Exploring Philippines' Neighbors - Vietnam Day 1

The World is a book, and those who do not travel read only a page. ~St. Augustine

A very famous quote and to which I so agree. That is why I always put travelling as one of the favorite things I like to do.

Last month, my friend and I went on a 9-day trip covering 3 countries, our friendly neighbors, Vietnam, Cambodia and Thailand. Three countries in such a short span of time. It was my first time to do that kind of trip. And my first long vacation outside the country. Nine days is actually long considering that it's rare to get approval of vacation leaves this long. Our first and last stop was Vietnam. Cambodia and Thailand were squeezed in between.

September is a rainy month. First day we were in Saigon or now called Ho Chi Minh was raining. Good thing though the rain was not very heavy. My friend did all the planning, she made all the itinerary while I just go and travel with her. How lucky I am to have her!

Our first day involved getting acquainted with Saigon by walking (most of the time). Instead of booking a city tour, we decided on doing it on our own. The places to see were not at all that very far.

First stop was the Ben Thanh market. Well, we wanted to do shopping on the first day as we wanted to buy Northface backpacks that we can use on our side trips to Cambodia and Thailand. Ben Thanh is big marketplace in downtown Saigon where you can buy local handicrafts, souvenirs, textiles, and even a place where you can try local cuisine (although we were not able to do the latter). And in this market you can also find really cheap North face bags/knapsacks, Adidas, Billabong t-shirts and shorts at really cheap prices. I bought my North Face backpack for only 700 Pesos, some 16USD. So cheap! Well, I don't know if it's fake but by the looks of it, it isnt! We also bought souvenirs and pasalubongs for friends and family at Ben Thanh. You can actually do some bargaining! However, the sellers first offer is really high! And if you don't know how much it actually costs, you will be fooled. That's what happened to me. The lady gave me a price twice the actual. They can really be pushy, I tell you. They won't let you go until you make a purchase.

Anyhow, after Ben Thanh, we went on to the next tourist places - the City Hall, Saigon Theater, Notre Dame Cathedral and Central Post Office. I was pretty amazed with the post office. It's not anything I've seen in Asia. The building is of old French colonial architecture that when we went inside we felt like we were in Europe.

Next stop was to get ourselves lunch. All the walking made us so hungry. We went into a typical Vietnamese restaurant. It was named Pho 24. On that day, I fell in love with Vietnamese food. My fave are the spring rolls! :)

After hearty lunch, we went to their Reunifcation Palace. Took a guided tour inside and learned about Vietnam's history. We learned from this tour that the Vietnamese are very good at creating undergrounds. You better go there to see it for yourself.

All the walking inside made us thirsty. So we decided to try the Vietnamese iced coffee. Everyone in Vietnam loves coffee. People sell iced coffee on the streets. We don't have iced coffee sold in the streets in the Philippines.

Getting to our next stop was not easy. We got a bit lost on the way to the War Museum but somehow managed to get there. The Vietnam War is one of the famous wars in the world, the fact that the powerful USA was defeated in this war. What's different in this museum from the other museums I've visited was how they presented the war. My heart was torn to pieces watching pictures of people during the War. The brutality was captured in those pictures; I couldn't bear to look at them so long. They brought me to tears. My heart goes out to all victims of the war.

Next destination was the Emperor of Jade Pagoda. It's an old temple but still being used. A cyclo driver offered to take us there for 150k VND. Only to learn later on that he overpriced us. A tourist trap! Well, let's just charge it to "charity". The pagoda was quite interesting. It wasn't at all that clean and beautiful. Observations - there were a lot of turtles in the pond. There was a hundred yr old or so turtle/tortoise (can't make a difference). They believe turtles are holy (I think). Inside you'll see two large figures of gods. It's also a bit spooky inside.

Our cyclo driver took us back to our hostel. He again charged us another 150k VND. Oh well, the goodness of our hearts didn't see he was taking advantage.

Back in the hotel, we told Auntie our host about the cyclo driver charging us 300k VND and she told us that was way too much. She comforted us by saying just think about it as charity, cyclo drivers don't earn that much.

We took a bit of rest, unpacked items we bought at Ben Thahn. And then headed for dinner...We came to this alley of restos serving mostly tourists. We stayed in downtown Saigon, so expect so many tourists in the area. I think I had a pho - another hearty meal.

We wanted to try Ben Thanh's night market. So we went there again by walking and crossing the heavily-laden-with-motorbikes streets. If there's anything that gives us a heart attack in Saigon it is crossing their streets. They don't seem to follow traffic rules! If you're not careful, you will be hit by a motorbike that came from out of nowhere!

You can practically find the same items sold in the day market at the night market, although much cheaper. And you can haggle to your heart's content! The market isn't as huge as other markets though. But it was a good place to buy souvenirs that we came back again on our last night in Saigon.




NEXT - Day 2, Cu Chi Tunnels and Cao Dai Temple

How To Manage A Manager

I have a not-so-good relationship with my manager...we have issues, we have problems... I should have really followed these rules...i would have a better working relationship with her...well, it's not yet too late to amend things!

**********

If you have a manager that is a micro manager, you need to be proactive. Managing a manager is a tricky proposition, but it can be done. Keep the following things in mind as you manage your boss effectively.

INSTRUCTIONS

1
Be tactful. Remember, your manager holds your career in her hands. Even if she asks for your input on her job performance, be careful how you come across, but offer something constructive.

2
Get things done on time. Communicate well with your manager and let him know if you foresee any limiting factors in getting a job done.

3
Go the extra mile. Anticipate the things your manager needs from you and get a head start. People are creatures of habit, so that makes knowing what your manager will want a little easier after you get to know her.

4
Make your manager look good to his manager. Know what is important to your manager's boss, so you won't put your manager in an embarrassing situation.

5
Do your homework. Before you take a proposal to your manager, make sure you have researched all the pros and cons and be prepared to show him how it will benefit the company.

6
Take your concerns to your manager, not over his head, unless there is something illegal going on or there are trust issues that have arisen between you. Don't, under any circumstances, gossip about or back-bite your manager.

7
Keep things on a professional level. It's ok to be friendly, but probably not ok to get too chummy with your boss. Personal relationships can be hard to manage while on the job.


Read more: How to Manage a Manager | eHow.com http://www.ehow.com/how_2108071_manage-manager.html#ixzz1agWyEt7g

the final, the last time

I promise now more than ever, today is the last time I will see you face to face, the last time we feel each other's presence. This is the final goodbye!!!! And I mean it every word of it! This is the PERIOD I had always wished to put. And I'm putting it now!

Tokyo Trip Pics

I'd love to come back to Tokyo!

A Prayer

Dear Lord,

Please keep me strong. Please protect me. Please keep me away from danger, from harm, from the things that'll make me fall into sin.

Teach me to be patient. May I be slow to judge and quick to forgive.

Thank you for your everlasting love.

Amen.

7 Habits To Win In Office Politics

Office politics – a taboo word for some people. It’s a pervasive thing at the workplace. In it’s simplest form, office politics is simply about the differences between people at work; differences in opinions, conflicts of interests are often manifested as office politics. It all goes down to human communications and relationships.
There is no need to be afraid of office politics. Top performers are those who have mastered the art of winning in office politics. Below are 7 good habits to help you win at the workplace:

HABIT #1 – BE AWARE YOU HAVE A CHOICE
The most common reactions to politics at work are either fight or flight. It’s normal human reaction for survival in the wild, back in the prehistoric days when we were still hunter-gatherers. Sure, the office is a modern jungle, but it takes more than just instinctive reactions to win in office politics. Instinctive fight reactions will only cause more resistance to whatever you are trying to achieve; while instinctive flight reactions only label you as a pushover that people can easily take for granted. Neither options are appealing for healthy career growth.
Winning requires you to consciously choose your reactions to the situation. Recognize that no matter how bad the circumstances, you have a choice in choosing how you feel and react. So how do you choose? This bring us to the next point…

HABIT #2 – KNOW WHAT YOU ARE TRYING TO ACHIEVE
When conflicts happens, it’s very easy to be sucked into tunnel-vision and focus on immediate differences. That’s a self-defeating approach. Chances are you’ll only invite more resistance by focusing on differences in people’s positions or opinions.
The way to mitigate this without looking like you’re fighting to emerge as a winner in this conflict is to focus on the business objectives. In the light of what’s best for the business, discuss the pros and cons of each option. Eventually, everyone wants the business to be successful; if the business don’t win, then nobody in the organization wins. It’s much easier for one to eat the humble pie and back off when they realize the chosen approach is best for the business.
By learning to steer the discussion in this direction, you will learn to disengage from petty differences and position yourself as someone who is interested in getting things done. Your boss will also come to appreciate you as someone who is mature, strategic and can be entrusted with bigger responsibilities.

HABIT #3 – FOCUS ON YOUR CIRCLE OF INFLUENCE
At work, there are often issues which we have very little control over. It’s not uncommon to find corporate policies, client demands or boss mandates which affects your personal interests. Bitching and complaining are common responses to these events that we cannot control. But think about it, other than that short term emotional outlet, what tangible results do bitching really accomplish? In most instances, none.
Instead of feeling victimized and angry about the situation, focus on the things that you can do to influence the situation – your circle of influence. This is a very empowering technique to overcome the feeling of helplessness. It removes the victimized feeling and also allows others to see you as someone who knows how to operate within given constraints. You may not be able to change or decide on the eventual outcome, but you can walk away knowing that you have done the best within the given circumstances.
Constraints are all around in the workplace; with this approach, your boss will also come to appreciate you as someone who is understanding and positive.

HABIT #4 – DON’T TAKE SIDES
In office politics, it is possible to find yourself stuck in between two power figures who are at odds with each other. You find yourself being thrown around while they try to outwit each other and defend their own position. All at the expense of you getting the job done. You can’t get them to agree on a common decision for a project, and neither of them want to take ownership of issues; they’re too afraid they’ll get stabbed in the back for any mishaps.
In cases like this, focus on the business objectives and don’t take side with either of them – even if you like one better than the other. Place them on a common communication platform and ensure open communications among all parties so that no one can claim “I didn’t say that”.
By not taking sides, you’ll help to direct conflict resolution in an objective manner. You’ll also build trust with both parties. That’ll help to keep the engagements constructive and focus on business objectives.

HABIT #5 – DON’T GET PERSONAL
In office politics, you’ll get angry with people. It happens. There will be times when you feel the urge to give that person a piece of your mind and teach him a lesson. Don’t.
People tend to remember moments when they were humiliated or insulted. Even if you win this argument and get to feel really good about it for now, you’ll pay the price later when you need help from this person. What goes around comes around, especially at the work place.
To win in the office, you’ll want to build a network of allies which you can tap into. The last thing you want during a crisis or an opportunity is to have someone screw you up because they habour ill-intentions towards you – all because you’d enjoyed a brief moment of emotional outburst at their expense.
Another reason to hold back your temper is your career advancement. Increasingly, organizations are using 360 degree reviews to promote someone.
Even if you are a star performer, your boss will have to fight a political uphill battle if other managers or peers see you as someone who is difficult to work with. The last thing you’ll want is to make it difficult for your boss to champion you for a promotion.

HABIT #6 – SEEK TO UNDERSTAND, BEFORE BEING UNDERSTOOD
The reason people feel unjustified is because they felt misunderstood. Instinctively, we are more interested in getting the others to understand us than to understand them first. Top people managers and business leaders have learned to suppress this urge.
Surprisingly, seeking to understand is a very disarming technique. Once the other party feels that you understand where he/she is coming from, they will feel less defensive and be open to understand you in return. This sets the stage for open communications to arrive at a solution that both parties can accept. Trying to arrive at a solution without first having this understanding is very difficult – there’s little trust and too much second-guessing.

HABIT #7 – THINK WIN-WIN
As mentioned upfront, political conflicts happen because of conflicting interests. Perhaps due to our schooling, we are taught that to win, someone else needs to lose. Conversely, we are afraid to let someone else win, because it implies losing for us.
In business and work, that doesn’t have to be the case.
Learn to think in terms of “how can we both win out of this situation?” This requires that you first understand the other party’s perspective and what’s in it for him. Next, understand what’s in it for you. Strive to seek out a resolution that is acceptable and beneficial to both parties. Doing this will ensure that everyone truly commit to the agree resolution and not pay only lip-service to it.
People simply don’t like to lose. You may get away with win-lose tactics once or twice, but very soon, you’ll find yourself without allies in the workplace. Thinking win-win is an enduring strategy that builds allies and help you win in the long term.



http://www.lifehack.org/articles/management/7-habits-to-win-in-office-politics.html
By Lawrence Check

1st day with CIMA

Out of boredom, crazy whim, and the idea of a company benefit, and yes, of a feeling a stand-still career, I decided to take the opportunity of doing CIMA (Chartered Institute of Management Accountant).

According to Wikipedia, "The Chartered Institute of Management Accountants (CIMA) is a United Kingdom-based professional body offering training and qualification in management accountancy and related subjects, focused on accounting for business; together with ongoing support for members.

CIMA is one of a number of professional associations for accountants in the UK and Republic of Ireland. Its particular emphasis is on developing the management accounting profession within the UK and worldwide. CIMA is the largest management accounting body in the world, with more than 172,000 members and students in over 165 countries."

I never really planned to take up CIMA, but because my company offered this opportunity, I decided to take it. To be honest, I am not really after the certification. I'm more after the learning I can get. The discipline I can develop by taking this can move my career. I am more after the experience and what I can get by attending the review classes. But of course, I have to pass the exams. It's going to reflect badly in my employee records if I won't. To pass this, I have to put my mind and heart to it. Most importantly, to give time for it. So I am excited actually of the next 13 Saturdays I will be spending at the review classes and the days and nights I will be burning the candles. =)

So today was the first day of review classes, and I just felt so nostalgic of college days. I am reminded of the days I struggled to keep awake in class, of the times I would ask my seatmate to pinch my arm, to inflict some pain, to give me candies just to keep my eyes open (don't care much if my ears aren't listening!). But today instead of using those tactics, I got myself a cappuccino from Starbucks. A lot more posh! And yes of course, it kept me awake but it didn't keep my attention from wandering. Sometimes, you just have a very short attention span especially on a Saturday which I could have spent sleeping all day. Oh well, I have to start adapting to my new lifestyle.

Till the next review class!

The Pig and The Horse ( A workplace parable)

Oh I see this is very true. I have witnessed this in the workplace!

The Pig And The Horse

There was a farmer who collected horses, he only needed one more breed to complete his collection. One day, he found out that his neighbor had the particular horse breed he needed. So, he constantly bothered his neighbor until he sold it to him. A month later, the horse became ill and he called the veterinarian, who said:
- Well, your horse has a virus. He must take this medicine for three days.
I'll come back on the 3rd day and if he's not better, we're going to have to put him to sleep.

Nearby, the pig listened closely to their conversation.

The next day, they gave him the medicine and left. The pig approached the horse and said:
- Be strong, my friend. Get up or else they're going to put you to sleep!

On the second day, they gave him the medicine and left. The pig came back and said:
- Come on buddy, get up or else you're going to die! Come on, I'll help you get up. Let's go! One, two, three...

On the third day, they came to give him the medicine and the vet said:
- Unfortunately, we're going to have to put him down tomorrow. Otherwise, the virus might spread and infect the other horses.

After they left, the pig approached the horse and said:
- Listen pal, it's now or never! Get up, come on! Have courage! Come on!
Get up! Get up! That's it, slowly! Great! Come on, one, two, three...
Good, good. Now faster, come on.... Fantastic! Run, run more!

Yes! Yay! Yes! You did it, you're a champion!!!

All of a sudden, the owner came back, saw the horse running in the field and began shouting:
- It's a miracle! My horse is cured. This deserves a party. Let's kill the pig!

Points for reflection:

This often happens in the workplace. Nobody truly knows which employee actually deserves the merit of success, or who's actually contributing
the necessary support to make things happen.

LEARNING TO LIVE WITHOUT RECOGNITION IS A SKILL!

If anyone ever tells you that your work is unprofessional,

Remember: Amateurs built Noah's Ark and Professionals built the Titanic.

DON'T LOOK TO BECOME A PERSON OF SUCCESS, LOOK INSTEAD TO BECOME A PERSON OF VALUE!



ENJOY LIFE NOW - IT HAS AN EXPIRATION DATE and you don’t know when.

I got my Japan Visa today!

Yipee!!! Yehey! I just got the Japan visa today which means our short Tokyo trip will push through. I don't mind if it's short, besides it's fully funded by my company. I'm sooo looking forward to August 21-28. Aside from work / training, I will also get to meet a very good friend whom I haven't seen for years. God bless this trip and let everything fall into place! =))

GRRR!!!

I cannot sleep unless I am not able to post this rant!!!

I just got a reply from my onshore counterpart that I find is an insult to my intelligence! And what I hate is that he copied in my boss here and it appears on his email that I don't understand my work! I beg to disagree! But I don't want to put the blame purely to himself why he replied that way. I may have not been very clear in my email to him about what I expect from him. I just wanted his thoughts, his opinions about a matter I cannot resolved. In his reply, he is implying that this could be resolved by me quite easily without his assistance. I just had one area where I am confused not everything about work! Because I was in a hurry to get home, I didn't get an opportunity to reply to his email. But I plan to do that tomorrow. I don't want my boss to get the impression that I am dumb and that I don't understand my work! So here I am going to draft my reply to him ----

DP,

I understand your point very clearly that this is something that CAN be resolved offshore because this process has been with us for years.

All these checks / procedures mentioned are clearly understood by me and I am pretty sure with the new process owner as well.

Where I wanted clarification is on what explanation to give to the book runner as he is asking what type of adjustment he should then used as the adjustment he is currently using is not correct. I have spoken to the book runner about this that it is clear that he cannot use that adjustment category as it is creating a FOBO break. As this is not a break we encounter very often, the approach on how to deal with this is quite vague to me. I understand that it could have been resolved had I raised this initially to the book runner's team lead. To be honest, we need training, and some exposure on these kind of issues around BAC adjustments to get confidence answering their queries.

Thank you.

-----

And I may still edit this out tomorrow.... but now I am relieved to have let this out.

This job can get really stressful! Haayzz... But I should NOT let this affect my whole being, my aura, my mindset, my all. At the end of the day, I cannot blame other people for what I feel. This is all down to me. It is up to me how I deal with problems.

Shhoooo bad feelings. Let peace come! Yipeeee!!

Congratulations Sister!

Sister got married last Saturday, July 9 and I was maid of honor. Though I apologize I was not able to fulfill my job as maid of honor in all sense of the word. Ohh it was my first time! Give me the benefit of the first timers!

But all in all, I was very happy that someone in the family is now married. I bet mom and dad are excited to see their first apo! I am excited to become a full-pledged auntie!!! =)

What I loved about the wedding is getting to see my relatives from afar get together, couzins and aunties and uncles that I haven't seen for a while, I get to see them! Family gatherings do make me feel like I'm in heaven. Even if they keep asking me when I am getting married. Oh uh...I don't know! Maybe never! But I do hope it does happen...should happen soooon.I am not getting any younger! I'd like to have at least just one offspring, you know. I'd like to have my own family someday...;-)

Congrats to sister and hubby! God bless your marriage and your future together! Stay in luv...

my order of makeup!

on the other hand.... something that's giving me some excitement and lifting my spirits up ---- i cannot wait to receive the Maybelline products I ordered on Ebay! I hope they arrive tomorrow!!! =))

Disappointing Performance

This is the probably the most disappointing performance I ever experienced with my current job. To think that I've been with this team for 3 plus yrs, it was truly disappointing that I was not able to do deliver. I had a 3 hr call with my onshore boss. It was disappointing because I presented a working paper that was completely useless! It had a lot of errors and a lot of stuffs that had not been worked through. Because that is one item that had the most focus over the past months, it was highlighted by my boss. I was even escalated! And when I was asked why I was not able to do the things I ought to - I said that there was just too much to do. In other words, I didn't have enough time. I never really like to reason out that I just don't have enough time. Because it's not really a valid reason at all. Because I believe that there's really time for everything. It is just a matter of priority. That's why I am just very disappointed because this means I was not able to prioritize and I was not working smartly. I'm sooooo down now...I cannot sleep well.... =(

sissy is having a baby!

So I just got news today that my younger sister is going to have a baby! Well, she didn't tell me right away. Maybe she was afraid I would berate her for getting preggy before marriage. Well, I won't...She's getting married anyway in July... Besides the father is his soon to be hubby...

She couldn't say it straight away but I know that that's what she is meaning to say...I confirmed it with my mom anyway! So mom did confirm!

Well, I am happy for you sis. Soon you'll be a mother. You beat me to that thinking I'm older than you by 5 yrs! I just hope you are prepared for this and you will take care of yourself and your baby! Best wishes! I hope that baby is healthy and pretty like me and your younger sis and of course like Mama!!!

New Friend

It's amazing that people you meet and spend a few moments with make a huge impact on your life.

My UK counterpart at work came to help out the team in a huge project. He spent two weeks with us. It was his first time in Manila, first time in the Philippines. I've worked with him for a little over 3 yrs, and this is his first time here, and our second time to meet. I met him 3 yrs ago when I went to London for a 5 week training.

I didn't have the chance back then to get to know him. I was more closely dealing with his boss then.

I was surprised by the kind of person he is. I didn't expect him to be very approachable and friendly. He didn't seem to be like that when we met him 3 yrs ago, and didn't seem to be like that over the phone / emails. It's either he has changed over the yrs, or we just never got the chance to really talk and get out.

The other thing that impressed me about him was that how super "game" he is. He blended well with us, in fact. When we went out for lunch, he joined us and ordered Filipino dishes. When we went out for karaoke, he sang a number of songs. When we did a volcano trip, he joined us as well. And for this trip, he didn't mind waking up at 2am, and waiting for the late people! He can joke with us, and laugh with us. In short, he knows how to have fun the Pinoy way!!!

At work, he didn't seem to be that serious at all like how he seems to be on his emails. You can always ask him questions and he's very willing to help. I said to myself that this is one colleague I'd like to work with for life.

And what really touched my heart, was when he said he really liked it here. He really liked working in the Manila office. He liked the Philippines. He didn't even expect that he would enjoy this much. For a foreigner to say something like that (and I know he meant it), it never fails to warm my heart. Of course, I love my country. But I've always wanted to leave, to work in a 1st world country, and earn heaps of moolah. And when I hear an alien say something like that, I realize that the good things they say about my country are the reasons why until now I am still here.

I do hope that even when he is now back to his real work office, he brings with him the good things that life has taught him during his two weeks stay here.

I am also changed by having met him.

I shall call you Toshiwei

I don't know but I just liked the sound of it!!!

Toshiwei, forever together!

mwahh!!

Here are photos of Toshi using my phone's cam.

my first notebook / laptop

Would you believe!? I just got my first notebook / laptop yesterday...that's how poor I am or shall we say that's how reluctant I am to invest in electronics...

Now that I have this, I will be more faithful to my blogs.

And maybe get serious about earning through the Internet...

By the way, I got myself a Toshiba Satellite L640-1155. It's not a high end laptop. It's suits well for me who is just a plain surfer/blogger.

I wish to journey with you Toshibaby as long as forever. =) Shall I call you Toshibaby? How about Toshimei? Toshi? Toshiwei?

I'll think about it over the next few days...

30

Yeah, 30 is that dreaded number for some women. Well, I used to fear it coming to me. But yeah, what the heck, age is just a number. And I am blessed I got it this far.

I just turned 30...last 24th of Mar!

How does it feel? Feels like I just turned 21. =)

My 30th bday wasn't anything fancy at all. I started the day with a Holy Mass to thank the Lord Almighty for giving me a chance to enjoy life. And since I wasn't really feeling well that day, I took a half day leave.

I treated my teammates to a lunch at Pizza Hut where the Pizza Hut personnel gave me a hearty bday song! Hearty...and LOUD, I should add.

The rest of the day was all work! Oh I had to work on my special day. Just got loads of stuff to finish.

Margie, my ex Team lead was also sweet enough to treat the team for Starbucks.

Incidentally, my brother was in town too. He came to Manila for a job interview that day. I spent dinnertime with him and my cousin, who accompanied him. It was good to see my brother after a while and get to talk to him about life and his plans.

Oh...I should not forget too that my bday celeb didn't end that day coz over the weekend, Mom, sissies, Auntie and cuzs were comin over for a vacay to Baguio. This is actually the first time we as family travelled sans daddies though. It was quite a big lot. There were 10 of us doing this trip. It was the first time for the majority in Baguio. It was another worthwhile and enjoyable trip. This was my third time in Baguio but each was a different experience. I always had one or two places new in the itinerary. Will it be my last time in Baguio? I don't know...;)

Hmmm. On second thought, it was fancy after all...Family came here to celebrate. I had friends who remembered this day. And I had an Almighty Father who continues to bless me.

I can only be grateful to Life.

Day 4 - HK Museums and Avenue of the Stars, Kowloon Park

Goodness, I actually forgot to write my Day 4 in HK. This was July 30. And it was really hot and sunny day...unfair really, becuase the last 3 days had been cloudy and rainy...

Anyway, since I was now on my own, I decided to get a trip to the Avenue of the Stars and then visit the museums and maybe check out some shopping areas.

At the avenue of the stars, I had all my pics taken by other people. But I never got to walk the long stretch of this avenue...it was just too hot that day and I didn't have an umbrella and a pair of sunglasses.

After this, I took a visit to the Museum of Art. The first time in my international travels that I have included museum visits as part of the itinerary. I love their museum. Not very fancy like the Louvre but it gave you a glimpse of the of HK art scene.

The next stop was the Space and Science museum. Very educational museum. Very good for kids (and adults) as well. So I tried their "moon walk" - where you get to experience what it's like to walk in the moon. Cool! Kids will love this!

Now getting famished, I needed to eat some lunch. I went to Times Square in Causeway Bay hoping to do a bit of shopping on the side. Since it was already lunch time, all food shops were very busy. I ended up eating in KFC. Right after I headed back to Kowloon Park to just get a feel of what parks are like in HK. Kowloon Park is really a huge park but you will love it there as you could really relax. Oh you will love the fresh atmosphere. I headed back to my hostel around 3pm. Left for the airport around 4pm. Then at the airport, I met a Filipina who was in the same flight as me. Then at the plane, I met another Filipina who works as a DH. She's a very talkative woman...and the trip back to Manila was indeed not a boring! =)

2011 ---- I claim this to be MY Year!!!

The first quarter of 2011 is about to end... and I haven't yet posted my supposedly New Year's resolutions.

As a blog tradition, I have to declare my 2011 plans (not any more resolutions!)

So here are they...

I have to get my own laptop! I should get one soon...This March, I will take a trip to the computer shops...

An international trip! Oh yes, I and a friend have already booked tickets to Vietnam/Bangkok/Cambodia on September. Praying for a safe and fine weather trip!
I just got my passport renewed! Can't wait to get it stamped!
And I just learned a few weeks ago, I'll get to attend a training in Tokyo. Oh I just hope it will push through. Pls pls Lord let it happen! Tokyo is one of the dream places I want to go to.

A trip to Mindanao - Davao or CDO, any will do. No plane tickets yet. But this trip ought to happen this year!

Save! I have to put in more cash on my bank account. I just have to have at least 1 month salary in my bank. I should be able to do it this time, I just got an OK salary increase! Thank you Lord, you gave me more than what I asked for! I did not get the promotion, but that's alright. It's just not yet my time.

And since this year, I am hitting the BIG 30 in years of stay on this planet, I aim and claim to get a LOVE LIFE! A rightful love life, with a single guy. This means that I am now more than ever more determined for it, and more more so decided to end the wrongful rendezvous I had in the past.

Some years ago, I had aimed that by the time I'm 30 Y.O. I should have my own car, my own house, and 100k savings! Unfortunately, none of that is about to happen. =( Well the 100k is possible, I just need to keep my lifestyle as low as possible. The car? Oh never mind, I don't really like owning a car. And besides I don't know how to drive! Ok, the house...ahhh...it's expensive! But it's on my plans - perhaps next year.


This year, I aim to be financially indedpendent, stronger, and bolder. Happier, healthier and wiser.

Thank you Lord for giving me another year. I shall live it fully!

Day3 - Macau and Wan Chai (July 30, 2010)

This is a solitary trip. Mom and company have gone back to Cebu. I'll be roaming Macau on my own, or maybe with someone if Ate Ging's friend is available. She contacted her friend, Chris Stratford who works at the Venetian. Chris is an English guy in his fifties who designs shops/spaces etc at the Venetian Macau.

I took off on the 10AM trip of the The First Ferry from the TST ferry terminal since I was staying in Kowloon. The trip was approximately one hour. I already then texted Chris that I was on my way to Macau and if he had time off to see me or better show me around Macau.=) Well, his reply didn't arrive till my two feet stepped on Macau.
During the entire one hour, I did try to take a nap, read the print outs about Macau, tried to plan how to start my tour, first stop, next, etc. I know in my mind my first stop had to be Senado Square, and just go about where my feet would lead me. On my list were Senado Square, Fisherman's Wharf, The Venetian Hotel, Sands, MGM, Wynn, and whatever other casinos I will see along the way.

As I got off from the ferry, I was kinda roaming around a bit, not entirely knowing how to get a bus - should I cross across the street? where the heck is the bus stop. Well my huge wandering eyes found a bus stop. I asked a local how much the bus fare was so that I could prepare my coins. Since he didn't speak English and he just said something like "Hongkong money OK". I tried showing him a map and pointed to Senado Square to ask how to get there but he just pointed at the bus stop. So I waited for the bus to arrive and hopped in. Now, where was I gonna get off? I asked the passengers sitted next to me but oh my goodness, they couldn't understand me. This is a big problem for tourists in China - majority don't know English. Unlike the Philippines, majority can speak English, maybe not fluent, but could understand English and speak a few. So what I did was just watched out for the cobble stoned floors of the Square like what I saw in pictures. When the bus stopped at a place which I thought was the Square, I got off and only to find out it wasn't!!! So I walked and walked until I met some tourists who was able to show me where Senado Square is. And I was truly far far from my destination. So I walked and walked till I got to the Square. Oh dear me! I took my camera and started taking pictures when 3 tourists approached me and asked me to take a pic of them which I obliged smilingly. I also asked them to take a pic of me. =) And then it hit me that maybe I should go with them, I was all alone and needed some company! And they were so kind to accomodate me! I learned then that they were from Switzerland and were on a China trip - mainland China, HK, and a quick tour of Macau. They were on their last day and will be leaving in the afternoon. They spoke Italian but know how to speak English. So there I made new friends. Though they couldn't stay long as they had to leave by noon, I was alright with it. As long as I didn't feel alone...So there we explored the square and then went to the Ruins of St Paul, the church that was burned some years ago and what was left was just the facade. After this we then went to The Venetian Hotel. I didn't realize that inside the Venetian they were trying to replicate Venice. Inside, they really made it look like Venice - w/ all the architecture, river (minus the smell as my Swiss friends say), the boats, etc. The Swiss didn't appreciate it very much as they say it was all FAKE! hahaha...Well, I who hadn't been to the real Venice appreciated it. =) It was good, a good replica. I didn't really get to explore the Venetian but we got to play at the casino. We just wanted to try maybe bet a 10 or 20 HKD. And it was my lucky day, coz my 10HKD bet made me win 300HKD! And I no longer played after winning 300HKD. I cashed it out right away. This is enough to pay for my ferry fare! Luv it!
It was also at the Venetian that I met up with Chris. He said that he was awfully busy that day and couldn't really get the free time to show me around Macau. So he just met me and I introduced him to my companions. It was really cool, I had an English and Swiss companions. The Swisses had to leave early, and I was back to my own self again. Chris asked to take me to my next destination. I said it would be City of Dreams. Chris had a two-door car and was kind of enough to show me the little town of Tapia and then brought me to City of Dreams.
At the City of Dreams, I watched the Dragon's Treasure show at the Bubble Theater. It was a 10 min multi media show, really unique and something that I've just seen for the first time. It's not to be missed! Besides, it's free. According to their website, "This 10-minute multi-media experience combines high-definition video, a sweeping musical score and over 29,000 theatrical LED lights. This 360 degree multi-media experience was honored with the 2009 THEA Award for Outstanding Achievement." Truly amazing!

After exploring City of Dreams, I hopped on the free shuttle back to the Macau Ferry Terminal where there are free shuttle service of other casinos. I went to the Sands casino. Just passed through and got myself one bottled water. This was also free!

I then went across to Macau Fisherman's Wharf, w/c according to Wikipedia, is the first theme park in Macau. It is near the Hong Kong-Macau Ferry Pier. The construction took 5 years, before an opening ceremony by the Chief Executive of Macau and trial operation began on December 31, 2005. After one year of trial operation, the wharf was officially opened on December 31, 2006. The complex includes over 150 stores and restaurants in buildings built in the style of different world seaports such as Cape Town, Amsterdam and Venice, six rides, a slots hall, a 72-room hotel, and a casino.

It was here in the Wharf that I met two Pinoys. They were workers in Macau and were on their day off. Since I had a camera, I offered to take pictures of them and they were so nice to accompany me and take pics of me on my cam. =)

After wharf, I wanted to go back to Senado Square and explore the areas around there where according to Ate Ging sold really nice shoes at bargain prices. And then maybe buy some more pasalubongs. So I did get to buy some pasalubongs but not shoes...

It was beginning to get dark already and since I so wanted to see the lights of the casinos, I really stayed up till 8PM. And took pics of the night lights. I just wanted to feel Vegas-y! I went inside Wynn as they say there is a beautiful fountain show and a dragon show inside. Unfortunately my camera's batt was fully drained so I never got to take pics of these.

After watching these shows at Wynn, I then took off to the Macau Ferry Terminal for my trip back to Hongkong, where I will meet up with my colleague in DB London named NIck, who will be working permanently at the DB Hongkong office. He was going to take me out for some drinks in the Wan Chai area, to which he said was more of like the Burgos area in Makati. Hmmm.... Well, I was pretty sure I will see Pinoys in this area and yes I did, a bartender and some ladies of the night. This makes me sad seeing this kind of girls.

I met up with Nick at Four Season's Hotel where he was staying. And then we headed off to Wan Chai area.

If I could recall so well we went to four bars that night. I had one pint of beer at the first bar. I think I got really drunk that night but I was still able to hold me myself and able to get back to my hostel in complete piece. It was during this hang out with Nick that he told me was getting married and he hasn't told anyone yet! OMG! I was so honored! He was going to make the announcement soon so I just better zip my mouth till that official announcement comes out. Congrats! Finally!

I went home taking the cab, as I was from travelling from Hongkong island to Kowloon, I paid a good deal of the taxi fare. I probably got home at around 2am.

Day2 - The Peak, Ocean Park, Night Market (July 29, 2010)

First stop was The Peak, one of the not to be missed tourist spots in HK. You haven't been to HK if you've never been to The Peak. It gives you a good view of the city and truly an amazing view. Since we were on Kowloon island and The Peak was on the Hong Kong island, we took the ferry to cross to the other side. Our landlady accompanied us on this trip. She had suggested we took the bus to go up to The Peak. But the bus never came, so we took the other option w/c was the tram. Oh I was excited to take the tram! I've never been able to ride one! According to their website, "the venerable Peak Tram is, as most passengers agree, the only way to truly experience the beauty of Hong Kong's natural wonders. Tens of millions of people from every corner of the globe have taken the ride, which affords a uniquely spectacular perspective of the city." I sooo agree!

Since that day the weather was a bit foggy, it was truly cold up on The Peak. Good thing I brought a cardigan with me. When we got off the tram, there were souvenir items for sale that greeted us and so we couldn't resist but start our pasalubong shopping. I got a tip from my friends that the prices were just as good as buying them from the night market so might as well do the shopping while there's time.
After this, we went around and took a lot of pictures with a background of the HK city below. Actually the view up makes the buildings so much closer. I bet the view would've been better at night. An hour before lunch we went down via the tram again and we were off to our next destination, Ocean Park. According to Wikipedia - the Ocean Park Hongkong is a marine mammal park, oceanarium, and animal theme park, situated in Wong Chuk Hang and Nam Long Shan in the Southern District of Hong Kong. Founded in 1977 by the then Governor of Hong Kong Sir Murray MacLehose, Ocean Park has now grown to about 35 attractions and rides. The park has won several awards, including The World's Seventh Most Popular Amusement Park and 33rd Most Visited Tourist Attractions in the World by Forbes. So it wasn't to be missed by the young and young at heart. The park was really huge, so wide that a half day wasn't enough to explore it. Too bad we missed a lot of the nice spots. We didn't miss though the very exciting rides - The Mine Train, The Abyss, and The Dragon. If you enjoy parks like this, give it one whole day to explore. It surely is worth your money.

We headed back to the city around 430PM. We had to hurry as my sister still wanted to go back to Citygate and my mom was keen on seeing the night market and maybe buy a few. Their flight to Cebu was at 12MN. So when we got back to our hostel, all we did was packed the remaining things (as we had already did the major packing the night before). We went to the nearest night market from our hostel. We got some good buys on tshirts and a nice fake wallet w/c was first priced expensively. You really have to haggle at these night markets. They just overpriced them for tourists. And if you're so gullible, unlucky you. We got back to our hostel and got our luggages and headed off to Citygate. Citygate is just near the airport. It is located approximately 10 minutes from the airport. It is right outside the Tung Chung MTR station exit B. Sis and I got good buys from Esprit, Nike or Adidas(was it?) and New Balance. =) We were now happy happy with what we got. Mom, sis and sis' bf had to take the airport express to get to the airport fast. From the Tung Chung station, we went to Tsing Yi station where the airport express line is. The trip took around 20-25 mins from Tung Chung to Tsing Yi to airport. It was fast. We were able to do a lot on that day. So all went home happy. =)

I went back to the hostel and had to prepare for day trip to Macau the next day.

Day1 - Ngong Ping 360, Disneyland, Citygate Outlets (July 28, 2010)

Finally, I am able to find time to write on our HK trip last July.

So officially Day 1 w/ mom, sis and sis' bf was July 28. We first went to Ngong Ping 360 and to get there you need to take their cable car. It was the longest cable car trip I've ever experienced. We took the crystal cabin - a bit pricey than the ordinary but it was all worth it though. Since the weather at that time was not sunny,ie cloudy and windy our cable was swaying most of the time! Kinda scared the hell of us! hahaha... When we got off, it was showering a bit. So we just toured the area, took pictures and just looked at the Big Buddha from the foot. Mom was not keen on going up the stairs and so was sis. It was already raining and I couldn't really convinced them to go up. We went back and took the cable car ride. We had lunch at Citygate Outlets and were able to do a bit of shopping in Giordano. The Citygate outlets is not to be missed by any shopaholic. If I just had much moolah, I could have bought a lot!
We didn't really stay long as we still had to go to Disneyland. The rain has not stopped and the clouds were very dark and ready to release a big big splash on earth. tsk tsk. All I could do was say a prayer. But Nature is nature, you just can't stop its course. So it did rain and rained hard in Disneyland. We didn't get to see all the attractions unfortunately. Nevertheless, we still had fun. It was a good experience. The HK Disneyland as they say can be toured around, in all corners in a day or less, less if you're not in a hurry and you don't like to buy souvenirs. It's not as huge as the other Disneylands. For anyone who'd like to go there, do keep in mind - wear comfy footwear, bring umbrella to protect you from the sun/rain, put on sunblock, wear sunglasses / hats, study the map and know where to start, where to go. And do not miss the fireworks display at night. =)

Christmas Away From Home

Christmas 2010 is the first Christmas I spent away from home, Cebu and away from my family. I felt a bit sad really. I didn't realize that I would somehow feel loneliness in my heart even with close friends and relatives around. Nothing compares to spending Christmas with your family. =) I sooo miss them already...
On the good side though, I got to experience how other people also spend their Christmas. It was a nice experience yesterday/today. I so love the food, the turkey especially! And I love what I got from my cuz, a Tory Burch shoulder bag. Just the right color I needed. I don't have a brown bag. Super thanks to my Ate. Babawi ako. Promise.

I thank the Lord Almighty for my cuz Te Ging and her hubby Kuya Tyler. It was a splendid Christmas eve. I thank both for letting me into their home and into their hearts.

Tomorrow, I will be in my other relatives here in Manila. I've spent two New Year's with them, and it has been good. Though the last wasn't really the best...Anyway, I am looking forward to eating the home cooked food of my Auntie Celia. =)

I can't wait to be home in Cebu in the next 2 days. Haaay, this is life. But I love life and I want to live it fully!

May your hearts be filled with peace, love and joy this Christmas season. =)

My Dreams

Before the clock strikes 1AM, let me write my dreams, let me declare them on the worldwide web.

I've been inspired by Bo Sanchez saying how he wrote his dreams and that he never really cared if they ever came true, but they actually did! I have been inspired by Yvette saying that writing them down and looking at them (if they are on pictures) or reading them so often could actually come true!

So here are my dreams, wildest, craziest ... I don't care! These are mine.

I dream of travelling the world - going around Asia, Europe, Americas, Oceania, or even reaching the North Pole. I dream of having friends from all corners of the world.

I dream of being a wonderful wife, a loving wife, the best wife to a wonderful, God-fearing and responsible husband, the most handsome man my eyes has ever laid. =)

I dream of being the best mother my kids could ever wish for! I dream of reading bedtime stories to them, playing with them and watching them grow to become lovely people who'll make a difference in this world.

I dream of a happy family! The best family in the world. The best company in times of sadness and joy.

I dream of owning a wonderful abode, w/ a nice garden and a modest library! It's a house I will always call home.

I dream of being able to help others in need - a scholarship to a deserving kid, donations to charitable institutions and the Church.

I dream of a family travel - my parents and siblings, extended families, nieces and nephews and my own family too!

I dream of owning properties that could provide me passive income and that I no longer will toil day and night, or work till my eyes drop out.

I dream of a lovely Philippines, where people from all over the world will always want to come back and never get tired of its sheer beauty.

I dream that these dreams do come true!!! =) May God bless them.

I thought it was over...

I thought this "part" of our friendship is over. I thought "last year" was never ever going to happen again. I only realize now that there's this part of me that was still holding on to the past. I wasn't fully letting go. And it dawned on me now that I am just as weak as anyone in this planet earth. I am capable of breaking my own rules. I could be bad, wicked and dirty. I admit I can be blamed for why it happened again. I admit I have created a suitable and convenient atmosphere for these things. So don't blame yourself wholly. And if I decide to make irreversible decisions, and harsh, I might add, I want to say sorry in advance. It will hurt. I will hurt, too, as much as it'll hurt you. But this has got to stop. I have to stop it. Otherwise, unexpected things will happen. And I don't want to be surprised. And I don't want to say, I have regretted knowing you. Because the truth is, I am happy our paths have crossed. What I just don't want to happen is I concluding that having met you is a big mistake.

This an exciting episode in my life. It will be something that will make it's way to my life story. But I am not sure it will be something I can share to my children and grandchildren. Yet I hope I will be able to, and I just have to decide to make a happy ending to this episode. I so look forward to the day this episode ends. I know in my mind that this is up to me. Honestly, I just don't have the courage to end it, to put that PERIOD. No buts, no ifs, no commas, no semi-colons. Because I fear I might not have the tenacity to hold on to my final decision.

Please, please GOD help me...

Please, please dear friend, let me go...

People are People by D Sound

A fave song...

Speaks so much of what's in my mind @ d moment...

>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>

I am the one
who believes in all that you say
I am the one
who never wants to define herself
I am the one
who's parallel, upfront, behind
I am the one
paddling like crazy through the night

Refine, old time, colorblind
Big sign, do time, doesn't rhyme
A lot, too much, standing tall
And I'm crying in the valley:
"I shall never, ever fall!" and

People are people
and I feel so strong
People are people and I'm
going on

People are people
and I feel so strong
People are people and I'm
going on

I am the one
who stirs it up every time
I am the one
who never knows how close she is
I am the one
who'd rather be dead than confess
I am the one
trying to be good, wanting to be bad and so on

Excess, temptress, big mess
Phony, lonely, it's a test
Be still my heart, don't you fail
And I'm crying on the stage floor:
“I will always prevail!” and

People are people
and I feel so strong
People are people and I'm
going on

People are people
and I feel so strong
People are people and I'm
going on

I'm going on…

My Eat Love Pray poses

On a lazy Monday, no work, UK and Phil holiday, I took pics of me reading my recent book purchase, Eat Pray Love, a book that I love and would recommend to my women and girl friends. These are not lovely pictures....i know!!!

NB - Day 1 of HK trip soooon....when I have the time and energy to write... sorry...

HK Arrival (July 27, 2010 around 930PM)

I arrived at the HK Intl Airport on Jul 27,2010 around 930pm. It was my first visit to Hong Kong. And my first out of the country trip in 2 yrs. The last was still in 2008 when I was sent to London for training. So I was super excited about this trip. One, I'm travelling on the plane to and from HK alone. Two, I will be joined by my mom and this is her first trip abroad. My sis and her bf are on this trip as well. Three, this our first time in HK (and hopefully not the last!).

The HKIA is huge, as expected. People have been telling me how extremely huge their airport is and that anyone could get lost. Well, I didn't get lost. The directions are everywhere in the airport. And one other thing that would tell you HKIA is huge is that you need to ride the train to get from one terminal to the other. Once you deplane, you really won't worry about where to go. Just follow the rest of the passengers. Trust me, not all of them are on their first trip to HK. ;) Then we took our checked in luggages and headed to the Immigration counters. It took a while for me at the immigration line not because the officer suspects me to be a hooker or a drug dealer but becuase the woman ahead of me was being asked with a lot of questions. And that included how much money she had. Now I don't want to stew any stories about why she was questioned that way. Anyway, when it was my turn, it took no more than 2 minutes. The next thing I did was go find where I can buy my Octopus card. My natural insticts told me go with where the other tourists were headed. Oh yes, I saw a bunch of tourists approached this corner where you can find free tourist maps and brochures. And right next to it was a counter where you can buy the Octopus card. The Octopus card is the equivalent of your Oyster (London) or your EZ link card (Singpaore). It is a very convenient card as you can use it on the trains, buses and even in 7-11 stores. Trust me, it saves you enormous time if you use this. I bought the 150HKD value card w/ 50HKD refundable deposit. After getting my Octopus card, I needed to make a phone call to our host as I have to get the exact direction to their guesthouse. Our host told me that there were public phones at the airport where you can make free calls. I asked the lady at the Octopus counter and she was kind enough to show me where these phones are located. They were just 30 steps away from the counter. So I made the phone call, and I was told to get off at the second bus stop and I should find a 7-11 store then some 10 steps from it would be the Lucky House building where I will be staying for the next 3 days. Mom, Sis and bf were already there. Next thing to do was board a bus and head to the city. I just followed the directions for public transport and there I was finally where the buses were waiting. I took the A22 Citybus and this should take me to the Lucky House near Jordan MTR. Just to be very sure, I asked the bus driver if this was going to stop near Jordan MTR. I am not sure what was his answer but to me it seemed like a YES. It took a while to get me to destination, I think it took some 45 mins or 50 minutes, basta less than an hour. And the fare was 39HKD. Other options for transport were the taxis and the Airport express (train). Taxis were expensive and that is absolutely not an option for me. The Airport express is also convenient, I heard. But then for me the very practical thing was the bus. Aside from the fact that it was cheap. The airport buses had spaces for luggages which were conveniently located near the doors. So I placed mine there and took my seat near a Chinese guy in business suit who was endlessly speaking to someone on his cellphone and a Chinese girl who was dozing off to sleep. The ride was I must say quite long and all I felt then was agitation. Ahh the beautiful feeling when it's your first time! ;) I was to get off at the second bus stop after the tollgate. So after feeling that I was so near to my bus stop, I stood up and went to to the driver and just said "Jordan MTR". (Why would I need to say it in a full sentence when he didn't understood English) I learned on the next few days that I what I did was against the law. Never ever speak to the bus driver while the bus is in motion! I could be penalized for it. But thankfully, I wasn't. Well the driver was very kind I suppose. I couldn't understand him since he was speaking in Chinese. But when it was my bus stop, he just pointed to the door. And so off I went out. My marker was a 7-11 store, which I found and then I knew I was near to my destination when I decided to do next best thing, ask someone. I asked a guy selling magazines where Lucky House was. And he told me, (good thing he can speak English) pointing to the building on his back, the very building where he was selling his magazines outside. He pointed me to the entrance, so I went inside. I took the elevator and pressed 4 because that where the guesthouse is, it's on the 4th floor. When I went outside, I couldn't believe my eyes - laundry hanging, unpainted, rusty insides of the building. It spelled dirty and old. I didn't expect that these old buildings in HK look this old and dirty. Well, why should I expect the better or the best when the price I paid for this accomodation was very cheap? I learned later on from my housemates and some Swiss travelers I met that their hostels were also on very old buildings. I guess that's just how they are.

My sister and her bf met me at the "lobby" of the Lucky House since I couldn't find Flat 4M. And boy, I was glad to see my mom and sister...we talked and shared experiences. My mom and company just came from Macau and had a rainy episode at the Avenue of Stars watching the Symphony of Lights.

All tired and sleepy, we called it a night and snored our way to sleep...

Up next, DAY 1.

Katharine McPhee ft Zachary Levi - Terrified

Sneak Preview of our HK-Macau trip

Here's a sneak preview of our HK-Macau trip on July 27-31.

The whole 4 days wasn't all sunny. The HK weather forecast was darn right! It rained on the day we were in Disneyland. =( But the good thing was the fireworks display pushed through.

We did a bit of shopping! We luv our finds! Super sale...=)

Mom rode the Space Mountain, and survived it!

My Macau solo trip was the best! I won 300hkd on the slot machine at the Venetian Casino. I met some people, who made my trip all the more fun.

Everyone was happy! We had the widest grins in the whole world.

This is it!

This is it! My first out-of-the-country trip this year. I'm off to Hongkong with my mom and sister for a 4-day vacay. Mom and Sis (and her bf) are already there. Currently, they are enjoying Macau! I'm flying out at 710pm and this would be my first plane trip abroad alone! Excitement and nervousness are circulating my whole body now. I'm praying for a safe and truly amazing trip. I'm praying for Haring Araw to shine brightly this week especially in Hongkong but I don't mind light to medium showers here in Manila. Angat Dam needs a whole lot of water!

This would be my Mom's first trip abroad and I just want her to enjoy. This is actually my 60th bday gift to her. =) And I know she's very happy today!

Dear God, please make this trip truly memorable and joyous for all of us. Thank you.

my first 10k run!

I had my first 10k run last July 24 at the DKS Fun Run, a run for the benefit of the Savings Sights program of ERIS.

And I didn't expect to feel this much accomplished. I thought we'd finish it in 1:30 hr or more but we clocked in at 1:18hr. It's "we" because I had a buddy. Yes a buddy. And it really does help if you have a buddy in your runs especially if you're running a certain distance for the first time. Although we weren't running all the way (we walked a bit for say some 30 sec at certain points), but still it was an accomplishment. So happy that a 10k run is not impossible at all. I wish to run more 10ks in the future, then progress to a 21k and hopefully a full marathon! =)

Congratulations to all the finishers! Most importantly we were able to help the blind kids and give them a chance to see a brighter future.

Team W.Rec.K Runners

My team in the office is also my running team, isn't that cool? =)

When Lactacyd sponsored an all-women run race, me and my officemates/friends/runningmates decided to sign up for the relay. It will be a 21k distance with the 1st runner doing the 10k stretch, the 2nd for the 5k, the 3rd and 4th runners doing 3k each. Naturally, the 10k went to Yvette, being the fastest and most healthy amongst us. Then I took the 5k, Ruby and Beth did the 3k's.

What was also "cute" for this race was that there was a Best in Costume award. The teams can dress up any way they like so long as they use the official singlets. We had a lot of ideas but we ended up donning a cheerleader costume. We were in skirts of pink and white. And we had pompoms. We ran our distances in our costumes (and that includes the pompoms!). Some other teams were really creative - they had tutus, dressed up as women in generation (i.e. woman-baby, woman-teen, woman-preggy, woman-granny), dressed up as French ladies, etc. The top prize for the relay was a whopping 70 thousand pesoses plus gift certificates. And obviously if this was the prize at stake expect seasoned runners to be joining the relay. And as for us, recreational runners, we just settled for the fun and experience we gained from the event. At least we didn't finished last. =)

Team Woman Run by Lactacyd was last June 27 at McKinley Hill. (Yeah, the uphills really killed me.)

Celebrities I spotted were Iza Calzado, Tessa Prieto, and Rovilson Fernandez. I didn't see Karylle and Robin Da Roza but they were there.

Our team finished with a time of 2:27:34. I finished my 5k in (a disappointing) 37 mins. Not an improvement from my previous time. So I am a bit sad, but then what can I expect when I didn't really practice enough. And I was afraid the "blackout" spells will happen again. On the bright side, I was happy overall as we ranked 63rd among the 84 teams that joined. As I said we weren't last! And we finished the race, with no one hurt. And most importantly, we looked so darn cute in our pink and white ensemble.

Superduper saya!!!

Go Team W.Rec.K Runners! Till the next relay.

Addicted!

Adik! That's what a friend of mine said to me whenever I say I'm joining another fun run. hahaha... I must admit, she's right! I am addicted to running and so is she (hahaha) Kasama ko kya cya sa mga runs na yun.

Anyway, in May alone, I joined a total of 3 fun runs, almost one run a week.
May 16 - Chase the Sun,Neutrogena
May 23 - San Mig Coffee Bay Run
May 30 - Nature Valley Run

My PRs for the above were, 22mins (3k), 38mins(5k), 42mins (5k). Kinda slow but mind you in those 2 runs, I never walked (yah maybe I did a lil on Nature Valley). I just did a slow pace, just jogging not really minding my time but more of endurance.

I'm pretty happy with the outcomes that's why this June, I am signing up for 2 fun runs. And I'm running all 5k! My target is 30mins. I'll be putting speedwork into my runs this time.

It's kinda funny, when a month ago, I said to myself I probably will never move up to the next level. Running/jogging is just not for me. It weakens my legs and I just couldn't run straight for 15 mins. But it all changed when one night while running around the Boni High Street outer circle, I was able to run 3 rounds w/o stopping. I used the technique my unnamed coach told me - running is also a mind game, think beautiful thoughts when you run. Your body will tell you to stop but try to fight it if you can. Amazingly, I was able to do it! =)

I wanna keep on running and running. My dream is to run a marathon by the time I'm 30. And I wanna run the NYC and London marathons. If things go well, then maybe Boston Marathon. hehehe...why not? Anything is possible!

Adik!!!

Love Yourself. Be True to Yourself.

Bo Sanchez's blog post is just too long... So I'll just post the link... It's a really nice article. It made me feel good about myself, of what I have and of what I have not.

HaPPY reAding!

http://bosanchez.ph/be-true-to-yourself/

Run

True to one of my New Year's resolution, I started getting involved in running. I do hope I could really keep this up! I seriously need to lose weight. This started out with joining the Century Tuna's Superbods Run. It was just all for fun. My roommates and I have never really joined a fun run, and we just wanted to experience it (something we can add to our stories for our grand kids, and FB updates of course). And believe it or not, it is addicting! Then my friends from work wanted to join too and wanted to regularized our running activities,like we jog on TTH at Boni High Street. My second fun run was the Earth Day run by NatGeo. My time improved, from 30 mins (CT run) to 25 mins (Natgeo). Not bad, eh! Then I joined the PGH run, which was a different experience also. I had an instant running coach! He just came from out of nowhere. Turns out he was just a regular in that area, was just doing his usual jog. Oh well, I was glad he chose to coach me. Learned lots from him. :)I didn't improve my time in this run though, but that was okay, coz if I had been a bit faster, I wouldn't have met him. No names were given. No exchange of numbers. Don't know if I'll ever meet him again. But thanks, coach! whoever you are. My next run is in the next 2 weeks. That's the Neutrogena run. Then I have another one on the 30th of May. I will be running 5k! First time in history! The others were just 3k.

Well, we all start slow, and short distances but we will always get there in time. =) Then we get faster, farther...

Run now!!!

Predictions for B I S D A K S frenz

Here's my predictions for my Manila-based Cebuano friends in the next 2/3 years...

Let's do this by household.

J and R are starting to develop special feelings for each other. At first they keep this a secret to the group. But then nothing as special like this will be a secret for a long time. The group are happy for them.

F will finally have his wish of a baby girl.

MC will move to Canada. He's seeing a Chinese-Canadian lady.

H will try to work thing out with luvz B.

E and new beau will start their wedding preps. Everybody is invited to the wedding in Cebu!

L will finally realize that there's no hope for her and Ct. But some guy is trying to win her heart.

Ct still won't have a gf, but the group still will question his sexuality. Are Ct and housemate an item? Whatever his preference, we still luv him.

C will be very very active with her Christian community. She'll be able to convince housemate B to join.

B will break up with current beau. Career will be her priority.

K and M will have a baby.

E will get back with ex. Ex will finally move to Manila.

Ch will still be single and will be very serious with hobby photography and he will make money from it.

Bh will still be single. And she'll get another chance to travel to Europe.

Jo will propose to gf. Wedding will be in the next year after year of proposal.

P will vacay in Oz. He's seeing a wonderful girl.

And as for me, ahmmm, I will still be based in Manila. Someone is making me smile. I will be able to enjoy a vacay in a faraway land.

so there they are!!! I'm uber excited next year to check if any of these will come true.

Stuck With You by Huey Lewis

A favorite song...
Someday, somehow, I'm gonna be singing this song...
And I wish it comes sooner than I think..

We've had some fun, and yes we've had our ups and downs
Been down that rocky road, but here we are, still around
Thought about someone else, but neither one took the bait
Thought about breaking up, but now we know it's much too late
We are bound by all the rest
Like the same phone number
All the same friends
And the same address

Yes, it's true, I'm happy to be stuck with you
Yes, it's true, I'm so happy to be stuck with you
Because I can see that you're happy to be stuck with me

We've had our doubts, but we never took them seriously
And we've had our ins and outs, but that's the way it's supposedto be
Thought about giving up, but we could never stay away
Thought about breaking up, but now we know it's much too late
And it's no great mystery
If we change our minds
Eventually, it's back to you and me

Yes, it's true, I'm happy to be stuck with you
Yes, it's true, I'm so happy to be stuck with you
Because I can see that you're happy to be stuck with me

We are bound by all the rest
Like the same phone number
All the same friends
And the same address

Yes, it's true, I'm happy to be stuck with you
Yes, it's true, I'm so happy to be stuck with you
Because I can see that you're happy to be stuck with me

I'm so happy to be stuck with you
I'm happy to be stuck with you
I'm happy to be stuck with you

29th

So I just turned 29 yesterday...

Wow! I have lived this long on earth! I couldn't believe I'm so near to 30, that age when most people have accomplished a lot in their lives - traveled to a lot of places, owned a condo unit or a car, starting a family of their own, etc. And when I reflect on my own life and see how much I have accomplished, I could only sigh. Sigh for the reason that I still don't have my own car or house, haven't traveled enough, and have nothing on my savings account (though, I have been paying for insurance and pension plans, would they count?). I haven't really achieved much. I don't have that wow position in the company I work for. I'm just plain ordinary 29 year old woman, with no boyfriend. But you know, I don't actually feel poor and helpless. And that's what I realized yesterday, the 24th of March, my birthday - that I am uberly and richly blessed. When I count the wealth I have accumulated over the years - the friends I've made, the people I've met, the experiences I had, the family that I have - it's immeasurable. I can only thank the God Almighty for taking good care of me, for giving me all these blessings. Amen.

Love love love (Dear John and The Time Traveler's Wife)

Love love love is my theme this weekend. Saturday night we watched Dear John, an adaptation of Nicholas Sparks' novel of the same title starring yummy Channing Tatum and the pretty Amanda Seyfried. It was indeed a tear-jerker, emotion-filled, and so luv-full. What more can you expect from Nicholas Sparks? :) But then since I have already read the book, the movie didn't bring me much tears. Still, it didn't fail to capture my heart. I should say the essential emotions and the poignant parts of the book were captured in the movie, although some parts were altered. The ending itself was different from how it ended in the book. In the book, it wasn't mentioned that Tim died and that Savannah and John reunited. The book had a rather sad ending but the movie didn't. Well then, it's always like that. The books are never the same as on the movies. I'd also like to add that when you have already read the book and then you watch the movie after, expect that it won't really affect you as much as how it was when you're reading it. If I hadn't read Dear John beforehand, I'd have cried buckets of tears like my friends who watched with me.

This weekend too I have finally finished reading The Time Traveler's Wife. Finally, after a month with me! And what can I say? It's a wonderfully written book. Intensely romantic and sexy. Niffeneger is truly an artist. The way she uses words and how she describes the situation, the event, the place, the emotions - it's just fantastic. I am looking forward to reading her novel, Her Fearful Symmetry.

I am still trying to get hold of a copy of the movie, The Time Traveler's Wife. When I was reading the book, it's Eric Bana's face and body that comes to mind. It's his voice I hear. So I really do want to watch the movie and just want to know if he was able to give justice to the Henry character. As to Clare's character, I am unsure if Rachel McAdams was the right actress to portray her but then again her sweetness in The Notebook was undeniably just right for the young Clare.

So yeah, I do recommend watching and reading both books. Surely not to be missed for someone who loves to read! ;)

Happy love month!

Vanilla Twilight by Owl City (Oh i luv this!)

Lyrics | Owl City lyrics - Vanilla Twilight lyrics

2010

What do I want to accomplish on this year of the Metal Tiger? Here's my simple list:

Family travels
This year, I want my travels to be with my family. Be it a trip with my siblings or a trip with my parents or the most bongga would be a trip with the whole family. I already have a planned trip in July, and that's in Hongkong with my mom and sis. I wish and pray hard it'll be one safe, fun and truly memorable trip. This would be my mom's first trip abroad. I also pray she'll be healthy enough for this.

Career
I am still hoping that the pay raise and bonus would be enough to make me stay with my present employer. I still do wish to stay another year.
I want to deepen my knowledge regarding my job. So I wanna read books, articles etc about it.

Friendships and Love
I've really built stronger bonds with friends this year. And I've added a few more to this roster. On love? I guess this is the most unexpected thing in '09. It's complicated and one that I vow to uncomplicate this 2010. In simple words, END it. Yes, END that which makes it wrong and complicated. And I hope a new love comes and makes it easy to do.

Faith and God
I still want to keep my relationship with God. Go on reading the Bible. Continue those prayer times. Spend much more time with Him alone. In my busy and chaotic life, a moment with Him allows me to think straight and clear, and veer me away from danger.

Health
Be very vigilant when it comes to what I put into my mouth! Really, I want to avoid meat as much as possible. Eat more veggies and fruits. Exercise a lot! I plan to enroll in a dance class. Jogging and badminton should be done more often.

Childhood dreams
Now is the best time to start fulfilling my childhood dreams.

Money! Wealth!
Saving money has never been a walk in the park for me. In the past years, I've always made this my new year's resolution and I always failed. This year, I want to achieve it!!!! Credit card debt at end of the year should go down to PHP1k! Bank savings at an undisclosed amount (but I did mention this in my resolution '07).

And those are all of it! My fingers are crossed. I can do this!!! Help me, God.

The Year That Was...2009

I'd like to reflect the year that went by, 2009. The past year had indeed been colorful, and difficult and intriguing and I may add interesting too.

Laag-wise, I've been to more places this year than ever. Though I wasn't able to go outside Pinas, but yeah this year is my most travelled year. Here's a list of the places I've been to:
1 - Baguio (2nd time)
2 - Puerto Galera
3 - Anawangin
4 - Mt Arayat, Pampanga
5 - San Jose, Nueva Ecija
6 - CamSur Water Complex
7 - Star City, Pasay
8 - Boracay
Not too many, I realized but when compared to the previous years, 2009 tops. Also, this is my most sociable year - went to a lot of parties and met new people. But sad to say, of these new people I met no one was really love material. :P
On the love aspect, I don't know how I should say it... It is not worth sharing the details. My principles were put to a test. It's a complicated situation. It is one I never imagined myself being caught in. I just hope that for 2010, I will have the courage to uncomplicate it. I pray so hard for this.

Family-wise, lots of good and bad things happened. My sis Cha shifted course in college, not sure if this is bad or good. But I think it is both. Christine got a real job as a nurse. But she failed her NCLEX. Mama was able to travel to Manila alone (considering that last year she could hardly walked on her own) but later of the year, she got hospitalized which got all of us very worried. My bro sold his car. Finally he realized it's just too expensive to maintain one. And he bought himself a DSLR, instead. Lola wasn't able to go home on a night. She probably got lost on the way home. This is something we still don't know what to do to prevent it. My lola is already "ulyanin". :(
One good thing anyway for me was that I was able to spend both Christmas and New Year in Cebu with my family after 2 yrs of spending only Christmas with them.

Friends? I got new set of really good friends this 2009. I mean really good ones, ones you can keep forever. I had new set of housemates and neighbors. Sometimes, life had not been easy with them but all in all I learned something from them; underscoring my belief that each person is a lesson.

2009 had indeed been an eventful and controversial year. Good and bad things happened. The good to keep me smiling and hoping. The bad to make me strong and to make me declare I have truly lived and loved!

Thank you and goodbye 2009, hello 2010!

I got a book this Christmas!

I love books, so uber in love with them! So that if I am able to purchase a new one or if I receive it as a gift, my spirits shoot up to the high heavens! This Christmas, I am thankful to my manito/friend/neighbor Julius for giving me the book - The Time Traveller's Wife. I wasn't really expecting to get hold of this. It is quite pricey and the minimum budget of our kris kringle was 200 pesos. But my manito is richey! So what is a little over 200 pesos in excess of the minimum?! I actually had 3 choices in my wishlist - Body Shop GC, TTTW,or USB storage device. I don't know why he decided TTTW. But I am glad he did! Thanks again Juls!:)

I brought the book with me on my Cebu vacation. I was really early at the airport so the book was such a good companion while waiting for my flight. I've read 1/16 of the book and I can say it is indeed a good one. I like the way that the story is told in alternating first-person perspective of the two main characters - Clare and Henry. The author's way of writing is so descriptive, so full of emotions. You could really feel the intensity of love, frustration, heartache, and longing. Read below a brief description of the book from Wikipedia. (Btw, there's a film version of the book. I am dying to watch it. Still looking for where I can find it - pirated copy from the net or DVD/VCD).

The Time Traveler's Wife, published in 2003, is the debut novel of American author Audrey Niffenegger. It is a love story about a man with a genetic disorder that causes him to time travel unpredictably, and about his wife, an artist, who has to cope with his frequent absences and dangerous experiences. Niffenegger, frustrated in love when she began the work, wrote the story as a metaphor for her failed relationships. The tale's central relationship came to her suddenly and subsequently supplied the novel's title. The novel, which has been classified as both science fiction and romance, examines issues of love, loss, and free will. In particular, it uses time travel to explore miscommunication and distance in relationships, while also investigating deeper existential questions.

As a first-time novelist, Niffenegger had trouble finding a literary agent. She eventually sent the novel to MacAdam/Cage unsolicited and, after an auction took place for the rights, Niffenegger selected them as her publisher. The book became a bestseller after an endorsement from author and family friend Scott Turow on The Today Show, and as of March 2009 had sold nearly 2.5 million copies in the United States and the United Kingdom. Many reviewers were impressed with Niffenegger's unique perspective on time travel. Some praised her characterization of the couple, applauding their emotional depth; others criticized her writing style as melodramatic and the plot as emotionally trite. The novel won the Exclusive Books Boeke Prize and a British Book Award.

Can't wait to finish reading TTTW.

I leave you with this quote: "Why is love intensified by absence?" Clare.

Romance Revisited

One of the nicest, bestest gifts I got this Christmas is the 'Romance Revisited The Love Songs of Jose Mari Chan' CD of Christian Bautista. Last time, I posted that I saw Christian in person. So it is such a wonderful thing to receive his latest album as a gift. I have listened to it so many times and I am just in awe of Christian's voice and the romantic tone of it. There is truly no other singer who can rightfully sing Jose Mari Chan's songs but Christian Bautista.


Thanks a lot to my roommie Helena for giving me that CD! Luv u dai Lena! May you be blessed immensely this 2010. I know what you're wishing and hoping for. May God bless your heart and dreams!

why

why do i still have questions i wanna ask? why do i still want to spend a few moments with you alone? why does it pain me that you have kept your distance when that was what i had asked? why am i missing you? WHY??!!!!

WHY (Avril Lavigne)

Why, do you always do this to me
Why, couldn't you just see it through me
How come, you act like this
Like you just don't care at all
Do you expect me to believe
I was the only one to fall

I can feel I can feel you near me
Even though you're far away
I can feel I can feel you baby
Why

It's not supposed to feel this way
I need you I need you
More and more each day
It's not supposed to hurt this way
I need you I need you I need you
Tell me

Are you and me still together
Tell me
Do you think we could last forever
Tell me
Why


Hey
Listen to what we're not saying
Let's play
A different game then what we're playin'
Try
To look at me and really see my heart
Do you expect me to believe, I'm gonna let us fall apart

I can feel I can feel you near me
Even when you're far away
I can feel I can feel you baby
Why

It's not supposed to feel this way
I need you I need you
More and more each day
It's not supposed to hurt this way
I need you I need you I need you
Tell me

Are you and me still together
Tell me
You think we could last forever
Tell me
Why

so go and think about
whatever you need to think about
Go on dream about
Whatever you need to dream about
Then come back to me
When you know just how you feel, you feel

I can feel I can feel you near me
Even though you're far away
I can feel I can feel you baby
Why

It's not supposed to hurt this way
I need you I need you
More and more each day
It's not supposed to hurt this way
I need you I need you I need you
Tell me

It's not supposed to hurt this way
I need you I need you
More and more each day
It's not supposed to hurt this way
I need you I need you I need you
Tell me

Are you and me still together
Tell me
You think we could last forever
Tell me
Why