Boogie Wonderland

You Bully Me, I Bully You

2010-11-11T22:50:00.001+08:00

Bully noun

1 a person who teases, threatens, or hurts smaller or weaker persons

As I googled the meaning of the word, I recalled reading in the news how some celebrities share their stories of being bullied sometime in their childhood and in that way reaching out to the smaller people ("us") and make the world a better place.

It's great that they open up to the public and show us that they were once regular individuals, capable of being hurt and belittled (or until now since they are almost always the topics of tabloids, blind items and targets of paparazzis).

I, for one, was bullied during childhood but I'm embarrassed to admit that I became a bully too. It was a "Revenge of the Nerds" kind of thing.

My grader years were a struggle. I was an outcast in class and I was teased, threatened and hurt not physically, but emotionally that there was a time that I didn't want to go to school. Until now, I still don't have a peace of mind because I didn't understand why it happened to me.

Then came high school. It was a fresh start 'cause I moved to another province with my dad and mom. I was happy that I'll be leaving my demons behind. Little did I know that a little demon somehow creeped inside my luggage and tagged along the trip.

But the little demon didn't destroy me. It influenced me. I became a bully in high school but I was not the brutal kind. I teased, threatened, belittled some people because I felt high and mighty. I guess it goes with being "popular" in school.

Looking back, I feel sorry for myself for sinking into the level of my bullies. And I am ashamed for doing so. But even though I experienced both, I still didn't understand the bully system and I never will.

Only time heals all wounds... But what about the scar tissues? They will always be a reminder and it's up to you on how you would handle them.

As for me, I will always think about it. I will always ask why and I will always be ashamed of myself. But then I will still move on. And hopefully, just like the celebrities, I will be a better person.

The "Thank You" Speech that could save my epic fail

2010-11-06T14:51:00.006+08:00

It was probably the last speech I'll ever going to give but I sucked really bad. I did had my thoughts collected for that moment but when my time came to shine, my mind went black, my speech was sloppy and it was humiliating. And so, I take this opportunity to write down what I wanted to say as a thank you for coming to our wedding...in better grammar, I hope. Hahaha...Here goes...

I cannot say that this wedding was what I've always dreamed of when I was a little girl because I never did. But if I did imagine what my wedding would be, this was definitely it. Thank you Noel Tanza of Golden Touch for the beautiful decorations at the church and reception. It was not overly done--just the right hint of elegance and class. And it set the mood of our wedding.

I also want to thank Ben Young and crew for the beautiful pictures and a fun photo session. You've really brought out the emotero in Louie--a side of him I just discovered while working with you. Hahaha... Also, thank you Val and crew of Simply Gray. You, on the other hand, captured the "bungisngis" side of me--gilagid galore! It was a crazy session with you.

Ms. Tanya of All About Cakes, thank you for a wonderful creation. It's what we wanted. And of course, April of Artisan Design Studio, thank you. The rest wouldn't have fallen into place without the invitation. You have materialized perfectly what we hoped for. And thank you, PhotoQube for keeping our guests busy in the photobooth and enjoying every moment of being photographed.

Aris of Chardin, who designed my beautiful, beautiful gown and veil, thank you. And of course, Leslie, thank you for the acrobatics just so I can get in my gown (hahaha). The whole look wouldn't be complete without Otoi Mercado's and Joan's expertise in making me gorgeous for a day. Thank you.

Jeremy and Amado Kuaki, thank you for the church and reception music. Although I really didn't hear my bridal march song because I was too nervous walking down the aisle. Hahaha...

A big, big, big thank you for all our friends who came out of their way to celebrate with us. Some of you came from other provinces and countries even. It warms our heart knowing that you spent time, money and effort to be present. I hope you enjoyed the entire day.

The day wouldn't be complete without family and relatives by our side. Our warmest gratitude for being one with us in that special day. It was great to have that mini-reunion. Thank you Ate Che, Kuya Bibo, Acil and especially to Ate Lyn, Kuya Nikki and family and Kuya Bom, thank you for spoiling me. I know that it was difficult planning the whole trip and yet you managed to come despite your hectic schedule. I promise that Louie and I will make it up to you when we have another chance to get together.

Of course, I want to thank Louie's parents and siblings for accepting me in their family. Dad Delfin, Mom Erlinda, Jacq and Kim, even with my shortcomings (of not being able to speak Fookien) and being super, duper shy around you (and still am sometimes), you took me in for who I am. How lucky am I to have two families now? Even though I lost a parent, I gained a whole family--with a wacky brother-in-law in, Ian, and an adorable nephew, Xander. Again, thank you. I couldn't express how happy I am to be part of your family.

And happy couldn't express enough the way I feel to have parents like my Dad and Mom. They are my inspiration in starting this new chapter in my life with Louie. Dad and Mom, you are the epitome of husband and wife, that even in sickness, in health and in death, love transcends. You also taught me how to cope with hardships in life. And together, you showed me how to surpass them. Thank you.

And last but not the least, thank you Louie. That's all. Hahaha! I'm just kidding. It sounds cliché but thank you for everything. Everything--meaning all the love, happiness, joy, sadness, anger, etc., that I felt being with you for eight years. Can you believe it? Eight years of being together and we finally settled down. How lucky are you to have me? Hahaha! I'm lucky to have you as well... All together now, "Lucky I'm in love with my bestfriend... Lucky to have been where i have been... Lucky to... na-na na-na na-naaaaaa." Dude, I don't know what to tell you other than I'm very happy to be your wife. Dude! Wife! That's major. Hahaha!

Ok, time to get serious. I am happy. I am very, very happy. So happy that I probably surpass the happiness you feel. You read me like an open book. Sometimes I hate it when you can easily tell how I feel. But I guess that's what makes us work. I do not know what will lie ahead of us but I know that together we can overcome them--together we can reach our dreams. I hope that we will always have trust, faith and love for each other. And when someday you think you lost all three, tell me. It's better for me to know than for me to find out. And then we'll find a way to fall in love again.

I love you hubbebee! LOL

I thank you. *bow*

Teleconfused no more

2010-05-02T23:15:00.002+08:00

The Philippines is known as the texting capital in the world and the country with millions of mobile phone users. With that, I get confused in distinguishing one telecom from the other with regards to prefixes in cellphone numbers. It becomes a bother when it takes time to know if I can use my telecom's promo with a certain number.

Luckily, I came across an article in the Philippine Daily Inquirer under the column, "The Consumer" by Linda B. Bolido. She writes the same dilemma she faces which led her to contact the different telecom companies and inquire about the different prefixes. My big thanks to her and now I'm going to share these helpful facts to you.

Prefixes used by:

1. Globe/TM are 0905, 0906, 0915, 0916, 0917, 0926, 0927, 0935;

2. Smart are 0907, 0908, 0909, 0910, 0912, 0918, 0919, 0920, 0921, 0928, 0929, 0930, 0938, 0939, 0999;

3. Sun are 0922, 0923, 0932, 0933.

Other offers are:

1. Share-a-Load (Globe/TM) -- 2+10 digit number (e.g. 2917XXXXXXX).

2. 232 (Globe) / 803 (TM) Kada Segundo -- P0.10/second Monday-Saturday, P0.05/second on Sundays;

3. 235 -- P10 for three minutes, 236 -- P20 for 20 minutes; 12800 -- P0.15/second United States, Australia, Canada, China, Hong Kong, Hawaii, Kuwait, Malaysia, Saudi Arabia, Singapore, South Korea, Taiwan, Thailand, United Kingdom.

4. For loyalty program of Globe, text ITEMS to 4438, for discounts and rewards.

Source: Philippine Daily Inquirer, April 28, 2010, Lifestyle Parenting p. E3, "Making the most of mobile network promos" by Linda B. Bolido

I hope these information helped you in some way. I'll post other consumer tips the next time I come across one. ^_^

Overjoyed over gLee

2010-04-25T23:40:00.002+08:00

For Mr. Webster, GLEE is exultant, high-spirited joy.

For Mr. Schuester, GLEE is bringing back the good ol' days of sing and dance at McKinley High.

For Rachel Berry, GLEE is one step to become a Star.

For Finn Hudson, GLEE is to be one's self and without having to prove it to anyone else.

For Mercedes Jones, GLEE is for letting out your inner Beyonce.

For me, GLEE is my latest TV craze and I couldn't agree more with Mr. Webster.

We owe it to the huge success of musicals in movie (Hairspray) and tv (High School Musical). They paved the way for Glee. And with the tv series' close resemblance to the reality of high school, it's no wonder that its ratings soared abruptly and got nominated at the Emmy's.

What really struck me was because of the stories' time and setting. I enjoy anything that reminds me of high school probably because it was the best time of my life (and possibly yours too). But if I remembered correctly, Glee members in our school weren't treated as the lowlifes of the entire student body. They even have a good, even great, status. I don't remember them being bullied or "slushed".

My brother was a Glee member in college and he got to sing during the World Youth Day when Pope John Paul II visited our country. How cool is that? Well, it might be a different case in the USA for Glee members and this show made me see the difference. It's disheartening though if it were really true. People with talent should be recognized, not put down and stomped upon.

Regardless, I enjoy watching Glee because of the performances. I love the mash-ups. I love their versions of some modern and classic songs. The cast is very talented.

Glee is huge in the Philippines. Every now and then, I see a Facebook status about it. And most people can't wait to download the latest episode. I, on the other hand, wait for the one-week delay telecast in Star World Asia. I can download too but I like watching it after American Idol on Wednesdays. It's my TV night. It's the one night I watch 3 hours straight of TV.

This coming Wednesday would be the "Madonna" episode. Many of my friends raved about it. Now I'm excited to watch it. I can't wait what songs they will sing and how they will perform them.

It's official, I'm a GLEEk. So slush me. It's friggin' hot nowadays anyway.

For more info: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Glee_%28TV_series%29

Manila... Manila...

2010-04-06T01:41:00.001+08:00

For the first time, I felt "promdi" (from the province). I've been in Manila so many times this is an instance that I was very ecstatic about the trip. It was probably because it's also my first time to travel with my fiance. I was overly-ecstatic to the point that from the first step I took out of the plane and into NAIA 3, I was awed. The airport was huge. I felt like a kid inside a huge toy store.

My fiance's mom kept chuckling while I was wide-eyed and eagerly pointing at everything new. I finally felt what a "promdi" feels like. And I was also very excited for doing things for our wedding day. We have a pretty tight schedule in our 5-day stay.

We went to Tutuban Mall to buy sets of cloth for our sponsors on our first day. It was a 30-40 minute ride from Pasay City where we were staying. It was my first time to pass by Binondo. I've never been there even though I wanted to go there to somehow feel what's it like to be in the Philippines' China Town. I'm of Chinese descent after all.

My fiance's mom is good at haggling. I might learn some pointers from her because when I tried haggling for three shirts, I got a 10-peso discount. And I was proud and happy that I got a discount for doing something I'm not totally fond of.

Then, we had late lunch at Teriyaki Boy in Glorietta. Another first for me. I ordered the Gyudon just like my fiance's. I think I over ate there. After lunch, we went around Glorietta to look for a red and white gown. They are for our upcoming e-session and I still don't have that red long gown (*oh... the pressure*). We also did some shopping. We're not all work and no play. But ever since I've been purchasing clothes online, I find the clothes sold in the mall so expensive that I ended up buying none for me but all for my family. In the end, I bought myself a couple of books from Powerbooks. Now that made me so happy and satisfied that no other dress or blouse I see in the mall can.

After a few hours of shopping, another "first" happened. My fiance's nephew pooed and I volunteered to assist his sister to join her in the bathroom to change diapers. We hurried to the nearest restroom only to find out that they didn't have a table to lay down the baby. We had to walk all the way over to the next nearest restroom and pay Php10 to enter. As the baby was lain on the table top and I had a whiff of the air surrounding me, I gagged. I never encountered such a putrid smell. Yes, that's how terrible it is. That was also a first for me. But I had to help my fiance's sister. So I pinched my nose with one hand and held the baby's legs high with the other. And the baby kept moving and we were having a hard time changing diapers. Eventually, we were able to change it. But the damage is done and I'm traumatized. And my fiance's nephew conked out soon after.

The next few days were spent with finding wedding shoes and the dresses. I was able to buy shoes from Milani. I like it 'cause it's simple, elegant and the heel height is not to high. I can manage to wear it the whole day.

I also got to spend a day with one of my girlfriends from highschool in MOA and we had a blast. And she got to meet my fiance. She had to do some MOH duties as well in helping me find the dresses I need. Sadly, we didn't get to buy everything I need and we had frozen yogurts at Red Mango after to console us. Their yogurt is so yummy and refreshing.

It's also in MOA that I get to have more "promdi" experience. I asked the concierge where Coffee Bean is 'cause that's where we're going to meet my friend. She asked me if I knew where the Music Hall was. I said "No". Then she asked me if I knew where the skating rink was. I said "No" again. Then she tear off a sheet from a pad and drew directions to Coffee Bean. Here I was holding a map of MOA for directions with my fiance tagging along. I did feel slightly embarassed but I'd rather carry a map than circle 'round and 'round the largest mall in Asia... haller?!? My mindset the whole time was that nobody knew me personally there. So I can be as clueless as I want because I really was.

When we finally met my friend, we decided to have brunch at Congo Grille. I remembered that they served delicious scallops there and I was right. They are still as delectable as before. But our other orders was not so great. Their Paella de Negra was overly negra (it was as black as charcoal) but lacking in taste. We were like wearing black lipstick as we ate it.

In the afternoon, my fiance and I left MOA for Edsa Shangrila. We were to have our giveaways engraved at Rustan's. Imagine that we had to go all the way there because Rustan's Makati doesn't have an engraving machine. It's Makati. Don't they have the latest and most expensive things there? It was unbelievable but inevitable. We had to go to Shang if we wanted to have machine engraving.

But I can say that it must be fate because Golden Spoon, another yogurt place recommended to me by a friend, has a stall there. You see, I'm on a yogurt quest ever since I got hooked on frozen yogurt over at Coffee Cat's here in Davao. I was bound to taste all the yogurt I can find in Manila. I ended up eating yogurt twice on that day.

So what's my verdict? Red Mango's tastes better. Well, it tastes like yogurt unlike Golden Spoon's yogurt which is more of an ice cream. I still haven't tried all frozen yogurts though. These are just two of them.

I can say that our 5-day trip was a success. I was able to travel with my fiance, meet up with one of my bestfriends, buy what we need for our big day and eat yogurt. And to top it all off, we watched How to Train Your Dragon 3D in IMAX at MOA. I'm happy. Hayyy... if only we could extend our stay but I'm running out of funds. Until our next trip in September. Oh... I can't wait!

The Wolfman

2010-03-20T11:51:00.003+08:00

The Wolfman, a remake of the 1941 horror movie of the same title, is full of gore, terror and caused a number of heart palpitations... guess who palpitated a lot?

It was a choice between that and From Paris with Love. We decided to watch The Wolfman. Bad choice for a scaredy-cat like me.

It stars Benicio del Toro (as Lawrence Talbot/The Wolfman) and Anthony Hopkins (as Sir John Talbot/Daddy Wolfman [haha... just my own creation]) among others. I'd watch Anthony Hopkins over John Travolta anytime. The story is pretty simple, not that complicated as the Underworld: Rise of the Lycans and the like. It's the plight of a man turned werewolf and how it all ended by true love. It's a fairy tale in a really ugly disguise. Whew...

I wanted to get out of the cinema halfway through... There goes my ticket money. I really am such a scaredy-cat but I think 75% - 80% of the population would like it. There was one part though that I really like though. It was at the asylum. Lawrence Talbot was strapped in a chair amidst an audience. Alongside him is the physician/manager of the asylum. They discussed about his condition at the same time that it was the full moon. Imagine the horror of the people present when Lawrence Talbot morphed into The Wolfman. It was mayhem as they scrambled for the door and couldn't get out. I enjoyed it 'cause it was quite funny but gruesome. Still... I think I got my money's worth on that part of the movie.

Like I said, it was like a fairytale. Think Beauty and the Beast only uglier and scarier. And of course minus the talking clock, the dancing candelabra and the singing teapot. Love, above all, will defeat any form of evil.

Should you choose to be spooked and be entertained at the same time, watch it. I'll give it a 3/5 because it's a pretty good movie if only my heart can take all the suspense and thrill.

Percy Jackson and the Lightning Thief

2010-02-23T20:57:00.000+08:00

Once said to be having a Harry Potter-ish feel, Percy Jackson and the Lightning Thief indeed has that. I'll bet it's the same feeling of disappointment for those who have read the book first. I haven't read the book yet but I've got quite high expectations for this movie based on the reviews and its trailers. I like the story but the movie especially it's actors/actresses, didn't give it justice.

First, the scenes were not that exciting as opposed to the Harry Potter movies (but still didn't live up to my expectations having read the books first). I regretted having paid Php180.00 for that Red Carpet experience at the Gaisano Mall of Davao (that's another blog).

Second, the actors/actresses were unconvincing. Logan Lerman who played the protagonist, Percy Jackson, was lame especially the way he reacted to the death of his mother. Hello? A little more emotion please. She gave up A LOT for him and at least he could've been more convincing being "in mourning". And the rest of the group Alexandra Daddario (as Annabeth, daughter of Athena), Jake Abel (as Luke, son of Hermes), Brandon T. Jackson (as Grover, protector of Percy), weren't as impressive either. The young actors/actresses are still, well, young. They need more experience, I think. Brandon T. Jackson, however, was quite funny. He delivered those punch lines well. I was also disappointed though on Pierce Brosnan (as Chiron) and Uma Thurman (as Medusa). The roles didn't suit them. Maybe because they have portrayed strong, iconic roles such as James Bond and The Bride on Kill Bill, that I had expected something of the same caliber. I expected too much once again.

Should you choose to watch and if it's still showing in your local cinemas, let this be a lesson. Don't expect too much. This movie deserves a 2 out of 5 (five being the highest). What a disappointed and a waste of money... *sigh*

Computer unSavvy

2010-02-17T21:12:00.004+08:00

And here I thought that my mom was the only person I know who is a computer illiterate. I was totally wrong. I've met not one but two such individuals today and worse... they're office people--government employees.

I went to the a government agency this afternoon to make a business inquiry. I asked for assistance from an employee who I knew. He led me to his co-worker to do my inquiry but was unsuccessful to get the information I wanted. Then, he recommended to get the answers online. He proceeded to a nearby computer to show me how. He sat and moved the mouse but nothing happened. I knew right then that the computer isn't on but I just kept quiet because I didn't want to interfere. He moved the mouse around again and still nothing happened. Then he began tinkering with the monitor. And I thought, "Wrong button..." He was pushing a dial in the monitor and not the monitor's power button. Then he turned to his co-worker and asked if it was in working condition. He inspected the CPU but decided to leave it alone. He pushed the dial once more and then something appeared in the monitor. It's turned on but the CPU isn't. He asked his co-worker once more and his co-worker said, "Sira man siguro na pre, kay naa may technicolor o." (The computer's probably broken, man, 'cause it's in technicolor). Then he turned to me and said we'll just use his computer instead. And off we went...

I was dismayed. It was amusing at first but then I realized that they are our government employees. Surely they should be up-to-date. Being old is not an excuse because they're still working, they're still being paid and yet, they can't even tell if the computer's on or not.

I can only hope that whoever wins this election, they will take time to look at the different government agencies and reassess the efficiency of the employees.

dePressed over letterPress

2010-02-10T20:23:00.003+08:00

I've fallen head over heels. Letterpress printing is sooooooo beautiful...soooooo elegant...soooooo sophisticated and... sooooooooo expensive. *sigh*

The past few days, my fiance and I were looking for ideas for our invitation and he chanced upon letterpress printing. We learned that Davao's printing presses do not have that service anymore because either their machines are worn and old or lack of demand pushed them to stop offering such service. There are a number of companies in Manila that do it but they're very expensive which means no letterpress invitation for us. *sniff*

On the bright side, it means more savings for our honeymoon! Yey! I'm very excited 'bout that. Our first journey together. And thinking about that makes me less depressed. LOL

Anyway, we've decided to make it simple yet still elegant. No ribbons, no feathers, no boxes, no adornments. Plain and simple. Well not THAT plain. We'll just have to wait and see how it turns out. Hopefully, pleasant. What's important is that our recipients get the idea that we're getting hitched.

For now, goodbye letterpress... Maybe on our Golden Anniversary then ;)

5 months to go

2010-02-08T21:59:00.006+08:00

"Are you excited?"...

... that's what they ask me upon learning that our wedding is only months away. I think there was just one incidence that I did feel excited and that was when I was about to fall asleep. That's when my heart raced and realized that indeed our BIG day is near but then thinking too much about it made me fall asleep. I awoke with no feeling of jitters at all.

So what have my fiance and I been up to since my last blog? Well, we've finalized almost all of the bookings made a few months back. Our major concern nowadays is the invitation and the guest list. Although we have a pretty accurate estimate of the number of guests, there's still a sense of being unsure because we will really never know who's going to show up until the day comes.

We've made our usual rounds to printers and designers of invitations. We're still thinking whether we should do the layout ourselves or have it done by the experts and spare ourselves the hassle. But there is also a great sense of fulfillment of having to do it on our own. We have yet to figure that out (crammers, aren't we?).

Initially, we wanted something useful for our giveaways. Something to grow, something to write on, something to use in the kitchen. But I don't know. We are still blurry on that. We are more inclined though to rent a photobooth where our guests can let loose and let them take photos as many as they want. I think that would be fun. We also thought of making standees of ourselves as props. But there's the question of what to do with those life-size standees after... THAT would be a waste of money but A WHOLE LOT of fun. I can't imagine the things our friends and family would do with those props. Still... it's a waste of money. But then... Yeah. Money. A Waste. Yeah.

Then came a bump on the road. First, my fiance's grandfather fell ill. And they were already talking about having to move the date an earlier date if something happens to him due to Chinese tradition. I was very upset about it to the point that my fiance and I fought about it. But his grandfather got better and everything got back to normal. And I'm hoping and praying that he would be okay for good. Second, we got recent news that my sister and her family couldn't make it on our wedding. This is because her application for a vacation leave was denied for a reason I cannot entirely accept. Her other co-workers were given priority of the leave for July. I don't know if it's discrimination or racism or what any other BS. It's a wedding--a once in a lifetime event. I wouldn't be this emotional if it wasn't her. I really want her to be present on our wedding day. I just cannot understand why her management cannot grant her that. If all else fails, I may have to write the management a letter... pleading for her to go. Sigh... But that's life. I'm not accepting it. I'm still thinking of ways.

So there... the past few months weren't so busy. The pressure begins now. But I'm lucky to have a very organized and involved fiance that I don't feel that much pressure. And I'm thankful. At least we do the planning together. And I guess I can say that I am excited...not for the wedding day but for ever after ^_^

Beadage

2010-01-05T11:50:00.002+08:00

I've got myself a new hobby for 2010. In the long run, I am hoping to generate income from it. I realized that I love doing arts and crafts. I couldn't live a single day not doing anything that stirs up my creative juice. And then, I came across a beading website in the internet which made me very curious. There was this one pattern I love to try BUT they're selling the pattern in dollars. I decided to do it my own way.

It was very difficult at first. The first stitch was the hardest. I couldn't figure out how to stop the beads from falling off but as I figured out a system to string beads efficiently, I couldn't stop. I worked a few hours in the morning and at night and the next thing I know, I finished it a day or two after New Year's day. I am proud of myself. It's my first time to create something so intricate. Patience does pay off. I made a set of earrings and a necklace. I wasn't able to do the pattern I saw in the internet. But I'm happy with what I did because it's mine. My own design.

Also, I was so excited with my creation. I decided to model it too and take some pictures. It was a crazy afternoon for me. I just happen to notice that the sunlight coming in our window is nice and the idea bulb just went on. I scrambled for my tripod and set up the camera on the stairs landing beside the window. I set the camera on remote. Then *click* *click* *click*. I couldn't get the angle right 'cause I was sitting on the air. I know you're asking yourselves, "Why didn't she get a chair to sit on?". Well, I was too hyped up to finish and the sun was setting that I just braced my self for a couple of minutes of thighs exercise. After the shoot, I post-processed the pics and uploaded them. I was on a high. And felt even better when some of my friends liked what I did. Nothing beats a couple of praises for a job well done.

Now, I'm finishing another set of beaded jewelry. But it's going to take a while. It's also intricate and I'm still in the stage of figuring out how to go about each step. Still, I'm excited. I can't wait to show it to my friends again.

If I can do it, so can you ^_^

For more photos, here's the set in my flickr site: http://www.flickr.com/photos/liaalu/sets/72157622995219553/

SuperCaliFriggin' Achin' Feet!!!

2009-12-16T22:01:00.003+08:00

It all started with our car quitting on us two days ago. The car decelerated in the middle of the street and a little orange indicator lit in the dashboard. Cute. Little did we know that THAT indicator light will cost us SEVENTEEN THOUSAND PESOS. That much for a tiny bolt under the car called the Oxygen Sensor and it created a hole in the wallet and caused two pairs of aching feet.

Honestly, I forgot how it felt to commute. We were commuting since yesterday while our car is parked in the garage. Commuting for us meant riding taxis (roll eyes...that's commuting???) and they are scarce this time of the year. You have to chase one, pay a street kid to get you one or walk 'til you hail a cab. In our case, we walked and walked and walked until we eventually reached our destination. We walked from Uyanguren Street to Victoria Plaza in Bajada (I don't know how far that is...but it feels friggin' far). Walking is fun but when there are vehicles zooming about and loads of dirt in the air, walking can be a pain. And pain is the only thing I feel right now. Oh and I feel sleepy too but I still need to take a long warm shower... *sigh* And that I'm gonna do right now. So, bye for now! 'Til my next hellish walk of tale.

Brothers Burger

2009-11-27T15:53:00.002+08:00

Brothers Burger (Burgers by Design) opened last November 14, 2009 and like any other Dabawenyo, we just had to try out the new and the latest then assess if it has staying power. It's a little known fact that Dabawenyos love to swarm a new place to just give it a try. Some are still in business while some weren't so lucky.

My Brothers Burger experience was all right. I ordered the Php105.00 Brothers Burger with Php60.00 Onion Rings. Actually, I was more ecstatic about the onion rings rather than the burger. There was a considerable amount of waiting time probably because there were many customers (the Dabawenyo swarm). My two other burger buddies, Louie and Jeff, ordered the Php350.00 Wagyu Burger.

Honestly, their burgers were as good as Space Burger's only more expensive. I don't think it would have a great staying power. But it's still a nice addition to the ever-growing food industry of the city. In the mean time, I now know where to get me some onion rings. Order up! :D

My Kind of Chillin'

2009-11-18T16:21:00.000+08:00

It all started with being the youngest in the family. It's pretty awesome actually. Everyone is giving you the attention. But of course, as we grow old, we drift apart. A couple of things contributed to this too--the constant change of residence due to Dad's work, the significantly wide age gap with my siblings and me, the migration of two siblings abroad and the realization that we need to lead separate lives. Not to mention the sudden death of our dad and soon, two of my other siblings will also head for greener pastures in the other side of the world.

Somehow it hit me that I would be the only one left among the siblings. But when that time comes, I will be starting a family of my own. And the circle of life continues. Therefore, I go through life one day at a time. I put on my snuggle socks (the most expensive pair of socks I bought but all worth it ^_^) and chill with the people who mean most to me even if I'm just staring at 4R photo papers. They remind me of the good times we have/had together. That even if we won't be seeing each other as often as we want, blood is thicker than water. Whatever happens (as if there is a bigger tragedy than our loss of Dad), we are family.

Todo para la familia.

Everything for the family.

Three's Company in Forbidden Love

2009-11-16T23:34:00.002+08:00

Ahhh LOVE. Even in my age and relationship status, I still cannot fully understand it. Though there are instances that made me remember what love can make you do...especially when we were young-er. Hahaha...

I saw three teenagers when we walked in the restaurant last Sunday night. The party hats caught my attention. I thought, "Oh wow... big, glittery party hats. Cute." It was a very small group for a birthday dinner but they somehow made it special. There were two girls and a boy. I couldn't help but glance at them every once in a while and eavesdrop 'cause the girls were laughing so hard and the guy was just sitting quietly and occasionally smile while wearing a big, glittery red party hat with gold tassles.

After much observation and at the same time being discreet, Girl #1 is holding a camera and is taking pictures of Girl #2 and Lone Boy while eating cake. And then, Girl #2 and Lone Boy spoon-fed one another. Well, well, well... Girl #1 is clearly the odd one out but definitely enjoying the moment. And Girl #2 is also clearly enjoying the celebration with Lone Boy and being cutesy-patootsie to each other.

This is so high school. The classic example of how teenagers in forbidden love, manage to elude the prying eyes of their parents. Been there, been that. LOL The only difference is Sundays were off-limits. It is family day and will always be like that for me. I admire Girl #2 for pulling it off. Here's how it probably came to play. Girl #2 told her parents that she's going out with Girl #1 (most probably her best friend) and parents give the "Go" signal but with the condition of being home early 'cause there's class the next day. Girl #1 and 2 meets up with Lone Boy where they surprise him with big glittery party hats with tassles and cake. Lone Boy appreciates what Girl #2 did for him and also appreciates Girl #1 for going with Girl #2 even though he really doesn't her to be there. But meeting with his girlfriend would be close to impossible without Girl #1. Therefore, Lone Boy just has to date the two girls.

Girl #1, being the best friend, will do almost anything for her friend in need. Most probably, Girl #2 is doing the same for her. And so, she becomes the official photographer of the momentous occasion. Take note, she's only the photographer which means she's not included in the pictures. Snap, snap, snap... Click, click, click... And a laughter here and there.

And then, Girl #2 tells her, "Don't post the pictures. Mom checks Facebook." Ahhh yes. Always hide the evidence. But all secrets cannot be kept for so long. Like I said, been there, been that. And I learned the consequences the hard way. That's life...and love. Haha! Cheesy!!!

And so, my advice for all the Girl #2s, nothing. Just do what you like to do BUT be ready for the consequences. Ginusto mo 'yan e. Though it was really sweet of Girl #2 to surprise her boy like that. He must be happy even though he wasn't too keen of idea having Girl #1/bestfriend/official photographer around.

Until my next Himantayon Chronicle. Ciao!

I was wrong. This Is It.

2009-11-09T22:15:00.003+08:00

I am not a fanatic. I just liked his songs, his videos, especially his dance moves. But when successive news and rumors broke out about erratic behavior, plastic surgeries gone overboard and bankruptcy, I thought, "What a weirdo."

He was just another celebrity gone wild. Then after a few years, an announcement was made for a comeback through a series of concerts beginning in London. I thought, "The weirdo is trying to be normal again. Or he just needed the money so that he gets to keep Neverland? Hmm..."

Then he's gone. It was all over the media that just a few hours after rehearsals, he died due to cardiac arrest. The painkillers caused it. And then an epiphany, "The drugs made him a weirdo and eventually killed him."

I didn't believe he was gone. I kept saying to everyone that it's an act. Come concert day, he'll be making a grand entrance. And they said, "Weirdo. He's really dead."

But he's just 50 and full of energy. How could that be? For weeks, I was in denial. Well, it's really a strong belief that it's all a hoax. It's part of his show. He wants to make a big impact. What more than to fake your own death and have the grandest concert comeback? Now, THAT would be great entertainment.

And I was right...with the grand comeback. It was befitting for a renewed and growing respect towards a great artist. And sadly, it was too late. I can only look now at his past works and appreciate the genius behind all of it. It took less than two hours gawking at a large projector screen oblivious to the cold (cold, cold, cold) theater, to realize I was wrong. I was too focused on his queer ways that I didn't get to appreciate the hard work he was putting into his comeback concerts. And it's probably because of people like me who pushed him to prove us wrong and led him to resort to medications. Prescriptions from a personal doctor that he might not even need and yet he succumbed to them.

And when Michael Jackson said, "This is it." It really was.

Dirty Dancing

2009-11-06T21:50:00.005+08:00

I love to dance. Since I was kid, I performed numerous times in front of audiences in school and I enjoyed every moment of it. I was also lucky to have gone to a school were they encouraged students to perform. Now, I've learned that they don't have the same shows we had before. It's pretty sad. Those school activities promote unity and camaraderie amongst students, teachers and even parents. Well, who knows what goes on in those Jesuits' minds...

Anyway, I've been on the prowl for "old" movies. Some movies I watch because of nostalgia. Others, I've been meaning to watch but I couldn't because I was young at that time and was on parental guidance. One particular movie is Dirty Dancing. If it weren't for the news of Patrick Swayze's death (may he rest in peace), I wouldn't have the urge to watch it. I know of it, but I didn't think it would be a nice movie. I was wrong.

The movie blew me away. The 80's really have an appeal to me. I loved the attires. And the women are lean and sexy. Not like the women in the movies today where all I see are boobs and booties (blech!). And the men, are downright sexy. They sure know how to move and groove. And watching them makes the fiery dancer in me come alive. *sigh*

I haven't danced for years. I've been looking for a dance studio in the city for affordable dance lessons or just an hour or two of letting it all out. But I'm also considering on taking ballroom dancing lessons. Hmm...

So anyway, here's a particular song I love in the movie which have won a LOT of awards from oscars to grammys. This is the finale dance.

Trial Make-up

2009-10-22T22:45:00.013+08:00

Growing up, I was never really fond of make-up and even if I wore make-up six times a day for more than two years because of work, I still don't like make-up that much. My make-up kit for work was compact powder, blush, lip balm and lip gloss. I put it on when I get to the workplace and I'll be done in 5 minutes. Although I look at magazines and read articles on what kind of make-up to use or how to apply make-up, it's just too tiresome to paint my face. I don't want to risk having breakouts too.

So imagine my dilemma on deciding how I should look on my wedding day. I had to get professional help and there are a lot of referrals. Question is, whom should I pick? Luckily, I've been busy attending friends' weddings these past few weeks that gave me a chance to do trial make-ups. I've settled to try with two known make-up artists in the city. One is more pricey than the other.

I've decided to document my different looks and my family and friends have helped me zero in on a make-up artist by giving me opinions. So far, they're on equal footing. And that makes me go crazy. So if anyone out there has an opinion, please let me know. Here are my two different looks. Please feel free to comment and criticize. ^_^

Note: I had fake lashes on the left picture.
(whoa... one look is totally different from the other... hmmm i didn't notice that before)

9 Months To Go

2009-10-07T21:10:00.004+08:00

It's not what you think. We have nine months and three days to be exact until our wedding day!!! Hooray! Well, I guess it's similar with pregnancy 'cause we're expecting something wonderful too.

Nine months to go and what have we accomplished? Appointments were set and reservations were made. But we are way advanced with planning that's why we still have time to chill and relax. Also, we have been busy attending weddings here and there. Weddings still make me all giddy inside. Sometimes teary-eyed. I like the thought of a happily ever after especially when I get to witness it between two dear friends. Tomorrow, we'll be attending another wedding but this time, I'm one of the bridesmaids. I'm also pretty excited 'cause the bride is a good friend and we've been friends since college. Finally, she and her boyfriend/fiance are getting married with an adorable baby girl as their flowergirl.

Unlike us, they didn't have more than a year to plan a wedding and they also didn't have to fight for their wedding date. Yes, this is Round 1 for our fight to the finish. *Ding Ding Ding* Our first major obstacle was setting our wedding date. We have learned through the grapevine that another couple is planning to get married on the same date, at the same church and a reception at the same venue. We HAD to take action right away. Our biggest problem was with the church. They couldn't reserve the date for us because they don't have the 2010 schedule of church activities yet. But that didn't stop us. And so, we asked some favors and ended up talking directly to the parish priest. He must have thought how silly we are for being so worked up on setting the date. I'm just glad he agreed to meet with us.

At first, he seemed intimidating and hard to convince. But he understood our dilemma and agreed on one condition, which was to get him a daily planner for 2010. We didn't waste time after our meeting. We called up printing shops, used our resources and connections to get that planner. Sadly, it is not available until October and it was still August at that time. But we managed to get a calendar template for 2010---the one that is printed in blue and red, with drawing of the faces of the moon, reminders for special holidays. We got the type where you nail it on a wall. We had no choice. We just hoped that the priest would accept it.

We went back to the church, two days after, for our interview. There were a number of interviewees and we waited for almost an hour. When our names were called, I hesitated a bit thinking that the priest would laugh when he sees the calendar. But priests shouldn't be judgemental. I guess he just have to suck it in.

Our interview was short. He just asked us some things about ourselves. Then, shyly, I handed him the calendar. He gave out a laugh. He seemed amused that we made an effort to find something he can record our wedding with. He scribbled notes there and asked us to forward it to the office outside and reminded us with the requirements. He was easy to talk to. And I'm glad. I'm not really that chummy with priests...and nuns.

We're so happy that everything is set. We just have to wait for the time to come when we really need to start preparing. And having the date set makes me excited. I can't wait for my wedding day and I'll get to share it with wonderful people in our lives.

False Eyelashes

2009-09-28T20:59:00.006+08:00

I was cursed with short lashes and this is one of my many firsts in life. The first attempt was on my debut but it was a failure. My stylist couldn't put the fake lashes on me to the point of losing my patience and giving up. I was getting late for my party. And that's when I started to distance myself from them.

But when the day came for my trial bridal make-up, it would be my second encounter with false eyelashes. It was Paul and Carol's wedding and it was my chance to experiment on the look that I want for our big day. And that is why my stylist suggested to put fake eyelashes. I was apprehensive at first. I can still remember how uncomfortable it felt, like the adhesive was made of epoxy and the material of the lashes was made of hard plastic. But he assured me that what he would put on me would be lighter than before and putting it on would be easy. He was right. Though there was still a slight feeling of uneasiness, it was bearable. And I never knew how fake eyelashes could brighten up one's eyes especially for someone like me with "chinky" eyes. Somehow my Chinese roots were lost in those faked wide eyes. The whole trial make-up was a great success. I absolutely loved how I looked the entire day. Yes, I was made-up at 10:00AM, done by 11:00AM, was at the wedding ceremony by 1:00PM and on I went to the reception until it was time to go home at 11:00PM. My make-up was still intact. Super cool. For the first time, I loved make-up.

When I arrived home, I didn't want to clean my face just yet. And I forgot to ask my stylist on how to remove the fake eyelashes. It was my first time by the way. A lot of concerns crossed my mind, "How will I remove them?", "Should I just pull them out?","What if I pull out my eyelashes in the process?","Would it hurt?". These are some of the things that bothered me 'cause I failed to ask my stylist on how to remove them. And so, I braved the consequences and pulled them out slowly but surely. Nothing tragic happened--there wasn't a single eyelash out of place.

I couldn't part with the fake eyelashes right away. I caught myself examining them like a curious toddler. I decided to play with them for a while. And here's what I came up with.
Pretty, right? Hahaha... This Saturday, I'll be having another trial bridal make-up with another stylist. I'm looking forward to it. 'Til my next update... my fake eyelashes are signing off.

Grub Resto-Cafe

2009-09-12T23:56:00.004+08:00

After a birthday snack at our good friend Jeffrey's party, we made our way to Duterte Street for dinner at Grub Resto-Cafe. Louie, me and six of our other guy friends, wanted to find out what delicious grub this restaurant has to offer. Once we stepped inside the place, I couldn't help but notice the crisp and clean ambience and concentrate on that for a second. It gives a homey feeling and a warm sense of comfortable dining.

Looking around, I see a number of wooden tables and wooden benches, all of which, were almost filled up with customers. There are also dining tables and chairs where families eat together and share food on the table. We finally settled for a long table near the entrance. It's the biggest available space they have at that moment.

Our waitress was accommodating. When asked what is the restaurant's specialties, she confidently said the Dino Chops is a favorite and so is the Crispy Spring Chicken. It didn't take much persistence from her to order Dino Chops and Fish and Chips in Supersizes. These entrees are served with a cup of brown rice each.

When the Dino Chops arrived, it wasn't that supersized. It was barely enough for 7 hungry guys and a gal. We ordered a second serving, of course. The Dino Chops was alright. It's priced at Php300.00 which for me, is enough for an entree that can be shared by 5 (if all male) and 6 or 7 (if all female). The Fish and Chips on the other hand, is not impressive. For one, there's no distinct taste and the dip of ketchup and mayonnaise is ordinary. I was impressed though, that they use brown rice. It was my first time to eat such although it wasn't a giant leap of a difference from the kind of rice that we eat at home.

They also have homemade goodies such as atchara, wild berry preserve and banana muffin. I ordered take-out for banana muffins and to eat for breakfast.

Grub Resto-Cafe has good food for group gatherings especially families. Although it's a bit pricey, I would like to eat there again 'cause it's a great place to do some catching up.

Kusina Selera

2009-08-31T23:10:00.003+08:00

Last night, we had our late dinner at a new restaurant. It has nice interiors, cozy ambience and well-lit dining areas. We came to Kusina Selera found in Legaspi Suites at Legaspi Street. We left full and satisfied but not so impressed with the food. Well, I think they're still at a hit-and-miss stage.

They serve Filipino dishes. Food that you would also enjoy at home but is just much more comforting to eat at their restaurant. Our appetizer was the pomelo salad. It's a toss of chunks of pomelo, slices of tomatoes, unripened papaya and nuts on top swimming in a boat dish of fish sauce (patis). My first impression is that the tangy-ness of the pomelo is overpowering and made the other ingredients useless. But the nuts makes it interesting and I like that the fish sauce isn't so overpowering. You'll hardly even notice that it is what it is.

Our entrees are Bistek Selera and Boneless Crispy Chicken. My sister also ordered the Steak Rice. To start with, Bistek Selera was my order. This dish is good for two. It is like Bistek Tagalog but the catch is there are breaded onion rings on top. Well, that's what the description said but we didn't get the breaded ones, only the usual onion rings. This, however, I realized after we have finished eating it and found it too late to bring to their attention. Next is the Boneless Crispy Chicken. According to our waiter, it's a favorite among their customers and I agree. It's delicious. My only concern was that it's a bit pricey to pay for a half fried chicken on a sizzling plate with gravy. I don't think it can be shared by two. It's like Bigby's Chix Ahoy but I must say, Kusina Selera's tastes better. And finally, the Steak Rice was my sister's order. It's literally sauteed rice with tenderloin tips. This dish is so-so. Although unique in its taste, I wasn't blown away. And the price again, in my opinion, is not worth it even if it has tenderloin tips. However, this can be shared by two but it wouldn't change my opinion on the pricing. It's still expensive.

I think the Dabawenyos' taste have evolved through the years. You'll see classy restaurants popping here and there. They are flanked by Dabawenyos at first but then die down after a while. That's our culture. We try something new but we almost always go back to the familiar taste. But I still do hope that Kusina Selera will eventually turn into a go-to place, somewhere we can all be familiar with. And I would most definitely eat there again because there are many dishes I haven't tried yet. My taste buds are craving for their desserts.

She's All That

2009-08-30T14:37:00.006+08:00

I love romantic comedies especially the ones that make me giddy all over like a teeny-bopper (who uses teeny-bopper these days? LOL). Such is the movie I just finished viewing and after 10 years (yes, it's been that long), the giddy-ness is still there. And why wouldn't it be? With a yummy cast of Freddie Prinze, Jr. (Zach Siler), Rachel Leigh Cook (Laney Boggs...what is she up to now?) and Paul Walker (Dean Sampson). Also in the film are R&B artists Usher Raymond as the Campus D.J. and Kimberly "Lil Kim" Jones. Most of the members of the cast are known if not famous which makes She's All That, all that.

What I rave most in the movie is the simplicity of the plot and how spot-on the movie was to the real highschool scene. Any highschool in the whole planet has their own set of populars whom we all wanted to be and some succeeded and of course, the unpopulars whom many of us were and may still be. The whole plot revolves around Zach who made a bet with Dean, after being dumped by his girlfriend, that he can turn anyone Dean picks from the entire school female population into Prom Queen. And the lucky pick is Laney Boggs, the oddball in their art class. After spending tons of time with Laney, Zach found himself falling for her and vice versa until everything got messed up like how messed up high school should be.

It's a wonderful movie to be nostalgic with. Especially when I reminisce about my own giddy moments in highschool. I realized how funny and enjoyable that part of my life was. Things were simple back then and how I wish I could go back in time and do it all over again. But then I just have to settle for a movie rerun and channel my inner teeny-bopper.

Kiss Me... beneath the milky twilight...
Lead Me... out on the moonlit floor...
La...la-la-la...la-la-la...la-la-la
*blushes*

Noynoy is not Ninoy

2009-08-27T23:12:00.004+08:00

I find it ridiculous to collect 1 million signatures to help convince Sen. Noynoy Aquino to run for president when he's not really into it. Let the man decide for himself. It's peer pressure but then he's not in high school anymore. Although the administration was not in the right place to tell Noynoy to cease using his parents' status as his pedestal, there was some truth in it.

In my opinion, he didn't do much while in the Senate. He was invisible not until his mother's death and the invitation to run for presidency/vice-presidency. I believe his heart is not in the right place and we cannot afford any more regrets.

Vote for the true guardian of democracy. I don't know who and I don't think I'll vote in the 2010 elections mainly because, my vote is not worthy of the present candidates. I just have to wait and see...

Super Bowl

2009-08-16T14:18:00.001+08:00

A typical meal at Rai Rai Ken is an order of Gyudon, California Maki and a can of Pepsi (because they don't sell Coke products). But that day, I decided to try something else and I wasn't quite hungry.

After many minutes of reading the menu over and over again, I ordered a Tantanmen. A bowl of ramen that is salt-based and hot and spicy. Yum...

I was mainly concerned about how hot it would be and if I could finish it when lo and behold, I was served with a huge bowl of Tantanmen. I grew even weary. But before I knew it, I consumed everything and emptied the bowl as empty as I can. I have discovered a new favorite food at my currently favorite Japanese dining place :) It's really tasty and hot but the spicy-ness is bearable. The toppings are not enough though to create a balance with the volume of noodles. Halfway through it, I was left with much noodles to finish and it makes it kinda boring at that point. Still, anyone who's into hot & spicy noodles will surely get your money's worth. It's a must try!