Nearly New Year

Two more days before 2006 becomes a part of history. As a pessimist, I would usually rant about things and complain about what I don't have or don't get. But this time, I am going to look fondly back into this year. I made new friends and learned new lessons. I got a year older and hopefully that means I got more mature too. Sure, there were stressful times and disappointing moments, but I'm happy I'm about to face 2007 with my family and friends with me. We're blessed to have good health. I still earn a regular income. I am truly lucky.


Many years ago, a doctor/artist/writer/teacher was executed. He was declared our national hero. Today, we commemorate the life he offered for our country. December 30 is Rizal Day. Today, another execution took place. People see him as a villian and *some* people see him as a hero. Saddam Hussein was executed today. Since I'd rather not discuss politics in this blog, all I can say is, there is I'm glad there still justice in this world.


:)

Your New Year's Resolutions

1) Get a pet bunny 2) Eat less tofu 3) Travel to Hawaii 4) Study Latin 5) Get in shape with stripping classes

What Should Your New Year's Resolution Be?

Free Smacker

My sister got her first Smacker for free! I wrote a blog entry about my Penny Brown moment and it was chosen as one of those blog entries who won in their promo after I named my own Penny Brown combination (Sinful Escape). We got the free Smacker yesterday when we dropped by Food Choices in Glorietta 4, Makati.



my sis caught my name on their list


I have been on leave from work for a few days now and I'm feeling better. I guess I'm just burned out from work. I haven't even stayed home as much as I would want to. I've been out and about with my sis and mother. I am going back to work tonight and I'm gonna miss watching "Lost" and "House" marathons.


I made some modifications on For the Love of Tolkien blog entry and it was just posted in the New Worlds Alliance website. Check it out. Cool.


A few days from now, it's gonna be a whole new year. I have a lot of things to be grateful for and a lot of lessons learned from this year 2006. I am not really into making New Year resolutions but I just hope it's gonna be a brighter and happier year for all of us.

Happy Christmas!

I woke up a couple of hours ago. It's really nice having a 3-day weekend since I was on leave last Friday. I spent most day yesterday watching Season 1 of Lost. My sis, who is home for the holidays, and I went to mass last night. We had 2 guests at home and the food was delicious. I have work tonight but I still am looking forward to a few more days off this week. It's nearly 2007. How time flies fast! :)



pic taken by my sister


This is one of my fave Christmas songs:


My Grown Up Christmas List


Do you remember me
I sat upon your knee
I wrote to you
With childhood fantasies


Well, I'm all grown up now
And still need help somehow
I'm not a child
But my heart still can dream


So here's my lifelong wish
My grown up christmas list
Not for myself
But for a world in need


No more lives torn apart
And wars would never start
And time would heal all hearts
And everyone would have a friend
And right would always win
And love would never end
This is my grown up christmas list


As children we believed
The grandest sight to see
Was something lovely
Wrapped beneath our tree


Well heaven only knows
That packages and bows
Can never heal
A hurting human soul


No more lives torn apart
That wars would never start
And time would heal all hearts
And everyone would have a friend
And right would always win
And love would never end
This is my grown up christmas list


What is this illusion called the innocence of youth
Maybe only in our blind belief can we ever find the truth


Have a Merry (and Pippin) Christmas everyone! God bless!

Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows

The title of Book 7 is "Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows" confirmed by Bloomsbury. Wanna know how it was revealed? Check out J.K. Rowling's Official Website.


What a great Christmas gift to Harry Potter fans! :)

Of Wanting

It's been a few days since I've been online. Most gifts have been given out. I also received tokens/gifts myself (appreciate them very much!). Been busy with get-togethers and been catching up on some zzz's. I'm still sick-- sore throat, runny nose and now, a bit of a cough plus my monthly period. I feel crappy. I hope I'll feel better before Christmas, especially now that I'm on leave from work today.


Thoughts for the day:


Sometimes, if you work hard enough, you can get what you want. But most times, what you want and what you get are two different things. Sometimes, God breaks our spirit to save our soul. Sometimes, He breaks our hearts to make us whole. Sometimes, God sends us pain so we can be stronger. Although we can't have everything we want, we can want everything we have.


I believe in that... but then again, we can want everything we have and still want something we don't have. Selfish maybe, but it's also a part of human nature to dream and hope to achieve a goal. The question would be "when will that something be ours?". Only time can tell. If it's not meant for us for reasons beyond our knowledge, it won't happen... but remember Paulo Coelho's "The Alchemist":


...And, when you want something, all the universe conspires in helping you to achieve it.


Hmm... am I making sense? If not, that's fine. To hell with what other people say. Haha! It's just how I feel after crossing a couple of things from my Christmas wish list. :)

Quiz: Are You a Grinch?

Been sick with the sniffles lately. I guess it's because of my lack of sleep for the past few days. My immune system's down and Vitamin C supplements aren't enough. I really hope I won't turn into a Grinch this Holiday Season.

Nope, You're Not a Grinch

Although you may feel Grinch-like at times, it's just because you're worn out from the holidays. You get into the holiday spirit more than most people - and you truly enjoy celebrating with your family and friends.

Are You a Grinch?

Greetings!

We love you!

For the Love of Tolkien

After my shift yesterday, I slept for a couple of hours then woke up to attend The Philippine Tolkien Society's (TPTS) Christmas party. Our way there was an adventure in itself. I met a friend who lives near my place and we went to meet a few more in Shangri-La. Meeting in the mall is convenient because it's near EDSA and I can buy the food/drinks we had to bring for the potluck. We underestimated the crowd and the Christmas rush. So, it took us over an hour to catch a cab then later decided to take the train instead. One of us wasn't able to get in the train on time, so we had to wait for him to arrive at the station. We, then, caught a cab somewhere in Quezon Ave. Then somewhere in Tomas Morato, we got lost and had to ask for directions. If it weren't for the company I'm with, I would have called it quits and went home. But I did enjoy the company and we just made jokes and laughed off our situation. Besides, it's not as difficult as Frodo's journey from Hobbiton to Mount Doom, right? Haha!



me with my furry friend, Bownie
photo by Ulan


I planned to go back home at about 9 PM but left there almost midnight instead. Why? Because I realized, we seldom see each other. "We" means the members who are always there to support the group despite the growing number of newbies; people who make things happen; people who enjoy the company of other geeks; people who find fun and happiness in the simplest and shallowest of things; and people who bond not just because of our love for all things Tolkien, but also because we have learned to treasure each others' friendships despite our differences. It was the only Christmas party I've been to so far that is just as fun without inhaling other people's cigarette smoke. There were lots of food (coz we're hobbits in our own way), some of them vegetarian (feeling a bit Elvish here), and full of sweets, stories and smiles. If I had enough rest I could have stayed there later than I did. Now, I am just looking forward to another moot.



group shot at the table
photo by Ulan


You can view more pics at Ian's online album.


P.S.
The group is currently discussing J.R.R. Tolkien's "The Hobbit" as our Book of the Month. For those who want to join the discussions, you're all welcome to sign up. :)





Click to join The_Philippine_Tolkien_Society

Unwritten

This is more than just a commercial background music. This song means a lot to me and my sister. Whenever I'm missing her, I listen to it.





I am unwritten,
Can't read my mind
I'm undefined
I'm just beginning
The pen's in my hand
Ending unplanned


Staring at the blank page before you
Open up the dirty window
Let the sun illuminate the words
That you could not find
Reaching for something in the distance
So close you can almost taste it
Release your inhibitions
Feel the rain on your skin
No one else can feel it for you
Only you can let it in
No one else, no one else
Can speak the words on your lips
drench yourself in words unspoken
Live your life with arms wide open
Today is where your book begins
The rest is still unwritten


~* some lines from "Unwritten" by Natasha Bedingfield *~

The X Factor

It wasn't planned but I went anyway. Last night the company I work with, Eperformax, had its Christmas Party in Rockwell Tent (beside Powerplant Mall). It started at 3PM but since I haven't had sleep, I grabbed a short beauty snooze and arrived at about 6:30PM, just in time to watch one of my friends/officemates (also named Karen) perform in the singing contest. That was the main reason why I agreed to go.



diva/idol Karenine and plain Karen


I was nervous like a stage mother before she got up there and screamed my lungs out like a fan when she performed. She's really great and although she got 5th place, we're still proud of her. I just wished there were more of us there who would have added to the text votes. Good for the other accounts since all of them have their weekends off while in our account, only a handful have weekends off. Oh well.



hanging around the Christmas tree


The theme was funky formal and of course, I wore my necktie again although this time I wore jeans and sneakers and a pair of specs. My color was literally black and blue. Haha! We ate (yummy Bizu!) and mingled around. It was really nice hanging out with people and friends without thinking about the stresses from work. It was fun though I missed a few people. I realized a lot of people are really fashionable and very talented when I watched the awarding ceremony (for people who have contributed a lot to the company when it comes to passion for work and tenure), the Epmax Idol singing contest and the group competition (our account, Verizon, won second place). The crowd thinned out and since I felt sleepy, we headed for home at about 12 midnight. At that time, Kala (their vocalist is also an agent working in the company although he's from Experian) was in the middle of their performance.


I was happy. I don't know if it was because of the chocolates or maybe because I realized there were more people in the company than those I just see everyday. Hahaha! There were definitely more cute guys out there though I know more than half of them are gay. Oh well. Such is life. Click here for more pictures.

Christmas Wish

My wish list:

cellphone (preferably Nokia 6233 or Nokia N73)

laptop (any kind)

digital cam (any Canon IXUS or Powershot)

books (new releases by Paulo Coelho, Neil Gaiman, Nicholas Sparks, Eoin Colfer, Mitch Albom; Post Secret 2)

Converse Chuck Taylor shoes (black-purple or red-navy blue foldable high-cut combination)

bag for work and play

leather shoes for work

my own house and lot



If I were to choose just one wish Santa could give me, it would be the last one. Undoubtedly, it is the most expensive and most difficult to achieve.


I was 6 or 7 when my family was forced to sell our house and since then, we moved from one place to another and survived by paying apartment rentals. Through the years, I forgot how secure it feels to live in one's own home. Recently, our neighbors who live just 2 doors away from us were given a month's notice to move out. It's not that they aren't paying the rent. The reason given was that the landlord wanted his niece from the States to stay in that apartment. It's nearly Christmas and now our neighbors don't know where they'll go. I mean, just imagine if all the landlord's relatives from the States came here and we were all forced to leave! I can't bear the thought of that. But I also realized that yes, one's own home can be taken away with a snap of powerful fingers.


So, if I can be less selfish for a moment, my Christmas wish is to let everyone have a comfortable, secure and cozy shelter-- a place one can call home.


P.S.
If Santa can't give me my last wish, the others will do. Hahaha! :)

December Stress

The Christmas rush usually stresses people out. Now that it's only a few weeks before Christmas, some people may be itching to spend their well-earned bonus to buy gifts and food and/or go on a vacation. I don't blame them. I know Christmas should be a time for family and for simple pleasures but a fast-paced life in the city often results in lesser time for oneself and for quality rest and relaxation.





I have signs of stress for the past couple of months. I haven't consulted a doctor but had signs like missed periods, falling hair, impulsive buying and eating. When a friend asked me why I think I'm stressed I has difficulty pinpointing the real reason why. I said maybe because I think too much. She asked me what things I think about and I realized it's the little things-- family, my inability to save money for myself, my so-called love life, missing my sister, gaining weight, work-- all these little things piled up can really affect me. She suggested I listen to mellow music. I am doing that now while typing this. I hope I can afford getting a whole body massage session too. I think I need that as well, so I can just sit back and breathe.


My sister left for Ternate, Cavite early this morning for their immersion, one of the requirements to finish her Nursing course, and she'll be staying there for the next 3 weeks. I'm glad she'll be home before Christmas and New Year but will go back there again on the first week of January to spend probably another month there. It's sad. I haven't caught up on sleep since she left at 4 AM today. I'll be missing her despite the fact that I'm gonna have the bed and the room to myself (Haha!). It's like losing a part of me and we all have to adjust having no "noisy one" in the house. So, I decided to file for a 4-day leave after Christmas (and hope it will be approved). I just want to give some time for myself and for people who matter the most to me.


Any other suggestions on how to battle stress? Feel free to comment. :)

Sinful Escape

It's not as sinful as one might think, but since I desperately wanted to convince myself to start going on a diet, I committed a "crime" against myself. After shift and hanging out with 3 my friends, I found myself alone and killing time in the mall. I got hungry after a few hours and I "discovered" Penny Brown. I ordered a Smacker! Imagine about 2 hefty scoops of ice cream sandwiched between 2 freshly-baked cookies! Not only that, you can choose your own ice cream flavor and choose your fave cookies. I got a white choco loco (coz I love white chocolate) and a Penny Brown classic (coz I don't wanna miss that) and sandwiched between is a caramel/pastillas ice cream (coz cappucino was not available then). Yumyum! I called it "Karen's Sinful Escape". That's my Penny Brown moment.





Diabetic? No worries! Just add a few pesos and you can choose sugar-free ice cream and sugar-free cookies so everyone can enjoy this treat! I know my father would love that. Look for the stand on the 3rd floor, Glorietta 4 Food Choices. :)


After that I found myself watching "Borat". I miss watching movies alone and the movie was so funny! I recommend watching it with a group of friends. Although I didn't care laughing out loud despite being alone (especially when I saw *that* scene and I thought, now I know why that's the movie title and it's NOT because of the lead character's name. Hahaha! Evil me.) Oh well, I broke my promise of not being a glutton anymore but it was worth it. I think I deserved that treat. Now, I need an activity to sweat everything out, but the holiday season is not exactly the best time to go on a diet with all the food around, right?

Goldfingers

I can't believe it's already December! The typhoon is not as scary as everyone expected it to be. It's actually a cool and breezy day outside. So, let's start this month with a very interesting quiz from dadaprofae and geewitch. Hehe!

Be Safe

Photo from ABS-CBN news


Another super typhoon is on its way here. 'Reming' (International codename: Durian) is estimated to hit Manila at approximately 8 PM tonight. People are trying to be more careful this time. The government suspended classes on all levels in advance. The huge billboards in major highways have been rolled. Though there is no rain now, the wind is a bit strong outside. Life still goes on because I'll still be going to work tonight (maybe a little earlier than usual) but be safe everyone!

Birthday Treat

Happy Birthday sis!!!



my sis and her birthday gift (haha!)


It's my sister's birthday and since she still hasn't left home for Cavite, she decided to make the day special and dragged me to watch Sponge Cola in 99.5 RT Sunday Sessions (6PM to 9:30PM). There was a bit of a delay but it was really fun. There were only 4 of us supporters who watched them from outside the booth and since it was my sister's birthday, Chris (drummer) also greeted her on air and dedicated their song "The Wandering" to us, Losties. Thanks Chris! I was a bit nervous at first but since they're all very friendly, we felt comfortable in no time. Thanks to Kuya Dong for taking the pictures inside the booth and for everyone for making us feel welcome.


After the show, it was a bit surreal. I can't believe that they're just eating pizza and mingling with us. I started snapping pics and since I'm at a loss for words, just look at the pics we got. Thanks Rayms! Thanks Sponge Cola! :)

Happy Feet

Fluffy, sentimental, extremely funny and cuteness galore! It's been a while since I saw a movie that made me laugh so hard I got tears in my eyes and gasped for air. The Ugly Amigos especially Ramon, voiced by Robin Williams, rock! There were even moments when I can't help but move my feet along with the beat. I wish I'd get a chance to see it in 3-D because the effects are oh-so-cool! I can watch it over and over again and I'd still gush all over the place and laugh until my cheeks hurt. The songs are beautiful and the story is meaningful. Kids and kids-at-heart will enjoy this movie!


P.S.
I got to watch it with the other Hogwarts Philippines members and it was fun just cheering and clapping our hands when we saw the teaser trailer of "Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix". We didn't care and loved every minute of it!

HP : OoTP HBO Sneak Peek

MAJOR SPOILERS


MAJOR SPOILERS


MAJOR SPOILERS

More behind the scenes and cast interviews. Enjoy all 3 minutes and 50 seconds of it! Multiply users can click here.

Harry Potter and the OoTP Teaser Trailer

A lot of Harry Potter pictures have surfaced and my blog can't take it. So, the next best thing to post is the link to view the trailer! Oh yeah! A 57-second trailer was released by Warner Brothers and it sure makes HP fans' want more. I've uploaded it to my Multiply account.


Multiply or non-Multiply users, view the trailer here or here.


If you have a Friendster account, just view my profile. It's also currently playing there. :)

Harry's First Kiss and More

Image-heavy post


SPOILERS ABOUND!


SPOILERS ABOUND!


SPOILERS ABOUND!



Oh my! The boy who lived really has grown up!



lucky, lucky Cho Chang!



Dumbledore at the Wizengamot



Bellatrix Lestrange



Sirius Black



Voldemort


These are pictures from the trailer recently released by Warner Bros. More hi-res pictures of Harry, Hermoine, Dolores Umbridge, etc. available here. A 10-second snippet of the trailer can be viewed at The Leaky Cauldron showing Harry with Snape during Occlumency lessons.

Finding Happy Thoughts

The world stopped for Filipinos watching the Pacquiao-Morales fight today. In my background the TV is blaring the delayed telecast. My family's cheering for the Filipino fighters. In all honesty, I don't really care. The world goes on especially if someone supposed to be special preferred to watch the fight than being with you. Wouldn't you feel "un-special" then? Besides, I think it's mostly media hype.


Good thing I've gathered enough happy thoughts yesterday to last me the weekend. After shift, my friends and I went to this mini market in Salcedo Village in Makati. It was wonderful! I saw food I haven't even seen or even tasted before. A lot of people were milling around. There were fruits and flowers and roasted pork, beef and fish (and they were roasting it there!) There were even more foreigners in there than locals. In the middle there was a place where one can sit down, share a table and eat heartily. Too bad I didn't have much appetite yesterday. I didn't even finish my fresh lumpia, but I love the flavored iced tea! At least I brought home a yummy chocolate mousse and another one with black and white layers of chocolate. I had difficulty finding something sugar-free for my diabetic father. Later, I ended up buying sugar free double fudge cookies for him. It was a bit pricey but it's for my father so I just had to close my eyes when I paid for them. It was worth it when I saw the look in his face. Haha! I wanna go back there next week and probably try the tiramisu, Krispy Kreme donuts and tuna pasta. Hehe!


After that we had lunch in Red Box and my throat still hurts a bit after 3 hours of videoke. It was fun though even if there were only 4 of us who sang our hearts out.


Going back to reality, I wonder when I'll be strong enough to learn to let go. It may mean giving up but on the other hand, it's like fighting the urge of wanting something (or someone) that was not meant for me. More than 3 years should be enough.


Cancer
A relationship is entering a hard period. Focus on the issue and fix it fast. Prepare yourself for an indecisive phase. Such confusion could shake a lesser mortal's confidence, but you should see it as an opportunity to appreciate how difficult everyday choices can be. Instead of fighting your tendency to look at all aspects of a problem, just go with it. Enjoy how things can look different from different perspectives, and indulge in the luxury of being able to process many options before committing to one solution.


Oh well. What can a girl do?

Almost Perfect

Almost... but not quite.

You Are 76% Perfectionist

You are a true perfectionist. You are both demanding of yourself and others. While it's great to have goals and standards, they don't need to be sky high!

Are You a Perfectionist?

It gets darker...

Teaser poster from The Leaky Cauldron. Let's all watch "Happy Feet". It was reported that the "Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix" teaser trailer will be shown then. Read the transcript of the teaser trailer here. See Ya!

Second Best

I don't usually settle for second best,
But I don't know why when it comes to you,
I swallow my pride and think of it as a test.


Geez... another futile attempt to rhyme. I just hate it when you do that to me.

Sunday Celebration

I have never been to many malls in just one day! No, I didn't shop. I didn't have the finances. Hehe! We went to Glorietta to buy a cake for my sister and BTIC for my father. After that we went to Market! Market! and celebrated (in advance) the birthday of my sister (supposed to be on the 26th but she'll be leaving soon). We ate in Blackbeard's Seafood Island since she loves seafood.



click picture to view album


After being served by pirates, including one named Will Turner (too bad he isn't Orlando Bloom) and pigging out, my sis and I decided to watch Sponge Cola's mall show in SM City Sta. Mesa. We had to take 2 trains and passed by another mall, Gateway in Cubao, before arriving in Sta. Mesa by 5 PM. We met fellow SC supporters during the gig and it was fun seeing the band perform live again. It was even more fun talking to Chris (the drummer) again. :)



click picture to view album


It was exhausting but definitely worth it. I hope I can have more days like that.

Geeky Display

I have never roamed around a school campus in costume. I am used to mingling with fellow costumed people during sci-fi/fantasy conventions where I would usually feel comfortable and at home. Yesterday, my sister and I went to Mapua (Intramuros) since New Worlds was invited to "hang out" in the campus in costumes. I had second thoughts when I saw the number of people there. Mapua Intramuros is (of course) bigger than Mapua Makati and this time, the troopers were not around to troop with us. There were only 7 of us but the good thing was we only had to roam around for less than 2 hours. Oh and I also wore comfy sneakers instead of leather shoes, so I didn't mind the walking.


I felt uncomfortable knowing that strangers were looking at us and we're not really in our geeky turf. I can't help but hear mean remarks or comments from those people we passed by. It was irritating at first but in the end, I figured I didn't really care. We also saw members of the band Kamikazee who also performed that night. Despite those I enjoyed being a part of it. I got to know some people who have the same interests as I do and got to somehow "bond" with other cosplayers.



click picture to view album


I don't know when we can do this again-- hang out with other NWA members, but I am looking forward to it.

Wild Child?

CANCER
from Yahoo! Astrology


Your latest curiosities should be indulged -- if you're tired of walking the straight and narrow, you owe it to yourself to try walking on the wild side a bit. Let some of your goody-two-shoes proclivities slide, just for today, and find out what it feels like to act in a way that's opposite from your typical behavior. This could be a very liberating experience -- or it could reaffirm for you why you choose to live your life they way you do, and help you learn to appreciate your routine.





I've always wanted to be "wild"-- untamed and rebellious. I've done some things in life that I wouldn't normally do but they're still pretty tame. I think it's really my nature to be stuck in a routine. I guess I am too much of a coward to stray away from the path I am used to. I know people who are "wild" and I admire them for their courage, or recklessness whichever way you put it. They are reckless in a way they grab any chance they get without being bothered by the results. They say it's the journey that counts and not the destination. I don't think that's me. I am a planner. I am a bit obessesive-compulsive and I want to be assured I get out of a situation with an advantage (that's the Monkey in me).


I wanna think of this moment as a calm before the storm. I am trying my best to book almost all, if not all, my days off especially now that my sister is leaving for a few weeks and will not be home. I just wanna enjoy the moments as they come. I guess that's what I need now. A little breather from the suffocating routine. So, anyone wanna go wild with me?

A Date

There's nothing more romantic than being on the beach, hearing the waves splashing, listening to acoustic music/love songs, looking at the horizon where the sea and the starry skies meet... and feeling the warmth of your beloved sitting closely beside you.


There's no need for words. Just goes to show, the best things in life are free.

Pointless Questions

In my line of work, I have encountered almost all kinds of attitudes. Last night, I just realized people also ask pointless questions. I'm sure we all have encountered these instances and some don't mind anymore but I just get annoyed whenever I get asked these. In order to get what I mean, here are a couple of examples:





How are you? ~ then person would suddenly talk without even listening to the answer or even caring to know the answer.


May I put you on hold? ~ then you suddenly hear music playing and you were on hold without even letting you decide if you want to be placed on hold or not.


Why would people even bother to ask these questions if they are not even remotely interested to know the answer? They might think it's like "asking permission" but I think it's impolite to ask and not wait for an answer. Whenever that happens to me, I feel like the person is shutting me up, taking me out of the picture or making me feel unimportant.


Any other pointless questions you wanna share?

Sweet November

A month or so more before the year ends. Time surely flies fast.


To those who are curious about my so-called lovelife, I'm sorry I already promised myself never to post revealing things about that. Unwanted eyes may read and misinterpret what I write. Let's just say right now, I don't get what I expect but am too afraid to let go thinking that there may never be another one out there for me. Like I said so many times before, I'm taking this a day at a time and being happy is what matters. I know most women my age are already married or want to get married (or at least have someone to love and be loved). That's fine. We can't fight what is in our nature. Our biological clock is ticking... but I have always believed it is better to be single than be with the wrong man. Besides, there is always family and friends. This world has so many other things to offer and life is too short.


This month is my sister's month. The thing is, she's not gonna be spending her birthday here with us. She's graduating from Nursing and the last year usually means going through rotations/internship. A few days from now, she'll be staying somewhere in the rural Cavite area and spend about 2 months there. The good thing is that she'll be home to spend Christmas with us. The bad thing is melancholy-phlegmatic* me is gonna miss sanguine-choleric* her. No more loud-mouthed partner in crime for me! Haha! That's why I'm looking forward to next week. I filed for leave for next Friday. We'll be celebrating her birthday in advance next weekend (plus some geeky appearances in Mapua, Intramuros and crowd-shoving in Myx Mo!, CCP).



my bro, my sis and me



me and my sibs


I just realized I won't have a teenage sibling anymore. We're all grown up (but still child-like and sometimes childish in so many ways). I just hope our being dreamers will now help us make these dreams realities. Besides, we're not getting any younger.


May we all have a sweet November!


* Taken from the book "Personality Plus" by Florence Littauer.You can take an online test here.

What Matters

Thought for the day:


Be who you are and say what you feel because those who mind don't matter and those who matter don't mind.
~ Dr. Seuss


Have a peaceful All Saints' Day!


Note to self:
I'm still in the middle of an inner tug-of-war.

The Devil in Me

We had a Halloween dress-up last night at work. The Angels and Demons thingie. I chose to be a devil, though I really wanted to be a witch or a jedi. Hmpft! Oh well, it was a welcome change from the boring routine. I just needed Prada and my get-up would have been complete.




(click picture to view album)


Happy Halloween everyone!

Quiz: Drama Queen

You Are As Cool As They Come

Rational and relaxed, no one could accuse you of being dramatic. You roll with the punches, and nothing ever gets you too worked up. You are able to maintain perspective and see the big picture. And even if you're emotional inside, you don't let it show. You're great at keeping it together, and you're rewarded for that. People see you as an ideal friend, employee, and partner.

Are You a Drama Queen (or King)?

That's what they think. Never judge a person by what you see. Like they say, silent waters run deep.


Have a great week ahead everyone!

Life's Cycle

Falling Down
scribbled on 26 October 2006 at 4:30 AM


It's the time of the month again. Or maybe not. I wish it rains so I can say at least the weather would seem to sympathize with me.


Ever felt alone despite being in a crowd?
Ever felt like something's missing and ever felt uneasy because of it?
Ever felt out of place in a group of people known as friends?
Ever felt like nobody understands (and the only one who can is not around or won't be around for a long time)?


I think something's wrong with me.



Getting Up
text received on 29 October 2006 at 5:09 PM


Be thankful that you don't have everything you desire. If you did, what would there be to look forward to?
Be thankful for the difficult times. It's during those times you grow.
Be thankful for your limitations because they give you opportunities for improvement.
Be thankful for your mistakes. They will teach you valuale lessons.
Find a way to be thankful for your troubles and they can become your blessings.


Have a blessed Sunday everyone!

Quiz: Halloween Horoscope

Halloween Horoscope for Cancer

You're usually the one who gives out the best candy in your neighborhood. And you really get into the halloween spirit decorating your house. Costume suggestions: A witch, wizard, or angel Signature Halloween candy: Mini peanut butter cups

What's Your Halloween Horoscope?

I knew it! I desperately wanted to be a witch but we only need to choose either angel or demon this Halloween in the office. Hey, I am a witch-- a Hogwarts witch! Oh well, I'm also thinking about being a jedi master. Hmpft! Most of the people I know are going to be angels, so I guess I'm gonna be a devil. Anyone knows where I can get a good devil costume?

Rant Mode: ON

WARNING: RANTS AHEAD


WARNING: RANTS AHEAD


WARNING: RANTS AHEAD


Have you ever had that persistent loser using an anonymous sim card to bug you to death?! This nuisance has been robbing me of much-needed sleep for the past few days (weeks?) and it's irritating!


I work at night and I try to get some decent sleep before going to work. I don't turn off my phone in case my alarm doesn't go off or I get an important call. In the middle of a good sleep, this person lets my phone ring several times and when I wake up to answer it, this person hangs up. Not only that, I ask this person who he/she is and what he/she wants and he/she doesn't reply. So, whoever owns this number:


+63927-436-6041


...and I have an idea who you really are but I don't want to go around blaming people, I have something to tell you. If you've got nothing to do or if you have no life at all, don't mess with mine. I have better things to do with my time. I bothered to ask you in a nice way and tried to know why you were doing this but you just don't have any decency. You do that to me again and you just admitted you're an assh*le.


GET A LIFE, LOSER!!!


Rant Mode: OFF

Great Expectations

Lesson learned yesterday:
Never expect too much. More often than not, it will just lead to disappointments. On the other hand, expecting too little would often bring great experiences.


After work, I went straight home and packed up our things. My sister and I were ready to wear our Hogwarts robes for the NWA event in Mapua. We were looking forward to it because this was the first chance we have to wear complete uniforms in a sci-fi/fantasy event. We got there and the guards didn't let us in. There was a list and our names weren't in it. Huh? What list? I didn't know there was even a list. Hahaha! We could have gotten in at the back entrance and the guards wouldn't mind us coming in. I mean, we can be visitors and just leave our ID's right? No, they still didn't let us in. They were trying hard to look strict with the security but we had friends who got in without even a bat of an eyelash from the security guard. Hahaha! Oh well, it was fun while waiting for the "decision" of the head security. It was nice seeing familiar faces again and I do appreciate the effort several people did to help let us in. Thanks very much! Oh and hello TK-2342. Next time, we should have our pictures taken with you. :)


So, off we went to Market Market to kill some time. We wanted to sing in MusicZone but it was full. Another plan did not push through. We were quite disappointed on how the day went so far considering that I haven't had sleep yet. It was nearly 5 PM and we walked to Lot 21A (if I'm not mistaken) to the Candy Fair. We were in the parking lot and we had second thoughts about coming in. It felt like we're out of place. I mean, it felt like we're just 2 (lower) middle-class girls gatecrashing an upper-class party. I know, I know, we shouldn't think that way, but it sure felt that way when we were there. But then when we thought about Sponge Cola performing there later, we found our feet dragging us to the registration booth.





We were in before we knew it. It was like stepping in a different place. It was colorful and fun. There were lots of girls and several Candy cuties walking about. We even saw Mimi and Ines, the editors-in-chief of W.I.T.C.H. and Candy mag respectively. We are W.I.T.C.H. fans and collected the mags since issue #1. There was a kissing booth, a marriage booth, a velcro wall, handcuffs but what got our attention was the main stage. After going around for a few minutes, we saw a small crowd in the entrance. Sponge Cola (Armo, Gosh and Candy cutie Yael minus Candy cutie Chris) arrived. Yael has a couple of bouncers with him. No surprise there. We waited til they got in the back stage and waited to have our "Transit" album signed. A few minutes later, Sponge Cola drummer Chris arrived and we were glad he recognized us. He said he was the Storm Trooper who talked to us in Mapua and I was surprised coz Beejay said it was Aids, so we thought it was Aids the whole time. Hahaha! I wanted to talk some more but he still has to go back stage. After that, more photo ops followed.





We also watched the NCC coaches from UP perform cheerleading stunts. Then we found ourselves in the front of the stage and watched Craeons perform several songs. They're a promising new band and they even have their own fan base already. It was a nice feeling knowing that OPM is still alive and kicking. After that Sponge Cola performed. It was awesome and I think they best gig we've been to because we were so close to the stage. The icing on top of our cake was when Yael said Chris has an announcement to make in between their songs. The Chris greeted us, "the Losties" and I think it was only me and my sis who cheered at that time. It was great! After their performance, we had a small chat with Chris backstage. I wish we could have talked longer but they have another gig in EK. I do hope we could chat more next time.





Oh and another Candy cutie arrived later that evening. It was Champ of Hale. I don't want to fill this post with adjectives, so let me just share the pics we got. My sister had the camera most of the time, so you'll see mostly Yael pictures in our online album. I don't mind though.





Click this for pictures galore! Thanks Candy! :)

of quakes and chilly nights

Is it me or are the nights getting shorter now? Not just that, the air is cooler now early in the morning and late at night. Hmmm... Christmas is just around the corner I guess.


I just need to write an entry for this day. I experience 3 low-intensity earthquakes. Oh yes, three! from about 10:30 PM while preparing to go to work, about 1:30 AM when I was in the office during my first 15-minute break and about 6:30 AM while I was still at work. This is a scary day for me.

Geek Alert!

Got nothing to do tomorrow? Trying to avoid the malls due to recent terrorist threats? I got an alternative for you. Check this out:


What: Mapua Pre-Halloween Event (Nursing and Management Week)


Where: Mapúa Institute of Technology
Mapúa IT Center (old RCBC Bldg.)
333 Sen. Gil Puyat Ave., Makati City


When: Saturday, 21 October


What time: 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM


MIT invited the New Worlds Alliance to promote the groups and have the students take their pictures with people in costume. New Worlds will be represented by the Philippine Outpost of the 501st, the Pinoy Rebel Legion, Star Wars Philippines, The Philippine Order of Narnians, Via Astris, The Philippine Tolkien Society, Pinoy Harry Potter, Wheel of Time Philippines, and Lost in the Philippines.


I'm a member of 4 of the mentioned groups but active only in 2 of them. Oops! Hehe! But I do hope to see you guys tomorrow. I'll be there after lunch onwards (in costume). After this my sis and I are off to the Candy Fair in The Fort. I guess there's no sleeping for me tomorrow. I bet I'll be awake for more than 24 hours (again) and I think it's gonna be worth it! :)

Filler

If I lay here. If I just lay here, would you lie with me and just forget the world?
~ "Chasing Cars", Snow Patrol ~


P.S.
I've been getting these text messages and emails about a confession from a detained terrorist in Camp Crame with SM Megamall as a target of Abu-Sayaff bombing/s this coming Saturday, October 21. Don't know if it's true but be wary and be safe everyone!

Lion's Den

They wondered why, after working for almost 4 years in this industry, I never opted to climb up the corporate ladder. Well, I don't want to grow old here and I want to be open in changing careers in the (near) future. Besides, the setup we have in the office is not exactly the environment I want to grow my roots in. Imagine a being in a lion's den. I would just prefer to sit quietly and mind my own business. As long as I'm being paid for the work I do, I'm fine. Being promoted is a big deal but I see it as an opportunity to be overworked and underpaid. I don't need that right now. Besides, I wouldn't dare put my head in the lion's mouth (if you know what I mean).

Passing By

When people walk away from you, let them go. Your destiny is never tied to anybody who leaves you and it doesn't mean that they are bad people. It just means that they became a part of the story and it's over.


Never thought that was the last smile. Wish I could have known you more. I'm just thankful I met you.


Goodbye.

Melancholy

Have you ever felt sad but can't pinpoint a certain reason behind it?


Since I started work last night, I felt sad. I don't think there is a specific reason for it. Maybe it's because work week has started and I wish I had a longer weekend. Or maybe because I wanted to spend more time having fun than sleeping (but then I just feel so tired). Or maybe because I don't like the calls I'm getting at work lately, especially on Mondays. Or maybe my hormones are causing my mood swings. Or maybe because I'm missing someone. Or maybe because these lines are playing in my head when I headed out the door to the office:


There are 8 billion people in this world
8 billion lives are changing
I never felt so alone...


There are 8 billion people in this world
8 billion lives are changing
and you're the one I need.


("The Ballad Of" by Hale)


Or maybe it's all of the above.

The Mean, The Nice and The Cuties

It's been a while since I my last entry. It's been a very busy week. Work was more tiring than usual. I've had more experiences of mean people who were supposed to be professionals and had prank calls from people who are losers and who got nothing to do except make other people's lives miserable. They drained my patience.


My brother turned 24 last October 6 and we celebrated it the day before because it was his day off. A few relatives came from Pagsanjan, Laguna and ate lunch at our place. It was like a mini-reunion. Pictures can be found here.


I went to the SM Mall of Asia for the first time and with me was my mother, my aunt and her son, my cousin Phil, who were on vacation from Bacolod City. Eventually, my sister followed since she came from school and she didn't wanna miss Hale's album launch (new album "Twilight" is out now!) After hours of walking and walking, we finally settled down in the Music Hall. We didn't have seats so we stayed in the sidelines. I think that was great because we ended up standing near the front row and that made me take better pics during their performance. Thank God for the free Nescafe 3-in-1 coffee coz I didn't feel sleepy despite being awake for about 27 hours straight. Maybe it was just my adrenaline pumping me up.



waiting for Hale
(L to R) my sis, me, Tita Malen, Mama
(below) my cousin Phil



I was great listening to Hale's new songs. The people who bought the album got a free poster, autograph signing and photo op with the members of the band. During their performance, we caught a glimpse of Chino, Champ's (the vocalist's) brother who appeared in their video "Kahit Pa", who was in pink and their dad, Nonoy Tan, who looked proud of his son's achievements and was videotaping their performance and their audience singing along. There were other celebrities too like Keith Martin who got the guys' autographs and that girl from their "Waltz" video. Sorry I forgot her name but I think she's the daughter of Gloria Diaz and she's a model. We were looking forward to the autograph signing part and it was a bit annoying that the emcee kept contradicting himself. I mean, first he tells us to "be patient" and "wait for our turn" and "take our time" since Hale will not leave unless everyone got their albums signed and then after an hour or so, he kept insisting that the people who were still enjoying themselves on stage with the guys hurry up because there are still people in line. I mean, we were a well-behaved audience and of course, we waited for a long time to get our chance to get our pics taken with the guys and when we get on stage all he can say is "hurry up"?! What's up with that?! Maybe he's hungry or something. But that's not a reason to be rude.



Sheldon and Champ


The only thing that made it worthwhile was Champ's attitude. He was soo nice and didn't even look bored or tired or impatient. I applaud him for being so professional and when he says he's thankful for his fans' support, he definitely shows it. We, the fans, appreciate that. No wonder people like him because he makes every encounter with a fan, yes even if you're a stranger, worth your while and unforgettable (unlike some people out there). He was cheerful despite the fact that he was tired and hungry. Heck, they were all tired and hungry, but he did not show it. That was an attitude we can all look up to. Some people can learn from him. I hope he keeps that up and he will stay a long time in the music industry. Click this for the Hale album launch pictures.



with Champ Lui-Pio


Don't get me wrong, I'm not gushing over a crush. But any girl who will catch his heart is gonna be a lucky one. Ok, let me gush over my crush now. I felt like some idiot who didn't know what to do when my crush looked my last Saturday morning and smiled at me. It was so high-school and I felt embarrassed. I'm still talking about that crush of mine who is gay. Imagine, I kept looking for him and when I finally saw him, I couldn't even look his way like someone blinded by the sun. Geez... Pathetic huh? Well, I don't care though coz he's really cute.

Tagged

Our modem at home is acting up. I think it's just overused. I'm outside now, renting a PC after my shift. Good thing it's faster than our dial-up at home.


This is another meme from Luchie-ness Monster. :)


1. How often do you blog?
Depends on how often I get ideas/thoughts and a chance to go online.


2. Online Alias:
Galenlondeien. This is not really a direct Elvish translation of my real name. I just got it from Barrowdowns years ago. It stuck.


3. Have you ever stood up for someone you hardly knew?
Nope. Maybe when the cause is worthy enough.


4. What do you do most often when you are bored?
The usual. I read books, go online, movie-watch, people-watch, walk (preferably in a cool place like the mall) or stay in my room and listen to music.


5. When bathing, which do you wash first?
My hands, my face, then the rest follows.


6. Have you ever been awake for 48 hours straight?
Almost but not quite. Probably just 40.


7. What color looks best on you?
My mother says red, but she likes red whether on me or not, so I don't know if that counts. I like wearing black though. Makes me look less fat. Hahaha!


8. What?s your favorite alcoholic drink?
I'm not really an alcoholic drinker, but I won't turn down anything with Bailey's, Vodka cruiser and Mudshake.


9. Do you believe in heaven and hell as a real place that each of us will go to after death?
A place can be a heaven or a hell. It depends on how the person looks at it. 'Tis subjective. I am interested, though, on the notion of reincarnation. So, I guess my answer is no.


10. Do you find that you have more online friends than offline friends?
Nope.


11. What was your favorite subject in school?
Subjects. English and Biology in high school. Comm and Human Anatomy in college.


12. Are you a perfectionist?
Sometimes.


13. Do you spend more than you can afford?
I try my best not to.


14. Is it better to have loved and lost than never to have loved before?
Yes and always leave a little something for yourself in order to learn how to love again. (Naks!)


15. Do you consider yourself creative?
I want to believe I am. Hehe!


16. Do you give yourself the credit you deserve?
Sometimes, yes. Or else I'll die trying. :)


17. Do you donate time or money to charities?
I used to donate time, but not money. When I have the money, I will.


18. Have you recently done something yourself that you?ve criticized others for doing?
Not recently, but I'm sure I did. I'm not perfect, you know.


19. What?s on your mind right now?
A lot. Just taking it a day at a time. Someone has recently occupied my mind but I'll have to let go of that thought. Christmas is near. Next year, I'll turn a year older. Yaiks!


20. Say one nice thing about the person who tagged you and the five people that you are going to tag:


Lei: my former officemate I knew for a short time but reading her blog made me realize we need more time to hang out. Haha! She's a great writer.


Jennie: oh yeah, she is sassy and chic! I haven't met her personally but I like reading her thoughts.


Jaz: she's one of my online buddies and she's more than just a pretty face. Her blog's one of my haunts too.


Rob: here's one who's man enough to share his thoughts online. School may keep him busy but he's always got something to share.


Liza: my college best friend's sister. She's become a great online buddy too now that they're all busy and living far away. She wears her heart on her sleeves and I like that.


Ava Sharra: my sister, best bud and partner in crime. I know she won't have time to do this because of school. Maybe during sem break. She's the best sis in the world! :)

For the Unrequited Lover

This is a forwarded SMS sent by my sis. Consider this is your thought for the day:

I have come to realize that he's just a man... one great maybe, but not mine. I don't need to do things to make him love me.. coz if he wanted to, he would.

Have a great week everyone!

This Weekend

A couple of weeks ago, I would have imagined myself breathing the fresh air in Pagsanjan, Laguna. I probably would be stuffed with native delicacies and be taking pictures of everything and everybody. But then the storm came and circumstances did not allow me to make that imagination a reality. My friends from the office didn't push through with the swimming either, so I'm hoping I can go with them once that plan pushes through. Even the Candy event did not happen because of the weather, so I found myself stuck at home for most part of the weekend. I was glad the power is back on our part of the city since Friday afternoon. Our water supply didn't even stop during the past few days and I must say we are lucky. Though it was a struggle for me to go to work last Friday with most streets still dark. My shift starts at 11:30 PM, so imagine how scary that can be.





Yesterday, my sister and I went with some of my friends and just roamed around the mall. It was frustrating when I couldn't find an ATM to get some cash coz I was broke. After going to another mall to find a working ATM, my sis and I ended up watching Step Up because (1) there was no other movie that caught our fancy, (2) we didn't wanna go home yet and (3) Channing Tatum is the leading man. I first watched him in She's The Man and thought he was really gorgeous. But I never thought that Abercrombie & Fitch model could dance. OMG! He can really dance and shake his thing! The movie reminded me of "Save The Last Dance" (starring Julia Stiles) but I still like it. Yes, I'm biased because of the leading man. Haha!


Now, I'll be home probably the whole day today. It's gonna be a quiet Sunday and I'm blogging away. Have a blessed first Sunday of October everyone!

In The Eye

Typhoon Milenyo (Xangsane) raged on for hours and thank God, it just passed us by. It was fast but destructive yet there is still a reason to be thankful for. I'm still here enjoying the free internet in the office cafe. Electricity is running in the city that never sleeps and am I glad to be working in Makati. There are still a lot of places without electricity and where I live is one of them.



raging storm
(taken from our front door; sorry for the blurry pic; it's really dark)


Many people lost their homes and their loved ones. It has been years since a typhoon centered on Manila and nearby provinces. The worst was yesterday. Classes were suspended. It was signal number 3. I got home from work a few minutes before the storm hit the worst. I'm grateful I was with my family. There is (still) power outage (locally known as blackout) and it started 7 AM yesterday in a lot of places.The wind gusts went to about 260 kph uprooting trees, blowing away rooftops (nearly blew ours), cutting cables exposing electrical wires in the process and flooding the streets with the heavy downpour. My parents were glued to the news using a battery-operated walkman. Our cellphone batteries are dying. I slept early because there was nothing to do-- no TV, no internet, nothing to keep our attention away from the howling winds outside. The good thing about that was we (both my parents, my bro and sis) had a few laughs and bonding moments, but I had to go to sleep. I woke up an hour earlier than usual. I don't wanna be late but it was tough preparing for work with no the lights on, with flooded streets, tree branches everywhere and no cabs! I nearly gave up but I was so touched when 3 strangers helped me find a cab to ride. Calamities like these can bring out the "goodness" in people.



uprooted tree in front of our training center


The sun is shining now like the storm never came. I'm still in the office taking advantage of the electricity and the free internet. I'm also waiting for my pay. I hope there's power when I get home because it's gonna be a hot day.


P.S.
Speaking of being "in the eye", I am currently eyeing this cutie but he's gay. So, what's new, right? Hahaha!

Dumbledore's Army

(click for larger pic)


Are you ready for Dumbledore's Army?


More pics here.


P.S.
The Weasley twins are oh-so-gorgeous! They're all growing up so fast!

Stuck Here

Looks like I'll be stuck here in the city this coming weekend. I thought I'll be having a hard time choosing between swimming with my friends and inhaling fresh air with my family. My sis won't have time and couldn't go due to her exams (and I don't blame her) so I'm keeping her company. Besides, it wouldn't be fun going to Pagsanjan without her. I mean, imagine just spending time with both my parents and talk about "oldies" stuff. Hehehe!


So, I'm staying home this weekend. No sun tan for me and no fresh air either. Maybe next time. I really hope so. Probably the universe is conspiring an even bigger event for me that's why I couldn't go now. Maybe. Who knows? I'll just think of a fun alternative since we'll be "home alone" (no parents) this weekend.

Missing Something

It's been quite a while. I haven't been online and blogging as often as I want to. I miss it! I was busy during the weekend running errands and being broke in the process. I am just looking forward to next weekend.


You see, a bunch of my officemates/friends are going on an overnight swimming and I usually am present when it comes to getting an opportunity for quality R&R (rest and relaxation). BUT... I have already agreed to go with my family to Pagsanjan, Laguna and attend some relatives' (combination) birthday celebration. It's also going to be an overnight event and might include going to a resort too. Well, my brother might not go with us because of his work schedule but it's been a long time since I've had fresh air and this might do me good. Besides, things in the office are getting quite out of hand and I can't bear the politics! If worse comes to worst, I'd totally lose my already wavering belief in the competency of the management. Geez...


Oh and I am also sort-of bombaring myself with movies that other people might find cheesy but might do me good when it comes to getting back my faith in the love=happiness equation. I watched John Tucker Must Die with my cousin and mother. I haven't heard about this movie before and my cousin wanted to watch this. I asked him who's playing the lead role and he said Jesse Metcalfe (the famous lover/gardener of Eva Longoria in Desperate Housewives). I didn't have any second thoughts then. I told myself, I don't care if the story line sucked as long as Jesse graces the screen with his oh-so-pretty face and drop-dead-gorgeous body, I am ok. It turned out to be actually fun. Last night, I also watched the Star Movies premiere of A Lot Like Love. I haven't seen this on the big screen and it was romantic. It was not your ordinary love story but it was still sweet. Not to mention the pre-Demi Moore Ashton Kutcher was so cute! Watching those movies made me realize I'm still missing something on the love department. What could it be?

You Are 53% Passionate, 47% Compassionate

You possess an ideal balance of passion and compassion. You definitely can get swept away and lose your head a little. But you're rarely a fool for love!

Is Your Love Style Passionate or Compassionate?

Seven Songs

Tagged by kikaygal.


This meme was supposed contain seven songs that are currently in one's playlist. Since my playlist is divided into albums, I'll just place here the songs I currently love to listen to over and over.

• Maybe Tomorrow - Westlife
  
  
  
• Unfaithful - Rihanna
  
  
  
• Yakap Sa Dilim - Orange and Lemons version
  
  
  
• Nocturne - Sponge Cola
  
  
  
• Stick Wit U - Pussycat Dolls
  
  
  
• You'll Be Safe Here - Rivermaya
  
  
  
• Colour My World - Westlife

I tag anyone who wants to answer.

Great Escape

I've always wondered how it would feel to go and live in an entirely new city (or country) where no one knows me. It's like creating a new identity. People will make new impressions of me and I'll be a whole new "me"... Or maybe I'll just wander aimlessly without thinking about responsibilities, work and everything included in my everyday robotic state (a.ka. SSDD- Same Shit Different Day). Wouldn't it be awesome to be able to travel (maybe around the world) without thinking of expenses and obligations? Or go to a place I've never been before and be daring enough to eat food I haven't tasted and do things I wouldn't dare do under "normal" circumstances?



Then I am still and wait here in the silence,
Until you come and sit a while with me...
(You Raise Me Up)


I wish I am able to do that, but then what I could do is just steal a few hours in my day and pretend I'm in another place and time. I may read a book or watch a movie or stay in the bedroom and stare at nothing while listening to mellow or angsty songs or maybe get good company and goof out.


Yesterday after shift, I went with a few friends and pigged out in this seafood resto and I had a bottle of SanMig Light before 11 in the morning. After sharing laughs, sentiments and stories, we went to a videoke booth in a nearby mall and made more damage to our vocal chords (surprise surprise!). I also played hoops in Timezone for a short while since I am not tall to shoot hoops in a real basketball court (haha!). Oh yes, it was just a short time but during those moments I had fun.


I wish that feeling of escaping from reality would last forever, but now I'm back to the real world. It's a slow Sunday but I'm feeling the pressures again of being the family breadwinner plus he-who-must-not-be-named is making me feel lost again and it hurts. It may seem cowardly but I wish I could just get away.