to be a hero, its me accepting the responsibility that we owe it to him to have a future. i told him last night i was going to ride the airplane and will be away from home and he hugged me and told me "i want you to stay here, uncle!" what can you say to that? and more importantly, how will you feel about that?
i am praying deeply for the local company i am interested in to make an offer that i can compare to. this is definitely going to be something that will occupy my head at least for the next couple of weeks. foregoing this opportunity is an option definitely. take a chance and wait for the rr/j to make an offer or if that doesn't work out, continue to look for other prospects and risk getting a similar salary (which probably still isn't bad).
right now, i am praying for a sign.
January 08, 2008
the ball is in my court
the came in unexpectedly and x/ officially made an offer already. the offer is actually within expectations (not so high, not so low) - let's just say it was mid of the range i asked for. i also get free 14-day housing, reimbursible one-way ticket, rsu, profit sharing and up to 600lbs of cargo. i just have to say "yes" and that will be it - what i've long wanted to do - click the send button for the "this is me ... signing off." letter. i'm going to have to take the 2-week business trip as an excuse not to give them a response for the time being. and i'd have to do everything i can to try and follow-up rr/j with their offer. Lord, i need options.
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