Chocnut ko to

Getting there

2011-11-08T18:08:00.000+08:00

When Mama passed away, I thought of how my Dad will cope. As far as I know I did my best in every possible way to help him handle our loss. But apart from that I have been preparing myself emotionally, physically and financially of what would happen next. I've been constantly reminding my Dad to take care of his health, but it's human nature that eventually somehow lapses will come. A simple cough turned into pneumonia and after several tests they found cyst in his lungs and liver.
He lost more than 7kg and Kuya was really worried when he saw him the last time he went home. He was very frail.
While waiting for the next diagnosis, I pray that his illness will be cured without any operation. I don't think he can handle it.
I'm still shaken with the sudden turn of events... I'm keeping my faith... prayers can move mountains, please say a prayer for my Dad.

Happy Birthday Mama!

2011-10-17T18:00:00.000+08:00

You are always in our hearts and minds. May your soul always be at peace.

I love you and I miss you so much.

Time for a cool change

2011-10-07T09:44:00.002+08:00

Finally I moved.

I've been living with Botchok and family, on and off for the past 10 years. This time it was my choice.
Been busy organizing my stuff and my room and the whole flat too. And I was happy to have the same set-up of my room as before with a few tweaks of course.
Hopefully I can settle all my pending to-dos for my room make-over this weekend. Meanwhile here's a peek of our humble abode, concocted by me and my housemates.

Please come in =)

Have a seat!

Happy to serve you ;)

What's on the menu?

Care for a drink?

No sweat!

The Ghost Month

2011-08-23T09:38:00.001+08:00

It's like dejavu. Three years ago I was really very sick because of my blocked nose. The doctor said it was common because it's a ghost month. A year after, I decided to go on a minor nose surgery. It has been 2 years and now my throat is swollen for unknown reason. Am not sure if this is related and the doctor is sensing it could also be gastric. After a week of antibiotic and nothing happened, he prescribed another round of antibiotic along with tons of medicines. I hate being sick, who doesn't? But I also feel sad. Not only because no one will take care of me besides myself, but because I'm reminded of Mama. If I am having difficulty in this minor illness, I couldn't imagine what she has gone through. She tolerated all and fight for her life until her last breath. I miss her dearly.

"Short and Simple"

2011-06-21T21:47:00.001+08:00

I just finished a 2 day course on Professional Business Writing sponsored by our company. I've been (anticipating) waiting for this course since last year. I heard good feedbacks about it. And I'm eager to improve my writing skills not only at work but in blogging too. My personal agenda LOL

In the Philippines we use American English but here in Singapore it's British English. So that's another communication gap to tackle. Anyway I really enjoyed the course and learned a lot. Plus they gave us a dictionary!

One of the guidelines is the title of this post, make it ...short and simple!

Inner peace

2011-06-15T14:58:00.000+08:00

Last night was our first session for the aerobics class coordinated by our company HR dept. Finally a class worth attending ;)

The instructor is getting our BMI so she measured our weight, and I filled up the rest of the form.

When I saw the box for age, it then struck me as I wrote the numbers 3 and 7... in less than a month I'll be turning 38.

I've been struggling with my inner peace for a long time now, it will just ignite out of the blue and there I am, all confused and hurting.

Being responsible for my life, my actions, my decisions and my future scares the hell out of me. It's me again juggling all things all at once. So I'm slowly trying to focus, lighten up and start letting go (the hardest part).

I'll get there, just read from a friend's FB post, "Believe it will happen"... so true.

“For God has not given us a spirit of fear and timidity, but of power, love, and self-discipline”

HCM the Adventure

2011-05-09T15:59:00.003+08:00

On board the Tiger Airways to HCM

Day 1 -

Jollibee!

Ben Than Market, shop til you drop!

Merienda cum Dinner?

dinner at Pho Hoa

unwind at Korean resto

Day 2

The unforgettable ferry ride for the Mekong Cruise, Fire on the boat!

lunch!

A visit to the coconut candy making island

Horse ride to bee farm

Traditional Vietnamese serenade

Saigon Square

Dinner

Late night unwind at Maya Bar

Day 3
Saigon Square

lunch at Korean

Goodbye Ramana Hotel! Goodbye HCM!

Happy Easter!

2011-04-25T16:51:00.005+08:00

Rejoice and be glad!
It was a hectic Holy week for me the past weekend.
Felt too tired and a bit sick last Thursday so I went straight home after office. Yes we have work on Holy Thursday. I was passing time watching Will & Grace series and fell asleep right on the floor! Didn't even noticed the time so when I was half-awake I just turned off the TV and went up straight to my bunk-bed. Next thing I knew it was already 11AM Good Friday! It was a really long sleep and I felt rejuvenated.

I joined my friends at the choir for the church service that day but felt hungry during the mass. Can't really do fasting so I ate a sandwich that morning, but I think it was already digested during the travel LOL.
After the long mass we headed to Lucky Plaza for dinner, yes we really cannot fast, the least we can do is abstain. We went to GP and ordered fried beehon and specifically mentioned without meat. To our dismay, meat was all over the beehon, we really are hungry so we just removed the meat which turned out to be half of the dish! The taste was good but for $10 per plate plus service charge and GST? It was a steal!
So as expected most of us are still craving for more food. So we headed to Manay Belay's place and cooked bangus, tinapa and sinigang belly. I cooked my all time favorite grilled squid. It was like a hurricane, everything gone in minutes, one thing we really have in common aside from being "pasaway" is our love for food.

Saturday was Iza's bday celebration at Furama Hotel, the Tifanny's. It was a halal buffet so I skipped the main dishes, everything has curry on it. I savored the sushi and sashimi, the salad bar and the shrimp and crab section. Good thing it was a one-for-one promo otherwise a 60++ buffet dinner is such a disappointment.
After dinner we head to St. Teresa's convent to attend the Easter Vigil, it was my first time to attend the vigil here in Singapore and also first time to hear mass at the convent. The place was a bit remote as it should be, a peaceful and calm place good for meditation.
The mass ended almost midnight and of course the gang was still on the hype and decided to get coffee (our traditional Saturday at Starbucks). Our latest fave branch is in Cathay, not sure if it's 24hrs but we left almost 3am and it's still open for business.

Easter Sunday morning, I went to mass at St. Anne, my supposed to be parish church as I live nearby. Miss V was with me and it was our long been scheduled date to catch up about our lives. We decided to eat a Japanese buffet, another fave! Kuishin Bo at Suntec. Good thing we were early so we got a good seat since most of the tables are already reserved. It was a hearty meal alright, especially the desserts!

Kuishin Bo

One thing common to us is our love for shoes so we stopped by Charles & Keith. Lo and behold, though I just bought 2 pairs a week ago, I wasn't able to resist another sexy strappy wedge.

In summary, it was a fruitful and blessed Holy week spent with my friends, they are my family in Singapore. Though I still miss the traditional "salubong", wherein Mama and I will wake up early in the morning and join the procession.

Hope you all had a Happy Easter!

Bugger

2011-04-18T14:19:00.005+08:00

or bagger? Yaiks!

Have you ever purchased on impulse? Well most women can relate to what I have done, less than 2 hours at Raffles City, from basement up to ground floor alone. And this is the outcome!

I occasionally buy bags but not all the same time and in short period of time. Not really sure what came over me! It's like an inner desire have been unleashed, and to date I'm eagerly waiting for my on-line purchase of these 2 bags! Have I totally gone nuts?!?!

I'm still hyped and want more! I want bags in red, purple and tan, well unless they all come in one bag, I'll settle for just one more, LOL.

Oh my darling

2011-04-07T16:17:00.004+08:00

Well after that pay scale post, the sun quickly shined on me well for now until it rains again LOL

After 4 yrs I got an increment that is acceptable enough plus we got a share of the company's profit with it's good performance the past year.

So what better way to celebrate? Splurge on!!!

So far I bought myself some so so shoes, (not really a big spender on that area) some new clothes, and DVDs. I bought a new lappy for my Dad, that's a big one, but not a splurge coz the old one was already spoiled.

Is that it? I have my eyes set on some branded bags, let's just see in a few days.

Meanwhile just out of the blue I want to have this! Diana...

I've been seeing photos taken by this baby, looks interesting and fun! So should I take one step forward?

I'm asking my brother to buy for me as coz it's cheaper in HK and very much available. The question is how long can I wait to get my hands on that?

I have my eyes on this instax too!

And these other super cool cams! I want them all! LOL

Let's just see *wink*

Payscale

2011-03-23T16:22:00.003+08:00

I'm way below the average *sigh*

just the stress alone is soooo not worth it... where to? where to?

Busy October

2010-10-25T11:38:00.004+08:00

One week to go and it's gonna be November, wish I could slow down the clock for a bit *sigh*

I've been busy with my friends wedding, Leslie and Dexter's, I was a self appointed wedding coordinator for the reception LOL

It was fun yet stressful at times and now the pressure is on since we have a few more days to the big day. It has been a long time since I last attended a friend's wedding, let me rephrase that, .. or maybe not, point taken ;)

Though I don't know the complete details on their lovestory, what I know is enough for me to realize yet again... Love exists in this modern times.

When your heart gets shattered, and you wake up every morning with still a broken heart, you tend to lose faith in Love. I did a long time ago, but whenever I witness such true love of my close friends, there's one teeny weeny hope that sparks in my heart. No matter how small, it's enough to make me believe that Love happens... it will happen.

"We are all a little weird and life's a little weird, and when we find someone whose weirdness is compatible with ours, we join up with them and fall in mutual weirdness and call it love. "~Author Unknown

September 2010

2010-09-03T13:41:00.006+08:00

It's the beginning of "ber" months, Christmas is just around the corner!

How time really flies, so what have I been up to?

Aside from the Subway Tuna sandwich that I just ate *wink*

Stressed at work - no further explanation needed, just had a 2 days MC, thanks Doc!

Still scrapping - scrappalific.blogspot.com

Got my iphone replacement (still 3GS will have to wait until next year for the iphone 4) - *i think it's heavier than my first one arghhh*

playing Farmville of course, yey to Zynga!

Got my teeth cleaned? and polished - the dentist was a bit of snob so I'm never coming back, I consulted about my broken front tooth that I had done for a filling or whatever that is called and he suggested I go for the crown, with a whooping 600SGD, well it's the most expensive crown I will ever get LOL, so I told him I'll think about it, in my dreams LOL

Busy planning for a wedding program, bridal shower, etc - well its not me, again in my dreams LOL

Still watching Korean drama - just finished watching Pasta, "Yes, Chef" hehehe

Joined the Shape Run 2010 - 50 mins for 5km, well to each his own hahaha, better improve next time, so I'm joining the New Balance run on October!

And this coming Sunday we're off to Melacca Malaysia, not that far but still looking forward to bond with my friends, Peranakan style *wink*

TGIF!

Rainy July

2010-07-16T17:44:00.004+08:00

and my days are never the same, been busy busy busy, and been sick on and off

My Dad is finally here again, I chose my very special day to send him here, so I got the best present of all! We ate late lunch at Swensens and bought myself an ice cream cake, yummy!

So back home we just celebrated with my housemates with pizza, chicken and baked macaroni.

Attended the Dinner and Dance at the controversial MBS

Didn't win any major prize but I got loads of vouchers! plus a pretty cool door gift, a 2GB TD!

She finally came to Baguio

2010-06-22T14:31:00.005+08:00

This post may be kind of spooky to you but not for me.
When Dad told me about what happened in Baguio I was smiling ear to ear.

Both my parents haven't been to Baguio, I myself have only been there once way back early 90's. So when the ME (Marriage Encounter - church group for married couples) organized an outing way back 2007, both of them were pretty excited. But there was Meningococcemia epidemic in Baguio at that time so I told them not to go. They resisted and gave me several alibis, so they won I finally gave them the blessings to go but not without my own set of sermons LOL. Eventually they decided to backed out since most of the members also backed out for fear of the epidemic. They were sad but I assured them there will be some other time.
Sadly the time never came and Mama got sick. Well you know the rest...

A few weeks ago the ME had a reunion in Baguio, my Dad tag along my niece Nica. This photo was taken by her, while she was focusing the shot she claimed she saw a shadow/blur image of Mama on a chair/wheelchair in that blank space under that arch. So I think Mama finally came to Baguio :)

Funny thing I was surprised to learn that Dad was in Baguio only through Facebook. Huwaaat???
I didn't receive any SMS or email, or YM message (but he said he did) that he's going to Baguio to attend the ME reunion.
I think the world did turned upside down, it's now my time to worry about my Dad's whereabouts ;)

Extra mile

2010-06-14T11:22:00.002+08:00

Well just this afternoon I was blown away from the extra mile of customer service that was provided to me from one of the tellers from UOB.
My main objective is to apply for internet banking so I can easily inquire about my transactions since I don't receive any bank statements. I applied on-line and as instructed I mailed out the form with my details. A few days later I received a call from UOB informing me that my application was denied since my record details does not tally. True enough, I never even once updated my details so as per instruction the caller instructed me to go to any branch and change my details. Afterwhich I can re-apply for internet banking through the ATM.
So I proceed to Great World City branch which is the nearest to my office. I asked the teller to update my details and told her my intention to apply for internet banking. She was surprised that my application was not processed based on my story. She told me she can do the internet banking application as well if I want to. I happily agreed. While she was processing my application I inquired about the process on how to replace my old, tarnished ATM card. She promptly answered that she can do it for me as well. "Do I have to pay? " well I've heard some banks ask for a fee for an ATM replacement. She sheepishly smiled and replied "No"
Soon enough, after a few signatures here and there, my ATM was replaced, I have access to internet banking and my personal details were updated.
Have never experienced such good service in a long time, especially here in Singapore. (no offense meant but they really lack this quality)
But Today was an exceptionally satisfying day!

After 7 months

2010-01-19T15:54:00.001+08:00

Today marks the 2nd day of the 8th month Mama left us. A lot of things have happened, my stressful job kept me distracted and busy which in a way helped me cope up with our loss. I always tell myself that I have to be strong, primarily for my Dad. So I tried to find ways to make him busy and make him feel important. Thankfully he was able to come back on his feet, special thanks to Facebook he was able to keep his mind away from loneliness. He's also attending to my daily chores to keep himself busy and in his own special make up for the lost times, that is according to his own words. He was away most of my growing up years, missed my birthdays, my graduations among other occassions. But he has no choice, that's the only way he can provide us with a good education. But through letters and phone calls we managed to bond together the best way we can.

Now Dad and I was closer than ever, we laugh and we cry together. We miss Mama so much, we miss her dearly... she left us with wonderful memories we'll forever keep in our hearts.

Life is full of unexpected things, here's looking forward to a happy and fruitful 2010, let's make the best out of our everyday lives!

emote mode on

2009-12-24T16:24:00.000+08:00

It's Christmas time once again, but before that today marks my parent's 41st wedding anniversary. Mama almost didn't make it on their 40th, she was recuperating back then. If she had it her way she would have spent one more anniversary and Christmas with us, Dad wanted 3 more, I was more realistic and I just wished she could have spent her birthday with us one last time. But she didn't even make it to my birthday this year. It has been 6 months since she passed away and the festive aura of the season just couldn't cover up the pain lingering in my heart. I miss her so much. This season is our favorite season of all, decorating the house and the xmas tree, buying and wrapping presents, preparing noche buena and planning games and activities for the kids. But I know she wouldn't want us to wallow this Christmas, it's Jesus birthday and we have a lot of blessings to be thankful for. I know she watches over us up there, maybe she's even preparing noche buena with Tita Cory :) No matter what we've been through... the heartaches, pain and trials the past year had brought us let us remember the birth of our savior who have sacrificed so much for all of us. We are trully blessed! Happy Birthday Jesus! Happy 41st Wedding anniversary Dad and Mama! I love you both. In case you haven't said the words "I love you" to your loved ones, let us start saying those words apart from showing them how much they are loved.

Ironic

2009-11-18T17:27:00.001+08:00

Just as I was trying to figure out for the nth time on how to install and configure Crystal Reports XI to run our reports via Lotus Notes I received a call from Business Objects (makers of CR). They are asking if we are keen on upgrading to a higher version at a discounted price. Duh! Sorry not interested, then he mentioned "you see if you're happy with CR you can upgrade at a discounted rate..." before he proceeded with his monologue I interrupted him and replied "actually I'm not happy with CR" he laughed and then asked if he could just send me an email about the details. Sure no problem, conversation over LOL.

Bye Impeach, Bye Bibo

2009-11-10T14:24:00.000+08:00

Last week my Dad gave away his pets, I know it broke his heart. He loved and nurtured them all through their dog lives. He bathe them and cooked for them. Yes they have the privilege of eating home cooked meals, served warm in their platter. We're not sure if they are in good hands right now or God knows if they are served warm now, *please no*. Bye Impeach, Bye Bibo, you will always be in our hearts, along with our long gone friends Wowie, Pinky, Snowball, Lucky, Princess, Rambo and Abu.

The Ordeal

2009-08-19T19:33:00.000+08:00

This is not for the faint of heart...
I have never gone under the knife not until yesterday, it was a scary decision but it's worth a try. The appointment was 7:30 am but excitement? reached us at 6:30am at the hospital. After the registration I was immediately sent to the ward, it was around 9AM when they rolled me to the Operating area. There are no room for mistakes as I was asked by different nurse staff from the ward up to the OR about my name, NRIC, what kind of surgery I'm taking and checking on my signature and if I have drug allergy, fair enough. At the Operating lobby 2 nurses assisted me and maybe sensed that I was nervous and told me to relax. I was in another room next to the OR where they gave me the anesthesia. It took a while before the anesthesiologist located a vein to inject... a few more minutes and the waiting ended. I was pushed inside the OR, I saw those kind of gleaming bright lights on the ceiling that I only get to see on TV was all and then the oxygen was placed in my mouth and then that's it. I was awakened by a nurse at the recovery area, my mouth is so dry and my throat hurts so bad I have difficulty breathing. I immediately called their attention, I have difficulty speaking so I just made a sign that my throat hurts badly. Then the nurse seek another nurse or maybe a doctor and asked me again what's wrong. Damn! I shouted at least I thought I shouted “IT HURTS!!!!” and then I think they gave me pain killers throough my dextrose, so after a few minutes the pain seems to go be moving away. I'm still groggy and was about to fall asleep when a commotion on the next bed rattled me. I think there were 5 of them trying to calm down the man, “Wake up Kumar! Surgery over.” another voice says “Don't struggle, open your eyes.” then another one “Kumar, Kumar don't move, do you speak English?” “Hey do you speak Tamil?” I think one of the nurse is an Indian. “I don't speak Tamil” And those phrases went on and on until finally Kumar woke up and acknowledge that he's OK and he do understand English. *see there's always drama ala-ER* Whew! I can hear all the giggles and sigh of relief from the staff. And then I was off to the ward. I only knew that the time was almost 1PM, not really sure how long the surgery went and how long I have been at the recovery area. Finally I was able to drink cold water to relieve my dry throat, though still breathing through my mouth as there are stuff inside my nose. After a few hours the pain came back, I felt like being suffocated and I can't help but cry. Thanks to Tita Abby who immediately called the nurse and I was given tons of pain killers to relieve the pain. After a while I felt hungry, haven't eaten since 9PM the night before, I was given iced Milo, ice cream and cold porridge, apparently I must be on cold diet to stop the bleeding. I only drank the milo and ate the ice cream since I can't taste anything.
Finally the doctors arrived, there were 4 of them assisted by 2 nurses, I was asked to sit down and gargle ice water. They were holding on to the dish and then suddenly I felt like vomiting, blood that is... and then the doctor warned me that it will hurt since they will remove the stuff inside my nose, lo and behold it does hurt! Damn I even saw these 2 condom-likes plastic and some gauze (like tampons) and other stuff that was removed, couldn't believe they were stuck in my nose all along. And then the blood started oozing, lots and lots, one doctor holds my nose so I vomit the blood while I gargle, then let's loose with the nose and the blood oozes again, this ordeal went on like 5 minutes, I think I saw 2 bags of water and blood collected from such ordeal. The doctor explained to me what will happen during the surgery, darn but he never told me what they will do after!
Alas it was over hopefully, I think they never expected too much blood as well so they told me to stay a while longer before I can be discharged. Finally before 7PM the blood subsided and I was given a go signal to go home. Really thankful to Tita Abby for the support and doing all the errands for us and assisting my Dad. Tons of medicines to take and I was surprised that they gave me 17 days hospitalization leave. At least I can have a good rest amidst of whatever pain that will come.

Bonding

2009-07-15T11:40:00.001+08:00

Ever since my mother got sick my Dad and I developed a deeper bonding with each other. We drew strength from each other and opened our hearts like we never did before. I'm glad that he's coping by keeping himself busy handling paperwork for the house and all their accounts, thankfully his younger brother is already retired, so Tito Hermie accompanies him most of the time. Dad also visits my mother often, bringing her flowers which she loves receiving when she was still with us. Less than a month from now and my Dad will spend time with me here in Singapore. I'm just a bit worried of how to keep him busy while I'm at work. Aside from cooking he loves to read so maybe I'll bring him to a library, he enjoys playing games so I'll let him use my laptop and maybe teach him how to chat as well.

6/7

2009-07-06T16:37:00.000+08:00

I've been coming to Changi Hospital to treat my pesky blocked nose. The last time I went was for a CT-Scan of my nose since I was found to be negative in my allergen test. I was supposed to come back last 23/6 for the result but due to Mama's passing I was still in Manila at that time so I asked for a re-schedule. The operator suggested 6/7, it is my bday but then I thought it would still be a good time since I don't want to work on that day and I don't have much leaves to spare so an MC/SL on the day could work to my advantage. And so I agreed.As the days go near the appointment, I was having second thoughts and really what was I thinking?With all that has happened, do I really need another bad news. In all honesty I just want the day to pass by as quickly as possible, getting to the real meaning of Happy Birthday, really what is there to be happy about? But last Saturday, my friends surprised me with a get together as an advance celebration, feels so warm to have friends around and I can say that my grouchy mood to celebrate is subsiding. And so I started my day going to Church before proceeding to the hospital. As always though I have an appointment I still waited more than an hour before my number was called. I think my heart beat doubled than usual when the doctor introduced another doctor for whatever reason I can't remember. Frame by frame the doctor explained the scan results while the other doctor just nods and observes. And with a sigh of relief, he said "Not so bad." Well yeah, coz I can still breathe, thanks to my scuba training that I have mastered the art of breathing through my mouth! Well anyway, to cut to the chase he offered me 2 alternatives, one is to try another round of medication, I was on steroids the last time and yep it worked wonders but the effect didn't last, second is to undergo a minor surgery. Like I have any other choice? They gave me two weeks to think it over.So while I think, I'm off to buy my own birthday cake! Hah!Thanks for all the happy wishes my friends, really makes my heart warm on this rainy/gloomy birthday afternoon.

Staying strong

2009-07-01T15:00:00.000+08:00

Barely 2 weeks since Mama left us and I still feel the pain in my heart, my mind seems to be afloat. I know it's time to move on and face the life ahead. I have a lot of things/ personal matters to attend to that should never be taken for granted. It's quiet overwhelming but I know I can handle them, one task at a time at my own pace.

I guess this forwarded email sent to me a few weeks back that I just opened today came in a right timing.

A blind girl
There was a blind girl who hated herself because she was blind. She hated everyone, except her loving boyfriend. He was always there for her. She told her boyfriend, 'If I could only see the world, I will marry you.'
One day, someone donated a pair of eyes to her. When the bandages came off, she was able to see everything, including her boyfriend.
He asked her, 'Now that you can see the world, will you marry me?' The girl looked at her boyfriend and saw that he was blind.. The sight of his closed eyelids shocked her. She hadn't expected that. The thought of looking at them the rest of her life led her to refuse to marry him.
Her boyfriend left in tears and days later wrote a note to her saying: 'Take good care of your eyes, my dear, for before
they were yours, they were mine.'
This is how the human brain often works when our status changes.
Only a very few remember what life was like before, and who
was always by their side in the most painful situations.
Life Is a Gift ...
Today before you say an unkind word - Think of someone who can't speak.
Before you complain about the taste of your food - Think of someone
who has nothing to eat.
Before you complain about your husband or wife - Think of someone who's crying out to GOD for a companion.
Today before you complain about life - Think of someone who went too early to heaven.

And when you are tired and complain about your job - Think of the unemployed, the disabled, and those who wish they had your job.
And when depressing thoughts seem to get you down - Put a smile on your face and think: you're alive and still around.

Eulogy

2009-06-29T16:35:00.002+08:00

I've been busy taking care of my mother's wake and burial and of friends and family visiting the wake that I am too exhausted to grieve. It was only on the last day of the wake that it sank on me that Mama is no longer with us. Though I've prepared myself for this since she was first diagnosed with her illness, I guess there is no such this as preparation when the final moment comes. The sadness is overwhelming, I miss her so much. It was my brother who delivered the eulogy as I can't compose myself to even utter a word.
This could have been my eulogy...

Una po sa lahat ang taos puso po naming pasasalamat sa lahat ng tumulong sa amin mula pa nang magkasakit si Mama hanggang sa kanyang mga huling sandali. Marami po nagsasabi na survivor si Mama, totoo po iyon sa dami ng kanyang pinagdaanan na sakit makailang beses pong halos nasa bingit na sya. Last December po na magsimula ang pinakacritical na karamdaman nya, biglaan po at di namin inaasahan na halos wala na syang makilala ni isa sa amin. With God's grace and the prayers from our family and friends pinagkalooban pa po sya ng panibagong lakas para paglabanan ang kanyang karamdaman. Minsang nakakwentuhan ko po sya tungkol sa mga nangyari na di nya matandaan, napaluha po sya at sabay sabing "marami palang nagmamahal sa akin", oo naman ang sagot ko po sa kanya. Simula po noon ano mang sakit ng katawan o hirap sa pagkain ay pilit nyang nilalabanan para sa mga nagmamahal sa kanya. Pero napapadalas na po talaga ang mga daing nya, minsan po isang gabi na ako ang nagbantay ay di po sya mapakali, masakit daw po ulo nya, likod nya, tyan, binti basta daw po buong katawan, pag kaganito po ay minamasahe namin sya para maibsan ang sakit, habang minamasahe ko po sya ay bigla nya na lang po nyang tinaas ang kanyang mga braso, sabi ko bakit po Ma?, "yakapin mo ko", tulo po ang luha ko habang mahigpit ko syang niyakap, para bang lahat ng sakit ay mawawala sa yakap kong yon. Nang gabing yon, masakit po man sa aking kalooban ay itinaas ko na po ang buhay nya sa Diyos. Labis labis po ang aking pasasalamat sa Diyos at binigyan pa kami ng pagkakataon na makapiling pa sya ng mahigit anim na buwan . She finally found peace and was laid to rest. Isa po syang mabuting ina, asawa, anak, kapatid,at kaibigan... masayahin, mataray at palaban pero naguumapaw po sa pagmamahal. We'll miss you Ma and we will always love you.

Hush now

2009-06-18T05:05:00.001+08:00

You're finally in peace, I love you Ma.

I will both lie down in peace, and sleep; For You alone, O Lord, make me dwell in safety. (Ps 4.8)

None of the above

2009-06-08T13:47:00.000+08:00

Q: What makes you happy working in XXXX?

Salary
People
Company values & culture
Nature of Industry
Others _____________

Your answer: ___________
(If you choose '5', please state your reason.)

If I'm not happy, what am I still doing here?

My passwords

2009-05-27T16:11:00.002+08:00

I was restless coming home last night, I was too stressed at work that I felt like all my energies were sucked the whole day. I have a commitment to finish a scrapping project but my mind was in chaos. Can't figure out how to begin as I again clutter my room with all the scrap supplies. Botchok barged into my room to borrow* my usb cable and so the kiddos as usual followed suit and entered my messy room. The kids know when it's off limits, don't want them in my room specially if it's messy. I remember the last time Kuya RC entered my room and commented that my room is so messy. So I blurted to him, that's why I don't want you coming in because it's messy, ok? In which he just replied "OK" hah!
Anyhoo, it has been a while so I let them stay in my room. Kuya RC is maturing so he doesn't touch most of my things and just stayed for a while for a quick chat. He was too happy that he doesn't have school for today. Dedey on the otherhand which is naughty by nature stayed and lure me into his charming personality LOL. He asked if I wanted help which I said "No". Then he asked for paper to draw so I gave him one, then he started asking for more. So as not to waste more paper I gave him my stasch of business reply envelopes that I collected from all the bills I receive.
I then gave him a lecture about conserving and recycling which I don't think he understood at his very young age.
So I started to brag about creating a paper boat which took me 3 tries before I finally perfected. Couldn't believe I forgot how to make the folds.
Anyway the little boy was amazed at my work so no pressure on me haha. He then created a paper plane (his own version) and gave it to me as a gift. So thoughtful!
Then he started doodling/drawing in scraps of paper, folded them and inserted inside the envelope. He even asked for a glue to seal in the envelope. I guess he had too much fun that he did around 5 to 7 of these and called them his Passwords. Not really sure what he meant by that but he was soo cute carrying along all those envelopes and bragging to his Kuya and Daddy who couldn't care less. Ha!
It was almost 12 so I told him enough already. So he just said goodnight, told me we'll do it again next time and then he left my room.
Ahhh kids, they can really lift up your spirit even if it's at its lowest.
:)

*borrow - because the last time he just took it from my table without my knowledge and I spent my whole weekend trying to find it, I was so pissed

Fever free

2009-05-23T22:39:00.005+08:00

Yesterday I went to Changi Hospital again for a second appointment. The scenario at the hospital was different the last time I came. Each civilian was queried then given a mask and a sticker that says "Fever free" before entering the vicinity. The vigilance of the Singapore agencies amazes me, I'm keeping my fingers crossed that there will be no report of Swine flu here in Singapore.
Anyway back to the clinic... I was tested for allergen. I wasn't sure how it would go so I just sat there as instructed, then the nurse brought the mini bottles labeled with letters/numbers and then started pricking my right arm. 1, 2, 3, 4, 5,... 20 all in all. Darn! I hate needles! She saw me grimacing and so after the last one she blurted "Not bad right?" Duh, it's not good either! Oh well, then she asked me to wait for 30 mins and I was warned not to scratch. Afte a few mins the pain changed to itchiness but I didn't notice any redness except the last one swelled a bit like a mosquito bite.
Then after 30 mins it was confirmed I am negative. I'm not sure if I would be happy about it because my blocked nose is starting again and if it's not allergy what is it?
As I patiently wait for my turn I have a gut feeling it could be worst. The doctor immediately noticed my blocked nose basing on my voice. He asked me to sit down again in that chair for scoping. My nose was sprayed again with that weird whatever and then he started to insert the tube. Just like the first time I went for scoping, it felt weird but now I felt a little pain and I almost sneezed.
He told me he did suspect its not an allergy but he just wanted to try with the medication first. It was steroids so naturally I felt better even after a week I finished my medication, it was normal reaction he said. But then again I cannot keep on taking steroids. So what is it?
He referred me to take a CT Scan to xray this darn nose of mine. After the results I will see him again.
My gut feeling starts to cave in, my Dad mentioned to me that my grandfather had a similar case and went for surgery. It was an enlarged bone or something called adenoid that is causing the blocked nose. My Dad feared it could be hereditary. Though it's outpatient, surgery is surgery! And then Botchok mentioned about his boss that previously had a nose cancer and undergone chemotheraphy, sure, like I needed that information. What a friend! Hmp!
So I went to radiology and was scheduled for a CT Scan for my sinus sometime in June. What breaked my heart was when the nurse told me how much it would cost, $300-$500! That much? really?
I have yet to inquire if it would be covered by our company's insurance, I hope so, because it was clearly stated in the form that it is not covered under Medisave. *sigh*
Now I have this pesky pain on my right sinus area, don't know if I'm just paranoid but I really wanted this period of my life to be over.

Weekend temporary insanity

2009-05-12T15:46:00.002+08:00

I was literally spooky last weekend, stayed most of the time in my room, cleaning up my room, watching Friends, scrapping then making a mess again and cleaning again and the loop goes on. The sign "Do not disturb" on my door proved to be effective *LOL* My housemates didn't dare make a move or say a word hah! I just don't feel like socializing, just want some peace, quiet and me time!
All because last week was really tiring for me, work, personal and family related issues.
Mostly my work was giving me a big pain in the a$$, hate it when I'm the one picking other people's trash, really hate that application hate it hate it hahaha
Anyway I did call my mother last week I'm adjusting my calls to every other day instead of everyday. She's been complaining and asking questions and breaks into tears whenever we talk on the phone so I thought of calling her not that often for a while until she relaxes a bit.
I did call her last Sunday to greet her on Mother's day, though she didn't cry she wasn't excited either. The conversation was short.
So this afternoon I called her again, I heard her chuckles again! Well because my Dad complained about the high electricity bill and Mama suddenly asked me to send money again to pay the bill. Then I heard her say "joke joke joke" with chuckles, ahhh it was like a song in my heart. We all laughed and today was really a good day for her because she was able to eat solid food! Due to her loss of appetite the doctor recommended food supplements like the special milk and some juice. Totally a liquid diet which is still not advisable, but still better than nothing.

Made me realize that I should be thankful I still have my appetite and should be a little less fickle in what I eat.

I want to move my cheese

2009-05-06T12:19:00.001+08:00

I've been in IT for almost 16 years and it's slowly taking it's toll. I need a change ASAP.

Yey!

2009-05-05T10:59:00.000+08:00

Wishes do come true... and I have learned it's not just wishing but working at what you're wishing for to make it come true.

I got my wish #4 (still getting there), all because I finally went to see a specialist after more than a year of just visiting GPs
such a geat timing since the outbreak of Swine flu could easily make me a suspect much less be vulnerable to such flu

and wish #5 , yey!
I least expected it obviuosly because of the global economic crisis, blah blah blah...
I was just hoping there is no pay cut but secretly hoping there is a bonus LOL!

Hmmm I wonder if there is any air fare promo going on...

These are my goodies!

2009-05-05T10:49:00.002+08:00

These are my all time favorite goodies, I was so happy to find the original flavor of Sunflower crackers. Nowadays these simple crackers have evolved to different flavors to suit the pickle tastebuds of the munching public ;)
There are garlic flavored, strawberry flavored and even mango flavored, those crackers have fillings but I still love the good old original flavor I used to enjoy when I was in my teens. The perk is they now come in 4 pcs per pack instead of 3! yummy deal!
How about this jolly joy biscuits, these are my yummy snacks when I was still a kid. The taste and even the packaging is just the same like the good old jolly joy!
Not sure about the history of lemon squares but I used to buy brownies from them through a friend who I thought buys it from a bakeshop. I guess business was good so they expanded their clientele and started distributing at groceries and supermarkets. Their yummy cheesecakes are my latest craze from their wide array of delicious yummy baked goodness.

There are other all time favorite yummy snacks that I love especially the choco delights of Fibisco like the chocolate crunchies and choco mallows, yummy! I suddenly miss my other all time favorites like the Hi-Ro which is a spoof of Oreo, Sergs chocoloate *ikaw pa rin* and Lobo crackers. All this yummy talk makes me hungry!

Twenty one

2009-04-28T17:38:00.001+08:00

My fave kid Dedey is almost 4 1/2 years old and I think it's he's old enough to count 1 to 10, well in my opinion. But to my surprise he barely can count up to 5 which shocked me, well of course I kept my qualms about it to myself. I am not a mother or a parent and certainly my streaks of turning into one is very vague. So yes I don't have the right to judge. But I grew up learning abc and counting 1-10 from my mother before I attended pre-school at the age of 4 so maybe that's why my expectations are very high not of the kiddo but of this boy's parents. Since I get a chance to cuddle or snob this kid depending on my mood, *hehehe*, I thought of giving him an incentive to learn how to count. I promised him a toy once he learns how to count 1-10 on his own. Well he can nag his Dad or Mom or even his Kuya to teach him how, as long as he can count 1-10 on his own. Everyday he would ask me fo r his toy, but unfortunately I can't see any progress on his counting. It also makes me wonder what he learns from pre-school, well aside from all the singing, coloring and the abc song.

Just last weekend Kuya RC who was in primary one complained to his Dad (while they are doing some sample tests) that they haven't reached the number 21. They are only counting up to 20! Duh! Is it really that slow in here? I taught the education here is much more advanced?

Give me 5

2009-04-27T17:29:00.002+08:00

1. More vacation leaves
2. Cheaper plane fares
3. Energy boosters
4. Cure for my blocked nose
5. Bonus please

Just a little wishful thinking *wink*

Keeping my hopes high

2009-03-30T12:53:00.002+08:00

Last Monday Mama was again hospitalized, this time because of diarrhea. When I spoke to her the previous Sunday she didn't recognize me and just begged not to bring her to the hospital. So the doctor just advised them to let her drink more water and Gatorade, that evening she was a bit OK and recognized me instantly me when I called again. When I asked her who I was she said I am her most beautiful child. But come Monday morning she can barely sit or even move that's because she also refused to eat and drink her medicine, so she agreed to go to the hospital. I knew then that they will have difficulty injecting her the dextrose, it took 7 doctors before she was inserted with dextrose. When I spoke to her she kept on saying she's in pain and she thinks she will die soon. I asked her to kept on praying and ask for God's mercy. I changed the subject and told her about the dolls I bought her, joked about my Dad's hearing etc etc. Since Kuya was scheduled to return to Manila that Saturday I asked him to talk to the doctor. I'm keeping my hopes high but I knew the sad news would come. My Dad sent me an SMS Friday evening, the doctor said she's on the final stage, her liver totally dried that's why all complications starts to show up, even the extreme water in her tummy which will eventually cause her to drown so only God knows how long she can last, a week, a month, 6 months or a year maybe. I was calm and never shed a tear, I knew this would come, it was my Dad that I was worried about. Last Saturday back home my Dad and Kuya discussed on what is the best way for Mama. The doctor agreed to let us take her home with a dextrose, we asked our neighbor Tita Remy who was a retired nurse to change her dextrose and also a cousin to help my Dad and my Tita to take care of her.
Kuya said Mama's behavior is on and off, there are times she's hysterical there are times she's calm but what bothered me was she doesn't open her eyes. When Kuya asked her, she replied "Nahihiya ako" (I am embarrassed), my heart is aching for her. I couldn't help but cry. Yesterday when I called her I asked her to open her eyes even for just awhile even at night when it's dark, she just shrugged off and told me to open her eyes for her when I return home. Then I told her about the dolls and the Barbie doll I recently bought her, she got a bit excited and can't wait for me to return home.
As I tried to sleep last night I remembered one of my previous chitchats I had with her when she was still up on her feet. She would always tell me that she prefers to die on her sleep, she doesn't want to get so sick and give hardships to her family. I can't imagine if I was in her place right now, the pain, her struggle, her resentment maybe and her fears. Being away from her brings much more pain to her, for both of us. So I always ask her to pray.
As for us, I've been asking myself how to prepare for what will happen next, how about Kuya, my Tita and mostly my Dad? I've been trying so hard to be strong for all of them, but for now I'm totally shaken.

The loft bed

2009-03-10T16:48:00.000+08:00

Finally this nerve wrecking loft bed was installed in my room for almost 3 hours with the help of the kids while Botchok hopelessly shoves them out from time to time.
They are excited and immediately climb the stairs which made me realized how this bed can be a potential hazard for the kids, so they are totally off limits. :P

Kaleidoscope world

2009-03-09T14:13:00.003+08:00

I guess I was too wrapped up with our move and so I was totally disconnected from the latest news and happenings, I only knew of Francis M's passing this morning. I was saddened and was in shocked, though I knew he has leukemia, I thought he's doing well as there are scheduled concerts under wraps. Really sad at such a young age with a wife and 8 kids left behind.
Though I'm not a big fan of rapping, his famous and meaningful songs caught my attention in a whim and of course his Bagets days have always been a part of my teenage days.
Farewell Francis M, may your soul rest in peace...

Every color and every hue

Is represented by me and you

Take a slide in the slope

Take a look in the kaleidoscope

Spinnin' round, make it twirl

In this kaleidoscope world

The wardrobe

2009-03-04T15:45:00.002+08:00

This is my new wardrobe courtesy of Botchok... my new landlord hehehe

I was in shock the first time I saw this at uncle's shop somewhere in Serangoon. I was not aware that the wardrobe they are planning to buy for me is huge and classy! When I asked how much I was petrified! I vehemently told them it will not fit my room. Botchok teased me that he just wants to give in to his tenant’s request, yeah right. My sole request was to buy me a wardrobe with sliding doors which is a space saver, that's it. I was even more dumbfounded when they told me they will only buy for me and they will just use my old one. I browsed through the catalog and pointed to them some other options which are still sliding wardrobes and which are much cheaper. But he insisted they might as well buy something sturdy, durable and nice.
He assured me it fits the budget and it has a "go" signal from the Mrs., well for one I don’t want to sound so picky and so high maintenance. After much deliberation he just told me it's ok for them to buy the wardrobe and just asked me that I shoulder the cost of my own bed frame. Fair enough.

And so it arrived yesterday, assembled inside my room, 5.5ft by 9ft! I think I can fit all my clutter (kakikayan) here plus extra storage for some other stuff, and did I mention it has a sliding mirror inside ;)

Today is Ash Wednesday

2009-02-25T10:49:00.000+08:00

A time for a reflection...

Well yesterday was another blue day at the office, there are people who will keep on reminding you how well you are brought up by your parents as compared to "them" who only think of themselves and do more harm than good to other people.
Sadly there are also people who live up to these people and do not dare lift a finger to point out their selfishness... and unfortunately
there are people below these people who can only reason out but still left unheard. And I am one tof these people. Ahh life at a corporate world, worst than our own government.

Looking at the bright side I was able to call Mama after missing a few days. She kept on complaining that her skin are all wrinkled, not like me who is a "tabachingching" and she kept on saying I give her all my fats. I purposely ignored her statement and kept on asking "What? I can't hear you?" She didn't get me the first time but when she eventually did, she laughed out loud and that was the heartiest laugh I heard from her so far.

And yes we're still packing, I'm almost done with my personal stuff, bed frame, tables and cabinets were disassembled, a few more nights of packing kitchen items and we're all set!
The kids we're just as excited as they are also busy helping me pack the boxes and picking up my trash hahaha. Kuya ask if we're going to ride a cab, if all can fit why not? ;)

Rock my world and bring it on!

2009-02-18T15:44:00.000+08:00

Sometimes in life your just can't have enough, well drama that is... It's my Dad's turn, he's been complaining of pain in his lower back and turned out it could be a slipped disk. Doctor recommended a therapy for 3 weeks and then hopefully he would recuperate before gointg to MRI.
The first thing I ask him is to rest for awhile and lie low on the household chores, he asked me what exactly is slipped disk and I did explained the worst thing that could happen should his slipped disk worsen. He just blurted out "Pano na ang Mama mo?", he's been taking good care of himself not for his own sake but for Mama. He use to say he should always be in good health so he can take care of Mama.
My Dad starts therapy tomorrow, we'll take it from there and see what happens next....

a kind soul

2009-02-06T19:26:00.001+08:00

It was Sunday morning when my Dad informed me that my Mama is ready to be discharged the next day. He was very happy, I am too but I have doubts. There were 3 doctors looking after her, I've personally spoken to the head doctor, Dr. Villamin before I left for Manila, at that time Mama was only due for a routine check-up. He suggested to buy Mama a wheelchair so she can roam around the neighborhood instead of just lying on the bed all day.
I can still vividly remember my Dad's sms a month after she was first discharged from the hospital last December. "Why is your Mama's condition not changing?" The three weeks I've stayed by her side, taking care of her, witnessing her moanings at night, her sobs, her aches, her frustration, I knew then that her health has taken it's toll. She will never be the same again. So as not to discourage my Dad I just told him that the healing process takes time now, unlike before because of her liver failure. I couldn't tell him that Mama may never walk on her own again much less take care of herself on her own.

You see Mama was a stubborn, proud woman, she was used to taking care of herself with little assistance from my Dad. She once sneaked on us one night while Dad was sleeping soundly and I on the opposite room , (both doors were open) she stood on her own and bam! She fell and all of us were rattled by the loud noise, thankfully there was no fracture but gave her more than a month of pain on her ribs.

During a routine check-up with her neurologist, Mama was admitted to the hospital. After a few days the endocrinologist suggested to insert a catheter to remove the excessive water on her stomach. At that time they barely can insert her with a dextrose because the nerves kept on popping just leaving her with bruises. Another doctor suggested to insert the dextrose on her feet. All the other treatments were turned down by Dr. Villamin, of course all these procedures are to be consulted with us but he himself disagreed and ask the immediate discharge.

I've seen how much more difficult it is for Mama to stay at the hospital, she hates the hospital, the dextrose, the diapers and bedpans, at least at home we can assist her to sit on the commode. Everything seemed to be inconvenient and frustrating and as such giving her more stress but of course we all want her to get well.

Upon hearing of Dr. Villamin's descision, I knew then that it was all up to Him. I guess we were on the same wavelength, such procedures can cost her more pain and even shorten whatever time she has left. Only God knows.

The endocrinologist persisted and even went to see Mama before she was discharged and ask her to think about the catheter. I have my faith in Dr. Villamin, I stood by his descision and let Mama under his care. He of course scolded Mama for not eating well and just lying on the bed all the time. He asked her to see the sunshine, eat anything her heart desires and of course go to church. He was a God-fearing man, though I don't know him personally, I know that he was part of the church community in our parish and have been good friends with some of our neighbors. He was a kind soul, letting us call him at home and even stops by during his jogging routine passing by at our house and asking about Mama's condition. He even gave us medicines for free. Though we can still shoulder Mama's medication, we appreciate all the kindness and the blessings we receive.

(My aunt-in-law also sent money for the wheelchair and our neighbors constantly give us fruits and food for Mama. Our neighbor across the street is a nurse, and she lets her daughter, May, take Mama's bp every morning, if the bp is very low or very high she's the one monitoring and checking her from time to time. May makes Mama smile every morning with her kakiyan and funny stories.)

I didn't have a chance to call Dr. Villamin after Mama was discharged, it was my Dad who recently caught up with him and had a heart to heart talk. Mama's liver totally dried up he says, the only solution which is not the best at her condition is a liver transplant. We cannot do anything about her liver anymore, all we can do now is pray... make her happy and stress-free, encourage her and keep her faith.

I call Mama everyday, she talks about her Barbie and asks me for more and admittedly says she's turning like a child and then we laugh. She talks about my Dad, whom she calls Lucky Me "ay bingi", then we giggle some more.

As my BFF said to me there are things that happen that we cannot explain, there are times when you kept on knocking but it seems no one is answering...all we can do is hang on and have faith in Him.

Last night

2009-01-30T11:45:00.003+08:00

Luke 18:27
What is humanly impossible for mortals
is possible for God.

Last night, a day after I left Manila, Mama was again admitted to the hospital. It was supposed to be a routine check-up but the doctor was worried about her state, she can barely walk on her own and totally lost her appetite. The doctors suggest it would be better if she stays in the hospital for a series of tests and to monitor her health. I didn't even shed a tear when my Dad sent me an sms about Mama's admission, I was calm and immediately called my Dad. But it was Mama who answered the phone crying and telling me I shouldn't have left her, she's been crying on the day I left asking me not to leave. I tried my best to calm her at that time, I've been psyching myself to be strong for Mama and for my Dad. If I have a choice I would have stayed but it's a sad fact that I need to earn a living, there are sacrifices, amidst the pain I have to stay strong.
I asked her to stop crying and it seems calling her gives her more stress so asked her to pass the phone to Dad. Sadly my Dad can't hear me, the hearing aid is not much help when talking through a phone. My Dad kept apologizing that he cannot hear me so I just hang up and sent him an sms instead. I cannot hold on my tears anymore. I called my brother and sis-in-law's handphone but the phones were either off or no one was answering. I was totally helpless, much as I want to help them I don't know how. All I can do is pray. All we can do is pray.
I admire my Dad's faith that everything will be alright, trust in Him he says... I admire his courage to be strong amidst the difficulties we're going through... I admire his devotion and unconditionable love to my mother.
She's now on dextrose still awaiting for the series of tests she will go through. Lord have mercy on her.

"I will say of the Lord, He is my Refuge and my Fortress, my God; on Him I lean and rely, and in Him I [confidently] trust" (Psalm 91:2, AMP).

Totally cool

2009-01-19T21:14:00.007+08:00

Thanks to Mama, Cecel's mom for the yummylicious sopas and sinigang! We didn't scrap but we watched a movie from Disney channel "Camp Rock" and Mama Mia (my 3rd time to watch). Abiik got totally hooked into crochet, I did try out a few since I did learn to crochet when I was in highschool but for the 2nd time I realized it's not for me. And for a change we baked a carrot cake! Cecel got the recipe from youtube, here are some photos for your viewing pleasure.

I was a bit worried last Friday since my Dad sms me about Mama not feeling well but come Sunday afternoon she was getting better. She was her usual talkative self complaining about my Dad cheating in tong-its. hehehe

It was "a totally cool and so nice" weekend all in all.

December 7, 2008

2009-01-06T18:03:00.001+08:00

It was early Sunday morning, I received an SMS from my Dad, so unlikely of him to do that so I was worried and tensed as I read his message. True enough he just informed me that my mother has been behaving peculiar, she seemed restless and have difficulty sleeping for several nights. I immediately called home and even spoke to Mama but she was just irritated and refused to be brought to the hospital. My Dad was prompt enough to call our neighbors for help, so I spoke to Tita Sally and asked her to assist my Dad to bring Mama to the hospital. Tito Danny, Tita Sally's husband was jogging at that time with Dr. Villamin, also one of our neighbors living a few blocks from us. After a few minutes my mother was rushed to Paranaque Doctor's Hospital. In a few hours her behavior worsens, she was totally out of control, shouting, cursing and doesn't recognize anybody. By the time Ate Rezel (my sis-in-law) arrived, Mama was immobile, her expression was blank, she just sat still, quiet and numb. I couldn't even speak to my Dad as he was crying and can barely speak, Ate Rezel asked me to go back to Manila ASAP, she was in shock as she witness what happened to Mama. The doctor said that if she wasn't able to recover within 24 hours, she may be in comatose and will only have a maximum of 6 months to live.

At that time we just heard mass and I was alone on my way back home waiting for a cab since I spent the night at Mader Cel's place. I just stood at the sidewalk crying while the passers by stared at me; finally I got hold of myself and booked a cab. At the cab a lot of thoughts came into me, I am still in shock and couldn't believe that this is happening to us, is it now? My mother has been through a lot and she has been coming in and out of the hospital for the past 2 years, I know that all of us will have our time, but please not now. I've been a lost sheep and haven't been calling and praying to Him like I used to be. I humbled myself and begged the Lord for His mercy... please not now.

Christmas Miracle

2008-12-29T23:38:00.000+08:00

This Christmas, the Lord gave us the greatest miracle, my mother survived another battle.

She was critically ill and was hospitalized last December 7. She was near comatose but through prayers and love from family and friends she again surpassed one of her darkest moments.

I would like to thank my family and friends who have been praying for my mother's recovery, no words can express my deepest gratitude for all your support and prayers. With God's grace she's currently recovering back home in the Philippines, weak but fighting and praying.

in pain

2008-12-16T13:48:00.002+08:00

"If I could only take her pain I will"
My heart breaks whenever I see my Dad shed tears for her
Really sad :(

Financial Crisis

2008-11-11T10:02:00.000+08:00

With the much talked about economic downturn in the US that affected the whole world, I am feeling the pain as well.

Even here in Singapore, there were initially rumors of retrenchment which in the end turned out right.
*sigh*

It was a failure

2008-11-10T16:25:00.002+08:00

I just can't live eating like a rabbit *lol*
Immediately the next day I cooked aglio olio for the first time and ate like a soldier hah!
Love your own as they say but Botchok liked it as well and even Dedey asked for the "pansit" hehehe.
I'm into pasta nowadays, my next attempt would be pasta primavera or my favorite from Pasta Mania, the "Vongole". Al Dente!
Well aside from scrapbooking, I was once addicted to baking but I would love to cook as well. I promised myself to cook a decent meal at least once a week to learn the art of cooking hehehe
I really would love to take up culinary arts or baking when time and money permits, maybe next year.
Anyway I have Botchok and his kids as my critics.
I can hear my stomach grumbling, time for tea break!

Diet?

2008-10-28T13:38:00.005+08:00

Darn, I really have to watch what I eat, my "katakawan" is taking its toll on me.

Here's my attempt:

BEFORE

AFTER

need I say more? *lol*

Ang hirap!

Cut the cake

2008-10-14T10:51:00.000+08:00

It was Botchok's bday yesterday, since the kids are here I thought of buying a small cake for him so the kids will have a little fun as well.
As soon as the kids saw me with a box, they've been bugging me what's inside (as if they don't know ha!) and I've been teasing them that it's not what they think it is *lol*
I cooked pansit beehon while he cooked menudo (again!) and ordered KFC chicken for dinner.
When we shouted "eating time" the kids started shouting "cake cake cake", ahhh those kids, they're still cute most of the times hehehe
Of course we lured them to eat dinner before they can have a taste of the cake. And to finish their meal I started competing with them as to who will finish first.
Eventually they won! (just imagine my plate overflowing with all those sumptuos food which I can barely finish hahaha).
Finally the cake! Some pictorial and finally blowing of the candle, such a cute photo of the 3 of them blowing the candles (will share the photo soon)
And then the cutting! I was asking Kuya RC to pass me the "pang-cut ng cake" which was stuck behind the pillow on the sofa when suddenly Dedey ran inside their room.
In a few seconds he went out and proudly reached out a pair of scissors! Hahaha
Awww this kid still melts my heart, love him when he smile with those chinky eyes and cute dimples.

Turning into an Auntie

2008-10-09T17:14:00.000+08:00

Two signs that the new kids on the block are back:
1. the sungkit for the laundry line is missing, the kids fancy using that as a sword
2. constant banging of doors, previously it was only Botchok now there's three of them, like father like sons

What can I say I'm only human, cuteness passes when kids started to grow older and naughtier hahahaha
Miss Grumpy is in the house!

My parents

2008-10-07T16:25:00.001+08:00

No matter how short, times well spent with your loved ones are just priceless. If I could, I would want to spend most of my days with my parents. It isn't easy as it sounds. There are constraints, conflicts and we have to think of what's best for all of us.

My mother was the one who opened the gate for me when I arrived. She looked rather frail, ahhh why not I'm halfway to turning 36 naturally she will look older. I just embraced and kissed her for a minute. I really miss her, even our petty quarrels which I call lambingang brutal.
My Dad on the other hand is a new man, a better man oozing with confidence! Thanks to the latest technologies and thanks to my pension plan we were able to buy him a pair of hearing device. He's talkative and cheerful just like me. I just realized that I got my bad and good traits from both of them *LOL* Anyway ever since the hearing problem my Dad slowly sulk in his shell, though he try to be cheerful and even make fun of his hearing I know deep inside he's hurting. Since my mother got sick, we prioritize our finances on her so after more than a year my brother and I decided to give attention to our Dad. When I came home last March I accompanied my Dad in the initial consultation. Coincidentally the specialist was also from Singapore who just came for a visit to conduct free consultations. It was a long process, he was taken to a booth to measure his grade in hearing, different sounds/noise were played and he was asked to push a button if he could here the sound, press twice if it's too loud. And so the final step was a face to face interaction with the specialist, he was given a prototype device and together with the staff we started to make a conversation. It was like an interview portion with my Dad, a rather long one, and I think that was the longest conversation he ever had since his hearing problem. He was chatting, joking and conversing so to speak. I was a bit teary eyed and I knew then that he must have wanted to hear for such a long time but kept it to himself as he knew we're still financially incapable because of my mother's illness.
The magic question is how much? It does come with a price, expensive price. I have to beg off at that time and even my Dad knew we can't afford it. It did break my heart but I promised him that we will buy the device in a few months time because I'm expecting a cheque from my pension plan. And so 3 months ago we managed to buy him the hearing device.

Here's a funny conversation I had with Mama during the first few weeks since my Dad got the hearing device:
Mama: You're Dad is so talkative, my blood pressure is stable now it's now your Dad having the high blood pressure
Me: Really? You know why Ma?
Mama: Why?
Me: Because previously Dad can't hear you that's why your BP is going up with your screaming but now that Dad can hear you he realized how noisy you are and that is causing his high BP hahahhaha

Mama Mio!

2008-08-29T11:36:00.005+08:00

COMEX is now on! We've been waiting for that since I've been planning to buy an external hard disk to backup my files. Yesterday was the opening day so Botchok didn't want to waste time since he's been pesking me about getting a Mio. Well I do want to get a MIO too, eversince TFC was taken away from us two years ago, it seems we don't have a connection to the outside world *LOL*. Sadly our place doesn't have Starhub line so we don't have a cable, we only have Channel 5 and Channel News Asia to at least entertain us while having dinner. I've had so much of the local sitcoms like Yang Sisters, Sayang-sayang, or the Makan Sutra or game shows like the Price is Right and Wheel of Fortune. It's about time we get to see our local shows even if I'm a Kapamilya rather than a Kapuso.

So our first stop was the big room dedicated to SingTel, ahh this is the place. It has a long queue, but since we are categorized as recontracts, we need not fall in line. They have these phonebooths in which a singtel representative led us, she contacted a singtel officer and since our current broadband is under Botchok's name I asked him to do the talking. He kept on saying these words "ah no Mio", which made me confused, it was clear on the brochures that they have the promo of broadband and MIO as a package. The conversation didn't last long and I heard him agreeing to a recontract without MIO, in which I can only give him the face.

After he put down the phone he broke the bad news, even MIO is not available in our place, darn! I guess we are doomed to watch local shows and DVD movies and Korean seriesfor the rest of our stay in this forsaken place on top of the hill.

Downy

2008-08-22T16:11:00.002+08:00

Colleague : Hey you smell nice!
Botchok: Thanks! That's Drakkar my friend.
Colleague: Nope, amoy Downy! (smells like Downy) harharhar

Actually when it's laundry day for mareng r the whole house smells like Downy, even though I have flu and blocked nose I can still smell the strong scent of Downy. Not sure how much Downy they pour in but in my opinion softeners main purpose is for softening, the fragrance takes the second lead. I do have friends who don't use softeners which is actually OK since years ago we managed to survive without this product, right? But for me it's a necessity since there are times when I do wash and wear my clothes, yep no ironing, thanks to Comfort, well that's my brand, not so pricey plus the scent is not overwhelming.
Just this morning Botchok asked me a favor to iron his TGIF get-up, the minute I slide my iron in his shirt ahhh the familiar smell of Downy hahaha I think there is no expensive brand of perfume can beat that scentl!

Yaiks!

2008-08-18T16:20:00.002+08:00

We Got Married was cancelled?
I just watched the 21st episode and I was laughing my heart out!
I hope they immediately telecast the next episodes.

Where did the weekend go?

2008-08-18T16:00:00.004+08:00

We were up Friday night til the wee hours of Saturday morning watching DVD movies and Tagalog movies, next thing we knew it was almost 2AM. As expected we all woke up late past 12PM and very hungry. I asked Botchok what they plan to eat but he answered me with the same question, arghhh! Anyway I told him I wanted to eat a soup dish, I think I had enough of the fried food diet. So went to the grocery hoping we can still buy something fresh to cook. And guess what we found? the fresh tahong (mussells) left untouched by the locals, I think the residents around our area are not familiar with this kind of shells considering they are very very cheap! So we bought around 2kg for only $2.80 and since I wanted to savor the soup we bought leafy spinach to go with it. Botchok saw the cut pineapples but I stopped him from buying those since it's not placed in the refrigerator, I recently bought one and was dismayed that the fruit was already spoiled. I asked him to choose bananas for me (lakatan or latundan) but we were happy to see the saba bananas instead, so we bought 2 bunches and out in the whim he picked up a piece of fresh pineapple! Of course I gave him the stare, I never tried peeling pineapples and I don't intend to, but then he assured me he's doing it, so case closed.
So our breakfast cum lunch cum merienda is boiled mussells cooked by Botchok, tortang giniling (groundpork omelet), leftover giniling that I recooked to torta *LOL*, and a few pieces of tocino (cut lean meat marinated in McCormick Tocino mix, best buy!). The meal would not be complete without a vinegar dip, so I prepared vinegar with fish sauce, garlic and fresh chili. Bon appetit!
As we are all couch potatoes we ate while watching yet another movie, the Hitman, a very violent movie but didn't even made a dent in our appetite hehehe. After cleaning up my room and watching a few more movies, my stomach is grumbling again so I cooked the bananas, caramelized bananas, hmm smells good! But the bananas were a big disappointment, it's my first time to eat bananas with big seeds, yaiks! totally ruined my saging con hielo! *sigh*
It was past dinner time and again I was hungry, Botchok finished all the remaining rice with torta as a merienda, while mareng r ate bread with Reno. I was too lazy to cook rice so I just asked for a pair of bread, toasted them and sandwiched the torta with catsup. There goes my dinner.
Come Sunday, yet another menudo day by Botchok, another fiesta meal *LOL*. Dinner is adobo, again by Botchok with (bland) pineapples as dessert. Now you know who's the culprit of my flabby belly. hehehe

I hate being sick!

2008-08-07T12:23:00.002+08:00

It's my second wave of antibiotics, a different set but still nothing seems to improve and it's getting worse?
Last Tuesday, I had several travels to the toilet. It must have been the bad food I ate Monday night, but it was persistent until yesterday and I thought it could also be due to the antiobiotic. So the doctor gave me medicine, told me to continue with the anitbiotic and then gave me half day MC. I only took one tablet, it seems to be working fine except for the spasm on my tummy. I still continued my antibiotic until this morning but I'm a bit reluctant on my food intake but I have to eat somehow. Tummy is behaving as per normal now but then just a few minutes ago, this migraine attacked, I feel like vomiting darn! I hate being sick!
I hope this health problem will not hinder in my short weekend getaway. *sigh*

Antibiotic, vodka, puffy eyes, phone calls et al

2008-08-02T23:43:00.001+08:00

I'm tired, body, mind and soul, I've been avoiding my emotions, I have to let it out sometime. An emotional breakdown could be fatal... hmmm. Last night after antibiotic, I was contemplating on drinking a glass of juice with vodka, what good will it do? If only the pain will go away, drank it anyway, err 2 glasses by the way. I fell asleep or maybe my eyes were just closed for a few minutes, puffy eyes, darn I couldn't sleep so I just surfed the net. It was 4:30AM when my body finally gave in.

Then I was rattled by a call, it was an international call, I missed it, my heartbeat is going haywire so I checked the voice mail. Arghh, it was nothing important, not that I'm interested in, 9:00 AM for what? sometimes these people can't get the message. "I'm not interested!" Anyway I didn't even bother to return the call or even send an sms, "I'm not interested!" My mother is just being nice that's why she gave my number. And I was being nice giving my email address. Hah!

Anyway, I went back to sleep, after a few minutes there was another call, it's the office cellphone. Yaikkks! I returned the call and I was relieved it was not about my current project. I returned to bed but I can't sleep anymore. Hello Saturday!

Around 1PM there was another call, it's about my current project. Oh no! Thankfully it was just a query, I'm really not in the mood to go to the office should the need arise, I just realized I should have brought home my office laptop.

It's almost Sunday, already?

We got (just) married

2008-07-24T15:07:00.011+08:00

I guess my addiction to Korean series/movies extended too far that even the much talked about variety show "We got (just) married" got my eyes glued to my internet. What's more exciting is it's currently showing in Korea so I don't get to watch the complete series thus it keeps me in suspense. It's a very funny and entertaining show, this show keeps my sanity after a stressful day at the office.
Just last night I checked crunchyroll for updates after 2 weeks of my absence on that site since I'm busy watching yet another Korean series "Lovers" (tenchu to batikang aktres and baguhang aktor for this DVD). I just realized this couple are for real (just not sure if they are already a couple during the filming as their kissing scenes are prolific in the series, which is uncommon in a Korean telenovela) Read this scoop about the couple.

Anyway back to the variety show, I was surprised to see Lee Hwi Jae co-hosting the show wherein he together with Jo Yeo Jeong should be among the participants. I finished episode 18 and then went back to 17 in case I missed something but there was no mention of what happened between the two. Unlike with Dondon and Saori which is sadly and obvioulsy expected to end but it was mentioned on the show why they "divorced". So I did some research and found out this scoop.

At the beginning my favorite couple was Andy and Solbi since Solbi is very affectionate and somewhat stirs the audience, but then there was Alex who is every girl's dream husband with his endless surprises to Shin Ae. But lately I've been hooked with the "A" couple, Crown J and Sae In Young (who by the way is so sultry, the body to die for hehehe go search her photos). They are the super duper cool couple, I think they are the most realistic among the couples. They fight and make up like ordinary lovers do. Aside from the divorced couples the additional couples of young groom Hyun Joong and Hwang Bo were added in the show. I think they look cute together but you can really see their struggle as young husband and older wife type of couple.
Are you curious now? If you haven't watched it try watching a couple of episodes and believe me you will be hooked and maybe you can relate to some scenarions in case you're married or in a relationship hehehe.
Meanwhile here are some of my favorite photos on the first 3 original couples' 100th days wedding photoshoot I got from surfing the web. I just realized that only the "A" couple's photos were shared in the internet and the other two couples were just captured through videos.

the A Couple - Crown J and Sae In Young

Andy & Solbi

Alex & Shin Ae

Below is the summary of the show as written in crunchyroll, to know more buzz about the cast and the show, you can check out this dude (Alvin) who writes the scoop. Cool blog so I will add him in my blogroll so you can also know the latest buzz and maybe catch up on the show hehehe. BTW his blogheader is a photo of the couples on the show.

Summary:
4 predetermined (as in participants don't choose who their partner is, but the pairings are set up by the PD) couples are allotted a certain amount of money ($20, $40, etc) to prepare dinner for themselves. The participants try to portray themselves as a real life couple and go out together to buy groceries for dinner. It then follows them to a mock home where they prepare the dinner and eat. In between scenes there are interviews with the participants asking questions like what they feel about their partner and what they like or don't like about him/her. The actual date together as a couple and the interviews are all prefilmed and the participants and MCs watch it all back. At the end, each side of the couple privately chooses if he/she would stay together with his/her partner or not.

Happy watching! kamsamida!

At the crossroad

2008-06-27T16:25:00.000+08:00

My days are usually off, I do smile, laugh and chitchat everynow and then but I do easily get irritated, I feel sick, I'm stressed, I'm tired... I know it's wrong to feel this way but I trully am tired, physically, emotionally, mentally.
I guess I'm on my midlife crisis again, too early? but I hate this feeling, the tension and pressure. I'm basically a happy person but sometimes or most of the times I find myself pushed to the ground, totally helpless.
Life is getting difficult each day, just like my bff told me she too is tired of being a drama queen. At least I'm not alone. I still wake up one morning and thought of mommy, is she really gone? A lot of things have changed, call it a domino effect, but everyone in the family feels the tension, the emptiness. I myself am not that strong though I try my best to show my optimism, deep inside I too am scared of what life is gonna be for the next year, next month, next week, next day, next hour and even the next minute and seconds.
I don't make any sense. I am not worthy, but I always ask God to hang on to me and never let me go.

Goodbye Mommy

2008-06-09T09:15:00.005+08:00

Mommy as I fondly call her since she's like a second mother to me. I can still remember how she treats me like a princess whenever I come over to their place for summer vacation when I was little. I was pampered and showered with all my necessities and luxuries too. She's a kind hearted and strong-willed woman who was able to support herself through college. She went against all odds being a single mom, a struggle and a heartbreaking ending. She was the binding force amongst her siblings when Papang (grandpa) finally gave up his own battle from diabetes. But sometimes life makes a sudden turn, I've seen her at her weakest and lowest when friends walked away from her. The family started to crumble but there she was still leading on and hoping that life would come back to the way it was. She's suffering not only physically but emotionally, my heart only bleeds for her. It has been more than a decade of battle from diabetes and from life itself.
She's a mother, a grandmother, a daughter, a sister, an aunt and a friend to all of us.
You will always be remembered, I love you Mommy.
Your peace has finally come, may God bless your soul.

Hybernation

2008-06-04T09:55:00.000+08:00

It has been awhile since my last post. I'm on the brink of a hybernation again. It's good to take a halt from time to time, to think things over, time for reflection and rejuvination.

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

Lessons in Life By Regina Brett

To celebrate growing older, I once wrote the 45 lessons life taught me. It is the most requested column I've ever written.

My odometer rolls over to 50 this week, so here's an update:

1. Life isn't fair, but it's still good.
2. When in doubt, just take the next small step.
3. Life is too short to waste time hating anyone.
4. Don't take yourself so seriously. No one else does.
5. Pay off your credit cards every month.
6. You don't have to win every argument. Agree to disagree.
7. Cry with someone. It's more healing than crying alone.
8. It's OK to get angry with God. He can take it.
9. Save for retirement starting with your first paycheck.
10. When it comes to chocolate, resistance is futile.
11. Make peace with your past, so it won't screw up the present.
12. It's OK to let your children see you cry.
13. Don't compare your life to others. You have no idea what their journey is all about.
14. If a relationship has to be a secret, you shouldn't be in it.
15. Everything can change in the blink of an eye. But don't worry; God never blinks.
16. Life is too short for long pity parties. Get busy living, or get busy dying.
17. You can get through anything if you stay put in today.
18. A writer writes. If you want to be a writer, write.
19. It's never too late to have a happy childhood. But the second one is up to you and no one else.
20. When it comes to going after what you love in life, don't take no for an answer.
21. Burn the candles, use the nice sheets, wear the fancy lingerie. Don't save it for a special occasion.
Today is special.
22. Over prepare, then go with the flow.
23. Be eccentric now. Don't wait for old age to wear purple.
24. The most important sex organ is the brain.
25. No one is in charge of your happiness, except you.
26. Frame every so-called disaster with these words: "In five years, will this matter?"
27. Always choose life.
28. Forgive everyone, everything.
29. What other people think of you is none of your business.
30. Time heals almost everything. Give time, time.
31. However good or bad a situation is, it will change.
32. Your job won't take care of you when you are sick. Your friends will. Stay in touch.
33. Believe in miracles.
34. God loves you because of who God is, not because of anything you did or didn't do.
35. Whatever doesn't kill you really does make you stronger.
36. Growing old beats the alternative -- dying young.
37. Your children get only one childhood. Make it memorable.
38. Read the Psalms. They cover every human emotion.
39. Get outside every day. Miracles are waiting everywhere.
40. If we all threw our problems in a pile and saw everyone else's, we'd grab ours back.
41. Don't audit life. Show up and make the most of it now.
42. Get rid of anything that isn't useful, beautiful or joyful.
43. All that truly matters in the end is that you loved.
44. Envy is a waste of time. You already have all you need.
45. The best is yet to come.
46. No matter how you feel, get up, dress up, and show up.
47. Take a deep breath. It calms the mind.
48. If you don't ask, you don't get.
49. Yield.
50. Life isn't tied with a bow, but it's still a gift.

"May the Lord's face radiate with joy because of you" --- Numbers 6:24

Stupid?

2008-05-21T11:00:00.006+08:00

I woke up early today but was late again for work. I was in panic when I was about to get my bag and noticed that my wallet is missing. Haven't touched my bag since last night when I came home so I assumed the wallet is supposed to be inside. The last time I can remember that I'm holding it was when I paid for nasi lemak at the hawker. Did somebody stole it? I just placed my bag in another chair while I was devouring the chicken. These are my thoughts as I searched all over my room until I called botchok to ask for help. As expected he immediately ask me to call the banks to hold all my credit cards and report my lost cards. Of course he called me stupid! ouch! and even mentioned that I always lose it. Duh! this is my first! And now we went down memory lane as he refreshed my memory and start blabbing about my lost wallet at Enchanted Kingdom. Yaikks! I completely forgot about that one, you see it was like 8 or 9 years ago! Would you believe that wallet has P10K. Oh men that's a lot of money way back then even until now! I was in dire need of money at that time so my option was to withdraw cash loan from my credit card, it was Friday, though we planned to go to EK that night I thought of getting the money that day to save on travel time of going back to the bank. But I completely forgot about the money in my wallet, I should have left it in bochok's car while we roam around at EK, so again he called me stupid for this. We were eating dinner at a food court there and then this waiter picked up something from the floor just below where I was sitting, he waved the tissue he pretended to pick up as I gave him a scornful look. After a few hours of strolling I realize I lost the wallet so it came to my sense what had happend at the food place. Darn that guy! I think he saw the wallet on the floor and picked it up using the tissue as a cover. We came back but they immediately denied the incident and even the manager insisted such things will never happen in EK, they even refused to search his belongings, darn I should have reported it to the police, but we didn't. To make it short, I never recovered my wallet. I was in deep pain but was only comforted with my friends at that time,to just let it go but I was scolded big time by bochok. Of course this story never left EK until now, not even my mother knew about it, God knows what could have happened. EK would have gone down the drain hahaha
Anyway back to present, I found the wallet at my computer table covered with all kinds of mess,hehehe. So I reported to bochok that everything is now under control, of course he still called me stupid and asked for a lunch treat, for what? for giving him a heart attack! you wish!

Silver by David Cook

2008-05-13T21:30:00.001+08:00

When writing your history,

I will always be a footnote

A distant memory

A warning sign of mistakes made

The kind that you learn from

This song is the best of me

Taking pills for solemn motive

A better side of me, an open mind

For mistakes made

The kind that you burn from

So take this small confession as my price to pay

I've never been the kind to let go

But before you up and walk away

I'm miserable without you, you know

This silver leaves me longing for gold

Second place has never carried me home

This song is so out of key

I'm trying harder just to even

These memories of you

A warning sign of regression

The kind you never learn from

This song is the melody

Meant to show you a little more than

A better history, an open sky

Of redemption

The kind you always burn from

So take this small confession as my price to pay

I've never been the kind to let go

But before you up and walk away

I'm miserable without you, you know

This silver leaves me burning for gold

Second place has never carried me home

Second place has never carried me (home, home, home, home)

It never carried me (home, home, home, home)

Chilling

2008-05-11T22:01:00.003+08:00

It's my first time to taste vodka with watermelon juice, the mix is just perfect, though this one is not intoxicating as there are much ice than the juice and vodka combined =P Nonetheless it was a great Friday to unwind and hang out with friends. Tenchu abiik, pre and tales for a dinner bonding and the boylets for chilling with us at DXO.

All my bags are packed

2008-05-09T17:54:00.005+08:00

Day 1 - trip to HK

Since I was busy with my extra curricular activities, I only managed to pack my bag the night before and only checked-in online the same night. To my surprise there are only a few seats available (I was hoping the flight is not fully booked), I could have chosen the window seat but settled for the aisle seat near to the exit. I only have a knapsack for handcarry and one cabin size luggage so I decided to travel by MRT instead of taking a cab. The travel was quite fast so I managed to checked-in my bag immediately. I roamed a bit and went to Terminal 3 which is really a sight to behold, I wasn't able to see the mall since I don't know how to get there and I'm not good with directions either, it was too late when I realized I should have taken a lift to get me to the basement where the mall is located. yaiks!
I was able to board ahead since I was near the gate and immediately settled on my seat. I'm glad my seatmate is a female Australian? French?, she was quiet which I have hoped since I just want to have a peaceful journey. The perk in flying via Cathay is the Personal TV, I watched the "27 dresses" which is a typical lightearted romantic comedy movie. That's enough to ease my agony of staying on board for 4 hours which seemed endless as I was excited to meet my parents and my brother's family at the HK airport. (Their flight from Manila was ahead by 1 hour.)

Kid Talk

2008-04-28T16:34:00.003+08:00

One Friday night inside my room...

As if my overindulgence in shopping for scrapbooking goodies was never enough I eventually bought these cute miniature bakery display sets I've been eyeing for quite sometime. I was actually looking for a toy gift but ended up buying a toy for myself first. I've always been fascinated with these miniatures whenever I pass by OG. So that night seems to be special as I eventually bought a few sets to complete this display. As I was trying to figure out how to put them all inside, RC saw me and started interogating me. Maybe he saw my deep fascination at what I'm doing so he asked if I really liked it. I said yes of course that's why I bought it. So here goes the follow up question, since the box has several photo samples of other sets, he started pointing at them and asking if I have those. So I pointed him some items that I don't have yet. Then he started asking how much is it? is it expensive? Again I answered yes and told him the price, and another follow up question was fired at me. In his innocent mind he doesn't know yet how much or how expensive it is so he asked again if the price I mentioned is indeed expensive. "Tawsan tawsan?" (thousand thousand) Again I answered yes. And this surprise comment made me blush, "When I grow up I will buy you all those that you don't have yet, when I start working I will buy you this and this and this...." awww wouldn't that melt your heart?
He just watched me as I move those tiny cookies, croissants and cakes coz I am reluctant on the placement. Finally I placed the display set on my headboard and stared for a while. Suddenly he saw this Max caramel bar lying around (just imagine how messy my room was) and asked if that is the last piece. Again I said yes and asked him to take it for himself. He refused and asked "Did my Dad finish them all that's why there's only one left?" He must have heard it from me since I've been constantly complaining to his Dad finishing one whole box in one sitting. hehehe
Is it done? he asked again. I said yes, for now, he must have sense I'm still not contented and to my surprise he placed the caramel bar on a plate at the counter and said, "how about like this?" and I said yes that's it, you're a genius! and we started laughing.

Darn

2008-04-28T10:28:00.002+08:00

I missed my blogoversary! yaiiks! It has been 3 years since I started blogging and I'm still lazy with the updates. *sigh*

Dice game

2008-04-14T11:06:00.001+08:00

It was a busy weekend for me. Friday night I met abiik at Tampines for a quick stop at Toys R Us to buy a gift toy for Saturday's bday party. Then we head on to Melville park where Pre invited us for a dinner. We stopped by the minimart to buy sodas and found pre doing last minute shopping. Abiik and I were so happy to see Pinoy products and almost went on panic buying. Since I still have a stock of canned goods back home from my previous trip I just bought sisig to try out and reno liver spread. It was another sumptuos dinner! there goes my diet *kuno* again. Mader Ces and her family came by and so we took a little stroll at the condo and took some photos. We've spent the night for a re-bonding time apart from the fact that we don't want to cash out on the taxi fare as it's quite far from our place. We placed a dice game or bluffing game introduced by Dex, whoever loses get's to drink a shot of Vodka (I think it was more of a drop as it barely touches my throat hahaha). It sure was fun as we made twists on the game to make it much more exciting.
Saturday night we attended our friend's DS bday party, lots of yummy local delights! The lechon kawali was my favorite, yum yum!

The terminal

2008-04-08T09:51:00.002+08:00

It was extremely quiet at the flat right now mainly because Botchok was not around. He went back home to fetch his kids and in a few days our flat will definitely rock! I accompanied him to the airport last Saturday. After checking in, we decided to take a peek at the much talked about terminal 3. Oh yeah it was gigantic and classy! Though we haven't roamed the whole terminal, we were definitely impressed with the structure, the design and the concept.

Topsy turvy

2008-04-07T10:37:00.002+08:00

It was another topsy turvy last week, I don't want to post any toxic stuff so I lie low for a while. I kept on telling myself not to go down to their level. I always keep in mind my mother's words of wisdom. Don't waste your time thinking about the person that irritates you because you'll always be at the losing end. Which is true! There you are all stressed because of them while they are having a grand time pissing you off! So rather than waste my time cursing them I thought of a counter attack. Not a bloody one of course hehehe, I'm giving them a cold treatment so they get the message, well I hope.

Thursday night

2008-03-28T10:04:00.002+08:00

It was a tiring but fun Thursday night! We joined the office bowling session at The Chevrons. I was a little good during the warm up but really shameful during the actual games. I had successive balls going down the drain, yaiks! I picked up a bit on the second set but come third set I'm back to the canals *lol*. The committee started tabulating the individual scores and luckily I'm not the only one that suck in this game haha, I'm at the 88th place among the 100 players, it's a lucky number they say but still embarassing. I hope they don't post it in the bulletin board hehehe

Sony Bravia

2008-03-27T09:23:00.003+08:00

After years of contemplating on buying a Plasma/LCD TV (see this post), I finally took the plunge and bought the Sony Bravia which surprsingly is selling like hotcakes at the recent IT Show at Suntec Convention Center. Yes now I am one of the millions of Singapore residents owning a 32' LCD (or bigger for others who can afford it)
It was actually bought on impulse and persuasion by Botchok. I only intend to buy my dream photo printer which remains a dream as it cost more than 1000 SGD. I opted for a much affordable choice which to my dismay is already out of stock. So I lowered my expectations a bit more and now I am a proud owner of Epson R290.
After 2 weeks of owning a Bravia, I guess Botchok got the most out of it rather than me. He was the one who trully enjoyed the picture quality (no day would pass without him blurting out how good the TV was) and continously played DVD trilogies/quadlogies??? like LOTR, Matrix, Die Hard, Rambo and now Star Wars. As for me watching American Idol in HDTV is enough for now. I don't mean to brag but dropping the budget constraint I would have wanted the 40 inches, I guess everybody does, right?

Environment girl

2008-03-24T11:47:00.006+08:00

That's what my dear friend Botchok calls me nowadays. I'm a nature lover so naturally I would do my very best in my own little way to preserve them. I grew up witnessing how man destroys the environment, just look at the Pasig river that no matter how the govt or non gov agencies try to save, still comes back to the way it was as I've seen it, a big dumpster. I dreamt of seeing Pasig River the way I saw it in old black and white Tagalog movies. *pangarap na lang ba?*

Anyway, eversince I saw this notice posted at the lifts, I already had an idea. You see eversince we lived at Pearl's Hill where the water is not potable we've been buying bottles of mineral water, so just imagine the waste of plastic bottles we accumulate every week, approximately 12.
As much as I want to collect those bottles to be thrown in proper place I don't know any convenient place til now. So every Friday or Monday morning I throw all our plastic bottles at B2 before going to work. I really don't mind bringing them, apart from the fact that I just walk to the office. So Botchok was kidding me that he should get his share of the money I get from selling the bottles, duh! (bote garapa?) I kept on telling him I'm doing my share to save the environment, thus the monicker Environment girl.

A big pain

2008-03-19T10:45:00.004+08:00

It was another busy weekend for me. I was expecting a tiresome travel but it's definitely worthy of the happy moments I spent with my family.

It was a bit stressful early on since my personal notebook as well as my office notebook crashed almost at the same time. I sent my personal notebook for repairs last week which was initialy diagnosed with a virus but up to now I haven't heard from the service center, though I got a missed call Monday. I've been calling them since yesterday and I got no answer from the end of the line. It's these times that I would have love to speak to at least a voice mail. *Sigh*

As for my office notebook, the hard disk is totally faulty so my superiors decided to just buy me a new laptop. Well it wasn't easy as it sounds, just for the initial disposal process, there's this one big pain in the a$$ person who's making everything difficult. I'm not the type of person to be bullied and oh boy I did raise my voice on the phone and so when I confronted her personally I asked her politely on the issue. She's not bitchy as she was on the phone but she just spoken a few words and did her best to get rid of me. As I don't want to waste my time with her I just backed out and let my superior do her job. *lol*

Acid attack

2008-03-13T17:25:00.006+08:00

I'm palpitating, just because I'm so kiasu! Can't resist the free coffee offered by the newly opened Starbucks at the Shell House lobby. It was a peru or peruvian? black coffee, smells so good so I immediately sensed it was very strong and bitter. I poured a lot of milk, choco powder, sugar syrup?, powdered sugar and vanilla *it's free what hahaha so kiasu* and soon enough I'm enjoying my coffee. In minutes hyperacidity attacks and I feel like vomiting, yaiks!

I love coffee but this stomach problem is such a kill joy. The last time I had Starbucks was last year, I suddenly crave for frappucino and so I bought one while waiting for the bus. I can't sleep that night, and hyperacidity striked again so I took an MC. The doctor asked me what's wrong and so I told him the story. He scolded me saying you know it's bad for your health and still you drank coffee? I just made an alibi that I was so thirsty and needed something to cool me down. He just gave me the face but still signed an MC. Hah! ridiculous MC, IMHO it's a money making business here in Singapore. You're sick and they expect you to visit the doctor early in the AM, they'll scold you if you go in the PM. Most of the times the clinic is a 5 -15 mins walk so just imagine if you have diarrhea. Then they will give you generic medicines which doesn't help much and most of the time you have to visit them again and practically beg and maybe die before they give you antibiotics.
Sorry I just can't fully trust the doctors here.
Why?
Eversince I was little I always get tonsilitis, partly maybe because I like sweets. This doctor, mind you it was my first visit at that clinic, asked me if this is common. So I told him, yes. You know what he said? He advised me to remove my tonsils! to my shock of course, I usually have migraine, will he advise to remove my head hahahaha
oh well

New ka-Friendster

2008-03-13T12:25:00.004+08:00

Jepoy celebrated his bday last week, thanks for the sumptuous dinner at GP, LP!
[photo coming soon]
It was all fun and laughter as always. I'm so thankful to up above because I'm really blessed with lots of friends. I'm still sick, so I wasn't able to join them for clubbing. Maybe some other time!

Search for a Filipino Star 2008

2008-03-03T22:37:00.000+08:00

Yesterday after mass, I met my friends at Lau Pa Sat before heading to the Search for a Filipino Star 2008 grandfinals. While waiting for them I looked around to search for Ka Roger's stall which is recently earning fame because of the yummy barbecue. His stall doesn't have the prepared food yet but I can already smell the aroma of pork bbq being grilled. I just seated near the stall while waiting for my friends when Ka Roger himself introduced himself to me. I took the opportunity to ask about his famous bbq, the cost and everything. Unfortunately they are only preparing pre-ordered dishes and bbq at that time so I just ask for his calling card and then we looked for another place to eat.

Here are some glimpses of the Search for a Filipino Star 2008 grandfinals.

We're actually rooting for a friend who is among the finalist, sadly he didn't make it to top 5. But the worst thing is some finalist does not even deserve to be on that spot and even the grand winner was not a good choice. A lot of us were very disappointed because we're rooting for this lady named Cherry who really sounded like a professional singer/performer, but I guess looks were also a criteria in judging as the top 3 are mostly younger. Sadly we are not among the panel of judges. None of us also didn't win any raffle prizes, the major raffle prize is a roundtrip ticket to Manila via Cebu Pacific *sigh*, so right after the announcement of the grand winner we immediately left and went to Kamayan for a delightful dinner.

Red Tag

2008-03-02T22:23:00.004+08:00

No its not a sale though most of the malls are now having rebates and discounts hehehe

I was tagged by mareng s.

The Rules:

1. Post your photo wearing red, may it be a red top, bottom, the least would be red accessories if you hate wearing red… If you can’t find one, you still have an option…. Either post your Significant Other’s photo or your child’s photo, if you have one. Of course, they should be wearing red.

2. Let us know the reason why you were wearing red that particular day. Was it your birthday? Is red your fave color or was it the shirt that you first saw in your closet that day?

My current fave color for shirts is red and my mother says the color suits me. Pre took this photo and I was pretending to read a magazine while sitting in siel's red couch covering my tummy with the red stuffed heart.

3. Tag 3 people close to your heart. By the way, they have to be in your blogroll. No cheating heart please.

abiik, pre and tales

Along Orchard Road

2008-03-01T23:57:00.009+08:00

It was really a stressful week for me. It even came to a point that I almost wanted to blurt out "die u b*tch!" But I don't want to go on the details of how p*ssed off I am! I was just so happy that weekend was finally here. *whew*

So Friday night I decided to roam Ikea at Alexandra for a change, it's been a while since I visited the place. I was surprised to see that it was actually under going renovations and there was a sale going on. Yes I did go for a retail therapy so I just bought a few storage bins since I'm currently reorganizing my scrap area.

Late Saturday morning we were off to this buffet restaurant at Ngee Ann City which botchok personally chose where I will treat them in celebration of my bonus. Yipee! *i just think about this bonus whenever I'm stressed at work hehehe* We were the first customers at 11:30AM though I made a reservation the day before thinking the place would be crowded. The place was cozy and the food looks great but I guess looks can be deceiving. The only food we enjoyed is the chili crab which is also a best seller among the customers. We can't help but compare the place with Sakura which is our favorite buffet restaurant. First the price, it is more expensive by a few dollars, the sushi doesn't taste fresh and the rest of the food are either too sweet, bitter or bland. And there's this annoying guy which I think is like a manager who is also helping out with the clearing of tables. This guy seems to be watching each plate we put in our table and kept on clearing the plates from the table. Call us kiasu but we still want to get the most of what we paid so we stayed there for almost 2 hours ha! I almost wanted to stay longer just to irritate that guy *lol*

We went for a walk and saw the exhibit of the Formula One, apart from this super cool car there was a handsome guy manning the booth. Yummy! *lol* We also went to LP to remit, went to Metro for a little shoe shopping and then we stopped by at HSBC booth which is giving away freebies which of course have hidden agenda. hehehe Turned out it was a good one, we invested our CPF! I have been thinking about this one since I've heard that abiik invested hers at DBS. So I invested all of what I currently have in CPF, not much but I just want to take a risk. Otherwise I'll be stuck with the CPF interest rate because there's this new directive coming out by April which entails you to have $20K before you can invest your CPF, it's unfair my CPF is way way too far with that amount! Since I don't intend to use it might as well invest now!

The 15minutes of our time turned out to be 2 hours with all the paper work and the details explained to us. As we reached Plaza Sg, botchok was already hungry so we ate dinner at Secret Recipe. Our last stop of course is Carrefour and then home sweet home.

MC

2008-02-27T09:58:00.007+08:00

I'm taking MC today. I have this dry cough since last week and yes it got worst on my account. I sleep late, I eat ice cream, chocolate, drink cold beverages and didn't see a doctor early on. Maybe I really wanted to get sick to take a break, and so I got it and I'm not happy about it. I got slight fever, headache and stomach ache, arghhh! I'm not a sleep person so let's see what's in store for me this day... watch DVDs, scrap and surf the internet.
By the way my my mother is doing a little fine, hopefully she can be released from the hospital this afternoon. Thanks for all the prayers my friends.

14 missed calls

2008-02-25T10:32:00.000+08:00

Last Friday me and my prenjies had a drinking/singing session at a friends place to unwind. It was all fun and laughter until we eventually fell asleep one by one. Though I sleep late I think my body clock seems to wake me up every time, so I got up around 9AM and then grabbed my cellphone to see if somebody cares. My heart was beating fast as I saw the number of missed calls, 14 missed calls and I got one msg in my voice mailbox. I knew something's wrong, when I checked the voice mail it was my sister-in-law asking me to call urgently. Before I can even call her, my brother called again and broke the bad news. My mother had an accident; she was bumped by a truck and fell on the ground. Apart from the minor bruises she got she has a broken rib. She's still under observation until now, the doctor said my mother doesn't need any operation, all she needs is a good rest and the broken bone will heal on its own eventually, hopefully. What worries me are her blood pressure and other illness, she's too stressed and kept on crying the last time I called her. She was so worried about the medical expenses, because the company where the driver works is reluctant in shouldering the cost, the police authorities don’t seem to care and we are at a lost on what is the procedure. She just cried as she mumbles on how she's turning into a burden. It breaks my heart when she cries. I tried to hold back my tears, and told her to relax and stop worrying about the expenses, I even threatened her that I will stop calling if she continues to cry. I really wish I can be by her side =(

American Idol Insights

2008-02-22T12:08:00.005+08:00

Here are my insights... as a judge wannabe:
Yo dog! I'm with Simon! I'm disappointed with the girls, it was eye, yeah, but they did not WOW me ;)
On performance level most of the guys rock the stage while the girls rock their nerves, *lol*
I'm betting on these guys: #Common baby light my fire#

OK, they find David Archuleta really adorable, I like him too but not yet on my list hmmm let's just wait and see. I want Chikezie out!!! don't like the attitude. I hope Danny stays though, he resembles IC Mendoza, ang taray ng lola mo nyahahaha

As for the girls, just based last night only this girl impressed me.

And Ramielle, a Filipina who has very good vocals and wowed the judges, errr but I'm not impressed, work it out girl, I think she's far better than Jasmine Trias so please WOW me/us a little more!

Where am I?

2008-02-21T18:08:00.006+08:00

I'm too caught up with many blogs and I realize that this blog is turning into a toxic (rant) blog, while the others are my fun blog. Shouldn't be that way... so I'll try my very best to update this blog at least 2x a week if not everyday *wink*
So what happened?

I have an entry in draft dated Feb 13...
I'm angry and disappointed. Why can some people walk away just like that? We live only once so we should be happy as can be. So I'm going to start letting go but never again really.
I'll just leave it at that.

So what happened last Balentayms day?
My original plan was to spend it alone in my room watching Korean telenovela, maybe a re-run of Sam Soon while munching on some junk foods and choco bars with ice cold apple juice ha! Though I know some of my friends might ask me out, I told myself I will bow out since I don't want to mix with the busy lovey dovey crowd. Vday is a big thing here in SG, girls prominently displaying their flowers and balloons to show the world that they have a significant other in their lives! duh! *bitter mode on*
True enough my prenjies (friends) started asking about my plans on spending the night, it's still a no... well until abiik sent an invitation to spend the night with the beauties in one of our friend's flat. Maybe order pizza and watch DVD. Change of heart, so I gave it a go! But the plans changed and we ended up scouring Bugis for a place to makan (eat). We didn't wait that long to get a table because it's the two-seater tables that are in-demand (well for obvious reasons). And since we're a group of five it was just a matter of time and we're already seated and ready for our sumptuous dinner. Amidst the peculiar names of the drinks not to mention the taste and the presentation, it was more or less a delightful dinner with yummy food and yummy waiter *lol*! Thanks abiik, thanks kuya!
We capped of the night strolling, shopping in This Fashion and eventually ended up watching AMI.
Yes! I survived V day! ;)

Something's wrong

2008-02-05T16:36:00.000+08:00

Something's wrong but I try my best to have a positive outlook. In time all will be back to normal but for the meantime I'm keeping myself busy.
I just called my mother last night and as usual she kept me up-to-date with the latest happenings with my not so normal extended family. Honestly their story could pass up as a telenovela with comedy, drama, action and even violence. But the thing is we just go with the flow and try our best to keep mum of what's going on and just give our support whenever needed. Though sometimes I really wonder when will the drama ever end. I just worry about the next gen, my cousin, my nieces and nephews, they're too young to experience and witness the chaos going on around them. I really don't know what's on their mind right now and what could be the effect on their lives once they grow old. *sigh*

Are you happy?

2008-02-01T17:19:00.000+08:00

If I was asked with this question right at this moment, no doubt it would be a "No". A month has passed, it seems like we greeted New Year just yesterday, and time really flies. After more than 7 years here in Singapore I'm still at a lost of what my future should be. I have this pinch of sadness that doesn't seem to fade. I'm getting tired of the hustle an bustle, everything seems like a routine. A few nights ago my dear roomie suddenly said she wanted to go back to Japan, she's been traveling there for business trips and she's been complaining that it was very stressing and tiresome. But it has been more than two months since she last went on a business trip so I think she eventually got tired of shopping which is her past time hehehe. I myself have been tardy with my scrapbooking which pretty much occupied my free time the past year. I guess this is just a phase, well hopefully *wink*

Not myself

2007-12-10T16:49:00.000+08:00

I'm not myself today. I was half asleep last night. It was past 1am and I'm so tired but when I hit to bed, though I keep my eyes closed, my mind is very much awake. No wonder I feel so tired when I got up from bed this morning. Maybe I was still hyper with all the shopping I did and I'm already in panic cause I'm not even halfway to my list! arghhh!

Happily ever after

2007-12-05T17:22:00.000+08:00

Breathe..... I don't know if it's the season or am I really caught up with the fast-phased life here in SG. I feel so tired =(
Finally Monday night I asked Ms V if she wants to watch Enchanted, I’ve heard good reviews from friends and I really need a breather. She readily agreed. Anyway she's been talking about this movie a few weeks ago but sadly her planned movie buddy seems to be not interested accompanying her. And I constantly tease her about it ha! So it’s a go, yesterday PM I booked the ticket and our date is on. We managed to grab a quick meal at BK before watching the movie. Of course we bought popcorn, mixed as usual! Every scene of "kilig" moment I could sense her giggling and smiling from ear to ear while I constantly tease her and I laugh my heart out in the course of the movie. For good 1.5hrs movie time I was able to breathe, relax and laugh heartily without a care in the world hahaha. It's a feel good movie, 5 Popcorns for me, thanks to CJ for recommending the movie.
Now I'm teasing her that come weekend I would open our windows and hum "lalalala" in my hope that birds, bees, squirrels et all would come help me to do my chores, anyway we live just a few steps from a forest hill hahaha. Of course I also have this delusion that my prince charming would come and join me in the singing and then we'll live happily ever after. #lalalalala#

Stress reliever

2007-12-02T23:36:00.001+08:00

and so I splurge and splurge that day... to relieve my stress I went to my happy place on my own during lunch and even passed by People's Park before going home to buy more ribbons and laces .. and it continued the next day I went online and bought the biggest splurge ever! It's a secret for now ;) I managed to cook sinigang while cleaning our room yesterday since Miss V is about to arrive early Sunday. I also cleaned the house, the living area, the toilet and our refrigerator. I managed to steal naptime but it just gave me a migraine.

These are actually my stress relievers, shopping, scrapping and cleaning!

And the housework continued.... just today after coming from mader's mom's despedida party I did my ironing, good for two weeks! I'm so proud of myself! I also managed to do some personal beauty regime while blogging hehehe *scary eh! lol*

I'm ok now but the thought of going to work tomorrow dampens my spirit *sigh* Anyway I'm early tonight, it's record breaking... I'm going to sleep before 12 pm yay! Goodnight!

Bad timing

2007-11-30T14:29:00.000+08:00

I'm having migraine, I hate it! it just attacks whenever, wherever! Such a bad timing, really... I'm pissed off with this colleague of mine pretending to be superior et al. Long story short she's getting on to my nerves, well not just mine, but that's another story. Patience is a virtue, and been learning to have that long long time ago. But there are just some people who are push overs and really push you to that limit. They have this habit of making others feel miserable. This is not good, I have to cool down I know, I have to be a professional, I will not stoop down to her level but I won't be withered by her either. I explained clearly but with a rather high pitch note, I don't think she's numb not to feel my irritation, and so she kept quiet. For now. Don't know what revenge she's conniving now but I don't care! *breathe in breathe out*

In search of Xmas Lights

2007-11-29T22:27:00.000+08:00

A few days after we roamed Orchard, botchok finally found the perfect xmas tree (read: cheap but workable). I was quite impressed! It's only 12.90 and stands almost 4ft tall, it's also bushy and yeah it does look like a tree *lol* He was a little excited to decorate the tree and asked me to shop for the ornaments (read: I'm supposed to buy them as my share of the cost hahaha). And so I did! The first store was Isetan, ornaments were good enough but a little expensive and not much choices, next stop was Tangs. And I was mesmerized! I love the fancy decorations they put up and yes it's also expensive but I think its worth it. Mareng r wanted a silver and blue motif so I sticked to it, more on the silver side. It cost me almost $50, and that doesn't include the lights. The tree was dressed up but still not impressive, so I asked botchok to look for xmas lights ahemmm (read: he will shoulder the cost hahaha)
We went to Ikea but the lights were different and a little costly and doesn't blink so we bought another set of ornaments instead which is quite cheap, $7.90 for 48 pieces of assorted ornaments,we chose the color red. Now where getting somewhere.

We roamed chinatown in search of the lights but we found none, kinda felt like we were the three wise kings looking for Jesus, only that there was no light/star *lol* So last Sunday we were on a hunt for Xmas lights, the best deal we found was in Robinsons but we still didn't buy it in our hope that we can find a better deal at Carrefour. I myself have been hunting for a different thing, you know those silver foil strips that you just drizzle on the Xmas tree? I just remembered those when I watched "While You Were Sleeping." But we didn't find any lights in Carrefour, but I found the strips ! We were so hungry as it's almost past 2PM so the best choice to satisfy our tummies is Cafe Cartel which offers an eat all you can bread. hahaha.

After that we went toDaiso, bought some Xmas decors and then we went to Best Denki to look for the sewing machine which mareng r have been eyeing. It's the same as mine but she was hoping it would be on sale and yes it is! We have so much fun with the saleslady who gamely demonstrated the functions which I never knew existed (I hate reading manuals), and so they bought the machine. Meaning we couldn't go back to Robinsons to buy the lights. While they were paying at the counter, I saw a salesperson testing a box of Xmas lights! Who would have thought Best Denki sells the lights? It cost them $24.90 for 140 multi-colored chasing lights.
We removed the ornaments to start the decoration all over again, this time starting with the lights. After 3 attempts by botchok and some mocking from me, he gave up and let me do it. For a finale we drizzled the foil strips and walah! Here is our magical Christmas Tree!
Just an advice, keep the tree away from the fan and your kids of course *lol*

In search of a Xmas tree

2007-11-19T17:47:00.000+08:00

Since last week botchok and mareng r was on a hunt for Xmas tree, they want to check out Carrefour,so after hearing mass we head on to LP to get lunch first. We wanted to let Miss V taste the yummy palabok and refreshing halo-halo at SM. Since it's Sunday, the place was crowded but we still managed to get a seat (a little rough as some of our kababayans would rather pick up a fight, tsk tsk tsk). So Miss V and I ordered palabok, halo-halo and bibingka while the couple ordered lunch sets. Before I even placed the tray at the table I find the plalabok having an odd smell unfortunately even the taste was odd. Miss V immediately tasted the chinese longganisa in the palabok,what the?$##@ no wonder it tastes awful. Don't get me wrong but chinese sausage is my favorite with fried rice and even beehon, but in palabok? Arggh! After a few bites I stopped and just let go of my $4.50 and proceed to indulge in my halo-halo. I was even embarrased since I've been bragging about the palabok to Miss V. So we once again roamed Orchard Road but we failed in our mission to buy an affordable Xmas Tree *sigh*

Miss V's birthday

2007-11-08T22:52:00.000+08:00

Oct 30-
Miss V spent her birthday in India, all by herself. She was assigned there for two weeks. I thought she was having a grand time since I hardly get msgs from her. When I greeted her through sms she immediately replied with rants hehehe. So I immediately gave her a call and on with more rants hahaha. The food, the place, the people, the food again hehehe So I just told her to go to sleep and in a few days she'll be back. And to further ease her agony I told her I'll cook for her and she requested spaghetti. I told her I just cooked that last weekend for our scrapmeet so I kind of persuaded her to change it. But the birthday girl insisted, so spaghetti it is!
Nov 3 -
She came back around 8PM and immediately ate a plateful of spaghetti and kept on saying "ang sarap" and then stories with more rants hahaha, she complained that even the food in the plane, which is her hope of getting a taste of a decent meal, was awful. So I think whatever I cook for her would really taste good to her.
NOv 4 -
For a post celebration of her bday, the best place to be is Sakura! So after hearing mass we head on to the buffet restaurant. She ate and ate and forgot about her diet for a while. heehee

Googlism for: maricar

2007-10-17T17:40:00.000+08:00

try this site: http://www.googlism.com/

maricar is not one who thrives on intrigues just to gain publicity mileage
maricar is the one in yellow
maricar is the one fifth from the right
maricar is model of the world asiamaricar is now billed
maricar is adept at facilitating fgds
maricar is from poblacion where there are a lot of trash cans and it works
maricar is a well
maricar is promoting now is not yet her movie with regal but with world arts cinema
maricar is a college graduate with a bs in commerce with a major in marketing
maricar is the second child of the late manong and sionny sabater del gallego
maricar is a strikingly attractive & intelligent young lady who is currently undertaking tertiary studies in commerce
maricar is currently the president of the up club of america
maricar is now completing his graduate thesis from the university of turku
maricar is familiar to bb
maricar is a medical doctor and is a resident at the henry ford hospital in detroit last update
maricar is lovelier
maricar is a single and marriage minded woman looking for long lasting relationship
maricar is living with her husband ferdinand and two children in ewa beach and my daughter jovylyn and her husband paul live near pearl harbor
maricar is doing these days

Housemates bonding

2007-10-14T23:48:00.000+08:00

I woke up early Saturday to buy the other ingredients needed to cook palabok while Botchok and the mareng r went to Tekka market to buy tilapia. He volunteered that I would cook palabok for the bbq get together, without even consulting me. I was under pressure because my palabok is not meant for public consumption *LOL*, only my housemates can eat them because their tastebuds are easy to please =D So I began to prepare, I peeled, chopped, sauteed, mix, boil, simmer among other else. I was tired and taking a little rest in my bedroom and yet Botchok still nags me to prepare the tilapia, arggh, I just couldn't help it, I complained to him that I'm too tired to do it for him, makulit tlga! so I just asked him to chopped everything then I'll do the marinade and the wrapping. It was his birthday so I let him push me that far. I was a little hungry so I left some palabok for myself before I prepared to pack the palabok. But Botchok was quick to get the plate and tell the mareng r to taste it, I know it's just an excuse coz he's the one who will eat most of it, so I just ask him to leave me some, oh yeah he left me one spoonful that I could barely taste the flavor. The cooking of barbecue was delayed due to the rain, so you could just imagine my gruelling wait for the food to be served. Oh yeah I was too hungry that I forgot to take pictures while waiting, and nobody took a picture of the event, though most of us brought a camera. I was supposed to eat and run, coz I want to got o crop at cute #1's place but I was too bloated. I feel sleepy and just plain lazy to even move hehehe. So I just waited for Botchok and friends to finish up the tagayan and then we went home.
The next morning, our household bonding kicked off, we all went to mass together at St Therese, then off to Sakura at Orchard for a sumptuous lunch buffet treat from Botchok. We were the early birds so just imagine our delight when we saw all those yummy sushi, maki, baked mussells, satay among other else. After eating for more than one hour, we were so full so we decided to walk on our way to Plaza Singapura, stopping from one store to another. I got 4 movie vouchers I won from the summit so we decided to watch The Brave One starring Jodie Poster. It was a violent movie, insinuates tha NY is a scary place to live in. We stopped by Carrefour before we call it a day or night.=)When we arrived home, I was a little hungry, I don't know with the rest but I just thought of cooking the leftover palabok sauce from yesterday. All I need is to cook the beehoon, boil the eggs and chopped spring onions which is quite fast. I think the sauce was not enough so the color was a little bland, I added a little bit of seasoning and viola, palabok again! I just offered them in case they are hungry because I am. With a little pepper and lime it's good to go for me! They started eating as well and in minutes the palabok is gone hehehe

Way back into love

2007-10-09T12:27:00.000+08:00

This song has been on my playlist (not in ipod though, only in my mind *LOL*) eversince I watched Music and Lyrics movie last Saturday. Oh well it's another chick flick, but what's not to love about that =)

[Verse 1]
(Drew Barrymore)
I've been living with a shadow overhead,
I've been sleeping with a cloud above my bed,
I've been lonely for so long,
Trapped in the past,
I just can't seem to move on!
(Hugh Grant)
I've been hiding all my hopes and dreams away,
Just in case I ever need them again someday,
I've been setting aside time,
To clear a little space in the corners of my mind!
[Chorus]
(Both)
All I want to do is find a way back into love.
I can't make it through without a way back into love.
Oooooh.
[Verse 2]
(Drew Barrymore)
I've been watching but the stars refuse to shine,
I've been searching but i just don't see the signs,
I know that it's out there,
There's got to be something for my soul somewhere!
(Hugh Grant)
I've been looking for someone to shed some light,
Not somebody just to get me through the night,
I could use some direction,
And I'm open to your suggestions.
[Chorus]
(Both)
All I want to do is find a way back into love.
I can't make it through without a way back into love.
And if I open my heart again,
I guess I'm hoping you'll be there for me in the end!
Oooooooh, Ooooooh, Ooooooh.
[Middle-eight]
(Drew Barrymore)
There are moments when I don't know if it's real
Or if anybody feels the way I feel
I need inspiration
Not just another negotiation
[Chorus]
(Both)
All I want to do is find a way back into love,
I can't make it through without a way back into love,
And if I open my heart to you,
I'm hoping you'll show me what to do,
And if you help me to start again,
You know that I'll be there for you in the end!
Oooooooh. Oooooooh. Ooooooooh. Oooooooh. Ooooooh Ooooooooh. Ooooooooh.

The power of a business card

2007-10-02T15:49:00.000+08:00

Last Friday the Lotus Notes Collaboration summit was held at Suntec Convention Center. Apart from getting a day-off from the office, I really do want to know more about the rage on the R8 that's why I registered and attended the event. But if I blog about the summit itself i think it would be a total bore so I'll just write about the fun stuff! Just like a soldier going to a combat you must never forget to bring your weapon, for us its the business cards. Just so you know this is the very first time I had an official business card in my almost 14 years in the corporate world. On my first job we used to print our own call cards through printmaster software using scented cardstock papers. hehehe Anyway, as expected there were booths and exhibits by the business partners that offers freebies in exchange of your business card and a few survey forms. Great bargain right? so here is my loot for the day - 3 ballpens, a notepad set, retractable ID pin, retractable usb hub, cap, movie vouchers, software cds. The cap, movie voucher and cd came as a prize from playing the foozball with mareng s. We had so much fun playing the game and little did we know that we will be rewarded with a prize. Another great deal on the event was free food! Ha! Well the starter raised an eyebrow from me, popcorn with cofee and tea? Ok it was a carnival theme, so you see jugglers and stilt walkers roaming the venue giving away popcorns. Come tea break they served curry puffs, breads and donuts. We're at a lost of where the food venue was so I only managed to eat one puff. With my appetite one puff is never enough. So come lunch time, we already know where to go and whoaaa the place was flooded with sumptuous food! There were pasta, potato wedges, grilled chicken, mini-burgers, sausages, pizza, a variety of salads, fruits, yummy cake desserts, ice cream, chips, etc. Ok the rest is history after that *LO* So as expected I was sleepy during the talks, I kept on pinching myself to stay awake. There is a raffle draw at the end of the event so we patiently listened to the talks while waiting . *so kiasu hahaha* Well it was worth it coz mareng s won an Ipod shuffle! wahooo! Now I'm browsing the brochures to look for another prospect of summits, seminars or any IT events hahaha

First day in Jakarta

2007-09-20T10:28:00.001+08:00

I never really wanted to go but I thought it would be a breather from the office environment. Less than a week of preparation for the supposed demo I was about to conduct, I felt like screaming, I so wanted to back-out. I thought the application was already prepared and all I have to do is learn the system so I can conduct the demo with confidence. But that's what I thought. Eventually I woke up one morning and off I go to catch my flight.
First day, we arrived almost 11am, but with the heavy jam we arrived at the heart of the city almost 1PM. I'm just too glad the place we stayed in is near the mall, mall of restaurants that is, besides the diversified restaurants you can only find a cd shop and guardian drugstore. After one round we decided to eat at Chatterbox, a resto mixed of western and asian cuisine. After a quick glance at the menu we ordered our lunch complete with dessert. You see we don't have travel allowance so we might as well eat to our stomach's desire *LOL*
Since I came there ahead of schedule I just went with my colleague at the office and set-up my PC while I wait for him to finish his asignment.
It was almost 7pm when we went down and had a chitchat having coffee while waiting for the driver who was caught in a traffic jam. I don't know if its odd but a lot of people started crowding the streets, I was asking myself, is it common here in Jakarta? We were then informed by the driver that there was an earthquake, we didn't feel the tremors and I only knew about the intensity when I watched CNN. Let's say a little prayer for the victims of this tragedy.

Winner!

2007-08-26T16:01:00.001+08:00

I never thought of really wearing a costume for our D & D but after learning about the prizes at stake I was afraid I might be disqualified.*lol* One more thing if I didn't wear a costume at least I have to wear something decent for the event. So instead of buying a cocktail or evening dress, I roamed Chinatown to look for an outfit that could pass up as Filipiniana. Here's my costume, do I look like a Maria Clara, my housmates says I look more of a Sisa ahihihi... so Sisa it is!
Didn't win the final prize, (3500SGD Takashimaya voucher *drool*), but I did get lucky in the lucky dip, a $50 Robinsons voucher, not bad right?