child's play

2010-05-25T09:31:00.000-07:00

More than skin deep

Next year, I will be turning the big 3-0, and by then I already have two daughters in tow. I used to think that by the time I reach that age, I wouldn’t care much of how I look. But as I am about to give birth to my second daughter in a month’s time, I look at the mirror and see not an almost 29- year- old lady, but someone who looks harassed and stressed. In short, I don’t look my age.

I was never really concerned about physical attributes. After all, I thought it was quite superficial to even think of physical appearance when I have kids to take care of. But then I realized that my physical appearance serves as my indicators of good health. Lately I have seen people spend much of their hard earned money in antioxidants and glutathione. At first I thought that they use it just to have beautiful skin, like that of an anti-aging beauty product. But then I realized that these products actually keep you healthy, and beautiful skin is just a side effect.

And if you would like to invest in quality, I suggest that you go for Oxis International. They offer products that range from dietary supplements, personal care, to food and beverage. Their products help address major health issues on oxidative stress and inflammation. Antioxidants in their products fight free radicals that harm our body. And it’s really a good way to start caring for your body.

Every day, we continue to face stress and challenges that build up and let us age faster. By using antioxidants and similar products, we save up for our good health. Think of it as penny stocks, one that you don’t need to invest much but will still gain a lot.

2010-04-20T23:09:00.000-07:00

Explore with Eric Carle's books

As a mother, you always want to get the best for your child. Education is highly subjective, that's why when we started choosing educational materials for our child it was a constant research and understanding what your child wants.

Of the many books that my daughter reads daily, Eric Carle's books top the list. Currently, she has 8 of the many books of Eric Carle. The very first book she owned was surprisingly also the very first book that Eric Carle published--- Brown Bear, Brown Bear, What Do You See? Immediately, she requested this book to be read to her every single day. She was only 11 months when she first read it, until this very day and she is now almost 20 months, she continues to pick this book from the lot.

If you are wondering why I highly regard Eric Carle's books, it's really simple. He has a great way of telling stories. The words do not come as intimidating, and rhymes are easy on the tongue. The stories can be converted in games or something interactive with your child, it makes reading and learning more fun. It also helps that the art he uses is not complicated and less crowded. Eric Carle does not need to disguise his books as "too educational" for you to buy it.

It's amazing how Eric Carle was able to capture the attention of children through his beautiful art and wonderful stories. He had his first book published in 1967, and four decades later, he continues to give our children, and even us, remarkable arts and stories.

2010-04-19T01:00:00.000-07:00

The Tube

I am a stay at home mom and pretty much have the time to play, read, and run around with my toddler. In her almost 20 months of life, I never really relied on tv as a source of entertainment for my daughter.

I have nothing against educational dvds, my daughter actually has a collection of Brainy Baby DVD, at one point, she actually liked watching it. It's just that as she grew older, her love for books and play overshadows her interest in watching tv.

However, recently, I noticed that she has started to sit in front of the tv when watching an entire episode of Mickey Mouse Clubhouse on Playhouse Disney. This show is interactive so there are times that she would answer the questions with yes or no, and point to the part of the screen where an item is being asked. I suddenly found myself having a good 30-minute uninterrupted rest. It was then that I realized that having tv time is not really bad. My daughter gets an alternative learning and I also get my break.

2010-04-15T07:38:00.000-07:00

Insure to be SURE

After my role shifted from being single to being a wife and a mother, my priorities also took another turn. Suddenly, my concerns were no longer confined to what I want and need. Now, I am after the necessities of my family.

Before I got married, my aunt offered me something that I have never thought of before when I was still single. She offered me to invest in insurance. I was really hesitant at first because for one, I was very young then. And besides, I wanted to spend my money on tangible things that would have immediate use. I politely declined her offer.

Fast forward to a few years later, as I look at my daughter and my growing tummy, I now understand what she meant when she offered me to invest my money in insurance. Life is too unpredictable and no one is exempted from the “what ifs” that life can bring. Whether it is insurancefor family, home, medical, mortgage, or even retirement, it’s better to be insured. At least whatever situation life throws at you, you know you are well prepared for it.

2010-04-15T00:57:00.000-07:00

BRAINS!!!

Seriously, who has not been hooked to this game? Released last year by PopCap Games, PLANTS vs ZOMBIES has made everyone in our family addicted. I spend 2 to 3 hours a day in front of out computer just playing this. I have finished the adventure games, unlocked all mini-games, and now playing for as many flags as I can in the endless zombies in the survival mode. Yes, this game has really taken over too much of my time. As if playing is not enough, I also maintain 3 zen gardens and the tree of wisdom, where you need to give tree food and it would disclose secrets and tips to defeat zombies. Crazy, isn't it?

It is very interesting to note also that this game was actually made by a guy who wanted to teach his girlfriend how to play Magic: The Gathering. My husband long tried to teach me how to understand playing those cards, but I really never got to understand it. If you ask me what those deck of cards are, I don't think I'd be able to explain.

Plants vs Zombies (PVZ) is my way of de-stressing. Unbelievably, the sight of mean looking plants destroying those ugly zombies just appeals to me.

2010-04-14T00:32:00.000-07:00

GLEEK!!

Just like everyone else, I am a GLEE addict, Gleek if you will, waiting for its season 2 pilot.. the minutes couldn't come sooner!!

This show that premiered last year took so many countries by storm. Unbelievably amazing how songs can improve simple plots.

While the minutes before the new episodes go dragging by, I will watch promo videos that will just probably make me excite all the more!

Want to be more excited for Glee? Wait till you see Sue do a VOGUE!!

*credit to GleePodcast

2010-04-13T23:20:00.001-07:00

To the ARK AVILON ZOO

To celebrate a decade of togetherness (cheesy), the husband and I decided to take our little one to an indoor zoo just inside the very hot metro, Ark Avilon Zoo.

I really wasn't expecting much, since this is an indoor zoo, the goal was only for our daughter to personally see the animals she gets to read from her books. However, I was still pleasantly surprised by the animals and facilities they have. Which I think is relatively fair for the fee that we paid. Standard entrance fee is P300 per person, and if your height doesn't reach their ticketing table top, you only pay P200. Not bad considering we didn't have to travel far south just to see the animals. Ark Avilon Zoo is located in the very urban centre of Ortigas, Metro Manila, right beside Tiendesitas.

The Ark Avilon Zoo, from its name, is designed and shaped like Noah's Ark. It houses more than 30 species, living in air, land, and water. The "wild" animals, i.e. tiger, lion, puma, jaguar, tapir, and bear, were the first animals to greet us. They were housed inside glass cages, with only cement formed like mountain rocks to remind them of their real home. I actually felt sad for them. Down at the end of the ark are the animals that live in water and air. At one side of the ark, we saw the mini-horse, donkey, and deer. My little one was especially happy to see the donkey. The donkey reminded me so much of Shrek's own Donkey.

The second floor of Ark Avilon Zoo showcases different fishes, birds, and snakes (don't worry, they were all well caged. We just didn't stay too long in that area). The best part of the trip to the zoo, which my daughter enjoyed the most, was the petting area near the goats and sheep. For P20 per half a carrot stick, my little one was able to experience feeding a group of hungry guinea pigs and rabbits. She really enjoyed every minute of it.

The good thing about Ark Avilon Zoo is that you can return to the zoo even after you have left. This gives you the option to eat elsewhere and not be tied to dine in their restaurants, in case you're craving for other food, just like me.

And so upon our return, we met and had a photo op with the zoo's very cute animal resident, Collin. He is the very friendly 2- year old orang-utan who just loves to hold hands with people. Interacting with Collin was also another fun activity to do at the zoo.

Ark Avilon Zoo is a good alternative to distract kids from tv and other gadgets that make up most of their day. A good 2 hours of being around animals can really be refreshing treat this very hot summer.

2010-04-13T16:52:00.000-07:00

Ni Hao. Annyeonghaseyo. Konichiwa. Mabuhay!
(Asian dramas galore minus the legacy of Jackie Chan's drunken master)

I remember that the only time that I watched a show that I couldn't comprehend was Pinpin--- a children's show who tried to put up a fight with Pong paggong and the gang, however catering to a quarter of Philippines' population, the Tsinoys. I wasn't really big with shows that gives language barrier a big thrust. I just felt, at that time, that Filipino and US shows were enough to satisfy my viewing pleasure.

I started watching Asian series in 2003, because like most people here who got fascinated with Meteor Garden (oh good Lord i have them all, even the spin offs), it showcased something new and different from what we usually see. After having watched the series more than what is usually perceived as normal, it was then that the company that I am working for now showed the very first Korean drama on Philippine primetime, Autumn in my Heart or Endless Love1. This was followed by more series from Korea that are worth of the time and energy of doing both reading the English subtitle and watching the facial expressions of the actors. After exhausting the K-dramas in the market, I also chanced upon J-doramas or the Japanese dramas and found the plots very intelligent, short, and straight to the point (the usual length is 9-12 episodes per series). As the years passed by, I found myself more inclined to watching these series rather than those locally produced (as to why I have worked for over 2 years with the leading local network, let's not go there).

I also have my share of favorite Asian movies. The first Asian movie that I watched and loved was the Korean movie, My Sassy Girl. It was the most hilarious film I have ever seen. The leads were just amazingly good at acting weird and crazy. I seriously suggest that if you haven't tried any Asian movie, this should be your first.

To simply put it, I see more of reality's ironies in those dramas that I have come to love. People like to laugh and have a good cry sometimes and they offer just that.

2010-04-13T01:46:00.001-07:00

BLOGGING AGAIN

A lot of things have happened since my last post.

In a span of 3 years, I got married, raised a toddler, and pregnant again with the second child. But I thought of blogging again because I only do mini-blogs lately, and sometimes it's not really enough for the very talkative me.

So here I go.

2007-01-24T05:55:00.000-08:00

i believe in miracles

I went to Baclaran with Mama early morning (12:30am) today. I'm a proclaimed Marian devotee and I only get to pray at home... When we arrived at the church, I knelt down and prayed. I was very emotional because it has been awhile since I went to Baclaran church. Tears started to stream down my face even before I could open the novena booklet to pray. I wiped my tears and looked up to the image of our Mother of Perpetual Help. There I saw, right in front of me--- on the back shirt of a man, in golden yellow script writing these very words--- Thy Will Be Done. I smiled immediately. I haven't even started my prayer and God is already talking to me. I nodded in obedience.

After lighting candles, Mama and I walked for awhile. As soon as we got inside the car, the opening bars of this song reminded me the most important thing of our journey for Papa...

Many nights we've prayed
With no proof anyone could hear
In our hearts a hopeful song
We barely understood
Now we are not afraid
Although we know there's much to fear
We were moving mountains
Long before we knew we could

There can be miracles
When you believe
Though hope is frail
It's hard to kill
Who knows what miracles
You can achieve
When you believe
Somehow you will
You will when you believe

In this time of fear
When prayer so often proves in vain
Hope seemed like the summer birds
Too swiftly flown away
Yet now I'm standing here
My heart's so full, I can't explain
Seeking faith and speaking words
I never thought I'd say

There can be miracles
When you believe
Though hope is frail It's hard to kill
Who knows what miracles
You can achieve
When you believe
Somehow you will
You will when you believe

They don't always happen when you ask
And it's easy to give in to your fears
But when you're blinded by your pain
Can't see your way clear through the rain
A small, but still, resilient voice
Says help is very near

There can be miracles
When you believe
Though hope is frail
It's hard to kill
Who knows what miracles
You can achieve
When you believe
Somehow you will
You will when you believe

TO BELIEVE that MIRACLES HAPPEN has been one of the things that keep our family going through all these trials.

TO BELIEVE that MIRACLES HAPPEN gives us hope that tomorrow is a better day than today.

TO BELIEVE that MIRACLES HAPPEN puts the smile on my face everyday as I embrace my Papa lovingly every night.

2007-01-08T09:30:00.000-08:00

Buble sings Tagalog

Today, Jelson's gift is a Tagalog translation of Michael Buble's version of THAT'S ALL Ü in my almost 7-year old relationship with Jelson, he never fails to surprise me with his unique ways of making me feel loved... im really blessed :)

===============================
ITO LANG (salin ng "That's All" version ni idol, Michael Buble)
Tanging alay ko'y ang wagas na pag-ibig,
at pangakong di lilisanin ang iyong tabi
at ang pusong nag-iisa,
iyo lamang o sinta,
ito lang, ito lang.

Pangako ko sa tag-araw, ika'y samahan
at sa taglagas, kamay ko ang sandigan
at ang may ningas kong pag-ibig
dulot ay init sa taglamig,
ito lang, ito lang.

Tiyak ko, marami na ang nangako
na ibibigay lahat, pati mundo
ang alay ko'y mainit na yakap
at pag-ibig na walang wakas.

huwag magtaka, sa aking hiling na ganti
magalak ka dahil ito lang ay simple:
tiyaking ako lang sintangayon at kailanman,
ito lang, ito lang.

Spider-Man 3 Trailer

2006-11-15T00:13:00.000-08:00


You just got to love this webbed guy... Final installment to the Spiderman trilogy(?) im too excited for this... i hope this is better than the last oneÜ thanks to my friend Don Yu for showing me this..

2006-10-10T04:39:00.000-07:00

When Goldilocks was my playground

Cubao, 1987--- “Mama, gusto ko po yan sa birthday ko ha? Gusto ko po si Cinderella, yung naka-blue na gown atsaka yung maraming gold na bilog!” I beamed as I pressed my forehead on the small piece of glass that separated me from my dream cake. On my birthday that year, I got Thumbelina that matched my peach dress which by the way, also matched the same fabric that my sister, my sister’s best friend, and my best friend were all wearing.

My childhood was mainly filled with excitement brought by rides on a love bus, lovely displays at COD, and checking out the latest cakes at Goldilocks. Pointing to my mom the best cake for my next birthday really gave me the thrill. To actually acquire the chosen cake was a great miracle to me. We were (and still are) not really rich, we just get by.

But the kid who was consumed with so much happiness of simple things in life grew up and faces a different kind of excitement.

Now, my enthusiasm is focused on a new set of things. I am excited to see my dad respond to instructions, seeing Papa’s eyes light up to stories of how my day went, the joy and admiration of finding my mom to have enough energy at 9pm even though she only has 4 to 5 hours of sleep daily, and the everyday laughter I share with my siblings during dinner. I see everyday as a better day than yesterday. But more than anything else, I see the true meaning of life unfold right before my every eye.

The life that was focused on career, partnership, and success has turned all the way around and now, my focus has a new path. It’s family over everything else that I can achieve and acquire when I work hard.

I should have learned back then that not everything you want and wish for will be given to you. But I underestimated the power of a praying child. Because if I only knew the power it held, that would have been Cinderella’s ticket to Papa’s hand made Kamagong table at our kitchen in 1987.

2006-10-05T04:23:00.000-07:00

Giving it up to give it all

Finally I can write about it. Over the past two months, our family’s lifestyle has changed into something dramatic. More like the ones that you see on primetime telenovelas minus the fantasy (but now I would wish it would have been that way and everything will happen with just a whisk of a wand or a gentle click of the fingers).

My father has a medical condition that has (temporarily) left him completely different from what he was before. Since he was admitted in the hospital, I can’t remember the number of times I cried to him, to my family, to friends, and to Jelson on how I wish I could sacrifice something to give back what he had before if that means giving up many things that I enjoy.

I know friends who are thinking that I am going beyond what is necessary. But then again, aren’t parents a necessity too? For me they are. I can’t claim to have the best relationship with my parents but the thing about being a child is that you only get to have one set of parents in your lifetime while the parents can have as many children as they want. This idea has been on my mind and from then on, I made sure that every moment spent with my parents was (and is) well worth.

I have been talking to God in a funny way lately. I guess you could say I’m like a sales person or its counterpart, the cut- throat cheapskate buyer trying to bargain with the creator. I have been trying to bargain with God to give back to my father everything that he was two months ago and I WOULD GIVE UP ANYTHING. Since I can’t physically hear God, I have been doing the trial and error of things to give up.

1. I gave up wearing jewelry. The very few pieces of jewelry that I own--- a pair of earrings that Papa gave more than 7 years ago, the watch that he and Mama gave for my high school graduation, one of Mama’s seldom used necklace that looks like an F clef, and the most recent addition, the eternity ring that Jelson gave me for our college graduation, the ring that held so many promises. And in exchange of that, I am currently wearing a wooden bracelet, with photos of different saints and spiritual individuals, which I bought at Manaoag.

2. I gave up eating Pork and Beef. I am the person who has sworn not to eat food other than PBC or the Pork, Beef, and Chicken. To say the very least, I am the epitome of a carnivorous person. Now, for over a month now, I stopped eating my red meat and said goodbye to my all time favorites--- beef steak and pork chop.

3. I gave up taking the elevator on my way and going home from the office. I work at the 5th floor of the building and the swipe ID machine is located at Basement 1. It’s nothing really extravagant but each step is offered to him.

Okay, I’m not trying to preach and be socially moral here. These things that I do are just my little ways of putting off something that I like, that I enjoy in exchange for Papa’s good health and recovery or at least for a moment, wishfully thinking now, bring it back to how it was before.

They say that in life you only get to appreciate the things that you once had the moment it slips your hands. Now, even before it does, I’m taking action--- of giving it up to give it all back to the man who put his life on the line several times just to keep us where we are now and to give us everything that we have.

2006-09-21T17:53:00.000-07:00

Baby is Nine
(A tribute to my very first niece)

I was sitting on Ate Jeng's bed at Aurora Hill. Our family has just arrived in Baguio for PMA's annual homecoming. It's a cold February morning. Mama and Papa were having coffee downstairs to perk up the day. Kuya Jon was still in class. He and Ate Jeng were studying in one of the universities there--- Saint Louis University. Ate Jeng chose this day to tell me. Ate Fiona, Kuya's girlfriend, was going to have a baby.

That scene was over nine years ago.

Today, the baby is celebrating her birthday. She has grown into a very intellectual, sensitive, and not to mention beautiful girl. I am proud of how she has grown. Mikhaela Danielle Agbayani Bibit--- for her I wish all good things that she wishes and deserves be given.

2006-07-13T19:24:00.000-07:00

SING IT!
(part 5: Last batch from our Clark Quay escapade)

After our boat ride, we toured the area for more sights, and yes, for more pictures.

Funny statues

Welcome to MARRAKESHI!

We were not planning to eat anymore and just wanted to retire after a tiring day, but I was advised by an officemate not to miss out Singapore’s black peppered crab! We ate at Jumbo Seafood and we were not disappointed. The food was superb! I am really not a big fan of crabs because I have asthma. But after tasting it for the very first time, I couldn’t stop eating anymore. Plus of course the yangchow fried rice was still present (yes, we have yangchow everydayÜ).

We ended the day really tired from the walking and eating but tomorrow’s another day.

2006-07-13T19:23:00.000-07:00

SING IT!
(part 4: More of our Clark Quay experience)

Walking along the place wasn’t really a problem since it fed us an amazing view. Just see how amazing I’m talking about…
This is my post card picture with Jelson. Ate Jeng and Kuya Al were our creative directors for this shot.

Don’t you think this could pass off like we actually were in Italy?

Walking along the place has its perks, we learned that the boat ride to see Singapore’s mark--- the Merlion, was still open. The ride arrives every 15 minutes. Guess what we did while waiting for ours…

HOOTERS!!!

After so many pictures at Hooters, we made our way near the pier to see the arrival of the boat that would take us to the Merlion. We finally got on the boat a little past 8 o’ clock in the evening so it was quite dark already when we started our boat tour.

Pictures from our very relaxing boat ride.

There were so many things to see during the ride, here our some of the views at night time.

FINALLY!!! The Merlion. It’s so big. We didn’t get down anymore since it was already late. This is the closest thing that we could get to it.

2006-07-13T19:12:00.000-07:00

SING IT!
(part 3: Our Clark Quay experience)

Time was so cruel to us because before we knew it, it was already 4:30pm. We decided to go to Clark Quay, another tourist destination. Good thing, a Filipino from Pizza Hut Lucky Plaza taught us how to get to Clark Quay. Going to our destination, we had to change trains, from the red lane train to the purple lane. We had to go down to Dhouby Goute station and change trains to get to Clark Quay. The Dhouby Goute station was like a huge mall.

Here are some cool pictures of the underpass from Clark Quay.

When we finally reached the end of the underpass, we really felt like we were in Europe! This bridge is reminiscent of an old bridge in Europe that I saw on the internet (I haven’t really been to Europe…)

This is a picture of some more legacy of the former British colony.

Pictures galore at Clark Quay---

That’s me and Ate Jeng… behind us is one of the most exhilarating rides of Singapore—reverse bungee jumping! Unfortunately for us, since it is rainy season at Singapore, we didn’t have the chance to try it.

2006-07-13T04:13:00.000-07:00

SING IT!
(part 2 of the many)

Day 2 (May 26, 2006)
It’s the first day of the great Singapore Sale!!! I wasn’t really that excited because Jelson and I were running on a limited budget but nevertheless, we braved the Sing dollar signs and tried our best to convince ourselves that whatever we bought would still come out cheaper than buying it in the Philippines.

We had an early breakfast at the hotel. After which we took some time to visit this cute park in front of our hotel.

Our first stop was the shopping haven for techies--- SIM LIM CENTER. It was a walking distance (well, it was a long walk but we tried not to mind the distance) from our hotel. We got there really early and only a few stores were open. Ate Jeng and Kuya Al went immediately on a hunt for a good digital camera. Jelson and I on the other hand just feasted our eyes to a glorious sight of amazing technology in progress. But we couldn’t contain ourselves that we bought 2 simple gadgets. We got a simple portable DVD player and a video cam cum digital camera.

We finally were able to pull ourselves from the Gadget Nirvana and made our way to a restaurant to eat. We found a place that serves good ramen. For S$24 of meal good for 4 persons, it was all well worth it! Their yangchow fried rice was so good. We all got to finish our more than a cup each serving.

Pictures at Nonya Village--- good food cheap price Ü

After a heavy meal, we immediately got on foot around the area. We went to OG at Albert Street. We bought some stuff that were on sale then proceeded to Bugis Street Mall. The mall was indeed on the street. Instead of tiled floors, it was asphalt. We got to go around and saw an interesting store for grown ups.

Since none of us have ever traveled to Singapore, we had to ask around so many times for directions. We wanted to go to Orchard Road to have a feel of the Singapore Sale so we boarded their MRT. Their MRT is a far cry from what we have here. Everything is organized. We bought on the machine single journey cards. Although if converted to peso their train fare is quite expensive, but at least, it was better and safer. When we got down at the City Hall station, we saw an arrow that directed us to Orchard. We walked following the sign but after more than 10 minutes of walking, we knew it was time to ask again. Apparently, we got off on the wrong station. It would take us another bus ride to arrive at Orchard. You could just imagine what would have happened to us if we did walk all the way to Orchard Road.

Finally, after more than 10 minutes of bus ride, we arrived at Orchard Road! I was totally amazed at how many shops can be put up on only one street! Now I understand why Singaporeans never get tired of walking. We passed through Wisma Atria, Lucky Plaza (which by the way felt like SM because of the many Filipinos), and Paragon.

Some pictures at Orchard Road…
With Ate Jeng in front of Tangs… our gift to ourselves after being employed for a year… yes, we are laborers!

With Jelson still at Tangs… sadly we couldn’t get inside anymore due to time constraint.

Somewhere along Orchard Road

Before going inside the MRT station

2006-07-13T04:01:00.000-07:00

SING IT!
(my long overdue blog of our Singapore trip)

Our trip to Singapore wasn’t a spur of the moment plan or just because we felt the need to splurge our really small savings. Jelson learned about a certain conference in Singapore late last year. He really worked hard for it and last April, he finally got an email confirming his attendance to the said conference. I had the privilege of accompanying him to Singapore (not the conference itself cause people paid good money to listen to the speakers). That being said, I would like to share with you our fun Singapore tour. (That felt like a disclaimer Ü)

Day 1 (May 25, 2006)
Jelson and I were so excited for our Singapore trip. It is after all our first together. We left the house with Ate Jeng and Kuya Al at around 10am and arrived at the Centennial Airport before 12 noon. Checking in was sort of hassle free since the lines were not like that of NAIA’s (or were we just to excited to mind the line?). We finished checking in our luggage and going through the immigration almost 1pm. Waiting was really a bore because there wasn’t much to go to and undeniably, there were quite a number of people inside the really small international airport. We bought sandwiches at Delifrance and strolled both ends of the airport. Jelson and I were looking for something to read or at least keep our mind off the really warm weather, when we saw Ate Jeng and Kuya Al running towards an exit. Apparently, Kuya Al heard his name called over the PA system. He didn’t hear where exactly he was being asked to go so they went outside to check with the information. It turns out, our friend from PAL has arranged for us to be accommodated at the Mabuhay Lounge (thank goodness!!!). An hour before our boarding, we treated ourselves with everything that is available there, most especially the really cool air-conditioning.

Our first plane ride together. We were treated with a great meal and movie--- Kingkong!

We arrived at Changi Airport and we were all left in awe. The airport was huge. Like 3 times the entire Centenial Airport--- domestic and international combined!

Visitor’s Center at Changi Airport, Singapore.

The ride from the airport to the hotel was fun. Our cab driver wasn’t the usual kiss-ass Singapore tourist driver. He told us the best place to eat crabs (black peppered crabs!!!) and of course the best beer they had to offer.

We arrived at Hangout at Mt. Emily a little past 8pm. Our hotel is located in Little India area and at the top of Mt. Emily. We met the receptionist (we forgot her name so we coined her Yao Ming because that’s what we could make from how she pronounced her name) who was very accommodating to us.

We didn’t waste any more of our time and went to the best place where shops won’t close their doors on you--- Mustafa Center. It’s a 24- hour mall. I’m not kidding! They really are open 24 hours. There wasn’t a chance to take pictures there but the height of our night was walking from Mustafa Center back to our hotel. According to Yao Ming, it would only take us about 20 minutes of walking to go from the hotel to Mustafa Center (vice versa) but honestly, it really felt that it was more of 20 kilometers walk than just 20 minutes! We got back to the hotel safely at around 1am (it’s relatively safe to walk around the city even in the wee hours). What a way to cap off our first day.

2006-07-02T18:58:00.000-07:00

"Too many people miss the silver lining because they're expecting gold" -Unknown

SILVER YEAR
(a quarter life journey --- hoping that I live to a hundred)

Today I turned twenty five. Some people would like to think that this is the golden age because this is where it should all come together--- plans, dreams, long term goals. I celebrated my birthday intimately with my family. I'm not really big with parties. You can ask Kaloggals (my high school barkada) when was the last time I celebrated my birthday and I think their answer would be my 18th birthday (yeah, yeah I had my debut and all--- but no cotillion for me, just the fluffy baby blue gown).

Before I turned twenty five, I had this vision of myself that when this age comes, I would be more content with my achievements, fulfilled with my mission, and happier in the aspects of family, career, and love. That was what I envisioned myself would be when I graduated in high school. This was going to be the turning point of my life. But those visions were made 8 years ago when I thought that college life was long enough to plan your future, working a minimum of 3 years would increase your market value all the way up the corporate ladder, and being in a relationship for more than 5 years merits you the decision to get married. You could say that I am quite an optimist because I dream big. But what I have realized through my journey to my silver year was that life catches you at your most unguarded moments. It pinches your heart with too much sadness and just like a blink of an eye, can easily make you tumble and turn for joy. You see, what I have been envisioning myself to be has been based on something that's too tangible. What never hit me was to be really happy, it must reach a part of you that no one can see but is manifested on your personality--- the heart. Happiness, afterall cannot be measured by the number of times you laughed, how long you smile everyday, or even how many commas and zeros are there on your bank account. To sleep peacefully at night, to eat good food, to be healthy, to have a family--- these should be the basis to happiness. I am like the many who took for granted what I have before me until they start to become scarce. But now I know better...

For five years now, I have been celebrating my birthday in the company of "strangers". To me it is more special, more heartfelt. And this year was no different.

I went to CRIBS Marikina today. CRIBS is a shelter for abandoned babies. I have been doing outreach projects on or before my birthday. I feel that this is my way of thanking God for the numerous blessings that my family receives. I will not brag that I am the most benevolent person in the world because I have my flaws too.

Today's trip is extra special because I shared it with my family, Jelson, and Jelson's family. It was sheer joy seeing my family care for the babies. You see, there are 17 babies and there but only very few volunteers. We all had our own "alagas" when we stayed there. Mama took extra care for Nicole, a baby diagnosed with cerebral palsy. I wanted to adopt all of them if only I have enough means to accomodate them all.

It's so sad that it has to take over a dozen babies with no parents to call their own to make us realize how blessed we are. Still, it was a humbling experience that leaves you warm inside (from all the crying that you will do).

The silver year celebration that I imagined to be exceeded my expectations. And now, more that I thought was possible, I can say that I was able to achieve something that no one can take away from me. Ü

==================================================== A bunch of THANK YOUS

*To Mama, Jay-ar, Kuya Jon, Ate Fiona, Danielle, Diego, Kuya Al, Ate Jeng, Kuya Gary, Tita Susie, Jeng, and Jelson for accompanying me at CRIBS.

*To Danie, Diego, and Dima for the drawings that can best out the greatest artist (those are my babies and that's my opinion anyway)

*To Papa for taking time to call me on that day.

*To everyone who greeted me through text
-Tita Julie, Geka, Melai, Annche and Earl, Carlo, Ms Lot, Ms Amy, Tsong Jack, Ate Fiona, Tita Beng Tito Nelson Ga and Ging, Monica, Tita Susie, Ate Mia, Jelson, Tsong Ely, Don Yu, Cecile, Tita Inday Tito Ta Micko Mike and Maco, Mama Connie, Ms Ingrid, Noel B., Mia, Ms Danette, Uncle Jun, Ate Ching, Atoy, Ypan, Bok, Mateth, Aileen, Kuya Jayjay, Auntie Julie, Erin, Best Sig, Tita Neth Tito Onie and Mags, Kuya Dong, Micko, Itchel, Razel, Redg, Jogs, Eidel, Ting, Jonille, Uncle Bot Tita Belen PY Pao and Janus, Jez, Johnny and Aileen, Love, Cielo

*To those who sent their message thru friendster
-Ayin, Iole, Drix, Tristan

*To Tita Inday and Tito Ta for bringing food last July 4 Ü

*To Ms Ingrid, Don Yu, Melai, Ms Danette, and Minna for the surprise cake at coop last July 4 Ü

*To Jelson for making me feel that I am worthy to be loved.

2006-06-29T00:02:00.000-07:00

The ICON of the SUPERS RETURNS

Faster than a speeding bullet--- HE HAS FINALLY RETURNED. I am one of the lucky few who got the chance to watch it in advance. I won two tickets to the advance screening of Superman Returns through pinoy exchange (yeah lucky me Ü).

I am a self-confessed comic-book to movie fan. I have already watched a dozen of these comic book movie adaptations and only a few has fallen short of my expectations (of course we all know about X-Men 3, Fantastic Four, Dare Devil to give names to the few). Just a little side story before going for my ultimate review... You see, the night of the advance screening (June 27), it was raining heavily. Jelson picked me up at the office at about 6:30pm and since the theater is at Galleria, I didn't think that going there via private transpo will get us there by 7:30pm. Therefore, we took the fastest transportation in the Philippines to date--- MRT. I completely forgot how far the Ortigas station was from Galleria. By the time Jelson and I made it to the newly built escalator outside Robinsons, we were half drenched (oh, did I forget to mention that neither of us had any umbrella?). I was about to ask Jelson if this movie was going to be worth the trouble that we went through but opted otherwise because I might spoil the night for us to even start a discussion. Maybe this question is best answered later.

The movie was opened by a very short paragraph to where the movie will be starting (since it is entitled Superman Returns, we need to know where he is returning from, right?). As soon as the opening bars of the London Symphony Orchestra's Superman Theme filled the theater, I felt like I was time travelling back to my childhood days when I was watching Superman via our betamax. The parade of the planets that go with each beat of the music was very reminiscent of what is to be expected of all Superman movies. The entire OBB has left me in awe, complete with my jaw open, and I am not exagerrating here. Nostalgic is the best term to describe the feeling.

Brandon Routh was surprisingly so convincing as Clark Kent (I don't want to compare him to the Clark of Smallville since I really do not watch it) that you would really think that Christopher Reeves has descended upon him and tasked him to play the role. Donning the blue and red costume and seeing once again the superhero who made us believe that a man can fly made me shiver all the more.

Just a few comments on the plot. If you haven't watched the movie I suggest you stop reading from this point onward. The character of Superman was and is loved by (as Lex Luthor said in the movie empathically) BILLIONS. I am deeply affected by the storyline. Superman has been humanized from being the man of steel to being--- a MAN. This shouldn't be a surprise to me since most comic book adapted movies has been giving this humanization effect on our superheroes especially after the 9/11. Yes. Case in point, try to recall how different Spiderman (which was made prior to 9/11) and Spiderman 2 are. Peter Parker even delivered a very poignant line to MJ that would justify what I'm pointing here---"I'm different now. Punch me and I'll bleed". But that's Marvel, let's go back to the DC headliner. The plot merely highlighted the lovestory angle of Lois and Superman. Yes, 5 years is a long period of waiting, but that doesn't mean that only the world of Lois was affected, how about Lex Luthor? I was waiting for some uberly evil plan of Superman's most celebrated enemy but there was just none. The only thing that made me stay and watch out for Lex Luthor's character is Kevin Spacey's a superb acting. But why oh why did this Kitty in the movie have to be so irritating? She ruins the scene where Kevin Spacey delivers great acting.

The scene that depicted the biggest humanization of Superman is falling from space into a park and having to be admitted in a local hospital. It was gloomy, emotional, and too painful to watch. I can't begin to imagine why it had to be that way. He is the man of steel. I was shaking my head as I watch that scene. It was like telling a child that the man you look up to is not real. But that's comic book superhero's reality setting in. They have weaknesses and sadly, in this movie, it was (for me) excruciatingly displayed.

Another part of the movie that I just couldn't agree with Bryan Singer is Superman having a child. I just think that if he was trying to rebuild the franchise (we all know it has been quite sometime since the blue and red suit has been seen on the big screen) it was just too soon.

Still, you have to hand it to this director (who by the way left X-Men 3 to rot in the pits of worst storylines ever in favor of this movie--- really can't help dissing the last installment of the X-men movie) for putting Superman back in the scene. Singer was very triumphant in re-making the image of the man of steel as iconic.

To answer my question earlier--- Was the movie worth it? YES. Because once you see the bird, no the plane, no--- SUPERMAN fly, you are reminded that yes, he is the ICON of them all.

2006-06-17T21:27:00.000-07:00

So, you like movies?

Some reviews of the movies that I watched (all with Jelson) lately...

Mission Impossible 3 (May 2006)
Jelson and I are big Alias fans (well, admittedly, Jelson is more of the fan because of Jennifer Garner) and since this film is from the director of the said series, it wasn't a wonder that the movie was likely to have the same "look". It was like watching Alias, only this time, Tom Cruise was there. I was honestly waiting for a cameo of Sydney and Vaughn (no, they did not appear). Everything about the movie has Alias written all over it. They had their own version of Marshal (yeah, the techie guy), typewriter style of showing which part of the world they'd be kicking ass, and of course, you can't miss out misleading scenes and expecting who among your ally will be the traitor. Overall, it's still one of those great movies that I watched 2 times in one week.

The Da Vinci Code (May 2006)
I am probably one of the few people who have not finished the book and still watched the movie. I have to hand it to Dan Brown for coming up with a fiction like this. It's a great story, exciting and thought provoking. The controversy that filled this movie made me think otherwise of what was being claimed to have it banned. Anyway, I am still glad to have watched it. There were a few alterations from the book (which probably couldn't be helped) but the greatest part of the movie was seemingly touring The Lourve and the treasures it holds inside on the big screen.

X-Men: The Last Stand (May 2006)
This is quite special to us because this is a first of many (Jelson and I watched this with Ate Jeng and Kuya Al). First time we watched out of the country (we watched it at Singapore), sat on Oscar chairs (which is uberly comfortable by the way), and we watched it at 1:10 am. I didn't get to watch X-Men 2 so I had to ask so many questions prior to and while watching the movie (thankfully, Jelson wasn't pissed). I am a comic book fan, but of Spiderman that is, still I appreciate movies that are adapted from comics. X3 is exciting to watch. I held my breath several times. But honestly, did they have to kill Cyclops senselessly? And poor Angel had to be in what, only four frames? Yes, watch it again and count 'em all with your five fingers. The title is so fitting, because in the end, the only X-men member standing was Wolverine (and we don't need to bother and think why).

CARS (June 2006)
Yes, life is like a highway. Cars is the last movie produced by Pixar before they were bought by Disney (insert your reaction of "ahhhh" with a little nod of the head and now understanding why you have seen The Incredibles, Monster's Inc. premier at Disney Channel). Anyway, the movie has an amazing graphic detail. Everything seemed real and seamless. Humility, as always, was the theme of the movie. Lightning (the red car who flashes his sides and exclaims "Ka-chow") reminded me of someone who used to aspire for big things and thus work hard for it that she completely forgot to take into consideration the whole picture. I enjoyed the movie because it leaves you feeling good after seeing the movie credits. This is great to watch with kids and even the kids at heart.

The Lakehouse (June 2006)
I am a fan of Asian series and movies for over 3 years now. When I learned that Hollywood would be doing their own version of one of the well-loved movies of Korea, I was expecting not to like. Most of the time it ends up falling short of your expectations (just like The Ring, The Grudge etc.). But, this movie is so different. The Lakehouse, a re-make of Ji Hyeon's Il Mare, is unbelievably going to make you fall in love. Not only did I remember how much I liked the chemisty of Sandra Bullock and Keanu Reeves on screen, but I was reminded again how it feels to fall in love like it's your first time. By the end of the movie, I was biting my lip constraining myself from the kilig feeling that it left me. Oh, and much to my wish of being in the company of appreciative audience, I did, too much in fact that during the finale, people at Gateway Cinema 5 were hooting and clapping their hands...

2006-06-17T08:12:00.000-07:00

BRIGHTLY SHINING ON MY LIFE

I was supposed to write something for father’s day but thought about someone else instead (Sorry Papa). Lately, I have been trying to see that beyond difficulties and troubles, I finally found something constant in my life that gives me a reason to smile each day and think that Life is really balanced.

Jelson, my beau of 6 years, makes me feel that time spent with each other is well worth it--- Meeting him at Skyline (our canteen at the office) after a really long day, talking about wrestling, countless hours strolling at the mall, inside the Vitara while he drives and I sit silently watching urban life in motion, watching movies and eating great food (our favorite past time), nights spent talking on the phone (yes, it’s so high school but we really do it still), and praying before going to bed.

I realized that no matter how simple the things that we do are it’s more fun that anyone could imagine because we do things together.

This song has been in my ipod for 3 months now and each time I hear it, I always have an image of a smiling Jelson, looking at me lovingly. This song should have played on April 8, 2000 Ü

Hey Look At The Sun
(Yes, this is from Sitti's album)

All of my life
There were things I wanted to do
But they all changed
The moment I set my eyes on you
The magnetism that attracted me to you
There's something inside
I just can't explain
And now I know
What I must do

Hey look at the Sun
It's finally shining on my life
Hey look at the sun
It's finally shining on my life
And it's all because of you
It's finally shining on my life
For me and for you

All of my life
I've wandered 'round time and again
But I never thought
That all my searching would
Come to an end
And then you came along
And my world of love began
So now I'm going to
Change my ways
You're all I want
You're all I need

2006-04-12T20:21:00.000-07:00

My bubble of pain
(repost from May 26, 2005 friendsterblog)

Everything in this world is evanescent.

This is the phrase that relieves my pain. It assures me that hurt, like all else in this world will come to pass and would later on bear no more.
Emotional pain is one of the things I hate the most. Unlike the bruises and scratches that I have acquired over the years, I knew how to treat the wounds. A simple dab of alcohol or mefenamic acid and a minute or two of whimpering, it's treated. Although physical and emotional pain both need time to heal.

Crying is inevitable when you feel pain. It's the greatest source of relief one can call for comfort. That's the thing about emotions, you can't summon them to follow what the mind dictates. It simply breaks out at different times and moments that you can't hardly get a hold of yourself from its intensity.

The day of reckoning will come and help me close this painful chapter in my life. The period when I lied to myself and said that yes, my dad treated us fairly. And just like another bubble in the air, it will burst into a thousand pieces until I can no longer recognize that the small particles were once part of the huge bubble of pain that I carried for a long time.