Getting Used To It...

I have a confession to make... Remember when I blogged about my plan of watching a marathon of movies during my Christmas vacation?  The truth is, I already took a peep at one of those movies mentioned.   About a week ago, I gave in to the temptation of checking out the movie entitled ,"If Only", as I was trying to recall if I had already seen that film before.  Well, I haven't.  Not until that one fine Sunday evening..

The movie was so touching that I cried towards the end of it.  Here's one of the memorable quotes that I can relate to:

Samantha Andrews: Ian, if I were to stay in London now, it would be for you. For us. And I would do that in a heartbeat if I knew we were really special.
Ian Wyndham: We are.
Samantha Andrews: Really? You never tell me how you feel or talk about yourself. You don't want to meet my family. You forgot my graduation. We run into my favorite student and you act as if he has something contagious.
Samantha Andrews: Ian, I know you have the best intentions, but I feel like I'm a really high second priority to you. That hurts. And the worst part is I'm starting to get used to it.
Ian Wyndham: I don't understand.
Samantha Andrews: I know. That's what kills me.
Samantha Andrews: If there had just been one day Ian, one day where nothing else matters but us.
Ian Wyndham: I adore you.
Samantha Andrews: I don't want to be adored, I want to be loved.
Samantha Andrews: I can't do this anymore.

 ;)

My Christmas Vacation Started Last Sunday afternoon.. and so i thought..

I was already looking forward for the afternoon of Sunday, December 19, when I was supposed to officially declare it as the start of my "Christmas vacation".  Don't get me wrong.  I did not file for an application for leave although i still have one day Special Privilege Leave (SPL) and some other accumulated leave credits left.

Anyway, when I got home last Sunday afternoon, I rested for a while, then my mama and I proceeded to Market! Market! to buy some groceries for the holidays.  Sadly, it took us two hours at the supermarket, one hour strolling around and buying some of "i-forgot" gifts, and one hour waiting for the taxi when Market! Market! is just less than 15 minutes from home.  In other words, we were exhausted afterwards but still have the energy enough to attend the Misa de Gallo at 730 o'clock that night.

As if that stress was not enough, I found out just yesterday that I have a deadline to beat which is due the following week.  I thought it would have been a week after next yet.  Waaaahh!  Will I be able to spend the Christmas vacation I so long for this season???

Merry Christmas everyone!!! :)

Why December 15 Means Something To Me..

I would never fail to reminisce the birthday of my high school crush every December 15 of the year.  Up to this time, I still giggle (minus the blush, of course!) every time my cousins and I talk about him.  The giggling act, however, was just part of my trick to taunt, if not, to annoy them. Hahahaha!  Defensive...

Actually, the last time I went home I didn't realize we were on the same plane not until we landed at the Surigao airport.  He still has the same beautiful eyes that I admire in high school.  Of course that was just an infatuation.  I just wish him and his family well.

But this post is not just all about him.  Last December 15 also happens to be our Christmas party at the office, and the night before, with the management.  We had fun, as usual.  And I'm proud to announce that I won in the trip to Jerusalem parlor game.  Hehehehe!  But it was embarrassing to admit that we made use of eggplants and male species instead of the chairs.  Now, I'm blushing...  Nonetheless, I'd like to emphasize that, despite of my 4-inch, high-heeled sandals paired with my one-piece mini black dress, I still succeeded in holding that vegetable in my hand.  Hahahaha!

On the other hand, when I arrived home that same night, I saw that people in the neighborhood were already preparing for the Misa de Gallo which will be held at the Multi-Purpose Hall.  Good thing, it was just adjacent to our building and the mass starts every 730pm.  Will I be able to complete the nine mornings, err, evenings considering the proximity of the venue, not to mention that, I don't have to wake up very early in the morning?

Hmm... we'll see...

What I Long For This Christmas

I have been to a lot of multi-tasking activities these past few weeks, even on weekends, that the word "rest", for me, is now becoming synonymous to "luxury".  Now I understand what "Christmas break" means...in every sense of the word..

I just made a mental list of what I am going to do with my "luxurious" vacation.  One of  which is  just to spend my time  relaxing while watching movies at home.  Although somebody advised not to watch "too-good-to-be-true" films anymore, I could not help it.  The hopeless romantic in me would just like to temporarily escape from harsh reality and enter the world of feel-good and make-believe stories.

Movies in my mind include:  Love Affair, Dear John, Somewhere In Time, Love Story, Legally Blonde, Fireproof, The Notebook, My Best Friend's Wedding, If Only, and Shrek.

I already watched some of these movies before but because they made me cry, in the spirit of Christmas, I would like to cry again, once more (hehehe) ;)

Gone Too Soon..

In the midst of my unimaginable major, major hectic schedule (which explains why it took me about a month to update this blog), please allow me to be sentimental just for this moment..

A realization just hit me..  That is, sometimes you'll never find out how much a person means to you not until he/she is gone...

I hate to admit it but maybe, I just took his existence and his kindness for granted... And that, I deeply regret..

Nonetheless, I am so much thankful that I found a dear friend and a kuya in him although we've known each other for  just a short while..

I don't have any right to even ask him to stay.  I just wish him all the happiness in his journey through life.

But I'm wondering, will our paths cross again.. somehow? someday?

It's Another Holiday!

Before P-Noy changes his mind, let me spread first this good news:

November 16 is a National Holiday!

Accordingly, Proclamation No. 60 was signed declaring Tuesday, November 16, 2010, as a national holiday in observance of Eid'l-Adha (Feast of Sacrifice).

Trivia (because I didn't know this before):  Eid'l-Adha is one of the two greatest feast of Islam.  (So, could it be that Eid'l Fit-r is the other one?)

This is indeed great not only for Muslims but especially for me who, once in a while, wants to take a break from work and... school.  :)

Finally!

I've been blogging for quite sometime now.  Although I do not update my blogs as frequent as I would like to, at least I still tried.  That's part of the reasons why I didn't bother to purchase my own domain.  However, it's only after I've talked recently to a fellow blogger that I was convinced to finally go ahead with it.

Hence, just a few hours ago, my application for my own domain, http://www.anythingaboutlife.com/, was approved.  My first try, which I made last week, was cancelled due to some technicalities.  Some sort of an omen, perhaps?  With that, I was hesitant to proceed as it might be telling me something.   

Actually, I'm in a situation right now (I'll reveal this later, when I'm ready) that might hinder my blogging schedule.  With this fact, buying my own domain might not be practical for now.  But then, the hard-headed child in me, prevailed..

I just hope and pray that I'll be able to make it through... :)

Spooky Halloween...

Since I was not able to go home yesterday, I spent my time auditing the Treasurer's Report prepared for our Homeowners' Association, while trying to squeeze in the task of rearranging my stuff.  I wasn't mindful of the time as I was too engrossed with doing my thing and knowing that I don't have to wake up early the following day.

Thus, I managed to surf the internet only at around 2 o'clock this am!  But at that moment, I was already aware of the fact that it's already All Saints' Day.  I was starting to get scared.  I then decided not to turn off the light all night long.  I was too afraid that I might see something in the dark.  I would just like to make sure of what that something is, just in case...

Well, the good news is that I survived the night without having any nightmares.  However, the problem now is, what about tonight?  My neighbor said I should have lighted a candle outside my unit for the souls at around 6 o'clock this evening.  It's too late now to do that.

What will I do?  For sure, tonight will be another "lights on" night...

Thanks to Angie...

At around 10pm the other night, I made a last-minute call to Air Philippines.  You see, days before that, I had already decided not to go home in time for the All Saints' Day.  But that night, out of the blue, I changed my mind.

I talked to Angie (sorry Angie, I forgot what your surname is).  I tried to negotiate for a change of flight schedule.  Since it was already late then and the approving official was no longer around, Angie advised me to call Air Philippines the following morning.  She was even accommodating enough to offer me that she'll be the one to call me instead.

True enough, she called me yesterday morning.  It was a series of calls as she was trying to update me from time to time of the status of my request.  I was already a bit panicky then as my flight to Surigao was at 1130 that morning.  Good thing, Angie was so patient with me.

In the end, my request was not granted.  Surprisingly,  I wasn't bitter.  Must be because I already expected the remote probability that it will turn out in my favor.  And/or, Angie gave me another option, that is, a full refund of my two-way ticket.

If only all customer service representatives were like Angie, the world would have been a better place to live by...

All Saint's Day Woes

I might not be able to go home next week in time for All Saints' Day.  I already bought my round-trip ticket as early as May.  However, due to circumstances beyond my control as we will be having a meeting anytime next week in preparation for another special audit engagement, I might just let go of my chance to take a short vacation in Surigao.

The problem now is, I don't want to be away from home during either All Saints' Day or All Souls' Day.  I had tried that once when I was still based in Cebu City.  It was eerie.  It seemed that the souls had their way of letting their presence known during their special day.

In my case, it was thru a nightmare.  When I woke up, all I could remember in my dream was "a message  needs to be relayed to Rose".  I don't know who Rose is.  It turned out that "Rose" actually lived in the house where I was residing at.  Until this day, the mystery has not been solved.

 On the other hand, just last year, exactly a day after All Souls' Day, the utility woman assigned in our building suddenly changed her schedule from night time to day time of collecting trash from unit owners.  We found out later that somebody poke her on the night of All Souls' Day at the 3rd floor of the building.  Nobody was around then...   It has been said that a white lady was frequently seen at the 3rd and 4th floors of our building.

Although I live at the 2nd floor, who knows that white lady might want to explore and try the lower floors?  Yay!  I guess I should now think seriously about going home...

Exercising My Right

It's almost three hours already since the Barangay Elections started.  Until now, I am still contemplating whether to go out and vote or just stay at home.  Actually, the reason why I am hesitant to go to the polling precinct is because I do not know yet if I am already a registered voter.  If you had read my last year's post, I mentioned about my struggle and even to the point of braving the typhoon just to make it to the last night (err day) of registration.

Anyway, I checked the COMELEC website and searched for name.  And I found nada.  But, I'm still hopeful.  I'm giving myself the benefit of the doubt that maybe, just maybe, COMELEC has not updated its database of registered voters.

I was told that my neighbors, with whom I was with during that fateful registration night, found their names in the list of voters and hence, they were able to vote during the May 2010 elections.  With that small piece of information, there's a spark of hope that, just like them, I might have already been successfully registered.

I guess I'll just give it a try and march to the voting center anytime before three o'clock in the afternoon. :)

By the way, should you want to verify your name at the COMELEC website, please click this.

More of Ondoy... and Hopefully the Last of It...

Before I shift to another topic, let me just finish what I started about my Ondoy experience.  Here it is:

While walking away from KFC-Guadalupe, I noticed a few public utility vehicles passing by.  This is unusual, I thought to myself.  And I started to get worried...

After about half an hour of waiting, I was able to board the first jeepney that came around.  The driver promptly informed his passengers that he would only drive as far as Market! Market! only as the road halfway to FTI was already flooded.  And I didn't have any choice...

At Market! Market!, I was already wondering why no taxicab driver would take me to my destination.  It took me another hour to find another jeepney.  And I was so glad when I was already seated, but that gladness was short-lived... 'coz we found ourselves in the middle of a heavy traffic upon entering the C5 route.

The driver returned our fares and shooed us from his jeep.  I could already hear other cars turning off their engine as traffic was no longer moving.  I followed other passengers when they alighted from the jeepney and started to walk their way home.  I guess I walked about three kilometers while making sure that the laptop I was carrying won't get wet.  I was finally relieved when I realized I was already near my residence but que horror!  I saw a body of water in front of me!  It was about waist-deep!

Scared that the laptop might get wet should I decide to cross the flood and possibly stumble upon something and do a dyesebel underwater, I opted to ride in that black rubber wheel instead and paid P20 for it.  Just when I thought that my nightmare had already ended as I was about to enter the compound, I saw another body of water in front of me.  This time it was neck-deep!

Good thing, I bumped into a neighbor.  We decided to take an improvised boat, which I later on found out that it was made of a large trash bin covered with a weak plywood.  That boat was maneuvered by a group of teens, whom I was afraid, might take advantage of the situation and do something bad to us.  We were so helpless then.  And I was already hysterical.  Our life was literally left in their bare hands..

But lo and behold!  Those streetkids safely delivered us straight to our condominium!  It surprised me that I misjudged those people who turned out to be heroes that I desperately needed that day.

Indeed, what an experience it was!

Will It Be Another Ondoy?

I was asking that question when I woke up to a rainy and dark morning a couple of hours ago.  I would have taken a hot bath then had I not thought that I might be tempted to go back to sleep thereafter.  FYI, I have been nursing my cough and colds since Saturday.  Hence, the bad weather would have been a good excuse for me to be tucked at home.  But still, I reported for work...

My hopes were high that office will be eventually suspended today.  But then, up to now I heard nothing of such news.  The online weather monitor says temperature is at 26 degrees celcius with "light rain".  From where I am sitting now, I could not see if it is still raining outside.  I don't want to underestimate light rains that's why I am a little bit worried.  I should have brought a life jacket instead of just an ordinary rain gear.

But what the heck.  This is another adventure... and I wonder what awaits me on my way home later... :)

Reminiscing Pre-Ondoy...

Exactly a year ago, Metro Manila residents woke up to a rainy morning not knowing that something extraordinary will happen later that day.  I, on the other hand, was almost tempted not to attend my 7am class that day.  But then, just thinking of my favorite teacher (hi Mr. Jovy! harharhar!), made me jumped from my bed, rushed to school and took my teacher's challenge (well, that's another story).

It was almost 1130am when we received an announcement that classes will be suspended effective 12nn.  Since our teacher gave all kinds of lame alibis he could think of just to excuse him from giving us a lecture, we were idle for more than an hour while impatiently waiting for class dismissal.

At noontime, I decided to take my lunch at KFC-Guadalupe before going home.  I was supposed to meet a friend at SM Mall of Asia but at the last minute, I backed out.  Aside from the bad weather, I was restless as I slept late the night before and woke up so early that morning.  Hence, what I desperately needed at that moment was, SLEEP.

Guess what happened on my way home? Stay tuned! :)

Looking Forward To It

Just yesterday, my officemate announced that this coming weekend, SM Mall of Asia (MOA) will be having a big sale.  I was sad that I wouldn't be around to splurge, and at the same time, enjoy the adrenaline rush of finding great bargains.  Because of that, I wasn't even interested last night to check on the print ad conspicuously posted at the activity area of MOA.

However, this morning I found out that the sale is scheduled next week yet.  Hmm... I'll make sure I (and my credit cards, of course! hahaha!) will be available by then. :)

What's Wrong?

image source: ehow.com

I was at BDO SM Mall of Asia last night.  At the last minute, I decided to open an account but was hesitant since it was already closing time.  It was already 7pm then.  But still, I tried.  Surprisingly, the New Accounts Officer politely and patiently accommodated me. I looked around and realized that I was the only client left inside the bank.

Then I remember about a week ago, I went to LBP-Baclaran and tried to open an account.  The New Accounts Officer there rudely explained that I need to show proof that I work nearby.  Since I did not bring any documents then other than my company ID and I didn't have any patience and time to argue with her, I didn't insist.  I noticed though, that while waiting for my turn, that New Accounts Officer was frowning all the time.  I took pity for other clients who transacted with her and opted to be her "helpless victim"... Nevertheless,  I just restrained myself from complaining her unjust act to the bank manager.

With what happened last night at BDO, I could not help but compare the services between the former and LBP-Baclaran.  I could also recall the time when I went to Metrobank and made some requests which the Officer cordially granted.

Question:  What's wrong?  Is that the way government employees deal with their clients?  I would understand if one transacted with local government unit and national agency employees, that's just the way it goes and we could not do something about it (unless a miracle happens).  But from government-owned and controlled corporations (GOCCs), a bank at that, where's the professionalism and corporate image that they are trying to project?  I'm just wondering...

It's Another Long Weekend Ahead

Photo source: makli.com

It was only yesterday when I asked my officemates when would the next non-working holiday be.  We were thinking of the coming barangay elections that we forgot about the "Eid ul- Fitr" or the festivities for the end of Ramadan.

Malacañang has just announced that September 10 is a non-working holiday in observance of the end of Muslims' holy month of fasting.

Although I am thankful that President Aquino signed Proclamation 26 for the said holiday, I am still disappointed that he did not declare August 23 as a non-working holiday.

The past is haunting me! Or am I?  Hehehe

So, Is It Effective?

I was surprised when Ann, my beautiful cousin (next to me, of course! hahaha!), asked me if the Extreme Power Saver, which I previously posted in this blog, is really effective.  I didn't realize somebody is interested to know about it.  Anyway, shown below is the screenshot of my recent billing history and consumption graph.  You be the judge:

Well, here's a short explanation of my consumption.  Since I bought the Extreme Power Saver sometime after I received my May 2010 bill, I decided to maximize the use of my aircon.  There my power usage increased to 101 kilowatt hours in June 2010.  Just when I decided to start saving energy, my mama visited me and stayed for three weeks at home. Of course, I gave her all the convenience that she needed even if it means increased electric cost.

It was only after mama left for Surigao that I was able to lessen my electric consumption.  Hence, that explains the sudden drop of my MERALCO due in August.  Now, I don't know if the Extreme Power Saver has something to do with it.  Again, you be the judge... :)

I'm Glad We Didn't Make It

Photo source: goway.com

About two months ago, my sister prodded me to check on the rates for a Hongkong holiday package tour.  Our travel was supposed to be scheduled either at the end of August or 1st half of September.  I even inquired thru my fellow blogger, nikki, who had recently been in Hongkong, about the cost.  She was kind enough to provide me the needed information including the contact no. of her travel agency.

However, the time in our hands was not sufficient for us to properly plan and prepare for the family trip.  I, on the other hand, was not so keen on applying for another vacation leave as I have tons of workload impatiently waiting for me at the office.

Then, it happened.  The August 23 hijacking incident at Quirino Grandstand.  Days after, we watched and listened to various horror stories about how emotional was some of the Chinese that they turned their outrage to the Filipinos in Hongkong.

So sad.  Selfish as one might think, I'm just thankful that my family and I were not able to make it to Hongkong.. :)

Public Humiliation...

Imagine that you are being reprimanded in public.  What would you feel?  Even parents are not advised to do that to their kids.  What more if it comes from somebody else?  Worse, what if the reason he/she was angry about is too shallow?  Would you accept that?  You could not help but think that the motive for his/her childish outburst is just to show off to the public that he/she has POWER over you.

I have seen that scene before.. in schools, offices, and other public places.  I feel sorry for the victim but indifferent for the aggressor, who, by the way is what I described as, insensitive, immature, and abusive of his/her authority over his/her prey.  I guess that makes him/her happy... for what?  For being able to get back at someone else, for he/she himself/herself had been a victim before (or maybe he/she is still suffering at present)?  Probably...

Then maybe he/she would have understood what the victim went through as it surely affects one's self-esteem, self-worth, respect, etc. etc.  and of course, what about DIGNITY?

What if it happens to me... again?  Of course, it happened to me before but it was many, many years ago.  I was still too young to defend myself..

But if it will happen to me again, I don't know what I am going to do.  I just don't want to become the real bitch that I am preventing myself to be.  God help me...

House For Rent

It's been weeks already since I promised my officemate to post her ad on the internet about her house for rent.  I'm so guilty!  So, to make it up to her, here's the long-overdue ad:

HOUSE FOR RENT

Area:        55sq.m.

Address:  135 Bagay Street, Pasong Buaya, Villa Verde, Imus, Cavite

                (in front of Barangay Hall of Villa Verde Subd.)

Nearest Landmarks:  SM Molino, Daang Hari, Bahayang Pag-asa Subd

Contact Person: Thelma Agapay

Contact No.: 0919-296-8071

Another Long Weekend Ahead

P-Noy has just declared August 30, Monday, National Heroes Day, as a non-working holiday.  This is good news!  Although it would have been better if August 23, also a Monday, would be declared also as a non-working holiday.

Honestly, I was so disappointed that August 23 is a working day.  You see, I already filed a leave of absence for August 24 and scheduled an out-of-town trip for the supposed to be long weekend... (sigh)

 I guess that leaves me no choice but to make new arrangements and pray that this is just a blessing in disguise.

Bug In the Bag

The Culprit!

I don’t change bags as often as others do.  Well, maybe because I am unlike fashionistas who treat bags as part of their accessories by trying to match their bags with the clothes they are wearing.  I, on the other hand, would only change bags when: a) the bag is already badly-damaged; &/or, b) its damage is already obvious; &/or, c) my mama nags me to change bag; or, d) aota (all of the above).

Don’t get me wrong.  It’s not that I am short of bags.  In fact, I have a half-closet full of bags (donated, of course, by sister).  Some of which I already want to dispose by selling it or simply just give it away.  I just don’t like the idea of providing space in my closet for something that I rarely use.

Well, this post is not about bags.  It’s just that the magnetic strip of my atm card has been recently damaged.  And I’m blaming my newly-changed Liz Clairborne bag for that.  It was only later that I suspected that the magnet in the bag maybe the cause.

Good thing, my other atm cards as well as all my credit cards were not affected at all by the said magnet.  I guess something is wrong with that issuing bank’s card magnetic strip as it was not the first time that I had my card replaced due to the same reason.

Lesson learned:  never take for granted those items that are sensitive to magnets.  Or shall I just change bags, again???!!!

African Sea-Coconut: Will It Work For Me?

Last weekend, hard-headed as I always am, I ate foods (to be posted later in my other blog) that worsen my cough.  I didn't even bother to take my medicines.  Now, I only have myself to blame. Huhuhu!

Fast forward, an officemate suggested that I take African Sea-Coconut, a chinese medicine recommended, accordingly, by a well-known doctor.  He was even kind enough to buy me the tonic which costs P170 (US$4) but so overly business-minded chinese that he charged me P300.  (That's okay with me, as long as it is payable in 300 gives. Hahaha!)


Anyway, according to the brochure, the African Sea Coconut Brand Cough Mixture is prepared with the latest scientific elements for lung treatment and is highly recommended for the treatment of all symptoms of cough. Blah blah blah...


I wonder if this tonic is really effective... I guess I'll just have to make a try.  Stay tuned!

Papa Visited Mama and Zhea!

Last August 6, Friday night, I was talking to mama over the phone when I overheard my niece exclaimed, "humot!" (smells good!). They were three in the room. Only the babysitter didn't smell the fragrant of a flower. Then it hit mama! That day was supposed to be the 1st day of the nine-day novena for the death anniversary of my father! Mama totally forgot to keep track of it.

I teased mama. She was so guilty that she promised to visit the cemetery the following day. What about me? When will papa come and visit me? Perhaps tonight? Scare me papa. hehehe

Travel Inconvenience

What recently had happened to mama’s lost and found bag is a lesson learned and an eye-opener for me. That is, never take your bags for granted, even if it’s although already checked-in and in the possession of the airline. Anything can happen no matter how we try to avoid ugly situations like that. We could never bring back what was lost (especially those that are priceless) no matter how we try to scream and curse at irresponsible airline personnel.

That’s why travel inconvenience insurance sells. Featuring those incidents as “unavoidable circumstances” is an effective strategy for airlines (yes, airlines act as insurance agents too) to market their travel inconvenience insurance to passengers.

However, if I'm not mistaken, travel inconvenience insurance costs as much as P250 per travel. That’s a no-no for budget-conscious passengers like me. The choice now is between gulping the added cost as if it’s a bitter pill or just face the risk that your checked-in luggage might be lost along the way. The cost of your valuables, of course, plays a significant factor in your coming up with a decision.

As I was checking thru a welcome pack of my newly-approved credit card, to my delight, I read that travel inconvenience insurance is an added service that the credit card issuer offers to its credit card holders. And take note, its’ FREE! The only condition is that, the said credit card must be the one used in purchasing the plane ticket.

Now I know which credit card to use when booking a flight. I just wish all my other credit card issuers also offer the same benefit to their credit card holders.

My Plans For The Weekend

It's "Thank God It's Friday" (TGIF) once again. As much as I would like to be excited and think of ways on how to spend my weekend, I could not do so. Right now, I'm nursing a sore throat and a mild cough. I don't feel okay.

I would have wanted to go malling and/or eat something fancy and spicy tomorrow. But then, doing that would just worsen my current health condition. I guess I will just have to settle with watching a marathon of dvd movies at home. Or just try to hibernate until my eyes would swell from too much sleeping.

Or, what have you?

Lost and Found Bag

Before I could even blog about mama’s recent vacation and our escapades here in Manila, something happened on her way back home.  When she arrived at the Surigao airport, she found out that her black bag was lost!

I was so disappointed when I learned about the incident.  Few months ago, I booked her a round-trip Cebu Pacific ticket and disregarded the go-lite discount just to ensure that she won’t be inconvenienced with the necessity of accounting for all her carry-on baggage while on travel.  I even accompanied her all the way to the check-in counter at the Terminal 3 airport just to spare her from carrying and lifting the bags from/to trolley.  I also instructed the lady at the check-in counter to mark the three bags with the “FRAGILE” stickers.

Fast forward, my mama learned that should the bag be declared lost and irretrievable, my mama would be paid P100 for every kilo of the bag lost.  Since that bag weighed only a little above 5kgs, my mother would receive a measly amount of P500 only!  That’s adding salt to the injury!

Mama almost fainted.  The value of the contents in the bag costs no less than P10,000.  It was not about the items lost, it was about the fun memories my mama and I shared while acquiring those items for herself and for my niece.

In fairness however to Cebu Pacific, the Surigao staff properly handled the situation and nicely treated my mother.

My mama didn’t bother to claim the “refund”.  Until exactly one week after that incident, she got another call from Cebu Pacific.  This time, she was told that the black bag has finally been found.  Accordingly, it was wrongly-picked up by another passenger. Hmmm... something is fishy here…

So many speculations have been playing in our minds as to what and how it really happened.  But what the heck!  What matters most is that, the bag that was lost… is now found.

My Little Girl...

It had been almost seven (7) months already since I last saw my baby.  My recent visit to Surigao gave me the chance to bond again with my Zhea, who just turned five (5) years old today, August 3.  She is growing so fast that I find it hard to catch up with what I missed while I was away.

Just like what happened few minutes after we met again.  My little girl couldn't wait for us to reach home from the airport that she excitedly gave me her sketch of a plain house with my name written underneath.  I was trying not to be emotional by asking her where I was in the drawing.  She immediately replied that I was inside that house since it was night time already.  Isn't she smart?

Nah!  It must be in the genes!  :)

Belated Birthday Greetings

The most important man in my life would have celebrated his 71st year in this world two days ago, July 14.  Nevertheless, to my papa, happy birthday!  Knowing that you are smiling up there while lovingly gazing at your children and mama is already enough to make me feel that you are still here with us. :)

Thank You Lola Basyang!

Don't get me wrong.  I am grateful for Lola Basyang not for the unexpected devastation it recently hit Metro Manila but because ... office is SUSPENDED!  Yehey!

The announcement received from our head office just this noon is a welcome news for me who literally drag myself from bed this morning just to report for work.  I was not able to sleep well last night due to sudden rush of winds blowing through my window.  I was forced to get up and rescue my hanging plants lest it might bang against my glass window.  Although my mama said the plants won't cause damage as it was light weight, i still took no risk.  I found it hard to sleep thereafter...

Speaking of sleep, I'm signing off... Zzzzzzzzzz

Taxi Receipt

About two weeks ago, I took a taxi on my way home from office.  Just to kill time, I started to strike a conversation with the driver since traffic was already building up along edsa extension anyway.  The driver was polite and was even patient enough to explain to me that the taxi meter he is using is not an ordinary device as it shows not only the fare but also the mileage consumed including the waiting time when the taxi is on halt.

I was even surprised that the taxi driver issues an official receipt.  For more than two years that I have been living here in the metro, it was my first time to see an official receipt generated from the taxi meter.  I also found out that the distance from my office to my residence is about 9.3kilometers (which is already considered far, if based on my hometown's standards).

If only all taxi drivers were as honest as that driver who ferried me home, the world would be a better place.. :)

Yipee! We Have A New Office!

It's exactly one week already since we transferred to a new office.  Actually, it's just an office adjacent to ours.  But the thought that it is newly-painted and installed with a huge shelf, not to mention the fact that our tables were rearranged, is already enough for me to get excited even few weeks before we transferred.  (I don't know with my officemates though. Hehe)

I really like my office space now.  Although it is small, still it is spacious enough for me to move around.  It is accessible to the LCD computer and telephones too.  I can't wait for the cubicles to be installed soon!  With that, I can have my own privacy especially when I am busy working... with something. lol

New President, New Hope

Today, June 30, 2010, we just witnessed another significant event in our Philippine history as the 15th President, Benigno Simeon Cojuangco Aquino III, was sworn into office.  Although I was not there to see it for myself, I felt goosebumps especially when I heard the Philippine national anthem, "Lupang Hinirang" and "Bayan Ko" were being sang (by Charice and Madrigal Singers, respectively).  What more for those who personally went to the inauguration?

The images shown on TV were enough for me to conclude that, despite the unbearable heat, people there were obviously in a festive mood as they experienced a renewed sense of hope and vigor for the our country.

But still, I just could not help myself wondering..... where is James Yap? :)

So Long, Ate Paz

I received a phone call just a few minutes earlier from a colleague and told me the sad news: an officemate has already passed away.  Although it was already expected, as she had been diagnosed with a terminal illness some weeks before, I could not help but still feel a painful sense of loss for Ate Paz.

Just last Friday night, my two officemates and I proceeded to hospital to visit her.  She was already in state of comatose.  Upon seeing her, I almost cried.  I immediately reminded myself that I am neither a kapamilya nor a close friend, hence I was able to keep my tears from falling.  But still, I was depressed. (This explains why I can never qualify as a doctor or a nurse).

I knew her for barely three years only but the impact she had on me lingers on.  She was the only spinster I have ever known who has no attitude problem.  She could crack jokes and could easily join along (which is amazing to me because she always projected a serious aura).  I learned later that she had been a close buddy to her teenage nephews and nieces.

Ate Paz, may you rest in peace...

the most important man in my life...

too bad, he is long gone. but in my heart, he still stays.  nobody could replace him. no one ever...

i would always remember papa as my hero.  his reassuring smile would be enough to tell me that everything's okay.  he was the most understanding and patient man that i had ever known.  well, maybe the adage is true, that good men die young...

papa, happy father's day.  i'm so proud of you, for you did a great job here on earth.  i'm so honored and thankful that God gave me the best father in the world, and that is YOU. :)

Sing Me A Song Again, Papa

I was in taxicab this morning when I heard the song, "Sing Me A Song, Daddy", played over Ted Failon's radio program in advance celebration of Father's Day.  As much as I would like to compose myself especially that I was already approaching my destination, I couldn't help myself being misty-eyed while reminiscing that moment when I once sang that song at our sala at home about twelve years ago.  My papa was just upstairs then.

After my so-called "videoke concert", I realized papa was patiently listening to my "song reading".  His smile says it all... that somehow, he appreciated my poor but humble way of showing how much I love him.

To Papa:

Sing me a song again, Daddy
Sing me a happy verse.
Teach me those clever lines you sang
As you carried me on your shoulders.
Sing me that hymn that you so loudly
Sang in church with mom.
Sing it again to me and fill me
With all your words of wisdom.

Comforting words of love when I
Would get home from school in tears.
Somehow your songs have stayed within me
Down through all the years.
Once when my younger heart was broken
Your shoulder was there to cry on.
Sing me those songs I know will linger
Long after you have gone.

I am standing at the threshold
Of a chapter in my life
I am asking for your blessing
As I'm about to be the wife
Of a man I know who loves me
And I'm proud to be his bride.
Dad the time has come for me to leave your side.

So, sing me a song again, Daddy.
Sing me a lullaby.
Wrap me inside your arms, Daddy,
'Though this is not goodbye.
Your songs will live forever
In my heart. When times get rough
The ones I'll most remember
Are your songs of love.

Your songs will live forever
In my heart. When times get rough

The ones I'll most remember
Are your songs of love.

Sunblock On A Rainy Season

I recently bought a sunblock just in time for the official declaration of PAG-ASA that the el niño phenomenon has just ended.  :(

Nevertheless, I chose a product that has a higher Sun Protection Factor (SPF) than what I had been using.  I found this Nivea Sun Whitening Face Cream with SPF 50 at Watson's in SM Mall of Asia.

Don't get me wrong.  I'm not keen on bleaching my face as I do not want to look like Michael Jackson in any way.  It is just that the Nivea Sunblock comes with a whitening ingredient.  What matters most to me is ts high SPF, that's all!

Accordingly, Nivea Sun Whitening Face Cream is an effective protection against sunburn and premature skin ageing.  Here's the cache:  No need to wait for 20 minutes as it protects IMMEDIATELY upon application.  Isn't that great?  That means, I need not be afraid to go out right after I apply sunblock on my face.

This is the bonus:  The formula with Licorice extract reduces skin's pigmentation at its source to effectively lighten the skin.  Further, it reduces melanin production responsible for dark and uneven skin tone.  Lastly, it protects the skin's collagen to help prevent wrinkles caused by frequent sun exposure.

If I'm not mistaken, Nivea Sun Whitening Face Cream costs at around P350+ (or about US$7.5).  Try it!  And maybe we can compare notes later about its effects (whether side effects or otherwise) on our faces..

I'm Proud To Be A Josenian!

Few years after I passed, results of CPA Board Examinations no longer interest me unless I know somebody who took and/or passed it.  I didn't even know that the recent exams produced a topnocher from my own school, University of San Jose-Recoletos, not until I read an article from just simple thoughts blog.

Three Josenians made it to the top 10.  It is worthy to note also that my best friend and batchmate got the 14th place in the CPA Board Examinations held ten years ago.

I attribute the success of my fellow Josenians partly to the educators who somehow made a mark on these successful examinees.  I can speak for myself as I had my fair share of experiences with the so-called "terror" accounting teachers.  It was only when I started reviewing for and passed the exams that I appreciated the discipline that these notorious teachers instilled in me.

To my teachers, thank you.  :)

Going Gaga Over Chocolates

I admit I'm a certified chocoholic.  I don't intend to join chocoholic anonymous because in the first place, I'm not interested to get over with my addiction.  Imprison me if you want.  I assure you, your efforts will be worthless as I will practically do anything to satisfy my cravings for chocolates.  I could not live without chocolates!  Period!

Sounds cheezy, right?  That's how passionate am I with chocolates.  I even plan to study on baking just to make my own masterpiece of chocolate cakes, brownies, cookies, etc.  Good thing I bumped into chocolatesource.com which supplies chocolates, particularly, for baking and gift items.  Just browsing at their website makes my palate crave for more and place my orders online.

Hmm.. I need to gulp water fast!

It's Time To Buy A New Cellphone

The Nokia 70 cellphone I have been using was given to me by sister. The previous one she gave me, a Samsung D600, was already handed over to my mother.  I really love that phone. (Sigh!).  But then, some good things never last. (Barry, where are you?)

Here's what I'm excited all about:  Samsung phone is on sale!



I came across this website from cricKet which offers cellphones at low, low prices!  Is this a sign that I need to change now my cellphone and buy a new one?  This is a perfect post-birthday gift that I owe myself, don't you think?

My Mama Is A Coffee Addict!

My mama loves coffee so much that she would not have a breakfast without it.  In fact, one of my very early childhood memories includes a scene at the kitchen table wherein mama was sipping coffee while making sure that my siblings and I were eating our meal well.  I could say it was mama who indirectly influenced me into drinking coffee because of its strong but sweet aroma.

I am thinking of giving mama a gift now that she is going to be retiring soon.  She would surely appreciate bags of coffee from Cafe Britt.  Since 1985, Cafe Britt has been a premier roaster of gourmet coffee and one of the few companies in the world that produces, roasts and ships coffee right from the country of origin for a taste that's as fresh as can be!

What's more, Cafe Britt offers free shipping for a minimum order of six bags!  Isn't it great?  I guess I should get going and bring home that coffee to my mama. :)

Our Owner-Type Jeep

Our residence in Surigao was four kilometers away from the city proper.  If you live in a place like ours where regular transportation is a problem, owning a vehicle is a necessity.  Hence, one day I saw papa driving home an owner-type jeep.  He acquired it from Cagayan de Oro City.  If I'm not yet mistaken, the brand was Toyota.

I had a lot of childhood memories with that owner-type jeep.  My siblings and I used to sing songs (and sometimes shout) to our hearts' content while papa drove us home.  Mama would sometimes scold us, but would secretly hum along.  That was the good ol' days...

My papa had the top fabric of our vehicle changed a number of times.  There were also instances when my siblings and I, being adventurous as we always are, would request papa to take out the side and rear skins of the jeep.  The air then was still not as polluted as it is now...

When papa passed away, it was as if the jeep died along with him.  We were not able to maintain it the way he care for his jeep.  It stayed in our garage for many years before mama reluctantly sold it.  It took a lot of convincing from her children that disposing that precious memento does not mean forgetting papa.  It's just that there are things in this life that we just have to let go... and move on...

Ice, Ice Baby!

If there's one thing that I learned from a facial care center which my boss recommended me, it is the use of ice cubes.  Accordingly, application of ice cubes on the face (after thorough cleansing, of course!) minimizes skin pores.

I don't know if it really works but looking at my boss' face is already enough for me to be convinced.  I have been using ice cubes as part of my regular beauty regimen but I admit there are times when I skip that part due to my occasional attacks of indolence.

I still experience zits from time to time.  I already accepted that fact... the fact that I am not perfect (hahaha! detractors, comment please!)  But that does not prevent me from enjoying life and trying on things that life has to offer.

Love it!  Get it? :)

I Had Fun (Run) On My Birthday!

Weeks before my 33rd birthday (yes, i'm already old but i'm proud of it!), I was already planning on how to make it memorable.  Then I got an e-invitation for the Kerygma Fun Run at SM Mall of Asia which date coincided on MY DAY.  Hmmm, not a bad idea right?  The last time I joined a fun run was four years ago, which was part of the activities in celebration of the COA Week.  Mind you, I placed 1st then (err, 1st runner up. jejehe).  No, I'm not a runner.  I don't even jog regularly.  It was just that, in my category, only a few participated.  Hence, I was the second best (jejeje, again).


Back to the K Fam Run, there were three categories, namely:  1-km (1k), 3-km (3k), and 5-km (5k).  I decided to join the 3k category although I was almost tempted to take the 1k as I don't want to be breathless on my birthday.  But nevertheless, I took the challenge...

Shown below are the pictures I took (except photos of me, of course) during the K Run:

at 5 o'clock in the morning

d' birthday gurl!

bro. mike (?) at the makeshift stage. don't remember his exact name but in fernez, he is really good at hosting.  was he a somebody from a comedy bar?

the sunrise!

some 5k runners were already on their way back to the station. good for them!

i'm already tired!  i envy the runners ahead of me...

hey!  that's my exit!  but isn't that lady in there guarding that area?

here's another guard!

i can already see the landmark of SM Mall of Asia!

the ambulance! rescue me! rescue me!

runners were lining up at the water station.  unfortunately, when it was already my turn they ran out of water...huhuhu

the st. peter's church beside SM Mall of Asia.  would i go there afterwards?  i don't have to go far... hmm..
(i decided to attend a mass at Redemptorist Church in Baclaran instead since that was what I promised myself long before)

others were already turning right.  yipee!  i'm already near the finish line!

but others were still turning left.  why?  i don't want to go there anymore.  that's already too much for me!

i think this is now my cue for a short cut.   there were already others who went ahead of me.  it won't be embarrassing anymore to take that path since i just followed suit.

i made it!  i deserve a rest...zzzzz...

me again, still at rest. with my socked feet off my my rubber shoes.  arghh!!! my feet hurts!

I Just Bought Extreme Power Saver

I previously blogged about the Extreme Power Saver.  Although I wasn't convinced with the negative feedbacks I gathered online about the product, still I bought it (and my officemate too). Well, I just want to give it a try and see for myself if it really works.

The salesman confirmed that it is really just a capacitor.  Sad to say, up to now, I still don't know what that heck means.  Whatevah!  But just in case it won't lower my power consumption for two consecutive months, I still have the option to return it at Ace Hardware and exchange it with other items at the same price.

Few days from now, my MERALCO bill will be delivered both online and by mail.  My officemate and I are already excited!  Aren't you too?  Nevertheless, I'll post in here my electric bill as soon as it becomes available.

Luggage I Found

I recently lost a traveling bag.  I realized how important it is after it was gone.  That 12-year old bag had its sentimental value to me.  I was still connected with my first job then at a private auditing firm in Cebu when I bought it for a month-long training in Makati.

Being thrifty that I always am, it took me days before I finally decided to have it for myself.  That Voyager bag was my first so-called investment as I spent more than 2.5 grand (US$53) for it.  Cheap?  If based on today's standards, yes!  But going back 12 years before, it was already expensive for me considering that I was still striving as a new associate then.

Fast forward, I recently went to 168 Shopping Mall.  I chanced upon this shop which sells traveling bags.  I found this red trolley bag which can also serve as backpack and overnight bag.  It was priced at P1,500 (US$32) but I was able to haggle and save 40% off the regular price!  That's what I love about shopping in 168 Shopping Mall!  It is where you learn to polish the art of haggling.

That bag was cute alright, but it was too small for a traveling bag.  I still miss my old bag...


Now, I'm planning to purchase a new traveling bag.  This time I would like a real big trolley bag, which I can use when I go on vacation for a week or more.  As with my old bag, it should be durable enough to hold my voluminous clothes as up to now, I still don't know how to travel light.  But most importantly, price should be reasonable so as not to ruin my budget for a grand vacation.

When would that be?  Maybe soon...? ;)

Speaking of TV...

Google has just announced that Google TV will be available soon!  TV and web in one single device?  It must be a remarkable fusion of two powerful stuffs that influences our day-to-day living.  And... this is really exciting!

From the Google Blog:

If there’s one entertainment device that people know and love, it’s the television. In fact, 4 billion people across the world watch TV and the average American spends five hours per day in front of one*. Recently, however, an increasing amount of our entertainment experience is coming from our phones and computers. One reason is that these devices have something that the TV lacks: the web. With the web, finding and accessing interesting content is fast and often as easy as a search. But the web still lacks many of the great features and the high-quality viewing experience that the TV offers.

Read more

Metro Manila Is Getting Hotter

The Philippine Atmospheric Geophysical, Astronomical Services Administration (PAG-ASA) reported that at around 4pm yesterday, May 19, weather in Metro Manila sizzled at 37.5 degree Celsius.  Accordingly, this is the highest ever recorded for this year.

Well, that's still 1 point below the highest temperature of 38.5 degree Celsius experienced in Metro Manila.  It was on May 14, 1987 (still, same month and only five days apart, huh?).  That, is nothing compared to the hottest temperature in Philippine history which was recorded at 42.2 at Tuguegarao, Cagayan, on May 11, 1969.

By the way, I just heard on TV (I wasn't watching, fyi) that a military trainee just died in Isabela (is that part of Cagayan province?) because of heatstroke.  Several others suffered severe dehydration.  As a result, the authorities there has decided to shorten the training hours of the trainees.

Hey, what about those traffic enforcers, sanitary aides, etc. who are working under the heat of the scorching sun?  I can only imagine what they have been going through...

My TV Is Already 10 Years Old!

I just realized this:  the 14-inch TV I have been using is already 10 years old!  And for sentimental reasons, I decided to keep my TV to this day and not give it away (although my four-year old niece already claimed it as hers).

Why sentimental?  It was the first ever appliance that I bought.  Ten years ago, I remember my officemate accompanied me to the local appliance store in Butuan City.  Being a conservative as she is, she suggested that I choose a 14-inch TV as, according to her, a 21-inch TV would be too big for me (although my rented room at that time was spacious enough to accommodate appliances).  To cut the story short, I heeded her motherly advice.

Now, I am thinking of buying a new TV.  Since LED TVs still cost much at present, I would like to settle for a cheaper one.  A LCD TV is a very wise alternative.  This time, I am eyeing for that 42-inch with 720p HD resolution, and more importantly, it's a smart energy-saving device.  How's that?

I guess I will be returning my old TV back to my niece soon.  I'm sure, that spoiled, but very charming, brat will be much delighted! :)

I'm Electric Shocked! Again...

As expected, my current bill for my last month's power consumption ballooned to... (drum roll please!) ....a whooping amount of P1,506.85!  That's almost P200 more than my previous bill!  In spite of the fact that I tried to conserve energy, still my kilowatt hour consumption increased to 146!  Something must be done to prevent my electric bill from making an upward trend!

The problem is, I ran out of ways on how to cut on my power cost.  Suggestions, anyone?

If You Can't Stand the Heat, Get Out of the Kitchen

The hot weather these days is truly unbearable!  Even the animals could not bear to disagree.  Why?  Read on:

Just this morning, on my way to work, I bumped into our Homeowner's Association President.  I was just about to close the gate when she ran to me just to tell me this breaking news:  a snake was found inside a condominium unit, which is just a few meters away from mine!

I don't know how big the snake was but just the thought of having a snake gliding inside your house makes you run in horror and swear not to enter the house again!  At least, for the time being!

Back to the story, accordingly, the snake was found comfortably lounging at the gas stove.   Good for him!  If he intends to reside in there, he should as well, share in paying the house amortization!

Seriously speaking, this is a serious case that everyone should address about.  Because of global warming, animals are now trying to seek comfort in cool places.  Our homes, for that matter, are no exception!

Who would have thought that our homes, which we consider the most comfortable spot on earth, are not the safest place after all?  I suggest that the next time you lie in your bed, maybe you should THOROUGHLY check first what's behind those sheets.

Watch out, maybe that cute little thing might just not want to share the bed with you... Hsssss!  :)

A Tribute To My Mama

While everyone else is going gaga over the results of the Philippines' national and local elections, let me just post here the text message I sent to my mama last Sunday in time for the celebration of Mother's Day.  (Warning:  Cheesy and sentimental as it may sound but please remember, this is my blog. :)  Here it is:

Ma, happy mother's day.  You are the best mother in the whole world.  I won't replace you for anything else.  You are my best friend.  I hope you will forgive me for all the heartaches that I caused you and papa.  I love you ma.  Mwah!

(In photo:  Mama with her eldest granddaughter, Zhea)

It took me a whole lot of courage to send that short text to her.  Already sobbing uncontrollably while composing that message, I even hesitated whether to push through as I am not that expressive as I would like to be.  Nevertheless, it's all worth it.  She replied with a joke and that, is already enough for me to get the message across... of how much she appreciated that simple gesture of love and care from a daughter who is miles away...

This Is Really Hot!

Woooa!  Weather at this time is unbelievable!

37 degrees celcius!  How's that?!

My officemates went out earlier at around noontime.  They complained of the unbearable hot weather, which was then recorded at 35 degrees celcius only.  What more if it is 2 degrees celcius higher?!

I will be going out in a few minutes.  Wish me luck! :)

Attention: Bloggers Who Are Not Yet Part of BC Bloggers!

Calling all bloggers who want to gain friends in the blogosphere and build links at the same time –  BC Bloggers 3 is now open.  To join just visit Mommy Diary, read the requirements, and fill out the Application Form.

How Effective Is The Extreme Power Saver?

The unbearable hot weather has caused me to get worried with my high power consumption considering that I could not avoid using an airconditioner AT ALL TIMES whenever I'm at home.  Although MERALCO announced yesterday that it will lower down its power rates this month, I still could not be consoled knowing that I would not be able to maintain anymore my monthly average usage of 60kwh nowadays.

Then my officemate mentioned the Extreme Power Saver.  She learned from the testimony of someone else that accordingly, extreme power saver is effective.  I immediately browsed the web and searched for the product's feedbacks.  I first bumped into this CareerMom's blog wherein the author claims that the extreme power saver functions to its name.  However, when I got across this forum from  http://www.electronicslab.ph, i found out there were conflicting comments regarding the Extreme Power Saver.  Some say the product is composed only of a capacitor and IC (I don't even know what are those for!).  Further research also disclosed that it is effective only when the appliances you are using are already old.


Help!  I really need to know if Extreme Power Saver works!  Right now, I am torn between buying Extreme Power Saver and cooler fan, which both are intended to save power cost but the former has yet to prove its worth.

FYI, according to my officemate, Ace Hardware at MOA has reduced the price of Extreme Power Saver from the regular rate of P1,999 but then the promo will last only until May 13.  In other words, I need to decide fast!