All Things Meg

Chapitre 21

noreply@blogger.com (Meg Key) — Wed, 03 Oct 2012 00:05:00 +0000

mercredi, 3 octobre 12
Dear No One,

Muted from the rest of the world, underwater is where I feel closest to my mom.

Maybe it's the eerie sounds, which the ocean is filled with. There's the sound of breaking waves, rain, marine life and the background sound of the ocean (have you heard of ambient noise?).

Maybe it's the cell-tickling feel I get when I'm underwater. It's foreign. Enthralling. I love it. There is this sick, heart-wrenching pull from underneath. And as I look through the water, I can make out what seems to be a hardly visible face. I can't describe it. But it's always been there.

Maybe it's also because when you're underwater, you're shut off from the world. "Is that a rock or a dead fish?" is just as unsayable as "I need to go now". So yea, sometimes I find comfort in the thick layers of lull and the luxury of not having to converse.

Here, a song I wrote many years back about how it was like to be a ten-year-old losing a mother with her whole life in front of her, undefined.

Too Far Away

Did you know?
when you left me alone
I used to fall a lot
but picked myself up again
Did you know?
I used to sit by the phone
but you never called
I used to feel like
I was losing my own soul
I was ten, tryna make sense
of the things I didn't understand

Now I'm losing all hope
still, I'm giving my all
This faith will pull me through

You're too far away
too far away
But I still believe that you're in me
Away, You're too far away
Though I make believe
In dreams, you'll live again
Away, You're too far away
I still want to believe
in what you made of me
Away, You're too far away
You're too far away

Did you know?
Did you miss me at all?
I used to think
that the smallest things count
Did you know?
How the space between us
was growing smaller
with each passing day
When things started to get better
Fate got bitter
the life you knew was taken away

Listen to it here.

Chapitre 20

noreply@blogger.com (Meg Key) — Mon, 30 Apr 2012 22:51:00 +0000

Mardi, 1 mai 12
Dear No One,

So after a long and tiring day, my friend, Ozzy and I decided to have dinner somewhere close to home.

It is not unusual to find new establishments popping up in even the most secluded areas in Cebu. These are the city's true gems and they are definitely not to be easily dismissed.

Away from the hustle and bustle of the metro, the Soul Bistro is discreetly situated along R. Duterte street in Banawa, just after Paseo Arcenas. The orange color will catch your eye and if you decide to hang around for a while longer it'll do more than that.

What I'm pleased first and foremost about this bistro is their attention to detail. Branding and marketing is important in any business. you make sure that people know you, but the SB has taken that to even their toothpick container. And though the space is small, the ambience is undeniably relaxing, what with the hanging beads outside and the fixed French windows and the framed photos and other whatchamacallit fixes around.

Their menu is a wide array of mexican, Spanish/basque dishes. We had a hard time choosing what to get but you can't go wrong with their must-try's. And I should mention their staff and overall customer service is très magnifique!

So in closing, a shy, quiet little nook with gastronomic delights- one I will definitely be coming back for.

Gambas al Ajillo

Hungarian Sausage (they charge P20 for mustard!)

Chapitre 18

noreply@blogger.com (Meg Key) — Sat, 25 Feb 2012 03:26:00 +0000

Samedi, 25 février 12
Dear No One,

Cannot-sleep-so-must-do-something-productive Tip #103:

Make an album cover art

Chapitre 17

noreply@blogger.com (Meg Key) — Tue, 10 Jan 2012 01:55:00 +0000

Mardi, 10 Janvier 12
Dear No One,

It's JaNEWary and I thought to share my most recent Etude House favorites!

After four weeks of absolute purchasing recoil, I decided to succumb to the lure of retail therapy one Sunday afternoon when asked to meet some friends at the mall.

The first Etude House product I bought was in mid 2011 and it was the Etude House Oh m'Eye Line Eye Liner in Gray. I've been using pot after pot of it since. My soul sistah Pam was using the one in black and I was so jealous I just had to get one, too!

First up, Etude House Peach Cheek Stamp Blusher. Admittedly, this I bought on impulse. Surprisingly, I'm so in love with this right now. The colors in this collection are variations of the Barbie pink hue but it blends well and looks au naturel.

Take a look at this Etude House BB Magic Cream Balm with SPF 30, which I've been using the past two days now. It's balm-to-powder formulation works well with my combination skin. I've skipped using concealer and powder- well, maybe a light dusting of talc powder would help set the balm, yes?

Here, we have the Etude House Milk Screw Lip Care line. I'm currently using the No. 05, which is the second I purchased under the same line. I like how it's never sticky, glides smoothly on my lips, and leaves just a hint of natural color. Perfect for the everyday look. I forgot to take a photo (uh-oh!) but I looked it up online. (Credits: Don't forget to check other lip products here.)

I'm pretty sure I'm not the only one who's never finished a tube of lipstick/tint/gloss in their life. It may be in the wrong color, or that it makes the lippies crack, among other things, however things changed for me with the Etude House lip care line.

This is the Etude House Oh~ m' Eye Lash Curling & Clean Mascara. I think this is the cheapest mascara they have. It's great on those casual days but you can splurge on the other ones that make your peepers extra crazy curly and long!

Etude House Falsies. I haven't tried these on yet to be honest but I've bought more expensive ones that just don't deliver and these look pretty promising- and very cheap!

I've a few other things, too, like cotton swabs and pots of nail polish.

If all that pink merchandise isn't enough to drive you crazy yet, I thought I'd throw in a picture of the crazy-pink bag I've been obsessing about lately.

1. FLAP, CMG

2. DOUBLE-DECKER BUS NECKLACE, ACCESSORIZE

-------------------

Today, I'll leave you with a photo of Marcko with my lanyard <3

Chapitre 19

noreply@blogger.com (Meg Key) — Sun, 08 Jan 2012 06:51:00 +0000

Mardi, 17 avril 12
Dear No One,

My mini haul from a recent Etudé visit.
(some basic necessities like sponges and puffs excluded)

These products have been on the store's shelves for a long time now but I've only just decided to buy them. I'm crossing my fingers, hoping these are worth the dough. I'm still on day 2!

Oh, the anti-rad bee sticker thingie I got for free but as of this writing, I have yet to decide exactly where to strategically place it.

Chapter 16

noreply@blogger.com (Meg Key) — Tue, 20 Dec 2011 02:30:00 +0000

Mardi, 20 décembre 11

Dear No One,

It feels nice to belong. For a casual dancer, such as myself, it is even better to belong to a dance team whose dancers are talented as they are equally gorgeous (laughs) and funny. Personally, I think that belonging to a dance society or other dance group is equivalent to belonging to a kin grouping. And as our rehearsals ran on for weeks in preparation for the Bright Lights Competish, it's easy to say that these people have started to grow more and more close to my heart.

Technically speaking, our performances have always been a mix of dance styles. I like that. I think it's really cool how we get to showcase a variation of dances in one performance and still make the transitions fluid, big thanks to our dance geniuses JP, Joer, and Brian. I've only worked with these people a year and already, I feel like I've gained so much in friendships just as much as I have in the expertise. And though changes happen, what with people moving on and new fish coming in to join the group and all, one thing stays true - in a dance group, you grow: professionally, and in all aspects of well being.

This was taken in the summer, (May 2011) when we bagged first place at the Summer Halo-Halo Retro Remix Competition

The girls strike a pose [L-R, T-B]: Arriane, Maureen, Marshe, April, Meg, Gilda

[L-R, T-B] Brian, Nas, JP, Richard, Alvin, Jay, Joer, Cid, Shane, Aldwin

We [almost] won. *laughs*

Hey, 1st runner up is a cozy enough spot for moi.

with Ma'am Steph, Ome, Gerah, Ninski

Hm, this is supposed to be Billy Crawford. He doesn't look it. Bad shot! I blame the poor lighting and elbows!

-------------

And now, some photos from Boss Jeebs' BTS album

Chapitre 15

noreply@blogger.com (Meg Key) — Wed, 23 Nov 2011 15:30:00 +0000

Mercredi, 23 Novembre 11

Dear No One,

Birthdays always leave me feeling dejected. Every year in the past 12 years of my existence I dreaded for that of mine to come. I didn't feel the need to celebrate. After all, my mum's gone. Ever the organizer, things had been totally different since. I miss her everyday. I miss her even more so on my birthdays.

So on my sophomore year of high school I asked to skip the whole conviviality. And so not celebrating my birthday ran on to become a yearly tradition.

Over the years, people ask me why I do it. Every year I tell them why. I tell them the same exact thing that it ultimately became an almost automatic response. It's my fault I still put up the date on Facebook. Then again, there's always the birthday announcements at the work dump.

Anyway, I've been using the same excuse so much that at some point I was piqued at my own stubbornness. What I didn't know was that one person was about to make everything do a 360 on me.

"Today might as well be like all the other birthdays in the past- except that it's not.

Everyday I wake up and thank the Almighty for another reason to smile. It's not because I've another day to live, it's that I have a life to live with you."

Or so I wrote on mon ami's Facebook wall yesterday.

I meant every word.

Since we've gotten back together I have been seeing things differently. Have you ever heard, read, or been given a saying where you understand the weight of it but it doesn't really hit you until you remember it again many years later? Well, people always say you can change your life by changing your perspective. I just feel it in my heart, mind and soul that I fully understand what it really means now.

I'm often told to change not for the people around me but to do so for myself. But you know, when a special man comes into your life and you want to hold on to him forever, it can't be too bad if you want to be a better version of yourself for him then.

I look at my birthday in a different light now. Just because it is my birthday doesn't mean it has to be all about me.

I see it as an opportunity to be appreciative of the people I hold close to my heart,

a day for recollection,

a way for me to show my gratitude to the people who's always had my back no matter what.

And for my mom, too, so I can show her what a fine lady I have become because of her guidance- and how I can carry on what she has left behind for me to do.

Perhaps it is not a coincidence that my birthday always falls right around Thanksgiving after all.

So on my birthday I say, cheers! To the ones I love!

It's Him I Miss

noreply@blogger.com (Meg Key) — Thu, 03 Nov 2011 02:59:00 +0000

He breaks my heart just a little bit
When he calls
I know that he misses me
I cry some tears then, just a little bit
Oh, I want him around me

I can pretend to break a smile
Laugh just a bit but deep inside
I'm breaking down

Can you please tell him
Just how much I miss
I'll trade all the memories
To taste another kiss
Right in this moment
I think of his smile
Crying and trying
But I can't break free from this feeling
No cut could ever hurt like this
When it's him I miss

I drop everything
And think of his laugh
And all the things we did
He made the sun shine brighter
To me, he's the most beautiful thing

I watch from where I stand
And from where I am
I'm breaking down

Can you please tell him
Just how much I miss
I'll trade all the memories
To taste another kiss
Right in this moment
I think of his smile
Crying and trying
But I can't break free from this feeling
No cut could ever hurt like this
No, no
There's nothing in the world quite like this
When it's him I miss

He makes me stronger, everyday
One day closer

Chapitre 13

noreply@blogger.com (Meg Key) — Tue, 04 Oct 2011 23:48:00 +0000

Mercredi, 5 Octobre 11

Dear No One,

What started out as an all-steak and mixed vegetables dinner party turned into an evening of eventful (and artistic) affair.

First, a look at what you missed at the dinner table.

So it's been decided! We're heading to TOPs (It's really just TOP but whatev). It's a friend's favorite go-to place, where you can see the entire city and its glorious lights at night. Think Paris atop the Eiffel Tower, -70% expectations.

Dan and Nat said it was chilly and very windy when they paid a visit Saturday. I was provisioned accordingly, thankyouverymuch.

We stopped by a convenience store to pick up a couple more beers -but look closely.

Spot the difference? NO?! Buffoon.

Here's moi, Dee, Karl, Dan and Nat with our darling Cebu City in the background.

BUTTTT- guess who else is on TOP?

You're not a true blue Cebuano if you don't know Budoy!

Popular for his catchy M16 and Buwad, Suka, Sili, this local legend just opened his shop last Sunday at the TOP! You can enjoy white or red wine as you muse over his genius artistry. Budoy made use of his creative prowess and fine arts degree to the table in this two-unit section, showcasing his industrial art furniture and paintings to guests and customers alike.

Nat and Dee became good friends with Budoy during their months-long stint at the Shanghai 2011 World Expo. They were just two of our country's delegates and he, a performing guest.

You'll instantly notice that his art pieces speak for themselves.

A true environmentalist. Budoy's art pieces are made from recycled scrap materials.

You'll notice that an actual crossbow was used in this piece.

Stop Flyovers. Like.

Budoy explained that this is a painting of Kwan Yin, the female Buddha. As I later found out, Kwan Yin was a beautiful Indian princess who forsook marriage and the good life to live in a convent in order to become a truly enlightened human being.

I can imagine my future studio apartment furnished with art pieces like this rockin' side table. *sigh*

This one's sold to his DJ friend. And yes, it's a couch made of rubber leftovers.

If you ask, Budoy will show you these pretty Japanese doodads that he's also selling. From necklaces to dolls to key chains, it's a kawaii feast for the eyes!

If you're a native accessory-lover like I am, you'll want to ask him to show you these!

And I'll leave you with a picture of the man himself. I enjoyed our conversation, thanks.

Chapitre 12

noreply@blogger.com (Meg Key) — Wed, 14 Sep 2011 03:39:00 +0000

Mercredi, Septembre 14

Dear No One,

Of wanderlust and wayfaring, I have been quite the trouper this year! Every month since 2011 began, I've somehow been able to get away from the hustle and bustle of the work bullpen to hop into another junket.

Starting with the month of January, when we went fishing with Nat's Shanghai buddies - Miko, Karen and Bitbit. Good laughs!

For Ozzy's birthday last February, we set out to Boljoon, which is further south of Cebu (four hours??).

Look at this poor sea urchin. Hmp.

In conjunction to my Idol, Rob's birthday last March, we went down south again. This time, to Badian.

Locals and tourists alike flock to the Kawasan Falls all year long.

We stayed in this very nice and earthy casa with a gazillion rooms to accommodate all our friends!

I went all international in April! With Achi and her fiancee, we flew to the alluring seaside escapes of Hong Kong.

A Symphony of Lights is staged every night at 8 PM at Tsim Sha Tsui.

Went all Stitch-crazy at Disneyland. Came home broke.

It was a good time to revisit the beaches of Alcoy in May, with both old and new company in tow. Good food, good booze, great friends.

We shook it up a bit and traveled north in June. Went to this place called Bunzi's Cove.

My first time to cliff dive. Boy, did I wish I learned basic diving before going all foolhardy (and slightly reckless?) on this.

Cousins from Taiwan, I-Chun and Evonne, came home to Cebu last July. Swimming!

I wish to go to Taiwan to visit them soon. *Crosses fingers*

August brought in a lot of heavy rains and Cebu was storm-stricken. Good thing we were NOT in Cebu, eh, for 4 days (lol). We went on a consecutive, rip-roaring trip to brave the rapids of the Cagayan de Oro river, breeze through and zipline over the plains and mountains of Bukidnon and immerse in the splendors of Camiguin Island.

Katibawasan Falls, Camiguin Island.

I'm pulsating into a different kind of adventure for September, however, as this does not involve cliffs, waterfalls, rivers.. you know where I'm going with this, I'm sure.

This time I am stepping out of my shell to give a high school romance another spin of the wheel. I'm a little scared, as I'm not very functional in this context but I feel like I owe it to a special someone - and to myself, too - to see where this road leads to after a premature (and utterly immature) letup some eight years ago.

----

Today I'll leave you a with a makeup tip!

Wield your mascara wands wisely!

Clean thoroughly and you can reuse an old mascara wand to tame those wild and unruly eyebrows! Spray a bit of hairspray or gel for extra hold.

Chapitre 11

noreply@blogger.com (Meg Key) — Fri, 19 Aug 2011 07:34:00 +0000

Vendredi, 19 Août 11

Dear No One,

I was all in a tizzy to make a travelog from our recent CDO/Camiguin/Bukidnon trip- the draft carefully laid out in my head. Then I got lazy.

So I'm putting up a picture of some really kawaii barrettes that I bought today instead~!

Doodles. I'm extremely drawn to marine life, sailor stuff, the works. The waters calling out to me.

I want to surf again WTF.

I was also browsing through my old photos in Photobucket (that online photo album, which everyone who's anyone in the good ol' days have), looking for the smileys I made eons ago, then I found this.

Aah, those glorious days..

And now I shall leave you with another photo found in the deep rifts of that Photobucket pile.

Smell ya later ne~

Chapitre 10

noreply@blogger.com (Meg Key) — Sun, 12 Jun 2011 10:28:00 +0000

Dimanche, 12 Juin 11

Dear No One,

Thirteen years later and I'm still writing songs about Mommy.
The pain gnaws away at my soul just as it did that September night..

Love's Disease 

Everyone's got something they want to hold onto
And they try as hard as they could to keep it
And everyone who's lost a mother
Would know just how I feel
To live life everyday
Thinking of the things that could've been 

I've got love like love's got it's own little disease
And I've got holes in my pocket
where my dreams used to be
And in this rain
All the pain disappears with my tears
But when the sun sets
All the world's in darkness
That's how it's been since you've gone away 

Thirteen years into this heartache
Fragments of memories define
Who we were and what's to come of them
I couldn't understand
And I'm still trying to get a hold of it 

I've got love like love's got it's own little disease
And I've got holes in my pocket
where my dreams used to be
And in this rain
All the pain disappears with my tears
But when the sun sets
All the world's in darkness
That's how it's been
And how it's always gonna be since you've gone away 

I put on a smile like I put on makeup
But everyday I feel you're with me
And when I'm about to break
You give me something to hold onto
You give me strength to believe

50 Firsts

noreply@blogger.com (Meg Key) — Fri, 22 Apr 2011 13:53:00 +0000

Jeudi, 22 Avril 11

Dear No One,

(Get set for an exceedingly lengthy post!)

Hong Kong (香港) is well-noted for its expansive skyline and deep natural harbour. It is simply beautiful- and I've been there! Yays! This trip is my first out of the country- and the first among many others:

1. First international flight.

2. First passport stamp.

3. First time in a right-hand drive car.

4. First time in a car goi

ng past 130 mph. (Egad! The drivers in HK are kuraaazy!)

5. First time on a double decker bus!

6. First train ride.

7. First time to crash in for the night.

8. First time to sleep on the couch upright.

9. First Disneyland adventure!

10. First theme park.

11. First roller coaster!

12. First authentic Indian food.

Aloo Mutter, Channa Masala, Aloo Jeera

(Yuck, ick, ew. I'm sorry, I tried!)

13. First time to see a theatrical performance. (Festival of the Lion King)

14. First time to spend more than P5T in a single day!

Bought so many Stitch merchandise!

15. Befriended a Disney Shopkeeper!

Kenneth happens to be a Stitch fan, too! He fondly recounts the first time Lilo met Stitch and thought he was a dog so Stitch hid his extra 2 limbs so he could look more decent!

16. First river cruise!

17. Befriended a Canadian visitor.

Here's Dennis with his son, Demetri, as we wait 2 hours for the Fireworks display to begin.

We talked about a number of things including his trips around Asia, life in Canada, taxes

(haha!), the Filipino people..

18. First GI encounter. Man, they ARE rude.

19. First time to travel with a cousin abroad.

(Insert Achi Angela and Kuya Charles here, hehe)

-and stay on this picture for a sec because here's another one,

20. First time to almost ride on a hot air balloon. Dang, the winds were too strong and for safety reasons, they closed that day.

21. First time to purchase my own Pocky. I've only had Pocky sticks whenever Nin could give me some. I love Pocky! Yays!

22. First time to drink a blackcurrant drink!

23. First time to wear orange.

24. First time to wear orange band aids, too! ahaha!

25. First time in a night market- and aggressive store keepers at that! Here's a tip I learned

from Nin, don't ask for the price unless you really, really want it. And haggle only when you're

really, really interested.

26. First time in Stanley Market.

27. First time to eat authentic Chinese noodles.

Noodles with satay beef

Noodles with Spicy pork cubes

28. First time to see a drawing like mine when I was a kindergartner.

I swear this is what my drawing was like back then!

29. First time to see Kuya Charles and Achi do PDA.

30. First time to see a cemetery abroad.

31. First time to purchase a Starbucks tumbler abroad.

32. First time to be given a free Starbucks drink!

33. First time to Ikea!

34. First time to eat Swedish food!

35. First time to see a giant camera pop up!

36. First time on a winding escalator!

37. First time on a horizontal escalator!

38. First duck meal abroad.

39. First slurpee.

40. First time to see the Symphony of Lights.

41. First Swithland sausage.

42. First time to be swindled, but he failed! Nyaha!

43. First DOM encounter.

44. First time to see skyscrapers.

45. First time to set foot in a designer label boutique.

46. First time in Queen's Road.

47. First time to drink from a milk carton.

48. First time to see my Chinese name on a junk food bag.

49. First time in 1881 Heritage.

Very historic. The Kowloon compound used to be occupied by the Marine Police, now shops line the ground floor and historic artifacts are kept on the upper grounds. Such a beautiful place, it could easily be a castle. Now who doesn't fancy, that?

50. First time to meet Lilo and Stitch. Weh!

Within White Washed Walls

noreply@blogger.com (Meg Key) — Mon, 17 Jan 2011 08:11:00 +0000

Mercredi, 19 Janvier 11

Dear No One,

The tiny people move about- conversing as they stroll, eating the infamous mouth-watering street delectables of Cebu, waving at the many colorful floats. As I look down on all these through my hospital room window I couldn't help but feel a little bummed out.

I had my dress picked out, my day planned. I've never gone out on any of the past Sinulog Festivals since my permanent move back to Cebu, the closest having been last year when I helped out in my Achi's booth.

I was expecting good things for this year's city fiesta. I was finally going to experience firsthand what all the rave was about. I pictured floats, parties, food, celebrities, hennas- all under the sweltering Cebu sun, which (by the way) has played the absent role for about a week now. My, my. Instead, I'm stuck in the hospital, howling in shrieks of pain. Ha, ha. I'm kidding. But really, Diverticulitis is no laughing matter. That, on top of Amoebiasis, is what lead me here.

A word of advice- too much raw fish is hazardous to your well-planned-out Sinulog itinerary. For the curious individuals lurking in the internets, Diverticulitis is the inflammation of one or more parts of the large intestine. This may be brought about by crazy trappings and outpouchings of the thing. If you're curious to know just how painful it is- imagine struggling to put on your panties for 10 minutes whilst you writhe in agonizing pain.

The first diagnosis was possible Appendicitis, because all the symptoms fit. Good thing it wasn't, otherwise I'd be left with a nasty scar on my right lower abdomenBut you know, despite the obvious discomforts of hospital confinement, I am happy. The overflowing gifts of goods and guests remind me that I am a person of interest. Excuse the sudden bout of narcissism, it's just that, I came to the ER on a Wednesday alone. But the love and support that I have received is overwhelming. And for that I give my sincerest of thanks.

On a different note, I happen to have a lot to make up for the soonest that I get out of here and get back to my work bullpen. After my December downfall I'm on extremely thin ice and anything short of excellence would rub insult to my work profile. I am not giving up. Oh no, siree! If there's one thing I learned from hospitalization and social isolation it's that there is a world out there that I hafta conquer. So I've been roughed up here and there, maybe I needed that. I needed the slap to keep me grounded. We don't always stay on top. Violet from the Unfortunate Events series once said, "Always something." Needless to say, I'm a believer.

Chapitre 7

noreply@blogger.com (Meg Key) — Mon, 20 Dec 2010 17:11:00 +0000

Lundi, 20 Décembre 10
Dear No One,

After numerous intricacies and hoo-has since my last post, it's high time to bring new life to this page.

I learned a lot about myself this year:

1. I can truly be happy if I let go of my insecurities and just be myself.
2. Even in a liberated environment I chose to stick to my morals.
3. I can survive on my own, away from home.

Thanks to Gerah, Ninski, Nyang, TL Ome, & (insert) Patty

4. I can do anything if I set my mind to it!

Went from zero to hero, baby! Scored Gold tickets. Here, with my plus one-
Edward Castro.
(Gin Blossoms Lifestyle Points System Incentive)

5. I don't have to buy a single monkey item to start a collection.

[L-R, T-B]

a. monkey executing a disturbing position from Ahia
b. "Monty" from TL Ome
c. Tarsier from Gerah
d-e. 2 twin monkeys from Nat
f. Monkey holding a banana from KeithClare
g. Red Stuffed Thingy from Nat
h. "Kiki" monkey from KeithClare.

6. I can still dance.

(I miss these guys already!)

7. I am blessed to have so many good and wonderful friends around me.

Team Ome (Aug 8-Nov 6ish)

Team Jen S (Nov 7 - present)

CVG Christmas Party 2010

8. I can take decent photos.

Ron Navarro in his own design

Vanessa Espina in Edward Castro

9. I can be spontaneous.

Banawa Drive Halloween Cosplay

10. I don't mind holding a real monkey in my arms.
(Gah, who am I kidding? I just wanted an excuse to post this photo.)

Life's not too bad. We just have to take things one step at a time.
So to you, I say: Gear up! Get going! Live! :')

Chapitre 6

noreply@blogger.com (Meg Key) — Sun, 18 Apr 2010 05:10:00 +0000

Lundi, 18 Avril 10
Dear No One,

And the fruit of last night's sleeplessness (aka not another insomnia episode) is..

wait for it..

The Question: It's 8:30 am and I still haven't gotten my Zzs. What am I doing here?

The Answer in magic ink:

Pretending to catch a wave and standing on a surfboard sans the surfboard. ♥

Chapitre 5

noreply@blogger.com (Meg Key) — Tue, 09 Mar 2010 06:28:00 +0000

Mardi, 9 Mars 10
Dear No One,

Blue Crush has always been one of my favorite movies. Kate Bosworth was great in it and it's what got me interested in surfing way back in 2002.

And I tried surfing for the first time in Siargao last week.

Due to Siargao's proximity to the Philippine Deep, big swells from the Pacific Ocean roll in from the second deepest stretch of water in the world to create flawless, hollow barrelling waves. Siargao is also home to Cloud 9 in General Luna, one of its municipalities. It has played host to numerous international surfing events like last year's Billabong Cloud 9 Invitational 2009.

I surfed on the baby waves just a bit off from Cloud 9. I knew it wasn't going to be easy. But it was sick! First off, I couldn't stand on my board when Ally was teaching me the basics. Then there's the paddling part!

I've had my share of wipe outs and half-stands, too but- everything was well worth the trouble. When you catch your first wave- there's no feeling quite like it.

(trailer from http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ljN7SEEwhmM)

Chapitre 4

noreply@blogger.com (Meg Key) — Mon, 01 Mar 2010 07:32:00 +0000

Lundi, 1 Mars 10
Dear No One,

American Idol Season 9. Who's your favorite this year? Meet mine.

Didi Benami. She's 22 and was a waitress when she auditioned in Hollywood, LA. She lost her best friend, who she said was the reason why she wanted to pursue music.

This is my favorite piece from Hollywood week. It's Kara Dioguardi's Terrified and her version was effortless, perfect, an ear candy. You can appreciate how well she transitions from higher to lower notes on this performance.

Chapitre 3

noreply@blogger.com (Meg Key) — Mon, 25 Jan 2010 04:06:00 +0000

Lundi, 25 Janvier 10
Dear No One,

What's happening to Facebook? Did the people behind the most popular networking site (right now) take a leave of their senses? Hello? One of the biggest reasons why I moved out of Friendster in the first place was because there had been a lot of nonsensical BS going around, especially in the comments section. And take a look at what the FB cat brought in.

Apparently, there are new applications like this one wherein you can 'hit' a friend with a Johnny Depp (or a cute puppy) pillow (srsly). And remember how you can only pick a handful of friends to do things with at a given time before? Well, now you can surreptitiously hit all your friends with that JD pillow by just clicking one tiny little tick box! So friends can fill up your page with ludicrous things and more important profile updates are pushed further back! And you can do it everyday to be really annoying! And all those friends you hit with a JD pillow are going to hit all of their friends with one, too! Amazing!

Okay, now that I've gotten that chunk off my chest..

In an effort to fulfill a promise and make lighter notes on this page, I have gathered a few pictures from that same networking glob on the web. So take a look at what's been going on lately.

Meet *cough* Shayne Mae *cough* Cheeky. She's a nursing graduate, too, just like me!

And that's my super funny and maldita friend, *cough* Dimpy *cough* Dimple. ('D' for David, 'I' for India, 'M' for..)

That's Dimple's half-German best friend, Burgi. He's so guapo and so artistahin, Cheeky and I just had to pose as groupies because we aren't worthy.

So we've been paying more frequent visits to Timezone lately. Hmm. And here, more friends~!!

..and even more, more friends~!!

In other news, the gang's going to meet up this Saturday night for good booze, good food, good froonds, and all that neat stuff. Nin, get your game on 'cause I'ma beat you at Wii and Karaoke! (Also in attendance: Sec E and F friends)

But the real highlight of the night will be saying our goodbyes to our beautiful friend, Sharee, who will be leaving for Switzerland.

Chapitre 2

noreply@blogger.com (Meg Key) — Tue, 19 Jan 2010 04:16:00 +0000

Mardi, 19 Janvier 10
Dear No One,

I've been doing a lot of thinking the past few days. We are of the same blood, but beyond that my Dad and I are completely incommensurable. But what has my Dad really done to me that could make me hate him so much?

And it hit me, you know? Nothing.

Daddy has never laid a finger on me. I was never yelled at. Okay, once, last year. Over the phone. But it was only because I was being difficult. I always was. I guess now that I really start poring over the catastrophic events of my life with Dad, he has never really wronged me.

And yet it was I, his most dearest chip off the old block, who decided to turn against him. How could I have been so blind all these years? For so long I have ultimately believed there was no man more evil than my own father. Arrogant. Selfish. Loathing.

My growing up years were spent in cut pieces here and there but never with my own family. I never really grew up with my Dad. He'd come visit for a few weeks each year. It was difficult, especially after Mom died. I was in my sophomore year of high school when I first learned things about him that he never disclosed of. Before that, my Daddy was Superman personified. He was my bestest friend. He was my everything.

It was difficult getting his side of the all the stories sparked all about him. And even when I could, people would just say he was lying. And I believed them. Really. I succumbed to every hanging word said about him that tarnished the way I looked at him forever.

So throughout many years later, I would grab at every creaking opportunity to mock or ridicule him. Every time I felt Ahia was being outweighed by his new wife and kid, I would talk over him and make him change his plans. I never backed out of what I thought was a fight with him. I always readied for his retaliation. But he never once showed that he was upset with me. It was like he completely understood me. And it only made me more angry.

My eyes well up and my head hurts after much bawling each time I remember the two things Daddy told me before. I can't even begin to explain how much remorse I feel every time I remember those two things. Because he said them to me only once, but they stuck like glue. They'd had a different insinuation to me then. He'd said, "As a father, you have to understand your children." He also said that 'he knew me more than I knew myself'.

*****

My Dad was leaving. For real this time. The plane tickets were proof of that. And I can't help feeling like it was all. my. fault. I panicked, but I tried real hard to suppress it. I went on with my silent treatment like I never noticed a thing. We had not spoken since my birthday last year, when I showcased my monstrosity in a fit of rage at him. I'd really done it.

But nothing cuts deeper like a knife than the realization that you don't have much time left to make things right again. The pang of guilt is overwhelming.

I had just one day left.

He was just pulling a polo shirt over his head behind the bedroom door. He was going out. Again. Was he doing this on purpose? It was hard enough for me, spending the whole day yesterday to device a plan of action and he was acting like he meant to evade me until he'd gone.

"Dy." I squeaked. He didn't even flinch. "Daddy." I said, a bit louder this time. He looked at me then. I couldn't even look him in the eye. I just ran to and threw my arms around him, burying my face in his chest, basking in his familiar scent. Just as quickly, he returned my embrace and pulled me tight, lightly kissing my forehead repeatedly- just like he used to when I was little. I began to cry as images began to hover my mind of all the horrible things I've done to him over the years. But he just tightened his embrace and tried to calm me down.

We spent our last day together, nothing overly dramatic thereafter. We watched a bad DVD movie over chips. He'd left for a few hours to see if the water dispenser has been repaired. I'd sponsored our dinner.

But that night while I was getting ready for work. And by getting ready, I mean piling on the mascara and doing my brows, I noticed that he was just observing me from his dim bedroom. I couldn't quite make out his expression. But I tried not to make a big deal out of it. A few minutes later, he got out to the living room and said he couldn't sleep. He took out some papers and a pen and made busy of himself. I continued to get ready.

I was about to head out of the door when I decided to look back and ask, 'walk me out, Dad?'

He got up almost immediately. I waited for him outside and as we began to walk towards the gate, I slipped my hand slowly into his. I had not done this for the longest time. We talked as we walked, mature and placid. And when we parted, I gave him one last hug and he kissed my forehead one last time. And that's when I really cried.

Un Chapitre

noreply@blogger.com (Meg Key) — Mon, 04 Jan 2010 05:51:00 +0000

Lundi 4 Janvier 10
Dear No One,

Feelings aren't rational. So I left home.

That should leave an imprint or something, considering it's the second time I've done it. I'm not acting out. I'm simply growing up.

Okay, so anyone who gives enough crap would give two cents after just the first sentence. But what can one do after having exerted all effort and patience imaginable to sustain a decent, workable relationship with a certain blood-related individual to no avail..?

I'm leaving to save what's left of my sanity and "to have peace of mind," as Mommy Carms would put it. "And that," she adds, "is priceless."

Numerous friends have asked why. Wow, word spreads fast. I feel like a celebrity all of a sudden. "Just say you want to be independent." Micai told me.

"I just want to be independent," So I'd tell them.

--

I stared at the cursor on the screen, actuating me in it's little, blinking way to write something. Anything.

Okay. I never moved.

I want to make it clear that I've decided not to because of Ahia and meimei. It was selfish of me to think that I could just leave whenever I want to because I wasn't happy.

Meimei and I were sitting on the couch sometime in November. I asked her what she wanted for Christmas, whilst secretly hoping against all possible hope that she wouldn't go for anything crazy like a killer doll house or who knows what else crazy kids these days are into.

She scrunched up her nose and pretended to give it some thought so I mentally calculated my Christmas shopping budget for my "Good Peoples List".

Minutes later, Meimei looked up at me. "I want to be with Jayfel."

Jayfel was Meimei's best friend at her old school. But they sort of parted ways after some time.

I shook my head. "No, meimei. It's not possible. What else?"

"Uhm," She pointed her index finger to her lips and pretended to be in deep thought again, "for Daddy to not be strict with me anymore and allow me to play outside with other kids?"

Again, I shook my head. "You're impossible. Anything Achi can buy at the mall?"

"Oh." Was all she could muster. "A bag then."

Time

noreply@blogger.com (Meg Key) — Mon, 09 Nov 2009 08:08:00 +0000

Monday afternoon
Partly cloudy
Dear No One,

James Wilson, MD: "So he was a bastard, he's still your father. You're genetically programmed to have feelings for him."

Gregory House, MD: "I don't."

James Wilson, MD: "Feelings aren't rational."

Touché.

It's not a secret. I have despised my own paternal parent since my second year in high school. That's the year I started finding out things about him I didn't like. I was beginning to see the kind of person he really was and tried to keep from us.

Since then it's been 2-minute phone call returns and half-hearted I love yous. I hated him so much but I understood my place and still kept what was left of my respect for him.

For the longest time I've been trying to understand how his rationality and morality works but to this day I remain inconclusive.

Apparently there are people in this world who live for that kind of stuff, selfish gains and evil ways.

It would seem weird coming from me, though, but every time I dig a hole for myself and find no one else to help me- there he is, without a word, pulling me out.

I don't know if he knows I know everything about him and understands I'm angry so he remains unfazed whenever I throw the meanest things to say at him- or none at all. But if that is so, why ~~can't~~ won't he change?

If he really loves us like he says he does, why not try to be a better person? Why not try to be a better role model for his kids?

He sat down with me, looked me in the eye and said he was going to leave and isn't sure if he's coming back. He wanted me to come back home where he can have all his kids together. I was torn. I didn't know if I should start feeling angry all over again or cry that he's going away. But I'm done being angry.

I don't want to have so much hatred in my heart anymore.

I was ready to forgive.

I said to myself, life is so short. I want to make the best with the time we have left together.

I'm finally growing up. But yea, feelings aren't rational.

Don't Mind Me, I'm Miserable.

noreply@blogger.com (Meg Key) — Mon, 20 Jul 2009 05:27:00 +0000

I'm hurt and I feel alone.
I don't understand where I went wrong.

I still want to believe I'm meant for something great.
What that is, I do not know.

Something Out There For Me
-MEki

I guess I'll always be the girl
who watches from the distance
You'll never see me through
I guess with my last chance
do I take it? When I know you won't dance
Not with me.

I fake a smile but the hurt shows
Am I dying away?
My tears run as my heart burns
For you I'll bear the pain

There's gotta be something waiting
out there for me
Gotta keep my head held high
and take things slowly
My fate's in my hands
and the Lord understands me
I asked Him, I said
"Is there more to this weeping?"

I guess I'll always feel the cold
the wind when I'm not playing
Where do I go from here?
A direction for my soul
Where to begin? I'm not a kid anymore
No, not anymore.

I walk a mile but I'm stranded
Who do I want to be?
There has to be something somewhere
a written destiny

To get back up again
To live my life again

Technorati Tags: life, sketch

Blog Update

noreply@blogger.com (Meg Key) — Wed, 08 Jul 2009 13:10:00 +0000

Cloudy weather
Day 17 at the Audit Office
Dear No One,

I'm really psyched about the new blog design: AllThingsMeg V3.0~!

It's a restaurant theme -and it comes with an actual, well, virtual restaurant!.

I'm well into the coding part now, wish me luck! I'm going to need loads!

Auditing news: I was P1000+ short of completing a balance report from an actual Bank Recon that I did. Unreal!

[L] New Art: flip phone for ATM Blog ad, ne~

Kickin' It Kindergarten Style

noreply@blogger.com (Meg Key) — Tue, 23 Jun 2009 15:37:00 +0000

Crazy Rainy weather
Day 4 at the Audit Office
Dear No One,

The fruit of today's boredom is..

wait for it..

[L-R] Kenny, Tudtud, meki, Nath, Cuzzin Karl

And as a good kindergartner, my explanation goes something like this:

Kenny is a yakker. And that's an understatement. He's fun to be around with, though. Plus, he's always in on current events and stuff. And he looves Hollywood things. The whole tinkerland enchilada.

Tudtud is an awefully quiet kid. But he's very intuitive. I don't know why I labeled him the 'abstract dreamer'. I'm done fer.

I was the b*tch in kindergarten. Haha. I was always with the prettiest hair and the meanest 'tude. Very stuck-up, tossed in with a pinch of bossines and tonsa brattiness. And it gets worse, people outside my class were totally oblivious to it all.

I really don't know what Nath was like in kindergarten. This is the part when I wish I asked my friends first before actually doing impressions. And now I'm really, really done fer.

I bet Cuzzin Karl was a scrawny little kindergartner.

I laugh. ♥

PS: Update on the new blog design [AllThingsMeg v3.0]~
It's almost up, home dawgs! Just finishing up on the wallpaper and it's coding thereafter. Stay tuned!