AJi's Adventures ∞

langhiyang pag-ibig 'yan.

2022-11-10T11:26:00.001+08:00

type the correct name, and maybe you'll find out what this post is about.

I can't believe I'm writing. Publicly. Again. Maybe it's now too much to handle. O baka pagod lang ako. Either way, hello ulit. Sobrang iba na 'yung huling ako na sumulat dito sa kung sino ako ngayon. But I guess, same pa rin na 'yung content ng mga sinusulat ko, mga taong minahal ko. Akala ko, after ng ex ko, 'di na 'ko magmamahal ulit. Sabi nga ng Ben & Ben, walang'yang pag-ibig 'yan. 2 years mahigit na. Nung una kong ma-realize na crush ko siya, at eventually, mahal na rin pala. Mag-iisang taon na rin after ng kasal niya. Pero shet, 'yung iyak ko ngayon, 'kala mo kahapon lang lahat nangyare. Masakit pa rin. Namimiss ko siya. Gusto ko siyang makita, mayakap. Sobra. Kaso alam ko, kung magkikita kami ngayon, 'di ko rin alam sasabihin ko sa kanya. Feeling ko, I've ruined everything. And it can only go worse from here. What if I also lose kung ano mang katiting pa 'yung natitira sa kung ano mang meron o naging meron kami? Minsan (o madalas na rin siguro? 'di ko na alam, honestly), wini-wish ko sana 'di na lang ako nagmahal, para 'di rin ako nasasaktan ng gan'to. Hindi ko na rin alam ba't patuloy pa rin akong nagpapakatanga, hinahayaan o kaya minsan, sinasadya pa nga, na saktan ko 'yung sarili ko sa pag-view ng stories mo at pag-check pa rin ng posts mo. Eh pwede ko namang kalasagan at protektahan 'yung sarili ko sa simpleng pag-iwas na gawin 'yung mga bagay na 'yon. Kaya ko namang aminin sa sarili ko na masakit eh. Masakit 'pag naiisip kong wala ka na, masakit 'pag naiisip kong kasal ka na, masakit 'pag naiisip kong para bang wala na 'kong lugar sa buhay mo. Ang 'di ko malaman ba't 'di pa rin kita matiis. Ba't sobrang mahal na mahal pa rin kita. Kahit na sobra-sobra na rin akong nasasaktan. Na lagi't lagi, magri-reach out pa rin ako. Mas pipiliin kong masaktan makasama ka lang, maka-interact ka lang, kahit na alam ko sa sarili kong malaking parte 'yung umaaray kasi, hindi na ako 'yung mahal mo ng sobra. Na alam ko kung paano kasi naranasan ko eh. Sobrang damang-dama ko pa rin 'yung kawalan nung pagmamahal na 'yon. That you've already outgrown that part of you, and here I am, still stuck between us two. Teka lang, babalikan ko 'to. Kelangan huminga at magpahid ng luha eh.

#Breezy

2016-06-21T18:03:00.000+08:00

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The Right One

2015-03-19T22:03:00.000+08:00

Hello, Mom. :)

I've been writing this letter in my mind for the past how many days, but as I try to start typing it, my thoughts were unorganized and I don't know where and how to start. So it ended up like this. Sorry for the intro being a mess. Haha.

Months before you left, you have already decided that you won't be celebrating your birthday with us here, and we pretty much accepted what you wanted, even though at first I thought, you're running away from the celebrations because you're already turning 60. Hahaha just kidding. :)) But a few days before you flew away, you revealed to us that you actually wanted a celebration, with your family and friends and all of the important people in your life. However, God called you to do something different for your 60th birthday. You are where you are right now because He has called you to minister: to ex-office mates at Loyola, to friends, to meet Art Rorheim, and to solicit for our AWANA Camp. You are there for a purpose, and I am happy and proud that you are always willing to obey and go wherever the Lord wants to take you.

On the day of your flight, just a few minutes before you leave our house, we prayed together for your safety and protection as you travel, and also for the ministry you'd be doing there. You prayed for our safety and protection, too, while you were away and we'd be on our own. When I opened my eyes I wasn't surprised to see you crying, but I didn't exactly know why. Hannah quickly fell back on the bed and as you did your final check on your bag, I asked, "Nanay, bakit ka umiiyak?" (Mom, why are you crying?)

And then you cried even more.

"Kasi iiwan namin kayo eh." (Because we're leaving you behind.)
"Babalik naman kayo 'di ba?" (You're going back, right?) Then tears started falling from my eyes, too.
"Hannah, alagaan mo si Ate ah. Ate, alagaan mo si Hannah ah." (Hannah, take care of Ate, okay? Ate, take care of Hannah.)

No more words came out. We just cried and hugged each other. After a while, we let go, then me and Hannah went to lay down on our bed. A million thoughts were running through my head. When Pastor Mark called, I went down with you and bid good bye until all of your baggage were loaded and you went into Daddy Alvin's car, and I pretended to yawn because it's just 3.30 in the morning and I was really trying hard to hold back the tears. When I came back to our house, I found out that Hannah was awake. We joked each other with all the crying and the sobbing and the drama. We weren't able to sleep again until it's about 4.30 am.

The million thoughts started rushing through my head the moment you said that you're leaving us behind. It was the trigger to my tears and to everything I've thought of during that short period of time. This is the first time that we cried because you were leaving, that you're leaving us behind and on our own. It's not the first time that you'd be gone for a long and far away trip, and we haven't cried before because of that reason.

This time was different.

I knew that we were crying because we are closer to each other than we were ever before. I was crying because I had just taken for granted the regular days that I spent with you at home, and I appreciated even more our being together at that time because you are about to leave and I won't be seeing you for a long time. I wanted to say something to comfort you but all I was able to say was, "You're going back, right?" The unspoken fact remains -- that it might be the last hug, the last good bye, and the last cry that we would be able to share because of life's frailty and uncertainty -- and I could only hug you so tight, I failed to say the words I was thinking to encourage you and lighten up your heart. That's why since it's your birthday today, I'd be saying it to you now. :)

You didn't leave because you didn't want to celebrate your birthday with us; you left because God has a purpose for your trip. You have a mission to fulfill; to be a missionary, sharing the Gospel on the other side of the world; to be a minister, to the people who needs encouragement and to those who have been a blessing to our lives and our ministries (including Art Rorheim); to be a messenger, of how God is greatly working on the lives of the children here in the Philippines, and that they need financial support to be able to join our AWANA Summer Camp. God's plan is greater than our plans, and I know that He's the One who will see you through as you do His will.

As you celebrate your birthday away from me and Hannah, I just want to assure you and Tatay that we are doing well here, even though it's just the two of us. :D We are surrounded by people who cares and loves us and always checks on us as if they're our parents, too. So no need to worry, just enjoy your time there and do what God wants you to do. ;)

I'd like to say sorry for the times that I hurt you, and for the times that I might hurt you again in the future. But do know that I love you so much, even though I know I can't pay or love you back enough for all the things that you've done and given for me (including the nine months that you brought me around in your womb HAHA). You are not a perfect mother but I am really thankful to the Lord because He's given just the right and best one for me. Happy happy 60th birthday, Nanay, and please take care of yourself because I am looking forward to more years of serving God together with you. I love you! :>

Love,
Ate

Retreat Letter

2013-12-05T00:00:00.000+08:00

For:

Paul Amiel Dagatan

4-I

Amiel! :D Okay, so hindi ako masyadong magaling sa mga ganito, but since you're a really important friend of mine, I'll try my best. ;)

I don't have any memories of actually meeting you for the first time, basta alam ko kaibigan kita. I never really bothered to find out when we started to be friends, since alam naman natin pareho na bago pa man tayo ipanganak, magkaibigan na ang mga magulang naten. =)) Loyola, Timezone, swimming/outing, kainan ang mga setting ng almost lahat ng memories ko with you. Haha. I remember myself always being excited kapag sasabihin ni Nanay na kayo ang kasama sa lakad, kasi I know it would be fun wherever we're going. Sobrang thankful ako kay Lord kasi I get to be friends with people like you. And before I forget, maraming salamat sa Gameboy Advanced SP na pinamana niyo sa amin ni Hannah. Hanggang ngayon, nilalaro pa rin namin siya. HAHAHA

You're blessed since you're studying sa isang well-known school na tulad ng Ateneo, and we all know kung ga'no kagandang school 'yan. :> This year you'd be graduating. I don't intend to say any cliche to you regarding finishing high school, stepping on another milestone which is college, etc. Hindi ko talaga alam kung anong eksaktong sasabihin ko sa'yo dahil 'di naman ako taga-Ateneo, pero I'll share things which I believe na makakatulong sa'yo as you go on with life. Haha.

Magka-age kayo ni Hannah right? So you're supposed to be 16 or 17 na. I want you to think of what your life has been during all those years that you've been existing on top of the crust of this planet. Think first about your parents, your family, your friends, your relatives, your professors, and all the other people who has a part in your life. Think about the times that they made you smile, in one way or another. After thinking about these people, I'd like you to think about your achievements. The first time you got a medal. That moment you went up the stage to receive an award. Basta lahat ng mga naging achievements mo sa buhay, try to remember it.

Nakalimutan kong sabihin. Sa bawat isang alaala na papasok sa isip mo, gusto ko mag-sulat ka ng isang smiley sa isang papel. Pero sige, 'wag mo na gawin 'yun. :)) Kasi alam kong mapapagod ka lang sa pag-sulat sa sobrang dami ng naalala mo, partida may nalimutan ka pa niyan siguro. =)) Sa lahat-lahat ng mga naisip mong 'yon... I'll give you 3 to 5 minutes to stop reading this and take the time to pray, na pasalamatan si Lord sa lahat ng mga bagay na 'yon. :>

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

Tapos ka na? :) Game, ituloy na natin 'to. :D Ngayon naman, I want you to remember the times that you've failed or you felt like a failure. Don't worry, wala akong ipapasulat sa'yo. :p Kahit hindi mo na maalala lahat. Basta you remember how it felt when you failed. Malungkot 'di ba? Hindi naman masamang malungkot, kasi tao tayo. Uhm, eto favorite quote ko, share lang. Pampaliwanag ng buhay kapag madilim, parang Meralco. :>

"When we long for life without difficulties, remind us that oaks grow strong in contrary winds and diamonds are made under pressure." -Peter Marshall

Para sa'ken, it's a better perspective when we face trials and failures. :) I know that you're going to be one strong oak and a finely carved diamond in the future, so I just wanna say na kaya mo 'yan. \m/

I'm almost running out of words, but these last few pieces of advice really needs to be said to you from me, kahit na baka narinig mo na 'to sa iba. :)) Never give up on your dreams and never forget to thank those people who are always supporting you sa lahat ng gusto mong gawin at mga pangarap mo sa buhay. :> Ayun lang. Haha. Congratulations, tapusin mo na 'yang last wave of your high school. ;) God bless you, Amiel! :)

P.S. Let's go to US one of these days and visit the Disneyland over there and bond with Kuya Arvie and Daryl and Daniel once again. Level up na from our Timezone games! =))

-Ate Sarah :>

SARAH GRACE S. MAGLANQUE

To The Best Pizap Editor ;)

2013-10-14T23:28:00.000+08:00

Gahh, ngayon lang ako nakabalik muli sa sibilisasyon! Hello, hello, internet, cellphone at laptop. :)) Sorry Sam, 'di ako naka-OL kahapon at naiwan ko ang cp ko sa bahay, so ngayon lang ulit ako nakapag-post. :( Heto na! :D Pinapel ko muna kahapon. =))

Sister! 'Di ko sure kung pa'no ko sisimulan 'to, siguro 'yun na lang pagiging sisters naten kasi pareho tayong Sarah. Haha. Although ang funny kasi wala sa'teng gumagamit nung actual na name na 'yon sa school. LOL Bale tulad ni JC, soulmate din kita nung first sem first year! :> Isa sa mga 'di ko makakalimutan eh 'yung pinapitik niyo 'ko ni Jhai kay Carl nung CS 11. -__-" Natatawa na lang ako pero aghhh. :)) Nakakahiya kasi, napatayo ako eh nasa harapan ako ni Sir Co. HAHAHA Salamat talaga sa inyo ni Jhai, kaya mahal ko kayo eh. :p

Hindi naman natin maikakailang isa ka din sa mga "chix" mula nung freshie pa tayo. Naaalala ko pa, feel ko talaga crush ka ni Ace, Franz saka ni JC. Ta's parang inaabangan ko pa kung sabay-sabay ka ba nilang liligawan. =)) In the end... si Tita ang naging tunay mong Hun. :)) HAHAHAjk Pero 'di ba? Ohlala. ♥

Napabilib mo din ako nung minsan sa kwento ni JC, bigla mo na lang daw siyang iniwan sa LRT or MRT ba 'yun, basta, 'di ko na maalala. Tapos nung tanungin ka daw niya kung galit ka ba or something, sabi mo tinitignan mo lang kung anong gagawin niya. THE BEST SISTER! 'Yan gusto ko sa'yo ih. Hihi. ;) Saka natutuwa ako, kasi 'yung mga 'di ko nailalabas na observations ko tungkol sa ibang tao [alam mo kung sinu-sino mga tinutukoy ko :))], parang lumuluwag pakiramdam ko 'pag nag-salita ka na, kasi ibig sabihin 'di lang pala ako 'yung nakaka-feel nung gano'n. :D

Couple kayo ni Paye pero thankful din ako sa'yo sa ibang mga paraan. :) Palaging ikaw 'yung unang nag-tatanong sa'ken kung ano mga kukunin sa enrollment, 'yung 'di nakakalimot sa pag-aayos ng sched, saka 'yung simpleng pagiging sister sa'ken, kahit 'di naman ako chix. :"> Yieh, haha. :)) Nung malaman ko talaga 'yung ginawa sa'yo nung ex mo, sabi ko sa sarili ko 'yun na 'yung pinaka-maling ginawa niya sa buhay niya; pero masaya ako kasi, yehey 'yun para sa'men ni JC. =))

Salamat din kasi, malaki talaga 'yung part mo nung huling DPSM Week. Alam ko nakakapagod, pero anjan ka palagi sa mga shooting ta's ikaw 'yung nag-sasaway kapag magulo, maingay, o nakikita mong hirap na kami nila Lizette saka Arianne, ganun. :> Sa December ulit ha. :D

This coming sem, siguro tayong dalawa lang sa 55. =)) Pero kaya natin 'to. :> Gaya ng hiling ko para kay Paye, sana patuloy ka pang i-bless ni God at maabot mo lahat ng pinapangarap mo. :) Happy birthday Sister, Tam, Sammie, Sam!

Lots of love,
-AJi :>

We're In Miami! [MAYAAAMIIIII]

2013-09-22T23:33:00.000+08:00

Late na ng isang araw, sorry. :)) Sinimulan ko 'to kagabi kaso 'di ko na natapos, pinatulog na kasi ako. =)) It's better late than later. :>

First year first sem, isa ka sa mga soulmates ko pagdating sa schedule, kaya 'yun madali lang tayong naging close. Tapos partner tayo sa MP sa CS 10... pasensya na talaga at hindi ko natapos 'yung lahat ng pages, ang totoo nahihiya ako sa'yo 'pag naaalala ko 'yun pero kaibigang tunay naman kita kaya 'di na 'ko mahihiya. :p Isa sa mga madalas nating pag-usapan no'n eh 'yung ex-crush mo... si Sam, na sister ko dahil parehas kaming Sarah. :)) Ex-crush kasi love mo na siya ngayon. Haha. (gusto ko mag-explain eh ba't ba) Bukod pa 'yun sa mga kwento mo tungkol sa sarili mo, ta's 'yung G-Box at mga gala sa rob natin ni Gio.

Hindi ko alam pero sa lahat talaga ng mga lalake sa block eh ikaw 'yung unang naging malapit sa'ken. Exception si Paul kasi, MaSci. :p Pero 'yun. Natutuwa ako no'n kapag nagku-kwento ka tungkol kay Sam, sa sarili mo nung high school... tapos gusto ko talaga kayong dalawa na lang magkatuluyan. :> Wala kaming TV sa bahay, kaya love story niyo na lang ni Sister sinubaybayan ko kesa sa mga telenobela. ;) And yey happy... pero alam kong hindi pa ending kasi may kasal pa... bridesmaid ako bro ah? HAHA

Pagdating sa pagiging "regular" eh halos magkasabay tayo, hanggang ngayon. Naaalala mo pa nung sabihan mo 'ko ng, "Alam mo 'Ji, sayang ka dapat regular ka pa."? Siguro lahat talaga ng bagay may dahilan. Oo, nalulungkot ako kasi delayed na 'ko... Pero mas lamang 'yung masaya ako, kasi mas naging malapit ako sa inyo, kasama ka dun bro, sa HTHT. :) Kaya wala 'yun sa'ken, eh naging close naman ako sa mga taong sabi nga ni sister, "awesome people", na tinuturing kong mga kaibigang tunay na natagpuan ko sa kolehiyo. :p #ayAngCheesy

Salamat sa mga pagtuturo kapag 'di ko naintindihan 'yung lesson, sa pakikinig sa sarili kong istorya nung freshie pa tayo, sa pag-console kapag mababa 'yung mga grades sa exam ko, at sa hindi pagka-limot sa pag-aaya sa'ken sa tuwing may lakad o gala 'yung barkada. Never akong na-OP at hindi ko naramdamang hindi ako kasali kapag kasama ko kayo nila Sam, salamat do'n. Salamat sa sabay-sabay na mga review, tulong-tulong sa project, exercises, sa mga simpleng tugtugan at pagtuturo ng chords, sa mga htht sa tambayan o kahit saan, sa pusoy, Blitz at kung anu-ano pang mga laro, sa pagpapakilala sa'ken sa Yu-Gi-Oh at pag-convert sa Left 4 Dead 2. :>

Hindi ko na kayang isa-isahin pero isa pa ulit, salamat. Alam kong may kaya ka at mejjo mas nakaka-angat sa iba, nabibili mo ang mga gusto mo, pero kahit kailan 'di mo pinag-yabang 'yun. Sobrang magaling ka rin mag-gitara (ikaw pinaka-magaling na kilala 'ko!) pero never mong binuhat 'yung sarili mong bangko. Except na lang sa pagiging pogi. HAHAHA jk

Dahil na rin nga sa parang, nasa'yo na ang lahat... minamahal kitang tapat. OOPS hi Arianne. =)) (uy biro lang, birthday naman ni JC eh) Ayun parang nasa'yo na nga 'yung mga gusto mo, 'di ko talaga alam kung anong i-reregalo ko sa'yo. :)) Sorry. Saka unfair kasi 'di ko na-regaluhan 'yung ibang naunang mag-birthday. Next year na lang para walang mamimiss, saka sa pasko. Haha.

Sana patuloy ka pang i-bless ni God at maabot mo lahat ng pinapangarap mo. Happy birthday bro, paye, chicser, JC!

-AJi

P.S. Sorry 'di nakaka-touch. Shove na lang. =))

When The Word "KK" Was Coined ✌

2013-09-21T23:01:00.003+08:00

...it signaled the birth of HTHT. =))

I woke up early last Monday morning to prepare for Azeus Systems Philippines Limited's Company Talk regarding internship on their company, since our batch is already on our junior year. I'd be riding with my dad going there because the place is near his office. Arriving at 2 minutes before 8 AM, I still had time to check out my Twitter, Facebook, and Blogger while I'm waiting for my block mates to reach MRT's Shaw Boulevard station.

I'm the first one from the block to set foot at the Philippine Stock Exchange Centre (or Tektite)... so I waited for a few more minutes when Sam and JC arrived there through a taxi. I just gotta mention that I liked their paired blue outfits that day, which made them look more gorgeous as a couple. ♥

Fast forward to the end of the session with Azeus; we took an exam good for one hour and after that they provided each one of us a Fully Loaded Meal from KFC! It was one of the nice things that happened that day. =)) #freeLunch

We went to SM MegaMall afterwards and from there, HTHT* visited some clothing stores and when we got tired wandering for almost an hour, we decided to go to Jhai's residence -- which is also in Pasig. Bought J. Co donuts on the way to the FX terminal and had fun in the joyride to Jhai's. #htht

Too bad I had to leave earlier than the others because I have to go to Loyola. (my usual Monday routine) But yeah... I love this group. <3

KT [Kaibigang Tunay] #HTHT
From left to right:
Jhai, AJi, JC, Arianne, Franz, Lizette, Ron, Ace, Jared! (Jhai's bro), Tita, Sam
Jodie, Hana, and KatDat are missing!

Today is a special day, since it is John Carlo's birthday! He treated us at Hainanese delights and before that they played L4D2; unfortunately, I have to attend AWANA from 3-5pm so I missed that game. Maybe next time. :>

JC's birthday #HBDpaye
L to R: Arianne, Lizette, JC, Sam, Ron, Franz, Jodie, Ace, Gio
I'm the photographer, so... :)) We missd Jhai, Tita, Hana & KatDat! :(

I would not accept anything in exchange for my friendship with these people. ✌

HTHT is an acronym for "Heart-To-Heart Talk." We usually share very similar insights... especially when it comes to KK. :p

Tumakbo Ako

2013-09-19T23:21:00.002+08:00

Tumakbo ako ng pinaka-mabilis na kaya kong itakbo.

Pagka-bukas ng elevator eh kumaripas agad ako ng takbo at tuloy-tuloy na lumabas ng condo. Pag-tuntong ko sa hagdan pababa ng sidewalk, naramdaman kong dumampi sa balat ko ang mga unang patak ng pasimulang ambon noong mga panahong 'yon. Kukunin ko na sana 'yung payong ko sa bag ko pero naalala kong hiniram 'yon ng nanay ko bago siya umalis ng mas maaga nung umagang 'yon.

"Lord, galit Ka po ba sa'ken?", tanong ko sa isip ko habang sinimulan kong tumakbo papuntang CAS para hindi na 'ko abutan pa ng malakas na ulan sa daan at dahil na rin sa malapit nang mag-alas siyete -- oras ng una kong klase para sa araw na 'yon. "Bakit po ngayon pa umambon kung kelan hiniram ng nanay ko 'yung payong ko?" Hindi ako nagagalit sa Panginoon; nag-tatanong lang ako at natatakot dahil baka pinaparusahan Niya 'ko. Pero hindi ko na inisip ulit 'yon at tumuloy na 'ko sa pag-takbo habang iniisip ang tatlong beses kong kamatayan na magaganap sa araw na 'yon.

Okey pa 'ko nung unang klase ko sa Math 75. Nag-review kami para sa exam sa hapon. Walang lab ng CS 127, buti na lang. Inayos namin ni Lean 'yung ipe-present mamaya sa lec. Tapos inatupag ko na 'yung MP namin sa assembly na alam ko sa sarili kong hindi na namin matatapos kahit adikin ko pa kinagabihan. Nung mag-ala una, 2nd lec exam naman sa 131. Death number one. Nung mag-alas tres, project presentation sa CS 127. Salamat sa pa-pizza ni Paul dahil birthday niya, hindi na masyadong nag-uusisa si Sir MaRohn pagkatapos niyang makakain. Death number two. Pag-labas ng classroom, deretso agad kami ni Arianne, Franz, at JC sa Math 75 2nd lec exam. Death number three.

Umuwi ako ng bahay na kasabay si Jodie, pinag-usapan namin 'yung plano sa 131. Pagdating ko, kumain ako, nag-hugas ng plato, nag-code ng 131 pero bumagsak at nakatulog. Wala sa isip kong mag-aral para sa Math 74 lec exam bukas dahil tutok nga ako sa pagco-code ng assembly.

Pag-dilat ko ng mga mata ko, tinignan ko ang orasan ko at napansing lampas alas-sais na. Pinahiran ko ang mutang humaharang sa kaliwa kong mata upang makita kong mabuti kung anong oras na talaga. Teka, 6:30 na! Bumalikwas ako ng tayo mula sa kinahihigaan ko at dali-daling nag-ligpit ng higaan at deretsong naligo sa banyo. Kumain ng mabilis at tumakbo papunta'ng CAS dahil exam na sa Math 74.

Tumakbo ako ng pinaka-mabilis na kaya kong itakbo.

Pag-pasok ko sa room, binigyan na ako ng papel ni Ma'm Therese at sinimulan ko nang tignan 'yung mga tanong. Nakakaasar. Kung 'di ko lang kelangan unahin 'yung code sa 131, na-aral ko sana 'yun at kaya ko sanang i-perfect 'yung exam. Pero hindi eh. Sinagot ko na lang 'yung kaya kong sagutan. Death number four. Nung pababa na 'ko ng GAB, nasalubong ko sina Marx at sinabihan akong 2nd batch na lang daw ako sa exam. "Ah, sige thanks," na lang 'yung sinabi ko kahit ang nasa isip ko, "Anung exam?" Pag-dating ko ng tambayan, si Ate Kath naman 'yung sumalubong sa'ken at nag-sabing na-move na daw 'yung MP ng 131 kinabukasan, kasi marami pang 'di tapos, at second batch daw ako sa exam. Boom. Wala sa isip kong lab exam rin nga pala nung araw na 'yon sa 131. Naka-aral ako ng konti bago mag-alas onse medya, pero nung exam na, gumana 'yung program ko pagkatapos na pagkatapos mag-check ni Sir. Death number five.

Pag-pasok ko sa CS 120 lab kinabukasan, I was barely paying attention to Ma'm JJ (sorry po) dahil pa rin sa 131 MP namen. At oo, pati sa STS nag-code ako ng assembly hanggang sa ma-low batt na 'tong laptop ko at pinatuloy ko na lang kay Ron. Plano pa ata mag-extend ni Sir Herbert, kung 'di ko lang sinabing may exam kami sa 120 lab. At 'yung exam na 'yun... Death number six. Pero may isa pa. 'Yung huli at itinuturing kong pinaka-matindi. CS 131 MP. Hanggang ngayon, usapan pa rin ang mga katagang, "Good effort people. But I'm not impressed." Death number seven. Oh well. Pero masaya ako sa 65 namin nila Bogs. :)

Nag-ayaan ng block dinner. As usual, pina-pauwi ako agad. Wala raw kasing kasama si Hannah sa bahay. Pero minsan lang mangyari 'yung mag-diwang kami ng gano'n pagkatapos ng hell week, kaya sumama ako hanggang sa maka-settle down sa Wendy's. Mga isang oras din bago maka-pamili ng kakainan. =)) Nung mago-order na, umuwi na 'ko.

Tumakbo ako ng pinaka-mabilis na kaya kong itakbo.

Pitong beses akong namatay noong linggong 'yon. Pero eto ako, buhay pa rin, at mabait sa'ken ang Diyos. Tumatakbo pa rin ako.

What Drives Us?

2013-08-22T15:40:00.001+08:00

What drives us to do the things we like to do?

Lately, I have been reading posts from Ronibats.PH and say what, I didn't expect that I could relate to his experiences or feelings, since he is a medical doctor and I've never wanted anything related to medicine because I hate Physics, Biology and Chemistry. In short, I hate natural sciences. =)) Although I do like applied sciences; remember that I study Math and Computer Science most of the time.

Being a previous intern and now a resident in Philippine General Hospital, he is constantly exposed to thousands of Filipinos suffering from poverty, deprivation of health care privileges from the government, and of course, various illnesses -- both terminal and curable. Not to mention the numerous deaths he had already witnessed, with loved ones grieving beside the hospital beds. I am aware and have also seen these things during the times I have taken care of family, friends and relatives admitted to PGH; whether it be at the pay wards or the charity wards. But no, we are not very similar in terms of exposure to this events. I related to him the most in his views on dreaming, but sadly, I chose the different path.

Everyone, sometimes including himself, were always asking him the question, "Bakit ka magme-med? Dapat mag-*insert Math-related course here* ka na lang." [Why are you taking up medicine? You should just take *insert Math-related course here*.] The same thing happened to me just before I entered college. "Ba't gusto mo mag-photography, eh hobby lang naman 'yun? Mag-4 year course ka na lang muna ta's saka mo i-take 'yun kung gusto mo talaga." [Why do you want photography when it's just a hobby? Just take up a four-year course first then proceed with it if you really want it.]

That is where I differed from Sir Ron. I didn't have enough courage to write UP Diliman as my first choice campus and BA Film as my first choice course when my mother commented, "Why are you writing UP Diliman when you're just a street away from UP Manila?" I just obeyed what my parents wanted. Now that my sister's currently studying at UPD because Education courses are not offered here in Manila, I'm starting to wonder if I had committed the wrong decision of not pursuing what I really wanted.

Not that I regret entering UPM.

I have met my wonderful blockmates (including the adopted shiftees and transferees), my FBCP family, my children and grandchildren in ComSci, my professors (both the nice and terror ones), and other people in UPM that have become part of me -- and that part of me would be different if ever I didn't study there.

Alone times are thinking time for me. Where did I go wrong? What did I do wrong? were questions that often enter my mind during those times. And after reading Sir Ron's post, I guess I already found answers for these not very uncommon questions in life. :)

Why do I like photography?

Simple. I just like it.

The answer to the question, "Why do you like _____?" should be really simple. We have our own reasons, although I cannot say altogether that every reason is right (that is where I disagree with Sir Ron), the problem is uncertainty and lack of determination for what we really want. It's the reason why some people cry, some people quit, and some people lose their minds.

We tend to forget that we like something just because we like it. All the other reasons just fall behind this one.

I am guilty of forgetting this.

And to quote Mr. Ronnie Baticulon from his blog:

Ang problema ay nag-uugat sa kawalan ng kasiguraduhan. Kaya may umiiyak. Kaya may nagku-quit. Kaya may nasisiraan ng bait. Dahil sa buhay, ang pinakamatinong sagot ay ang pinakasimple. Madalas nga, sa sobrang simple e tatanungin mo ang iyong sarili, “Kailangan pa ba ng dahilan?”

Let me ask my first question again:

What drives us to do the things we like to do?

Playing With Color Space

2013-08-02T01:04:00.000+08:00

I am feeling hungry.

I don't know if this is because it's that certain time of the day where your stomach or intestines are digesting the food you ate and stored in the insides of your body. Or am I just feeling too bad that it is manifesting itself through my tummy? Either way, I'm not feeling good about it.

I came home late tonight, at about 10 PM. [I still said 'tonight' even though it's already 45 minutes past midnight since the sky is still dark.] After my classes ended at 5 PM, I went home just to eat dinner and to charge *Neyam's battery for while. The Manila Baptist Church Anniversary Choir has a rehearsal from 7-9 PM, so the coverage team (that's where I belong) used this time to practice taking photos and videos for this coming Sunday's big event at the Star Theatre. The practice went well, and I learned to play with the color space a bit. The only thing left for me to practice is to follow the choir's movement and avoid blurred shots. :)

One of my colleagues in the coverage team (Raymond Joshua De Vera) would be handling a really awesome video recorder, like the one used by camera-persons on televisions. High quality video, 88mm maximum distance, smooth video movements and focus transitions. I'd really be happy if I'd have something like that. =)) I don't wanna look up the price for things like those, though. :))

Segue: I'm planning to change my blog's title and subtitle. Can't think of something meaningful and edifying yet.
EDIT: A few changes here and there. ;)

Well then, here's my very first post for the month of August. Happy 45th Anniversary of God's faithfulness, Manila Baptist Church! :D #proudMBCer

*Neyam's the name I've given to my SLR. :>

ERD - Entity Relationship Diagram

2013-07-31T16:42:00.001+08:00

Entity Relationship Diagram (ERD)

Definition: An entity-relationship diagram is a specialized graphic that illustrates the relationships between entities in a database.*

*definition source: databases.about.com/cs/specificproducts/g/er.htm‎

In our ComSci 127 subject, our very handsome (joke!) professor, Mr. Marvin Ignacio, required us to create an ERD for our projects. :)) It is my first time to create such a thing, so I made one together with my project partner: Lean Godffrey Rada. He is a programming god; he had been learning C since his first year high school. :> By this time he is already creating various apps including games and utilities for our university computerized registration system. :3 By the way, if you want you can follow him on Twitter: @Kalabasa_

I used a free online software to create an ERD. Here's the result:

I know the design looks lame, and I'm sorry for that. As I've said, it is my first time to create one. =)) Sorry.

Looks like this would be my last post for July. At least I was able to write three. :> Good thing I felt the need to do one today. :p

Enuj

2013-07-24T23:54:00.000+08:00

(Untitled Post) ----- Draft ----- 6/19/2013

This is what my second to the last post indicated.

I have this tendency to feel something at the moment, but have a completely different feeling the next minute. I don't even remember what I am supposed to write on this post at that time; am I feeling good? Or angry, or maybe stressed? No one really knows, except God, of course.

A lot really happened on the month that just passed me by like the quick air slap you get when you enter malls. The date of my post regarding GE was actually the night of our flight to Beijing, China. We stayed there until the 2nd of June, so I didn't start it here in Manila. Upon arrival on our beloved (chos) country [but hey, it's still more fun in the Philippines!], I created my Twitter account. Yay! #partyyy

Enrollment for first semester on my third year already in UP Manila started June 4... and as usual, lines of students filled the OCS post, RH Lobby, and the Little Theatre for EPN, add slot, re-admission and other enrollment stuff. Same old enrollment, so I have nothing more to say. :))

I've postponed writing this post for about a hundred times already, and by this time I can only remember so much from that month. My junior load kind of surprised me, when I started feeling that so called hell week earlier than usual. I'm guessing it's almost a month for me. I couldn't easily get the knack of our lessons; home works, projects and notes started piling up so much faster than its regular rate. At first I really, really loved my schedule: light on the first two days of the week, a day break on Wednesdays, then a full blast from Thursday to Saturday. Now I'm hating it. No, sorry; I don't hate it. I'm just sad since I get exhausted because of my own decision.

That's all. If I still don't post this right now this might stay on the drafts until next year, and I don't like that idea. =))

'Cause I'm Your Fan ♥

2013-07-04T21:42:00.003+08:00

Okay, since I've got the opportunity to spend time with you today, and because you forced me to tell you *that*, here's a post specially dedicated for you. :))

If you ever tried checkin' my Twitter profile, my blog's URL could be found there. Just sayin'. =)) Since you're bugging me to reveal my link earlier this day. I have a few things to say to you, and apparently it appears that I am not able to say these in personal. At least when I write (or type) here in my blog, I have time to spare to think of what words I'm going to say. I'm not really good at words, so magta-Tagalog na 'ko, para na rin po sa inyo. HAHAHA

Thank you:

sa pag-aya sa Caf
sa access sa electronic Den =)))))
sa dedication <3 yiehhh
sa pangungulit, at afterwards sa hindi pagiging awkward :)))
sa gala :>

Sorry:

makulit ako sa lab
sometimes epal ako (mema) xD
mabagal ako sumagot
hindi ako nagpo-po [outside class lang naman]
palagi akong nasa likod, kasi lamonayun :p

'Yung utang mo po. HAHAHAHAHA
'Wag masyadong conceited. jk, kapayapaan!

Wala na 'kong masabi. #theEnd #bow

Let's Talk About GE

2013-05-28T09:16:00.001+08:00

Roughly 3 more days before my birth date anniversary! :))

Gifts
Since the 18th of May is fast approaching, a few people already asked me what gift I would want for my birthday. =)) Okay, I'll admit it. I've already thought about the gifts I'm goin' to receive this year, especially since I'm turning 18. I mean, it's natural for human beings like us to dream of things like that, right? :D So going back. As you all know, I'm celebrating the anniversary of my entry upon this world this coming Saturday. Some of my invited guests said they can't come, but they will surely send me a gift. Don't they know they're much more important to me than their gifts? Of course, I'd be happy to receive these things; but I'd still choose to be with YOU, rather than enjoy a gift all by myself. See? I really don't care whether you have a gift for me or not; nothing else would compare to time and moments spent with the ones important to me. Uh, just sayin'. :)) I'm not mad here or anything. :D

Elections
So, the unexpected partial unofficial election results were out even before Tuesday night came to an end. Grace Poe, who didn't even have television or radio advertisements, and one who didn't get a top post before in the surveys and polls, got the first place in the senate. Who would have thought that the support of the people to her father would be the same, even after nine years has passed since his untimely death? I saw the image of her father watermarked in one of her posters, and it came to me that the people's trust in her father surely gave her an edge among the other candidates for her to be first in the line up. I'm not saying that she doesn't have the capabilities to win without her father's help, but it is definitely a factor why she ended up being number one.

Correction on the post: Grace Poe did have a TV ad, it's just that I grew up without a television at home since Grade 4. :)) This was supposed to be posted last 15 May, 2013. But all the preparations for the 18th hindered me to do so. I'm very sorry, I really am. =)) But I want to thank everyone who greeted me a really happy birthday, those who came to the celebration, those who were not able to go, those people who gave me gifts, and our backstage crew who worked diligently behind to make the thanksgiving party a success. To God be all the highest glory! ;)

The Big Letter "G"

2013-05-05T21:45:00.000+08:00

Whenever I think of my blog and its contents, the idea of it being the outlet for my feelings always comes back to mind. I'm not a perfect person, and not everything I feel is always good. It is my Christian duty to filter and always check what could be read and found in my blog. Every time I am going to make a post, there are questions in my mind that should be answered first before it is published. Does it glorify God? Is it edifying? Will it offend someone else?

In a world where anything is just a click or touch away, one could find a million things about one mere keyword being typed or searched for. Among those information that we can obtain, how much of them are morally and spiritually correct? Something to ponder on, since we are living in the era of post-modernism where there is no absolute right or wrong.

A radio preacher was talking about atheism, one night while I'm tuned in. It is disheartening to think, that most people don't believe in the true God anymore. I can't exactly remember where I heard this from, but I overheard a conversation that went like this:

A: Sa'n mo makikita ang kasagutan sa lahat ng bagay? Clue, nagsi-simula sa malaking letrang 'G'. [Where can you find the answer to all things? Clue: it starts with the big letter 'G'.]

B: Sa'n? [Where?]

A: Edi sa Google. [On Google.]

First thing that came to my mind was God. It didn't occur to me that he would be referring to Google. He exaggerated when he said 'everything'. I've often used Google search, and it definitely doesn't answer every question that exists. It's much more disappointing that people trust Google more than God, nowadays.

I just hope that Christians will take the time to ask themselves the three questions I have stated above. I have nothing more to say.

Restless

2013-05-02T19:26:00.000+08:00

There's a part inside of me that's being restless, right now. I don't know, but, something's making me uneasy. The upcoming May 2013 national elections? No, but the senatorial candidates' jingles are definitely distracting. Especially those of Jack Enrile's and Risa Hontiveros'. I think I'm restless because I'm pressured by the preparation for my approaching birthday celebration.

It's because I'm planning all by myself. And I don't like it when I'm being pressured. Makes me unproductive. Sure, I do have some progress on the program, the important people involved, but I can't help thinking that guests who have confirmed haven't reached even (~~half)~~ a quarter of the number of people supposed to come. My mom told me that I should give my invited guests a deadline of until when they can confirm that they WILL come.

I understand my mother; I mean, she's the one fixing things like the reservation for food and tables and seats in the restaurant. And it's too difficult to settle a contract when you're not yet sure if people are going to come or not.

My 18th birthday only happens ONCE IN A LIFETIME. For almost 18 years, that's one thing that my mom taught me which I will never forget. When you're invited to a certain party or occasion, you've gotta make time for that. A birthday/anniversary or whatever party is being celebrated because of the reason that it's special. Sabi nga ni Sir Mong Llarenas, "Kung lahat eh meron nung 'something special' na 'yun, edi parang hindi na rin siya special." You do your normal routine regularly, if not daily then maybe weekly or monthly, but the occasion you're gonna miss may be happening only once every year; it may even be once in a lifetime. You'll have another day or week or month for whatever's in your routine, but you can't have another one of that celebration that you missed.

Another thing, just so you guys know, I've got a whole lot of friends and important people in my life. Coming from my mom's side of the family (she's got 9 siblings, which makes them 10 and that simply means LOTS of cousins for me), my dad's side (he's got 9 siblings, so another set of cousins for me -- they're many, okay), my elementary, secondary, and tertiary school friends, my church mates, my mom's office mates, my hometown neighbors, my mom's childhood friends, my own childhood friends, my mom's discipleship group, my classmates in our Bible study, and a lot more. [Take note: the sons and daughters and grandchildren of the people who belong to my mom's groups are also included, since they too, have become my childhood friends and batch mates. Let's just say that the friendships are being passed on from generation to generation, so...] It's so hard to choose who are the ones I am going to invite to this special day for me. AND IT BREAKS MY HEART EVERY TIME I CROSS OUT SOMEONE, AND EVERY TIME SOMEONE SAYS HE OR SHE CAN'T MAKE IT. Come to think of it, out of my almost-a-thousand friends, I chose you, making you more special than the others. Then you'll say you're not coming?! (~~You don't do that to me!!!~~) Kidding, haha. 'Cause this post's getting more dramatic. ~qwertyuiopasdfghjklzxcvbnm

But really. =)) I mean. Your presence on my special day really means a lot to me. :)) That's all I really wanna say, thank you. :p

Oh right. I'm back. :)

2013-04-28T23:05:00.000+08:00

Yeah. I'm back. :) After more than a month-long hiatus. Something to celebrate, (for me, at least) huh? Don't worry. I missed myself too. =))

My last post was when Ma'm Fatsy left for Japan. :( That's not even near the end of the second semester yet. Before I was able to leave for Korea on the eve of April, I've gotta take a lot of advanced tests. That's what started "it" all. I am rushed on my exams, and while I'm staying at Korea, I'm still working on our machine problems due on the finals week. Half-vacation for me, I guess. =))

But it didn't end there. Six hours after landing here at the Philippines, I took another set of late tests... aside from the poster for Physics 71 that I've gotta finish editing before the 15th. Facebook doesn't excite me either... it's because every time I log in, I am reminded of lots of things I still have to do. HAHA But it's still necessary since I communicate with my block mates through it; seems that I have no other choice. :(

On April 15, Monday, I was supposed to leave early in the morning with my mom and sister for the AWANA Summer Camp at Nasugbu, Batangas. Unfortunately, I still have to take an exam at 1 PM and at the same time pass our printed poster for Physics... So I was able to leave Manila at 7 PM already, with my father driving me to Batangas. Never really had a complete vacation experience. :))

And one of the biggest things I missed this summer was our block's trip to the Tribiana property at Nueva Ecija! Why, after staying at Gio's vast mansion, resort, gasoline station, etc., my friends weren't able to eat normally at their own houses. xD As estimated by them, at least 10,000php was spent for their entire overnight stay at Gionelle's. :( Too bad I wasn't able to come. </3 Let's blame my exams, HUHU.

After coming back from the camp on April 18... Tada! Tomorrow's the first day of classes, April 19. No rest for my extraordinary body! =)) And until now, my summer load's heavy as ever. Gotta memorize 37 derivatives and 37 integrals + n physics formulas (I really don't know how many, exactly)... Super thank you, Math 74 and Physics 72! Plus left-over exams in CMSC 130. Whyyy. :(

Another thing, I've been spending a few idle times on reading stories on Wattpad. :)) Influenced by the sister of a godchild. [Is that how you call them? I mean... I'm one of the godmothers of that child.] =)) HAHA Whatever. Hi Miguel! I miss you and Ceejay already. :p See you on my birthday! ;)

And hey, before I forget. I'm planning my whole 18th birthday program by myself. =)) Thank God there's Hannah as my assistant... but all the ideas are still coming from me.

I won't be able to write detailed posts on my summer adventure [for the mean time], so fans, you just wait 'til my 18th birthday's over. ;) I missed blogging, so here's a short post after being silent for quite sometime! :)

P.S. By the way. The "it" on the second paragraph refers to my heavy load (lots of things to do), the main reason why I wasn't able to update this. :( Really sorry guys. Hope you understand. :)

To My Special "Ate" ;)

2013-03-15T18:00:00.000+08:00

Fatima Joy Consul Cruz

Panasonic Scholarship Grantee

6th Place, 2010 Chemist Licensure Exam

Third Honorable Mention, Manila Science High School Batch '05

Kababaihan ng Maynila Garland Awardee

Principal's Medal for Academic Excellence

DepEd-Manila Medal for Academic Excellence

Manila Mayor Jose I. Atienza, Jr. Medal for Academic Excellence

...

The ellipsis marks represent more awards and contests na hindi ko na na-research sa buhay ng aking Ma'm Fatsy. At gusto ko lang idagdag, na ayon sa kanilang batch prophesy, si Ma'm ay magiging isang future animator of Japanese and Filipino manga. =)) Mukang magkakatotoo na ito sa pagpunta mo sa Japan, Ateee. >:D< :))

Well this post is really intended for my favorite teacher ni Chemistry. :) So Ma'm Fatsy, para sa'yo po talaga ito. ;) Mejjo mahaba, so sorry for that. xD

Mejjo naaasar ako, kasi po aalis ka na lang, 'di mo pa rin po ako ina-accept sa FB. :( Tapos, kahapon ko lang nalaman na MaScian kaaa! </3 It's so heartbreaking. And sobrang nakakahiya. :)) Ang pagkakatanda ko po kasi, pinalagay niyo sa index card namin kung sa'n kami nag-high school. Nahiya naman daw ako ng sobra sobra nung makita po kita sa yearbook niyo. =)) Pero nakakatouch. Naiyak nga ako kahapon ehhh. Kasi, basta. 'Di ko ma-explain. Ang drama ko pa sa index card na 2nd take ko na ng Chem 14 ['yun talaga 'yung nakakahiya eh, naturingang MaScian], ang dami kong reasons blahblah. Pero never mo pong binanggit na MaScian ka, edi siyempre lalo akong na-pressure at nan-liit no'n. At sa star section ka pa! :p Nakakaiyak 'yung consideration and pagiging kind-hearted mo Ma'mmm. :') We had the same 3rd year Chem teacher, tapos ikaw po 6th place sa CLE. x_x Ok speechless na'ko. :))

Sabi nila, nung time na I'm taking up Chem 14, mag-kamukha daw po tayo. Glasses, braces, tapos eh straight hair ka pa po no'n! Sumasakay lang din ako, eh kasi po ang cute niyo. HAHAHA So feeling ko cute din ako. xD Ako na feeler. Eh ngayon, parang ayoko nang masabing kamuka niyo. 3rd honorable mention asdfghjkl. Too overwhelming. :)) Tapos, wala ka nang braces, tapos kulot ka na po ulit, tapos ang talino-talino niyo, tapos ang galing niyo sa Chem, tapos ako... ayaw sa'ken ng Chem. :( Hahaha. Pero super thank you, kasi ang tiyaga niyo pong mag-turo, lalo na sa'ken kahit marami akong tanong no'n.

Proud at masaya ako, kasi kahit minsan sa buhay ko, mejjo (mejjo lang talaga, ansabe naman ng pagiging cute ni Ma'm Fatsy sa ichura ko) naging mag-kamukha tayooo. Feel ko parang ate po talaga kita. :"> 'Di ko akalaing huling DPSM Week na pala nung January na magkakasama tayo. 'Di ko rin po alam kung bakit ayaw niyo ako i-accept sa FB, pero kung dahil po talaga 'yun sa pagiging MaScian ko ['yun talaga ang feeling ko :))], grabe sobrang naiiyak na talaga 'ko. Isang reason pala 'yun, kaya dito ko na lang tinype. Ayoko maiyak sa personal, HAHAHA. Eh gaya ng promise niyo na ia-accept niyo ako pagka-graduate ko, parang masyadong matagal po 'yun... At wala ka na dito sa Philippines. :(

Kahapon ng hapon parang depressed talaga ang feels ko. 'Yun talaga ang reason kung bakit ako nagpunta ng department eh. Kasi, mula talaga nung elementary ako, lahat ng nagiging ka-close ko na profs, umaalis. =(( Wala lang. Kasi feeling ko (feeler talaga ako, FC pa) umuulit talaga siya. :)) Eh katulad niyan, ka-close po kita [kahit siguro para po sa'yo hindi =))] tapos aalis ka na. 'Di ka na po aabot sa 18th burdeiii ko. :(( Waaahh nakakaiyak talaga. asdfghjkl

Basta ayun. 'Yung iba pong mas personal messages ko eh dun ko na po nilagay sa binigay ko sa inyo. :) Isa na lang request ko sa inyo Ma'm: I-ACCEPT NIYO NA PO AKO SA FB. =)) HAHAHA Siyempre pa'no na tayo magco-communicate niyan, mahal ang roaming kaya dapat FB na lang. :p Sobrang mamimiss ko po kayo Ma'm Fatsy. :( </3 Nakakaiyak talaga nakakainis. :(( Iingat po kayo sa Japan ha? Susulat. 'Dejk, FB na lang talaga eh. =)) Ayun. Thank you po sa lahat Ateee, I love youuu! >:D<

#alamKoNaFullNameMoMa'm! #kadramahangTaglayNgPost #angClingySorryHaha

Halcyon Years Celebration

2013-03-02T00:04:00.001+08:00

We would've stayed a little longer in Bulacan if only we had brought extra clothes for another day. But the good thing about going back to Manila the night before the EDSA Anniversary Commemoration is that we had more time to prepare for Hannah's Junior-Senior Promenade. You see, the whole family's involved in the event; I was asked by Tita Tata to be the official photographer of the fourth year level, she asked Nanay to bring the flowers for the special awards, asked for Tatay's help with the food, and of course, Hannah, being a senior in MaSci, had to be there.

When we woke up in the morning... Hannah and I just took the time to arrange our PCs and free its hard drives. =)) It's almost out of memory, so we really needed to move some of our not-usually-used files to my external hard drive. Nanay was waiting for Tata's text message if she's still gonna buy and bring the flowers, for the prom was supposed to be held last Friday [February 22]; but due to inclement weather conditions, classes as well as the JS promenade was suspended and it was moved to Monday. When Tata finally confirmed, the three of us immediately went to Dangwa (it's the famous place in Manila that's full of flower shops) and looked for Sining's, the store that my Tita Nette suggested to Nanay.

As usual, my mom's asking for bargains and discounts from the shop's sales people, since she already contacted them beforehand last Friday. They agreed on some kind of flower arrangements for a pretty reasonable price. But just to make the long story short, my mom ended up not being satisfied of their design and arrangement. Her disappointment was so great, she just bought some sinamays and arranged it again when we arrived home, still complaining of their flower arrangement. :)) We went to Dangwa at about 10 o'clock in the morning, we arrived back home at 2:30 in the afternoon. Too short for waiting time, eh? :p You couldn't imagine our hunger during that time... so once I set foot in our house I immediately reached for the phone and quickly dialed 8-7000 [Jollibee's delivery number!]. Hannah went to the shower and took a bath, while I helped Nanay a bit to make the flowers stay fresh until later that evening. The food arrived when I was taking a bath, so it was Nanay who received the delivery. When I'm finished in the shower my sister's already telling me to iron her hair. I wanted to eat first, so I told her to dry her hair in the mean time. I just finished my rice when I started ironing her hair and I'm still eating my leftover chicken while doing that. <3 Multitasking at its finest. xD We were moving at a fast pace, since by 5pm everybody should have been finished with their registration already; aside from the fact that each of us have our own responsibilities there.

The golden celebration was indeed more than just something; it was well prepared by the Juniors and the Junior Parent-Teacher Association, headed by Mrs. Rose Uy [Tata]. What surprised me more are the magical and fantastic costumes of the students... and also the teachers! Mr. Fernando Orines, our principal, also rendered a very special number. His voice is truly awesome! \m/ It was nice after all to have a prom inside the school... though the tables for eating are kinda hard to arrange due to the limited space in the Amadome. When Tiffany and I talked about our stay in MaSci, we missed our Blackout parties and our prom, and we also wished that we had something like this inside the school. You know, the neon lights are really cool and gave a sparkling effect to the photos!

I enjoyed taking pictures of the students, as well as the teachers. It really was a memorable prom for the students. And Mr. Orines was kind enough to let the juniors and the seniors have the following day as their rest day -- which means no classes for them. :> It was also fun since I can freely go in and out of the PTA room and eat as much as I can; there are lots of food in there! Hahaha. Beside the free golden shirt I got from Tita Tata. ;) Thanks for the opportunity Tita! :*

The last part of the program -- the cotillion, was awesome too! It didn't just have the traditional dance that we did when we were part of the cotillion, but it also featured the modern ballroom dancing fierce moves. =)) At around 12:30 AM we decided that it's already time for us to go home. I still have a 7 o' clock Math 73 Lab class that day, so I've only got 4 hours of sleep. :)) I slept at 1am already since I gave Hannah copies of some pictures so she can change her profile pic on FB. It was tiring but awesome! Nice summary of the golden years of MaSci's Tradition of Excellence. ;)

P.S. Technorati's asking me to put this code on one of my posts, so sorry for inserting it on this one. Just bear with it. :p QSEN8Z8K9MYH

Hearten A Friend

2013-02-28T20:41:00.004+08:00

So after Ella's birthday party last Sunday, we went back to our house in Bulacan to quickly fix things up then immediately left, since we still have to go to Tito Delfin's wake at the Loyola Memorial Park Marikina. I fell asleep on the way while listening to my phone's music; I just woke up when we arrived there. The first thing I felt after getting out of the car was the call of nature. -_-" What added up to my agony was finding out that the comfort room's occupied when I finally got there. What more, the one inside's really taking up TOO long.

When I'm done with the toilet, I quickly followed my family inside the room. I'm happy that I recognized a few people inside, with Tita Joy [Tito Delfin's wife] talking to my mom. I sat beside my dad and looked around. Then I noticed a boy sitting on the organ's chair, playing random notes and chords. He looks familiar. I stared at him for a while and suddenly a light bulb appeared above my head. =)) He was our childhood friend and old churchmate, Lance, Tito Delfin's and Tita Joy's firstborn. He's Hannah's batchmate, by the way. Lance certainly grew up! His face had matured a lot, to the point of me not recognizing him right away. When I greeted Tita Joy with a kiss, my mom pointed out Lance to me and told me that he's going to study at UP Diliman. Tita Joy said that I should talk to him. I just smiled and went back to my seat.

It was my nature to be friendly with people, most especially with old friends, and I used to be the one who starts the conversation, just so the awkwardness would be lessened at least a bit. But just looking at Lance's face made me feel his sadness and sorrow. (Who wouldn't be sad when one loses his/her dad?) Then it struck me. I've been to many wakes and burials, but I've never felt the feeling of losing someone so close to me. Yeah, I've witnessed my grandmother and one of my uncles die, and I cried during that time. But the pain never reached my heart. When we go to places like this it's always my mom who condoles the family... maybe our presence comforted them a little, but I've never talked to them regarding their loss. I didn't know what I should say to Lance. I didn't know if I should have said, "I'm sorry you lost your Dad," or if I should have talked about something else. And if I'm gonna talk about something else, I don't know what that something else is.

After a few minutes Ate Daph, a churchmate and Tita Joy's niece, gave us burgers and juice then moved beside the organ and started talking to Lance. I noticed that they were having some sort of a happy conversation, since both of them were smiling at times. So I opened up my burger, took a bite, and approached them. I joined in the conversation. Ate Daph was a graduate of UPD, so basically the first thing we talked about was UP. In the course of our convo I found out that he didn't really pass the UPCAT, so he's goin' to take a certificate program instead (Malikhaing Pagsulat), shift to Philippines Studies and take up Law at Ateneo. I asked him why he doesn't want to enter UP College of Law, and I laughed at his answer. "Ayokong mamatay sa mga frat." [I don't want to die in fraternities.] :)) Ate Daph said that he's over reacting, stating that it doesn't mean that when you're in a frat, you're going to die. Although it is against our religion to join fraternities or sororities. :p

We talked about his life, his dreams, his younger sister, his father's dreams for him, his college plans, and his high school life. After a while Ate Daph went back to her parents, so it's just the two of us that were left talking. He just continued to talk. Sometimes I asked, but most of the time we're laughing about the things he's sharing to me. What his mom said when we were about to leave was true -- he was talkative. While talking with him, it's as if he didn't lose his father at all; I even felt that he's more happy than me during that time.

When we've said our goodbyes I asked for his number; it's been a long time since our group of friends in church had contact with him. As we were leaving the memorial park, I'm happy that even though I didn't know what to say, I was able to have an enjoyable talk with him. I'm not even sure if I was able to comfort him. :)) It's just that feeling that at least, I was able to share a laugh with him during this time of his life.

I just wanna share that the notes stuck into Tito Delfin's coffin cover placed a smile on my face. It didn't have the names of the members of the family or relatives who he had left behind, but there are two bond papers with colorful drawings of a child. It was Stephanie's [Lance's younger sister] artwork. On the first paper was written, "I love you so much Daddy. -Stephanie" and on the second one, "Congratulations Daddy! You've been promoted to heaven!" I liked the way she perceived her father's death. At a very young age she's aware that even though her dad was forever gone in this temporary planet, she knows that he is in heaven and what particularly hit me was the word "promoted". It really is a privilege for Christians to die and meet our God and Savior in heaven. :) "For to me, to live is Christ, and to die is gain." (Philippians 1:21)

For Christian families, when a loved one dies, it's not a time of sorrow; it's a time of rejoicing, for we know that our loved one has already gone to heaven with our God the Father. But, these families and relatives will surely miss the presence of the one who died. I offer my condolences to the Espejo family: Tita Joy, Lance, and Stephanie.

The Debut Cliche

2013-02-28T00:16:00.001+08:00

When I was 13, I had a debut-like celebration of my birthday. My mom started it all -- the reason why kids, when they turn to teenagers, have debut-like celebrations prepared by their moms similar to what Nanay* has done; even seven-year-olds are having parties like this. Take my cousin, Ella Raine Maglanque, as an example. Last Sunday [February 24], she had 7 Roses, 7 Gifts and Wishes, and 7 Bills and Treasures. =)) But hey, my mom had a good reason why she made my 13th birthday like that. You see, she's not getting younger, and as she is always saying, "Life is very uncertain. I might be talking to you right now, but tomorrow I might be gone." In a way my mother believed that YOLO (You Only Live Once). :)) Even though she's far advanced in years, she's always a kid at heart and doesn't fail to relate to the youth. (Sometimes she claims that too much. -_-")

I'm a bit disturbed. Why? The debut-like celebration is becoming too mainstream these days. Since my 13th birthday, I could remember at least 5 people who had their 13th/7th birthday like that. (Okay, 4. With the exception of Hannah, my sister.) It's almost a cliche, which makes it seem to me that celebrating that way on my ~~supposed~~ debut would be kinda boring. It doesn't excite me at all. :/ HAHAHA Fine, I might be over-reacting with these stuff, but... really. It's no more fun, since you've already done it when you're seven and repeated it when you turned thirteen. Am I right? =)) Or am I just really fussing too much about it? :))

So... I have decided that my 18th birthday wouldn't be like that. I'm planning to have some trick up my sleeve. ;) I don't wanna spill anything 'bout it, but I'm still thinking of what the whole thing's gonna be, so I'm still open for suggestions. :) Feel free to comment about stuff or whatever you'd like to say or anything that might add up to my celebration. :p

I just have to have a single post for this one, sorry. xD And to my aficionados out there... prepare for more posts before the end of this month! I have lots of drafts waiting to be published. =)) See 'ya 'round my blog! :>

*Nanay is a Tagalog term for mother. Also similar to Ina, Mudra, Mader, Nay, etc.

Firstborn Pressure

2013-02-27T15:56:00.000+08:00

Last February 15, my sister, Hannah Grace Maglanque, together with her classmate, Kyra Mikaela Lopez, became champions on the National Programming Contest held at the University of Santo Tomas. I'd like to congratulate them... it's not yet too late, right? February's not over yet. :)) Kudos also to the trainers, Mr. Romer Abella and Mrs. Frelie Faylogna. ;)

During my stay in MaSci, (oh, I haven't told you yet; I had my secondary education at the Manila Science High School) the greatest academic accomplishment I could ever be proud of was being Top 9 in my section, II-Kepler, when I was in second year. Well, for me, that really isn't much; but I'm glad I was able to at least reach that level. I was not able to enter the star section in our batch, not even once. That would be dreaming with my eyes wide open and being fully awake. On the other hand, my younger sister has consistently made it to the star section for three years, since her second year in MaSci. You could say that during her whole stay in high school, she belongs to the star section, since in first year we do not have any rankings at all. And two weeks ago she just won in a contest; not just a contest, but a national contest. Yeah... I've also participated in contests in the past, but it's only school-wide. [Is that the right term? Yeah? Just correct me on the comments, sorry. :)) Thanks.]

The comparison between our academic achievements could be called a deviation from the norms; since it is usually the older one who excels more and the younger being the one susceptible to parental pressures. In our case, Hannah has performed way better than me in MaSci. Sometimes it gives me the chills, but it doesn't really bother me that much. It's just funny, the way we are different to other siblings. =)) I sometimes even say that I didn't give my best, so she won't be too pressured. Of course, I'm just kidding. xD

As I end my post, let me give you some interesting facts about us:

Our parents say that I'm more blessed with intelligence than my sister. By the way, she's my only sister, so no need to be confused if I'm referring to another sibling or whatever.
My mom's already 40 years old when she became pregnant with me. :> 41 during Hannah's birth. Also the reason why my name's Sarah... you know, that Bible character who became pregnant with Isaac when she's almost a century old.
My mom was 37 and my dad was 33 when they got married. Why then do people say 30 is too old for someone to be married? :p
I passed the Manila Science Admission Test with a score of approximately 800 over 1000. My sister was admitted through reconsideration, thanks to Mrs. Precilinda Arellano. But obviously, she was much more worthy and deserving to be in MaSci. ;)

2 & 3 are a bit unrelated to the post. I just happened to remember that because of my second sentence in #1. :D

For George

2013-02-21T22:34:00.000+08:00

Happy [insert age here] Birthday Yoshi*!

I greeted Yoshi with only a simple text message. No other greetings on Facebook or in person. Why? Because this blog's title and URL is dedicated to Yoshi. And I don't want to make myself a burden anymore. I'm sad that I was not able to give a gift. :(

You might not understand anything about these things I'm posting about Yoshi... But thanks for reading my posts anyway. There isn't much to talk about the week that just passed since my last post and nothing too significant pushed me enough to create another until this one. I guess my goal to make this blog my diary won't be reached. Last night I was supposed to write about my close bud who I felt I just had a fight with, but I'm too busy dueling so I'll just do it tonight. He asked me to help him with Chem. He knew from the very start that I dislike Physics and Chem, so I just replied that I hate Chem. I wouldn't put the whole convo here but to me it seems that we ended up fighting. I said sorry and he said it's okay, but I really feel as if he's still mad at me during that time. So I just let it be and logged out of Facebook.

This morning he met me on my way to DPSM and we've said our hi's to each other, so I think the conflict's solved. My ego's like that; I don't want anyone angry with me, so I usually say sorry, even if it's not my fault at all. I just don't like fights. :| Hi Lolo, you know that I'm talking about you. :) We're good pals again. ;)

Today's also the birthday of one of my kids, George Evan Dungca. :D And this post is dedicated to him. Happy birthday, son! You know that I love you, so don't be sad anymore; and you still have to give me my chocolates, okay? :))

Shortest post so far. =)) I'm goin' to play Yu-Gi-Oh! and build up my deck so 'til my next post. Sorry, fans. xD

Blue Funk

2013-02-14T21:19:00.002+08:00

Alright. Enough of the long wait; here's my greatest hangover.

Two weeks ago, it was our department's week... as I have mentioned in my first post. But it seems that in my mind, my body, my soul, and my spirit... in short, my whole self, DPSM week was not yet finished. I've said to myself a hundred times that I'm gonna sort my files out, do my homework, finish my projects, code my exercises, encode the membership list, and accomplish everything written in my long to-do list (there's a whole lot more there) but, as always, it was easier ~~said~~ written than done. The only thing I've done is to finish writing my to-do list. And I still haven't added there the new responsibilities I've just accepted... so technically, I haven't finished writing it at all.

You know what? I've given my 100% for that film production. Why? Because I enjoy doing it. I enjoyed the production with my batchmates. Why am I even telling this things? I really don't know. Maybe because it's over, but I haven't moved on yet. It kinda gave me something to look forward to everyday. It's something that pushed me out of bed and said to me, "Wake up and get out of bed! You're goin' to have a great day filming with your batchmates so don't make them wait!" At the start of the semester I am so filled with energy like Tiger... Energy-packed? Yeah. That's the term. Some blockmates even called me GC. [GC stands for grade conscious, just in case you don't know.] I took down notes, reviewed three days before an exam, and did everything, enough for me to be a very responsible student. But now? I guess you could just call me a responsible student.

Right, I almost forgot. Happy Heart's Day everyone! =)) Not a very good post for today. It's just that I feel as if... one bad thing happens after another. But as they say, "Life is like a wheel... sometimes you're on the top, other times you're at the bottom." Also, "Life is like an escalator. Even if you don't move, it keeps on carrying you along." I'm not in this emo mode because I'm heart-broken, and it's Valentine's Day, no... I have my Father God in heaven Who's love is already more than enough for me. I'm just saying that since we're still living in this temporary world, life cannot be perfect, and there are inevitable times and circumstances that can easily make us feel down. What's wrong is for us to continue to have that feels. And I believe that God will help me through this. Why, out of all the things that I frowned upon, they're nothing compared to everything that made me smile since the start of this month. And I wanna say sorry to God for easily complaining because of this not-so-good things.

Maybe I'm thinking/feeling this way because of the DPSM week, maybe not. I don't know. All I know is that all these are gonna pass, and I just have to do what I can do. :)

P.S. Hey, sorry for being in a sad mood in this post. I didn't write all the things that caused me this blue funk because that would be too depressing. I hope you weren't too much affected by what I wrote. :> (it's okay for me to over act, this is my blog, right?) Smile. :) Happy Heart's Day to you! :D Please accept my hug. >:D< I gave that to you with love, alright? ;)

P.P.S I wanna say thank you to Golden Fortune for these roses! ^_^ Happy Valentine's Day to me, and to all of you who might have read this. :>

Hangovers

2013-02-12T23:45:00.002+08:00

Hi there, stalker! And for you who just happened to check out my blog [if you deny being my stalker, fine]. Prepare for a loooooooooooooooooong post! :p

The Eden Cheese fever is far from over. You see, in our lab class at CMSC 126 last Saturday... after a very short (I repeat, SHORT) discussion of the lesson, we're talking about *her* again. Hangover #1. We had time for that, even though we'll be having our first long exam in CS 22 in the afternoon -- it was the best exam ever. Who would have thought of a multiple choice type of test that contains only dashes in the choices? I mean, how are we supposed to write our answer in our blue books? Hard to imagine, right? It was like this:

1. [insert question here]

- [insert choice #1 here]

- [insert choice #2 here]

- [insert choice #3 here]

- [insert choice #4 here]

Only in CS 22 under Sir Aldrich Colin K. Co. #morefunwithsiraldrich (he did that on purpose) =))

Good thing he didn't make us stay for another n hours of lecture; I was able to catch up at AWANA. On my way to Pandacan, I dropped by Ministop and look what I found!

Just ignore my face on the first picture (you'll only get distracted) and also the safety pins hanging on my eyeglasses [others say it's cool, but I get cross-eyed because of that thing. :(]. Because my sister had been hyped up with excitement these past few days for our trip to Korea, I was infected by her excitement. If we could only see Mi Ho during our stay there, that would be... awesome! <3 Watched some episodes again that day. My Girlfriend Is A Gumiho TV series -- Hangover #2.

Last Sunday I'm thankful I was able to arrive at church before the Sunday School started. The topic was about Dating Relationships. Just sharing. :p And Ate Ivy and Kuya Peter was there! I just pray that they would be regular attendees, even after they get married. In the afternoon, I went back to church for the ICT Committee meeting. They gave me the codename Yoshimitsu. I didn't even know who/what character that is. I Googled it once I got home and... HAHAHA. Anyway. It's just a codename, after all. But, really. Hangover #3. :))

After Jodie's Coindozer... I discovered a new game in Jhai's tablet! I forgot what it's called but the thing is, you gotta rotate the scattered 3D pixels so that from your perspective, you can see a 2D image. I played it again today when I borrowed Jhai's tab. xD Hangover #4.

To relieve the stress created by our Physics 71 second long exam, I texted all of my guy batchmates registered in my phonebook that I have a crush on them. I was trollin' them all, y'know; but instead of trolling I ended up being trolled by Darcy [Waray]. He texted me using his other number, telling me to "avoid her bf" (which is Darcy). I panicked. I fell for his trap. -_-" Hangover #5.

Early morning this day our condo ran out of electricity. While my sister and I was waiting for an elevator (they're powered by the generator), all of a sudden the lights in the floor indicator went out. We decided that we're taking the stairs [we're from the 25th floor, that's fun isn't it?], and while going down we imagined: what if we're already inside the elevator when the power (from the generator) ran out? Scaryyy. And because we took the stairs... she was late for her 1st period class. :( Poor Hannah. =)) Going down the stairs from the 25th floor -- Hangover #6.

Of all my hangovers, this is the second greatest:

Remember "that person"? Let's give it a nickname... Yoshi. Since I'm Yoshimitsu. =))

-I checked the place where Yoshi usually hangs out and yeah... we met.

-This morning I went to Yoshi's first period classroom.

-In the afternoon I went to Yoshi's classroom, again. But I was careful so that Yoshi won't see me. Yoshi might think I'm a creeper... if not a stalker. =)) I hope Yoshi won't find out.

-After my last class, I went back to Yoshi's classroom; unfortunately, their class had ended and a new set of students was already occupying their classroom.

I think it really is the second greatest, isn't it? Two weeks had already passed but... Hangover #7.

Hangover #8... Today, again, I saw... xD :))

My greatest hangover is yet to be written by me (who else could have been the author of this blog, anyway?) and discovered by you, so... keep waiting for my next post and I'd be glad to know you're visiting my blog often to check and see if the next one's already here! It's hard to backtrack for everything that happened to me, and I'm thinking of writing many, short posts instead of a few long ones. Anyway, the state of my mind's still the same: messy as it had been. Randomness syndrome all over me. I would like to apologize for that. Even the parting note of this post is becoming too long, so 'til the next one, my aficionados! ;) God bless us all. :D