prom.di.heart

Day 10 : Simplicity

2009-06-10T00:16:00.002+08:00

Day 9 : Goals

2009-06-08T02:36:00.001+08:00

Run July Run

2009-06-05T16:11:00.003+08:00

I enrolled to a fitness club last week and today I decided to go for a quick workout during my lunch break. Usually I skip the treadmill, I get easily tired and after running I cannot lift weights anymore. Today I went for a quick run for a change. My standard five minutes is already a history. I don’t know why but only now I have noticed the monitor in front of the machine where you can see your progress. How much calories already burn, time and distance you already pull off. More often than not 3 minutes I will press the emergency stop or just walk for another minute. Then that’s it!

But not today; I noticed on my 5 minutes of struggle that I already accomplished 40% of the set program. Should I continue or just press the emergency stop again and simply walk away from the treadmill? I didn’t push the red button instead I continue running for another 10 minutes. It was a hard challenge and so much discomfort but I was able to pull it off. I was glad I carry on. It maybe a small thing but quite a big realization to me, that everything I do I have to set a goal to achieve and finish it. Do not just run in all directions except towards the goal.

I still managed to lift weights for the next few minutes then head back to the office with a more positive perspective.

“The tragedy of life doesn't lie in not reaching your goal. The tragedy lies in having no goals to reach.”
(Benjamin Mays)

Day 8 : Faith

2009-06-04T00:47:00.004+08:00

Everyday, life offers one challenge over the other.
Some people cope up and accept everything openly as they come
others just give up and blame everything to anybody

Just like me, challenges are filing up
One after the other, sometimes overlapping.
When I thought I needed a break from everything
Here's another one coming.
I want to give up but when I am about to
There's a flicker of hope on my sight

Well I guess life is simply like that.
We cannot get everything we want
but we can change the way we feel and see things
"if our glass is half full or half empty"

Dennis & Teri's Wedding: Just the beginning...

2009-05-08T14:58:00.001+08:00

May 2, 2009, Tagaytay City:
After a year of preparation and 8 years of being together, they finally said their vows to be together for the rest of their lives. God, Family and closest friends witnessed how their relationship grow since day one and this day how they celebrated their love and commitment.

It's like a fairytale wedding, almost perfect as you would say.
Taal Volcano as backdrop of the reception, everything went well: the weather, the program, photographer, video and of course the food.

During the reception, I was requested to give a short message to the couple. What more can you say when you already witnessed how happy they were not only on their wedding day but for the past 8 years of their lives of being together. So I just told them that wedding is not the end but just the beginning of more happy moments of their lives. more ups and downs but what's important is that you have a hand to hold everytime.

I hope the best of everything for the both of them.
It was nice to see how people celebrate Love and Life.
Even more if they're close to you.

American Idol Season 8: Double Elimination

2009-04-24T14:00:00.005+08:00

After last week’s history in American Idol Season 8, when the judges saved Matt G from being eliminated, harsh reality was faced last night by two idols for the double elimination.

Li’l Rounds was finally eliminated. After every week of mediocre and almost copy cat performance, America finally decided that it’s time for her to step aside and give the stage to the more talented and artistic contestants.

Anoop was the other half to get cut of the contest. Although he has a nice voice he barely makes it every week. For the last 4 weeks he was in the bottom three making the elimination not a surprise to him.

And American Idol Season 8 Final 5...

Kris Allen, Adam Lambert, Danny Gokey, Allison Iraheta and Matt Giraud

According to the judges comments on this weeks performance this is the batch that has the most talent. I must agree. I can wait for the finals to come. Who’s your bet?

Balik Pinas: Part 3 Begins

2009-04-24T09:32:00.003+08:00

I want to take a rest. Plunge myself in clear cold saltwater under the heat of the sun. Enjoy the real weekend and not thinking about anything. This is life afterall, working hard and resting at some point. To recharge. To rekindle whatever is dying or hiding. To be yourself again.

So I promise myself to enjoy as much as I could. this is the purpose of this vacation. reaping the rewards or simply taking a break. Everything's ready and countdown is down to 1 day... Philippines here I come again. Balik Pinas Part 3 is about to begin.

Keep you posted!

Day 7: No Darkness

2009-04-23T00:18:00.003+08:00

There isn´t enough darkness in all the world to snuff out the light of one little candle.
Hindu Prince Gautama Siddharta, the founder of Buddhism, 563-483 B.C.

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Happy Birthday: Sanse Liza and Marvin!

Susan Boyle : Britain's Got Talent Audition

2009-04-22T16:31:00.005+08:00

Probably most of the people know her already except me but only until last night I actually watched the clip from Youtube about Susan Boyle’s audition on Britain’s Got Talent.

You can see the eye brows raising from the judges and the audience that this ugly duckling and old lady have the courage to join such competition. What’s new about that? There are millions filing up auditioning for American Idol or any other country counterparts just to get their 5 minute fame. We’ll what set Susan Boyle apart from the millions who are trying was, she definitely got talent. She wowed the judges and the audience immediately after she opened her mouth up to the last note.

If this much talk about audition and big YES for Susan Boyle was orchestrated by the producer of the show to create a buzz. They definitely succeed. It is much celebrated now and Susan Boyle is a star from the heart of many people. I guess the show served it purpose… to entertain and bring inspiration.

Youtube disabled to embed the video so watch it by clicking this link

Day 6 : Daydream

2009-04-20T22:31:00.001+08:00

“I was trying to daydream, but my mind kept wandering.”

Day 5: Stumble

2009-04-19T23:41:00.002+08:00

Day 4: Today

2009-04-18T22:01:00.000+08:00

Prom.Di.Heart Won an Award!

2009-04-18T13:24:00.000+08:00

"Congrats. You have won the Filipino Blog of the Week award (week 156). The blog is also elevated to the Hall of Fame. You may now claim the 2 badges. Congrats again."

Thanks "The Composed Gentleman" for noticing my blog and the people who visit and voted for the two weeks I've been nominated. Check out my sidebar for the badges I got from the site, Hall of Fame, Filipino Blog of the Week (Week 156) and 2nd place for Week 155.

If you want to know how this Filipino Blog of the Week Award works. Please check this link Filipino Blog of the Week and who knows your blog would be the next one who have this gold badges.

Again Thank you guys.

Day 3: Chinatown Boys

2009-04-17T21:04:00.000+08:00

Balik Pinas: Part 3

2009-04-17T14:46:00.004+08:00

"7 days 9 hours 3 minutes and 6 seconds and I will be in Manila again!"

For almost 2 years of being an OFW, this is my 3rd homecoming and I am still excited to go home. Why not, even for a week I can fully enjoy the rest days and meet old friends and family to catch up. I haven’t finished my To Do list for this vacation but here are some of the things surely not miss on the itinerary:

• Beach escapade with Family
• Wedding of my pamangkin, Teri and Denz (Tagaytay)
• Pasalubong Shopping @ Greenhills / Megamall etc
• Dinner @ Dampa

So many things to do but so little time as they say, better enjoy that one week vacation. Lalo na 2 months before ang approval ng leave na to. Hahaha
I am so excited..

Day 2: The Boss

2009-04-16T21:54:00.003+08:00

Ang "Boss" na di ko pagsasawaan...

4 Tips on Making a Relationship Work

2009-04-16T17:41:00.001+08:00

We spent almost a lifetime searching for that one true love but once found we do not know where to start or how to make that fairy tale relationship work. We already planned the grandest wedding we could ever imagine up to the smallest details (even before having your bride or groom) but we forgot to plan for the life after that.

Is Love enough to make the relationship work?

I am no expert but on my personal experiences and point of view there’s more to love to make the relationship work and hopefully last. Of course love it the main factor but other elements that contribute to a good and lasting relationship are

1. Open communication
They said action is louder than words but sometimes we need to speak up. Have a good, honest and open talk to resolve issues. Not nagging and dragging out who is right or wrong otherwise it’s not a talk after all. Talk. Listen. Understand.

2. Compromise
We cannot have it all in our own way, all the time. Otherwise, it’s not “us” but only “You” in the relationship. Finding the middle ground help us to be mature to understand that we need to give more and expect less.

3. Space
Sometimes we need to be alone to see things clearly and be ourselves outside the relationship.

4. XoXo
Hugs& Kisses and Lovemaking are vital ingredients of a lasting relationship.

These are only few ingredients I believe will help us to make our relationship better than the last one (if any). Whenever I heard the word “relationship” and to sum up the factors I have mentioned above, I can only think of one word - COMMITMENT.
Making it work no matter what.

These are my tips based on personal experiences, and I would glad to hear yours.

Day 1: Shade of Blue

2009-04-15T01:55:00.002+08:00

Put some blue in your life...

calmness, peace, solitude.

No Promises

2009-04-14T17:15:00.001+08:00

I won’t need all the promises
Because you’re the realization of all my wishes
I cannot give you all my heart
Because you have it from the start
I cannot give you the moon or the stars
But you can have all my love

No promises to be broken
Only pure love and arms wide open
Waiting for an embrace
Of your eternal love.

Rekindling with Photography: My 365 Project

2009-04-13T17:36:00.003+08:00

Yes it’s been a year that I have been snapping around with Cameron (my Canon 400D) and for the past months I just stopped with no valid reasons.

Right now I envy those people who the passion and commitment to really explore their creativity and show the world how they love photography. I do have the passion and they say the “eye” but I guess I need commitment to bring along with me everyday to snap even just one shot and start also my own 365 day project.

I believe I am not too late to start this project. To rekindle my passion and improve my craft somehow, so I could continue to show the world my world through the lenses.

In lieu with this I requested Tita Liz to apply for me “one-year” pro account at Flickr.com as my motivation. Hope I can utilize and start really soon... So visit my Flickr account for updates. Wish me luck!

I'm Fast and Furious

2009-04-11T13:01:00.000+08:00

67 words

Speedtest

Thanks Arteo for the link, this exercised my fingers a bit. Click the link and see how your fingers perform.

The Golden Rule in various religion

2009-04-10T13:53:00.001+08:00

What fascinate me about Singapore is the diverse culture where people of different nationalities, background and religious beliefs exist. I love to watch their move and talk even I do not understand a thing. But are we really different or we just believe in one Golden Rule?

Buddhist
Hurt not others in ways that you would find hurtful.

Christian
All things whatsoever ye would that men should do to you, do ye even so to them.

Confucian
Do not unto others what you would not have them do unto you.

Hindu
This is the sum of duty: do naught unto others which if done to thee would cause thee pain.

Jain
In happiness and suffering, in joy and grief, we should regard all creatures as we regard our own self.

Jewish
Whatsoever thou hatest thyself, that do not to another.

Muslim (Islam)
No one of you is a believer until he desires for his brother that which he desires for himself.

Sikh
As thou deemest thyself, so deem others.

Taoist
Regard your neighbour's gain as your own gain, and your neighbour's loss as your own loss.

Zoroastrian
That nature alone is good which refrains from doing unto another whatsoever is not good for itself.

We maybe have different God(s) or rituals but one golden rule we all follow is the universal rule of Love.

Life's Few Simple Rules

2009-04-09T15:06:00.001+08:00

I found this article and I could not agree more that we do not need so many rules in life, as they say "less is more". Let's go back to basics in living our life to the fullest.

Life has a few simple rules
Gerry Wolke

Life has a few simple rules which, if followed, would make this a better world. I do not claim to be a paragon of these virtues but if you are reading this think of it as a reminder of what you already know. Since you are reading this let's make this moment more valuable.

1. Be kind to others. "Love your neighbor as yourself" is a bit difficult for most people who don't even love themselves. Instead, open your heart to love and your mind to understanding. Do not miss an opportunity to help. There but for the grace of God could be you. Most misery in life is self-inflicted by an overarching defense of the ego. Surrender your own importance and love and peace will follow.

2. Live a life of honor and nobility. Try to live your highest values. Do not defile your body with holes and cheap grafitti. Do not stuff toxins and garbage in your mouth and spew it out at every opportunity. No not lie, deceive, or pretend to be someone you are not. Not everyone is a world class athlete, a genius, a millionaire, or a famous person. You can be a good person and that is more than enough. A simple and unexpected act of kindness or assistance to another is worth more than an award.

3. Don't take life so seriously. None of us get out of this alive. Enjoy every moment if you can. I believe that we picked our life before it began. The handicapped, the brutalized, the sick and the sad, are spiritual heros who chose a learning experience of courage and intensity. Your real self is shining purity. Remember that and look for the light.

4. Learn everything you can. Do not settle for anyone else's truth. Stop and question, then keep an open mind. No one has all the truth and probably has little of it anyway. Dogma is killing us all.

Photo 199: My Photos @ Flickr Explore

2009-04-08T23:08:00.008+08:00

1. Isko & Donna: Pre-Nup, 2. Spiral Stairs,

3. Tanjong Rhu, 4. Sunset @ Lower Pierce

I haven't taken time to roam around again with my camera.
I miss it. but for almost a year of taking photos and sharing them on Flickr.
My free account is soon to be over. This is my 199 post! and these 4 photos were included on Flickr Explore. Not as popular as the others but good enough for me.
One more to come. LOL

Just want to share some of my Interesting Photos at Flickr

Beautifully Imperfect

2009-04-08T10:00:00.003+08:00

Everyone aim for perfection. With the things we buy, how we look, things we do, places to go and of course relationship. We want only the best, picture perfect. But we cannot always get everything we want in one package, for even the most awaited and expensive vacation can go wrong. Or your wife who’s your dream girl has a disgusting mannerism you just discovered. Should we get disappointed? Change them to what you have picture on your mind?

But the new TV ad commissioned by Singapore Ministry of Community Development, Youth and Sports is telling us otherwise. The commercial starts off with a recently widowed wife speaking at her husband's funeral; at first I find it funny, as the widow is making sounds, but the message hit me hard after seeing it several times.

Instead of divulging about the good traits of her husband, she goes on to talk about all the imperfections that he possessed, the loud snoring and farting. As she said

“these small things you remember, little imperfections that make him perfect”

.

This ad will not only air on television but will also publicized on TV mobile and cinemas (only Singapore).

Simple Things

2009-04-07T00:23:00.002+08:00

Simple Things - Jim Brickman

No Guarantees in Life

2009-04-06T02:25:00.003+08:00

My housemate’s father in law died and she was crying helplessly. If only those tears can ease her fiancé’s pain or her own burden. Logan and I cannot even find the right words to say to make her feel OK. I just hope they could both find the strength to face this struggle though they’re apart.

How ironic that my last entry was about “living the life all over” and now I am writing about “leaving the life over here on Earth”. Death is a fact of life and all we can do is to move forward. Most of the time “no warning sign” if it’s really our time. As there are “No guarantees” in life on how long is our contract here on earth.

Alrey and Sheryl, we share in your grief for the lost of your loving father. Our thoughts and prayers are with you.

If I had my life to live over

2009-04-05T14:22:00.002+08:00

Just want to share a reminder that life has no rewind
So let us live each day as if it is our first and last
Enthusiastic like the first day at school or work
Say and do things we love as if our last day on Earth
So there’s no regret and what if

As I always say… no ctrl+alt+del
Live our lives as realization of our dreams
Everyday as much as we can

IF I HAD MY LIFE TO LIVE OVER
by Erma Bombeck

I would have talked less and listened more.

I would have invited friends over to dinner even if the carpet was stained and the sofa faded.

I would have eaten the popcorn in the 'good' living room and
worried much less about the dirt when someone wanted to light a fire in the
fireplace.

I would have taken the time to listen to my grandfather ramble about his youth.

I would never have insisted the car windows be rolled up on a summer day
because my hair had just been teased and sprayed.

I would have burned the pink candle sculpted like a rose before it
melted in storage.

I would have sat on the lawn with my children and not worried about
grass stains.

I would have cried and laughed less while watching television
-and more while watching life.
I would have shared more of the responsibility carried by my husband.

I would have gone to bed when I was sick instead of pretending the
earth would go into a holding pattern if I weren't there for the day.

I would never have bought anything just because it was practical,
wouldn't show soil or was guaranteed to last a lifetime.

Instead of wishing away nine months of pregnancy, I'd have cherished
every moment and realized that the wonderment growing inside me was the
only chance in life to assist God in a miracle.

When my kids kissed me impetuously, I would never have said, "Later. Now
go get washed up for dinner."

There would have been more "I love you's".. More "I'm sorrys" ...
but mostly, given another shot at life, I would seize every minute...
look at it and really see it ... live it...and never give it back.

A gift to be thankful

2009-04-04T18:02:00.001+08:00

Yesterday is history
Tomorrow is a mystery
Today is a gift, that's why they call it the "present".

I received that message from a friend and initially find it corny but later to realize that it actually made a lot of sense. Most of us dwell on yesterday’s mistakes and worry about the unknown. We sail our day not making any change with our today. Now that we can be in charge of every action and decision that will change the past and predict the future. We forget to see what’s around us and appreciate the small blessings that come along our way.

I have a gratitude journal before where I jot down everyday at least three (3) things /people to be thankful for. It’s a small act to appreciate anything by saying ‘thank you’ for another day’s blessings in spite of life’s challenges. Two years after that habit just disappear and I was beaten by the busy lifestyle that I overlook the “gifts” I am receiving everyday. I need to do it again especially in times like this, it's like a tap on my shoulder that everything will be OK.

How about you? Are you noticing the small packages outside your doorstep or just blindly chasing after your big dreams? As they say “Great things come in small packages” just another cliché to end my day and this entry.

American Idol 8: my Idols got kicked out!

2009-04-03T11:44:00.010+08:00

It’s quite disappointing to see two talented girls voted out of American Idol.
Alexis and Megan are unique in their own ways and as the judges said they put their own mark with the songs they sing its just that they picked the wrong songs and did not received much vote from America. Oh yeah It’s a talent and popularity show at the same time.

Well it’s a competition and week by week, one will be eliminated based on their performance. This season, I think Idol gathered quite talented people like Alison, Matt Girraud, Adam Lambert and Kris Allen aside from the two girls who already left the competition. It’s already a “house thing” to watch Idol and we play as judges also and guess who will be the next one to get cut. It ended up, my bets are always the first to get eliminated.

My wild guess to be standing until Top 5 would be: Adam Lambert, Matt Girraud, Li’l Rounds, Kris Allen and Allison. Hopefully.

And so my first American Idol blog ended here.

I Googled Myself ...

2009-04-02T01:07:00.007+08:00

Out of boredom, I tried to Google "yototab" and the usual site suggestions popped out. My accounts in Flickr, blog, youtube, myspace and other sites I totally forgot I have signed up.

What caught my attention was the title "The World's Best Photos of singaporeskyline Flickr Hive Mind Search" of the page 2 of Google results. Whooa and so I clicked the link and check out what photo I have taken was included on the list. It was the nightshot photo of the Merlion with the Central Business District as the backdrop. It was taken during my early months as a newbie as an SLR user when you can me roaming around almost any part of Singapore to capture every scenery. I was glad to see my photo together with other great capture of Singapore skyline.

"Yes I Googled myself and I like it".

Something wonderful in the air

2009-04-01T01:39:00.003+08:00

I am not fond of running especially at the gym; I got easily tired aside that I have weak legs. Tonight my housemate and I decided to run around our area to get a breath of fresh air. Something wonderful is in the air, the cold soothing feeling that touches your skin and the sweet smell of flowers and green.

This is the gentle breeze that brings oxygen to revive the sagging spirits.

Running is letting you free of all the stress and worries that puts you down in the everyday struggles. The honking of the busy traffic and the people rushing to their destination were like birds singing in harmony. Yes there’s so much wonderful in the air... we just forget to notice because were caught up with so many trivial things in our lives.

My feet and legs are aching but nevertheless it’s worth it.

Reality Check

2009-03-31T00:55:00.006+08:00

Hundreds of articles, news and blogs have been written about recession and in our everyday lives we almost eat and breathe this word from television, radio, newspaper and internet. How many breadwinners or OFWs lose their jobs or sent home, their families who’ve been slaughtered by the crisis because Mommy who’s working as domestic helper cannot send her monthly remittance anymore? No more diapers for baby Juan, tuition fee for older Brother, mobile phone credit for Sis and allowance for the father’s drinking rituals.

Even I who’s not familiar with the word a couple of months ago was awakened by the truth that it will affect every one of us. A personal friend got retrenched even though she’s handling quite an important role in the previous company here in Singapore. A group of Pinoy factory workers was sent home because there are no more jobs waiting for them even before they reach Taiwan. More so, Pinoy tourists who are trying their luck to find job after giving up everything for a dream and better future suddenly disappeared.

A couple of weeks ago I called my sister and asked her, “is it ok for me to come home?” she said “Of course. We are your family. We can survive and surpass anything together. You’ll never be a burden to us”. I guess that’s all I needed to hear; all my fears and doubts vanished and ready to face the struggles again of being an OFW.

This is the reality that the world is facing right now… scary but true and nobody is indispensable. Crisis happens but we just need to be prepared. Let’s just hope that we recover from this the soonest possible time. But even if the crisis will take some time, let’s not lose hope and our dreams that we can hold on all throughout. because in these times, we just need something to hold on and believe in.

Single Ladies MTV: Pinoy Version

2009-03-28T19:46:00.009+08:00

Let’s stop talking about recession, retrenchment and global warning for the mean time and breathe and laugh. I was bloghopping when I saw the video parody of Single Ladies of Beyonce Knowles and it cracked the hell out of me. Laughter is the really the best medicine, I guess this is why Pinoy can easily cope with whatever struggles in life, they find things to have fun and laugh on almost anything even on themselves.

Enough of the nonsense and here are the videos.Enjoy. :))

Is this what you can do when you're bored and the house is empty? Boredom and being a fan of Beyonce can be a best combination why he came up with this video. LOL

This video is amusing that they made the video in the middle of the road. Can you actually do this kind of stuff? Well they did and good thing as they're fun to watch. They copy the actual steps of the original video but with their twist. Kudos!

AND Here's the original video of Beyonce:

Layag

2009-03-27T12:28:00.002+08:00

Pakinggan mo ang bulong ng dagat
Ang pagtibok ng bawat salpok ng alon sa pampang
Pakinggan mo ang kanyang sagot
Sa bawat sigaw ng ating damdaming nananaghoy

Pakinggan mo ng matagal at mabuti
Habang ika’y nakasandal sa aking tabi
Ang awit ng malalim na karagatan
Habang ang haring araw siya’s hinahagkan

Finally you’re mine

2009-03-26T16:07:00.008+08:00

Same month last year when I first saw you, I am not a believer of love at first sight but I was wrong when I laid my eyes on you. I did my research; gather as much information as I could from the people who knew you very well. That convinced me that I really want to know you more. As the time passed by, we went along together. Almost every weekend we have a time of our own. You let me realized that this world is a beautiful place to live in. Learned a lot because of you and showed me around to the places I thought only in my dreams exist. You excite me and I fell in love. We compliment each other.

It’s been a year now and although we’ve been together for the past months. Only now I can finally call you my own. Only after last month when I give my last payment for you, that my Baby Canon 400D is officially mine. More days of being together and places and moments to capture.

Get your Nut

2009-03-25T23:23:00.001+08:00

While actively searching for widgets to put on my blog, I discovered a website that will fuse all your social networks and multiple email accounts through the inbox you use the most. They call it NutshellMail (the mail in the nutshell) keeps you connected by sending email alerts of new activity on a schedule that you will set. This will save you time as you will only have one website to log in and have access to multiple accounts like Yahoo Mail, Gmail, Hotmail and social networks like Myspace, LinkedIn, Facebook and Twitter. More importantly it is FREE.

I signed in and I found quite useful and easy to navigate. I got update every 3 hours which is the time I set. Facebook updates include status update, new messages, friend requests, birthday, group invites and events. Twitter on the other hand, send update on Status, direct messages, reply to tweets, follow users and re-tweet. Nowadays, with so many accounts to maintain and keep track on, one website that link, consolidate and organize them save time and improve productivity. Signup and try it yourself else read more about the site here

The Other Side of the Coin

2009-02-18T13:47:00.002+08:00

I noticed that our world is full of negativity? The people around us are always complaining on almost anything. A friend for a bad relationship, a colleague on how unfair his boss, a parent for household expenses, or how their life sucks in general. It’s like an old music playing over and over again and listening to it is quite exhausting. And that is what I am dealing for quite some time already and it drains me to my last drop of empathy.

One exercise I won’t forget during a training I attended few years back is a dialogue with “yourself”. On a situation where you feel like a “victim”, ask yourself why do you feel that way? And for sure you will have a long list on how unfair and why you feel violated. But the second part of the exercise is asking yourself what is your contribution why it happened that way. Viewing the other side of the coin” and you will see that you can do something and not be the “victim” on every situation. With that simple exercise, I realized that I need to take charge of my life. Whatever decision or the outcome of it, I need to take full responsibility and not blame to others. I still complain and cry sometime when things are too much to take yet I am aware that it is still me that need to take action to make everything better.

Let’s not blame others why we feel miserable or we have no choice but only to weep on the things that happen or not happening in our lives. Life is about choices and how you make them will define your future. There’s no wrong or right but be ready for the consequences so think twice. As I said before... there’s no turning back. Move on. Life is too short to waste, so enjoy it.

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Stressed at work + Negativity of the people around you = Burnout! This is the time when we need to take a breath of fresh air and be surrounded by positive people.

My Photo at Yahoo Homepage!

2009-02-15T18:59:00.001+08:00

Out of nowhere, a friend message me a link to Yahoo homepage http://sg.yahoo.com/?p=us . As to my surprise, at the lower right corner (Yahoo Pulse) entitled "Love In Singapore with Flickr" was the photo I have taken last year with my colleague's pre-nuptial pictorial.

It won't be long at that homepage and I didn't get paid but hey it feels good in a way. I share the photo here in case you won't see it on the site anymore. :D

My complaint was published on STOMP!!!

2009-01-24T07:35:00.004+08:00

My housemate’s family visited him last week and we toured them around Singapore as the usual destination we showed them around the infamous Orchard Road. It was fun until we’re on our way home when we had an extraordinary encounter with one of the MRT staff which resulted to an embarrassing experience. Of course we got pissed off, good thing it was quite late and the usually crowded MRT station was almost empty. We cannot get over the incident so I decided to write a letter to SMRT as well as to STOMP.

(Stomp, Singapore's number one social networking and citizen media website stands for Straits Times Online Mobile Print. It integrates the online content and activities in the three platforms of print, online and mobile to interact and engage with Singaporeans. The website has grown from strength to strength. In January 2008, the site received its highest readership to date, with 10.5 million page views. )

Yesterday my housemate told me that the letter I sent to the website was already published. Of course the newspaper/website makes the title and article catchy though quoted almost my whole email.

Here’s the link of the STOMP article (while posting this the page has 16316 Views and 52 comments) entitled "What bullies! Rude MRT staff threatens to arrest teen girls"

2009: Another Canvass to Dye

2009-01-05T20:49:00.003+08:00

I’m like staring on a blank sheet of paper as I wonder how my 2009 will be. How will I paint, colour it and continue the story of my life. Who would be the characters that will play important role in my adventures? Will I be the hero who’ll save or the villain that’ll hurt other people, maybe both? How many doors will open for me as I continue to pursue each day? How many questions will be answered and dreams become a reality? Or this year will be just like the wind that passes by... inconspicuous.

We all hope that every New Year is better than the last one. We hope to correct all the mistakes and promise that it won’t happen again. No assurance yet we continue believe. I guess that is what is good about every New Year; we are given another canvass to paint our lives, another chapter to change the story, discovered our dreams and unravel the mystery.

I am facing another white canvass, unsure yet cannot wait how my story would look like.

Don't talk when your mouth is full...

2008-09-27T01:36:00.006+08:00

I believe for a fact that everybody talks about anybody and almost anything that fascinate them. I hate to say that most common than not Pinoys are known for this as part of everyday routine or culture in general. You can disagree but just my own observation, Pinoys won’t stop digging every detail of his colleague, friends or relatives lives as part of their everyday siesta. Like a novel that developing to different chapters and adventures. Funny thing before we even notice the story have different versions that’s so far away from what is real. Is it our too much interest to show business or chismis shows to think that every people’s life is worth talking?

I won’t exclude myself for there’s a gratifying feeling whenever you talk other people. It’s like an escape. Putting away for the meantime our attention from our own problems and focus on others to talk about their flaws, problems to feel a little satisfaction and righteousness. But is it really satisfying or are we just feeding our ego?

Since its a fact that everybody talks about anybody... but what if that anybody is You and you just happened to know that this everybody is making all the possible assumptions on every details of your life?

How would you feel and react? What move should you make?

Right now I am “anybody” and that “everybody” is having a Mardi Gras as a result of my actions for not being part of that “everybody”. What am I feeling? So many and hard to mention as my emotions are so high and I don’t want to regret whatever I will say. It’s really hard when that everybody you thought you’re family but sometimes circumstances proved as wrong. For now and as my mother will always remind us... “Never talk when your mouth is full... of shit” for there’s nothing will come up good.

While writing this maybe nonsense note of my current emotion, I remember one important lesson I learned from my PSI training. “What you sow is what you reap”, maybe this is only one of so many reaping as a result of bad seed I planted. I guess I just need to be ready for the coming days and continue to do things not sacrificing my values and principles. Practice more and plant good seeds/deeds.

Colorful Life ala Photoshop

2008-09-09T20:36:00.001+08:00

I wish life can be like this flower
I can Photoshop
Change and saturate the color
Change the composition whenever I want
Erase the unnecessary images
To be more pleasing

Appear one image from broken pieces
Seem real even if it’s not
Or sometimes you just don’t get it

Well I guess that’s what life is all about
Indescribable
But it’s in our hands
Who post process our decision?
Lies what we want to picture our lives...

I wish it’s always colorful as this one

No turning back

2008-07-15T01:00:00.003+08:00

Sometimes it won't matter anymore who's right or wrong
As long as you can stand by with your decisions
Whichever path you decided to go
whether with someone or just you

Because theres no rewind
No Ctrl-Alt-Del
No turning back
to the scenes that you want

So move forward
Life will continue to play as it must
Whether we like it or not
So decide. live with it.. enjoy life

The Caffeine Test

2008-07-15T00:26:00.000+08:00

Created by OnePlusYou

wounded

2008-07-13T21:33:00.000+08:00

Sometimes words are sharper than knives that can cut your throat in an instance. So deep that even time cannot heal the wounds. That is why I am trying not to say anything when my emotions are high because you cannot take it back... that is why most of the time, I rather shutdown, to think and regain my composure and have a better perspective of what is happening.
Now, I am wounded with all the indictments of a best friend for 7 years and maybe for life. I thought that long period of time somehow he knows anything about me but I was wrong. I was like a criminal being questioned with my decision and action that will suffice to feed against the stories they created in their heads. I choked with surprise and anger but I manage to stay relaxed for I do not know where to start and how to say. I sob after the litany of accusations and blame and for those ten minutes the seven years of friendship seemed gone. My friend, brother, housemate and roommate whom I just shared lot of experiences and maybe the most memorable, all of the sudden cut the bond in a snap.
Even the strongest storm calm down after a while and there came after the understanding of everything. The horizon became clearer for both of us. But what about the damage of all that has been said out of anger, “spur of the moment” is what they call it. But I call it disaster because for that single moment can ruin everything that is so beautiful.
I am wounded but I am still alive to continue and face the struggles of life. I am not sure of what lies ahead with this new phase, without my family and my best friend. But I need to. I must. Maybe this is only one hardship we need to face... separately.

Lost & Space

2008-07-10T18:05:00.000+08:00

They said the earth is quite a big place but why is it for the past few days… I cannot seem to find my own little space? I cannot move and breathe freely and only when I close my eyes I am embracing the universe. If the earth is round why is it I am confined in the four corners of these glass walled reality. Where my actions are magnified and every word doesn’t mean a thing.

How well do you know me if I do not know myself fully? Where I struggle all these years to discover myself and whatever life has to offer me? It is very easy for us to put tags on people we barely know based on what they say and do. But does it have to include me? Even I chose to shutdown for the meantime. Because in my own little world… I need to be me and value the single second of peace I could find within.

I guess our bond is too tight and both of us cannot openly be ourselves. We forgot that we are individuals taking our separate paths and just looking on each others back. I am clueless just like you on what’s happening. Lost as I couldn’t find the words to say to you what’s all in my head? I guess I need to clear my head of all the crap so that we could start to laugh and find the breathing space so we could be ourselves again independently.

(To be continued when what I feel and words inside my head have the same meaning.)

Blogging again... naturally

2008-07-02T23:07:00.001+08:00

It’s been a long since I haven’t write.. I don’t even know how to start for I dont know if anybody really read this blog of my roller coaster emotions. Until a stranger, a lurker or maybe just a bloghopper sent me an email saying that she enjoyed reading every entry and that it comes from the heart. Another came across my blog and said its nice but asked me if its “abandoned”? Surprisingly there are few people who tried to read my rants, sent me email and giving their comments.

It makes me wonder why really did I stop blogging?
Until now while writing this entry I cannot think of a single reason. All I know, every now and then, I try to visit this site and read my old entries. Sometimes I laugh for its so dramatic and corny as the soap opera illustrate but on rare occassions it’s like bringing back the memories of the past, like opening a secret box of my emotions. As I previously described this blog “when nobody dare to listen when I want to scream all whats inside me.. these are my whisper to the air for somebody might take notice of my inner thoughts and feelings, for every letter and rhythm comes from within – from the heart (prom.di.heart)”.

I am starting to be corny again and I don’t know if this entry is making sense at all. Well, bear with me for this is like my first entry once more after a long vacation from nowhere. I need to catch up and rekindle my passion or mainly just to express and share my rants. I miss writing and my old self thus I will try to take time to do this on a regular basis. Hopefully...

Contemplating on POEA MC4

2008-01-30T02:19:00.001+08:00

It’s more than a bomb that exploded that create chaos and have countless casualties when the Memorandum Circular 4 of POEA (Philippine Overseas Employment Authority) was released and took effect last January 15. They call it “Guidelines on the Direct Hiring of Filipino Workers” but we, OFW, called it “punishment”.

The MC4 requires the employer or agency that is going to hire Pinoy workers to comply with document requirements set by the government agencies (Philippine Overseas Labor Office, POEA and Department of Labor and Employment) before they can hire. On top of that recruiting party will need to have a five thousand US Dollars or peso equivalent bond as assurance for a year salary or in case of death of the Pinoy employee.
This circular has been the topic of news and so many online forums (PinoySG.com)discussing the pros and cons. There's a website petitioning to abolish this MC at Ipetitions.com Even our casual lunch break has become a serious discussion on this topic raising so many concerns

What are the concerns of most Pinoys why are they fretting and so concern? Well here are few:
1. No more Filipinos can go to any country as tourist then apply directly to employers or agency without securing clearance from Phil Government agencies.
2. The employers will rather hire other nationality because of the paperworks and the bond required by this new circular.
3. Are the pinoys who’s currently under work permit who is going to change employer will be considered as NEW HIRIES by this memorandum?
4. Is this another way and source of “kurakot” of our Government?

Although the memorandum has a good purpose to standardize the process of hiring Filipino workers but then again with some important clauses on the guidelines will make foreign employers think twice or not consider hiring Filipino workers at all. Even this is a protection from possible problems and abuse of the employer; we wish that our Government has seen possible problems will arise because of this policy. There will be more issues arising from this forward since it’s not yet fully implemented and clear with most of us. We’re hoping everything will be put in clearer view not only on our part as Pinoy workers but also to the employers in general.

Ghost from the Past

2008-01-24T00:52:00.000+08:00

Why do you keep on haunting me?
Where all our memories were buried since your love died
Why do you keep sending signals?
Where I have moved on with my life
Can’t you be happy that I have found serenity?
That I can continue to walk without looking back
That I can smile without bitterness co’z I have accepted the fact
That life isn’t fair and somebody else out there still care
So you can rest in peace and let go of what we have
Throw everything to the sea and let it fade
Like what I have done from the first day that you’re gone
Heal all wounds and pick up the pieces and start over again

My Unreleased Magazine Covers

2008-01-22T01:16:00.000+08:00

Who say's you need to be famous before you can be a coverboy? Hahaha
Thanks to MagMyPic... you're an instant celebrity. Well at least in your own blog or photo album. A fulfilled fantasy and breaking away from a serious life like what I did. LOL

Life Without Poetry

2008-01-20T02:25:00.000+08:00

I used to write poems before. They’re about, most often than not, the silly emotions of being in love. The ecstasy and heavenly feeling of a new found love or the unbearable pain of a broken heart. Words would simply pour from my heart and emotions would give the rhyme and rhythm of every verse.

Time passes by and the passion dies.

Maybe I run out of words to say. Or my heart simply stops singing the song of “love”? I am not cynical but maybe got tired of waiting and searching for the ‘one’ if there is really such thing. Right now, I am simply enjoying the life as it is supposed to be, with or without someone. Life without poems.

Maybe that someone is the ink to my pen and the emotions and rhyme to my every verse. Raw and corny at they may sound, but crafted by every happiness or tears along the way. I don’t know when I can make another one but I hope with or without poems… life will be as lovely as always.

Du di da da

2008-01-17T03:36:00.001+08:00

Let me tell you a story…

“Once upon a time in a far away place, lives a sword smith named You. One day while he is busy making swords in his very quiet place he heard little voices singing a tune he never hears before. He went to the source of the sound and find out tiny people singing their heart outs “Du di da da, du di dada!” over and over while jumping and walking. Pissed by the noise they created, he asked the little people “What are you doing and where are you going?” “There in the mountains” they replied. The sword smith was surprised for how these tiny creatures can get up to the hill. They may take thousand years before they reach the top. “Are you sure you’re going there?” he asked again. “Yes, you want to go and check what on top of the mountain too?” “No, I am too busy with my work” you replied. The little people challenged the sword smith for who can reach the top first will receive a price they agreed upon.
The sword smith ran like a lightning reaching half of the slope in a couple of hours. He decided to rest for sure the little people are miles behind him. But only few minutes he heard a sound becoming familiar, “Du di da da, du di dada!”, “What the … how the hell you managed to get up here that fast” he asked. “Were not really fast, you’re just so slow”. How come he’s slow where he ran almost he ran out of air to breathe? “Look at your back.... you have a sack of manure!!!” little people said to him. He doesn’t want to believe but when he checked his back there it was, a sack full of manure”. He threw it away and continues his journey to the top. He saw along the way the group of little people jumping and playing while getting climbing, he ignored them and continues. But when he almost reached the top, there he goes again. He cannot move his body especially his legs. “Du di da da, du di dada!”, the group passed by his way and stop. “What are you doing here?” they asked. “I cannot move and run anymore. My body is too heavy and tired” he said. “That’s because you have a big pumpkin on your head!!!” they screamed and they continue to walk. “There is? He checked and saw a big orange pumpkin resting to his tired head” He threw it away and feel so light as he continue to reach the top…”

What’s the moral of the story? We work and live our lives sometimes too routinary and most of the time no goals at all. We sometimes need the little voices (people around us) before we challenge ourselves to set goals and reach for our dreams (the mountain). And on the process we tend to give up because of too much baggage at our back (the manure/ our Past)… then stand and continue again until we think we cannot go on because of what’s on our head (the pumpkin / Fear of the future). We fear a lot of things in the process... but do we need to fear the future? If it is unknown then why it should have to be feared upon, maybe we’re just scared that what happened in the past might happen again… that is why we are afraid of the future. Live in the present might be a cliché but that is what we should be doing. It is how we see a glass of water with half in it… Half full of half empty? Our lives full of problems or might be blessings in disguise or just a delayed gratification to teach us hard work and patience.

Well for me I still have to discover the mystery of life and learn the lessons. I have reached many mountains but need to uncover and reach for more. No manure at the back and pumpkin on my head, well I am trying to live the lesson of the story. The road ahead of us is not an easy one… Thus we need to be prepared yet happy all the time … “Du di da da, du di dada!”

Being Right Is Not Always Right

2008-01-16T01:34:00.001+08:00

To be right or to be kind is one challenge we face in our everyday lives and most of the time we choose the former. Because we think that if we prove our point and make them realize they are wrong… our ego will make us feel better. But have we actually thought that somehow along the process or after we have put down someone, the feeling is not gratifying at all?

It’s not ….and that’s what my friend is feeling right now. The compassionate part of him is questioning if what he did was right after all? Maybe he has the best intention as a friend and he wants to protect the person close to him but the way things happen just to prove his point is what worsened the situation. I won’t elaborate the issue but it’s a love life versus friendship thingy… trust versus betrayal. Now after all have said their declaration what has left were ruined trust and friendship. Far important than the piece of information that who to decide if it’s right or wrong?

I am both their friend but seem like an outsider in this situation. It’s not that I do not get myself involve but I just believe that no matter how close we are… sometimes I need to step back and give each other a break. Especially personal issues such us love won’t be my business unless they call for help. I guess we handle situations and view relationships differently even we are friends for years.
Well the situation is not really that bad but I am hoping that everything will be great soon… the only right and kindest thing I can think about right now.

On Closure

2008-01-05T02:03:00.000+08:00

I definitely understand the pain every person is undergoing in every separation… Been there done that. The so called “love affair” is over. No more sweet talks, hugs and kisses and mushy whatever on the following days and weeks to come. Sad, but a reality that one needs to accept that even the good things never last (always).

What I do not understand, some people have the courage to get into the relationship but do not have the same effort to tell when the feelings are gone or when problems are too much to bear. They will just disappear as if “it’s already understood”, they will just do the easy way out… gone with the wind. It’s immature… it’s chicken shit.

Romantic relationships ended without proper emotional closure simply because one of the partners refuses to engage in one last "loose-end-tying-up" conversation because for them it is too daunting at the emotional level, and the person simply does not want to "go there," maybe for fear of opening old emotional wounds.

But do we really need to talk when things aren’t going to get better and the relationship has no where to go but the end? I would say Yes. It is best to talk one final time to say their last goodbyes. Officially saying goodbye can feel downright liberating. Even every sentence needs punctuation, an ending to a story so that you can move to another chapter. No unfinished business, No loose ends. No bitter memories. No extra baggage and the only way is to move forward.

De Leon Barakos

2008-01-04T00:54:00.001+08:00

Da who are these people in the picture? Most people asked whenever I go online on my Yahoo Messenger since I put it as my avatar picture… Is it one of the random pictures I have taken? A boy band (LOL) or Inmates serving their terms?

No la! (Sounding like a local Singaporean)… they’re my family and as a given follow up reaction would be an “aaaahhh…” sign of amazement that they’re not as good-looking as me or affirmation that you could see the resemblance from the forehead? Yessss all of them suffered from HIV (Hair Is Vanishing) and sad to say in a couple of years I might be one of them. It runs in the family... haha

In case you’re wondering why I am not in the picture? First, I am not yet an HIV victim(not severe case as them) and secondly the picture was taken from a family gathering last December which I cannot afford to attend since I cannot take a leave of absence from my ever demanding work la!

Da who are these people? They are the Deleon Barakos – Kalbo yet Gwapito… hehehe
(Left to Right: Norman (4 year older than me), Rene (brother on his early 50's), Nano(Father, origin of kalbonism, on his 80's), and Berting (brother on his mid 50's)

My Ultimate Beauty Tip for 2008

2008-01-03T02:10:00.000+08:00

I don’t need to be an expert on beauty to give you this ultimate tip. I won’t ask you to buy the expensive concealer and make up to hide your flaws, eye shadow to highlight your eyes and lipstick for your lips to be more luscious. Not even close to any of that.

How about SMILING? Yes! Smile is the single best way to exude the inner beauty not only of a woman but also for men. Whatever skin tone or size you are a smile can make you prettier than before. Try to wear this everyday… better than the any make up you’re wearing.

The Bucket List

2008-01-02T04:09:00.000+08:00

Death teaches us how to live. This is one lesson that “The Bucket List” has made me realize. Although the movie critics didn’t find it technically great I guess this would definitely be included in my list of favorites. The story line is about the two terminally ill men who find themselves doing things on their last remaining days. They made a list of things to do and places to go and called it the ‘bucket list’. They formed a friendship by a forceful bond imaginable - urgency of their deaths.

The movie though simple is life affirming. Not everyone on their death beds are given enough time to fulfill their wishes and not all healthy people are enjoying life as they suppose to. Rightful to say that death of 2007 and this movie will help me to begin the New Year on the right track. Set my goals and things to do and enjoy
life as every single day unfolds.

‘The Bucket List’ stars Morgan Freeman and Jack Nicholson. Both gave outstanding performance in a drama/comedy film with a little deeper emotional resonance. It’s not just a feel good movie but a movie with a lesson to lasts. The movie was released and shown in the US last Dec 25, 2007.

My name means...

2007-12-20T19:07:00.000+08:00

You entered: July Reyes de Leon

There are 15 letters in your name.
Those 15 letters total to 69
There are 6 vowels and 9 consonants in your name.

Your number is: 6

The characteristics of #6 are: Responsibility, protection, nurturing, community, balance, sympathy.

The expression or destiny for #6:
The number 6 Expression provides you a truly outstanding sense of responsibility, love, and balance. The 6 is helpful and ever conscientious, making you quite capable of rectifying and balancing any sort of inharmonious situation. You are a person very much inclined to give help and comfort to those in need. You have a natural penchant for working with the old, the young, the sick, or the underprivileged. Although you may have considerable creative and artistic talents, the chances are that you will devote yourself to an occupation that shows concern for the betterment of the community.

The positive side of the number 6 suggests that you are very loving, friendly, and appreciative of others. You have a depth of understanding that produces much sympathetic, kindness, and generosity. The qualities of the 6 make the finest and most concerned parent and one often deeply involved in domestic activities. Openness and honesty is apparent in your approach to all relationships.

If there is an excess of the number 6 in your makeup, you may exhibit some of the negative traits associated with this number. There may be a tendency for you to be too exacting and demanding of yourself. In this regard, you may at times sacrifice yourself (or your loved ones) for the welfare of others. In some cases, the over zealous 6 has difficulty distinguishing helping from interfering. You may have difficulty expressing your own individuality, because of involvement with responsibilities and causes. Like all with the Expression of the number 6, it's quite likely that you worry much too much.

Your Soul Urge number is: 11

A Soul Urge number of 11 means:
With the 11 Soul Urge, much of your thinking and interests relate to the abstract, the spiritual, and utopian dreams. You are motivated toward idealistic concepts, and the sharing of your ideas and concepts with humanity. This number is not one that is giving in a material or a practical sense, but rather one who desires to help mankind with a more abstract commodity such as religion, spiritualism, occult studies, or even psychic abilities.

If you possess the positive 11 Soul Urge traits, you have a dream of the perfect world; you are highly idealistic and inspirational. Your inner strength and devotion to your beliefs are extremely strong. You have a very good mind that is especially well equipped to handle the higher, more abstract forms of thought.

If there is an excess of 11 energy in your makeup, you may possess some the negative 11 traits. There is a tendency for the 11 to produce considerable amounts of nervous tension which is bought on by a very high level of awareness. You may be too sensitive and overly emotional. In some cases, these sensitivities and emotions are quite repressed, and this tends to add even more to the sense of nervousness in the makeup.

The strong 11 is not a very practical person because of the extreme idealism; often, there is a degree of self-deception present. There is usually a rather fixed idea of right and wrong held by those showing strong 11 traits, and with this very often is a resulting attitude of inflexibility.

Your Inner Dream number is: 4

An Inner Dream number of 4 means:
You dream of being a very solid citizen that people can depend upon. You strive for organization and predictable order. You want to be recognized as a person with a plan and the discipline to make that plan work like clockwork.

----
Try it yourself Name according to Numbers

A Home Away from Home

2007-12-19T00:40:00.000+08:00

It’s been quite a while that I keep on bursting my hardships on working and living away from my family here at my blog. Never did I realize that I will soon find a home away from my home. My friends as my housemates and the wonderful group of Pinoy friends at workplace making my stay here as easy as possible.

I remember the book I read “Where the Heart Is”, a journey of finding oneself and home from strangers who showed kindness and care to later realize that home is not just a place where you came from but where your heart is. I can somehow relate to what the character went through, a struggle to find a new life in strange land but eventually found a home.

At work, although deadlines and people are giving me hard time once in a while, these pinoy friends wipe it away by our usual “okrayan and laitan” as part of our everyday meal. Talking issues far more important than work… lives of other people hahaha (usual Pinoy right?). When occasion comes, everyone is invited, housewarming, daughter’s first birthday or barbeque party and you need to be present or else you will left out and be the topic of the night.
My housemates on the other hand are my long time friends back from Philippines. Although we know each other back home we still need to adjust as now we are living under one roof. Still there are lot of things we are discovering. We argue sometime but it only strengthens the bond we already have.

Yes I am still missing my family a lot but while I am still here, I will enjoy everyday with my new found home and family here in Singapore.

alcohol and me

2007-12-18T01:33:00.000+08:00

I am not a fan of alcohol but when occasion calls for it… I drink. One or two bottles of beer are enough for me … Yeah I am not a heavy drinker or just simple way of saying I am not a KJ. The effect of alcohol easily shows on my skin as I turn bloody red although I am not mestizo LOL.

I have experienced the worst of too much alcohol in my body thus I learn to control my intake. I hate the vomiting and spinning walls around me. I accepted the fact that my alcohol capacity is very limited so I compensate the occasion with my stories and by being “makulet”. So I don’t really understand why some people push their limits as if there’s no more alcohol tomorrow as they literally cannot pick themselves up and go home.

Last Friday was our company Christmas party and the alcohol is just like water that flowing through our throats. Dinner, socializing, giving gifts, videoke and lot of fun accompanied by different types of alcoholic drinks. I have my fair share though most people thought I am so drunk… “tamang kulet” as they call it and I don’t do things and later on forgot because of too much alcohol. Don’t get me wrong… alcohol can be a great companion in an occasion but again as the cliché goes everything should be in moderation.
Heres some of the captured moments of my sober and alcohol influenced me <<<Obtech Christmas Party Photos>>>

Shift

2007-12-07T02:57:00.000+08:00

Since Monday, I committed myself to change little by little the negativity that running through my veins. It’s hard to carry a body full of unnecessary thoughts, fears and emotions. It’s like dragging yourself to do things and treat everyday a burden. So I called my last Monday, the “first day” because I decided to start shifting my perspective to the brighter side and taking control of my emotions in every situation, no matter how tough it may seem. First day of a 7-day to make a habit (it’s actually 30 days but I made my own formula). A habit to stay positive or change something you want! Because once it became a habit, everything is effortless and will be part of your everyday life.

Sounds easy but hell no… for everywhere I go, situation and people test my will. Temptations are everywhere and as a human being I react to situations and the result in committing the same mistakes I don’t want to happen. Staying positive in a negative world is really tough but at least my intention and effort to change is there. If only we’re like computer that we can press Ctrl-Alt-Del to start all over.

As Kokoy always tell us in PSI training, life is a battlefield and will test how you can apply what we’ve learned in every training and being a naturally positive individual. Yes, we are naturally good hearted positive individuals but circumstances in life and our environment raised and molded our thinking to what we are and will become. Thus it’s really a challenge to stay good and positive.

Today is Friday and still my first day. Little by little and slowly everyday I am positive that a new perspective and habit will transpire. I just need to rekindle what’s inside me every now and then.

What the F@kC!

2007-11-30T23:08:00.001+08:00

Most of the people who really know me as a friend or colleague at work can agree that I am easy to work with and a happy and funny person most of the time. Yes, believe it, although I outburst the saddest emotions here at blog, I love to laugh and enjoy life. Writing is not really my way to be known or to impart things I am not very good at. That’s ,I am writing mostly are MY feelings and experiences… this is my outlet, shock absorber, confidante and my canvass.

Forget the heartaches and homesickness, for today my patience was almost pushed to the limit and it showed on my face. Why? For several people in the company who don’t carry out their job and care for people, whom I’m serving being in Human Resources. Their faults bounced back to us, even my boss must show the courage to apologize on their behalf. Poor thing, simple thing can’t be done on time… cause there’s no proper planning or maybe to them “employee salary” is trivial. This is only my 4th month in the company but it’s always the same thing… its like we need to beg from them to give what is due to people who worked their asses the whole month to pay their bills and have a good and comfortable life.

Blame it to the bank system and let the people agreed on the lame reason you’ve given. Blame it to me when you cannot find the last 74 dollars. Blame it to the moon cause you’re not seeing that when you point your finger to anything… the four are pointing back at you. Take responsibility of your own actions, accept your faults and start resolving every issue. We (group of pinoys) called them “gobyerno” for they’re like Philippine government or the agencies work so slowly and has many flaws. Sad to hear but at least I am proud to say in the Philippines I never experienced late payment of salary, not even once.

I was really pissed off by what has happened today. If things won’t go well I guess that’s the time I really need some thinking and do necessary actions. For now I am containing myself and letting out the negative energy…
Forgive me in this entry; at least I am not sad or lonely LOL! As I’ve said this blog is a shock absorber.

Hope tomorrow will be a good day.

More Pain, Gain What?

2007-11-30T01:41:00.000+08:00

Not even the kindest words in the dictionary or the nicest way will ever shield from the pain when separation comes the way. Even though it happened to you a couple times, the amount of hurt will never be less. As the song goes “there’s no easy way to break somebody’s heart….”

Much more when the heart that’s been broken was million pieces to begin with.

Anybody can appear tough yet crumbling inside. The heart is bleeding and seems no way to stop. Some will say to you “everything will be OK” but how can it happen when everything you hoped for has been taken away from you? And everything you’ve done was burst in an instance. Love is over rated.
Or I am just blogging this for the sorrow is overflowing …but not tears. For now I will just let the pain succumbed me and make me numb for a while and when I’m used to it I am good as new, invincible. Life’s lessons are sometimes in a hard way. No pain, no gain. (but too much is like hell haha)

Ecclesiastes

2007-11-28T00:18:00.001+08:00

For everything there is a season,
And a time for every matter under heaven:
A time to be born, and a time to die;
A time to plant, and a time to pluck up what is planted;
A time to kill, and a time to heal;
A time to break down, and a time to build up;
A time to weep, and a time to laugh;
A time to mourn, and a time to dance;
A time to throw away stones, and a time to gather stones together;
A time to embrace, And a time to refrain from embracing;
A time to seek, and a time to lose;
A time to keep, and a time to throw away;
A time to tear, and a time to sew;
A time to keep silence, and a time to speak;
A time to love, and a time to hate,
A time for war, and a time for peace.

Ecclesiastes 3:1-8

Pasalubong

2007-11-27T23:42:00.001+08:00

Maybe today is one of the happiest days of my stay in Singapore if not the happiest. I got my “pasalubong” ,small gift or souvenir from someone travelling either whilst visiting or upon returning home, from my housemate from his two weeks vacation in the Philippines. All are local products and delicacies from our province such “butong pakwan, chicharong baboy, polvoron, pastillas and ensaymada”. I didn’t realize that I would be so glad like a kid so excited to open the plastic bags as if first time to receive a gift. Well there are pinoy products here too but too expensive.

I guess it’s the feeling that all these came from home and the effort of my sister to buy all stuff and deliver to my friend that make it special (naks). I am so OFW for all these local products are the ones I tell her to buy, well of course I am going to share to my housemates and colleagues at work. I call my sister right away to express my gratefulness and ask how much I owe her LOL!
Thank you sis for the pasalubong and Mico for carrying it (even you had an excess baggage, well it’s not my fault haha) to Singapore. Hanggang sa muli or maybe if ever I am the one who’ll go home I will surely bring as much as I could. Wushu…

Holy Alphabet

2007-11-26T21:42:00.000+08:00

The Holy Alphabet... This is Beautiful

Whoever came up with this one must have had some Divine guidance!

A lthough things are not perfect
B ecause of trial or pain
C ontinue in thanksgiving
D o not begin to blame
E ven when the times are hard
F ierce winds are bound to blow
G od is forever able
H old on to what you know
I magine life without His love
J oy would cease to be
Keep thanking Him for all the things
Love imparts to thee
M ove out of "Camp Complaining"
N o weapon that is known
O n earth can yield the power
P raise can do alone
Q uit looking at the future
R edeem the time at hand
S tart every day with worship
T o "thank" is a command
U ntil we see Him coming
V ictorious in the sky
W e'll run the race with gratitude
X alting God most high
Y es, there'll be good times and yes some will be bad, but...
Z ion waits in glory...where none are ever sad!

When I said, "My foot is slipping," your Love, O Lord, supported me.
When anxiety was great within me, your consolation brought joy to my soul.
=Psalms 94: 18-19

Im cleaning my inbox and saw this from my PSI pal. Thanks for spamming my inbox with this kind of stuff cause sometimes in this so negative environment we need this kind of pause to reflect and breathe...

Four months ago…

2007-11-20T02:24:00.000+08:00

This is the latest episode of my favorite series “Heroes”, where some extraordinary people have the power to change the future by going back to the past. I guess I don’t need to have that kind of power for what had happened in the past made me who I am now and the future is great journey to discover.

But four months ago, I was the probinsyano who’s so scared of getting out of the country. I don’t know why whereas almost all Filipinos want to fly out of their places just to experience independence and little comfort in their lives. I guess I am one of the few who still believes that we can make it no matter how hard the life in Pinas. Idealistic? Patriotic? Maybe

But what made me decide to go to Singapore? A promise to a friend, to my independence (at last), to experience full responsibility to myself and my family (still) and explore the unknown. Scary as it may sound but that is life. Nothing is so sure until it happens.

Four months after, here I am, secured a decent job in line with my previous work, adjusted to the food and culture of a very diverse environment. Although, homesick every now and then but tried to find things to keep me busy and contact the closest people when able. I have experienced a more comfortable life here compared to Pinas but I know all of these are temporary and although four months has passed, I still want to go home and settle. It’s very true that’s there’s no place like home. But for now I need more time to work hard and save for the rainy days… Lot of emo moments but I will have time to pickup my scattered pieces and be one.
Four months has passed and more to go…

Addicted

2007-11-16T02:39:00.000+08:00

It’s a weird habit that I am ending my day early morning…I usually sleep around 3 am after getting hooked to the net. Surfing and most especially watching Youtube (Pinoy Big Brother, Ysabella, etc), and Sidereel for the latest season/episodes of my favorite series (Heroes, Prisonbreak, etc), It’s so addictive, Grabe! On weekends, I try to watch Pinoy movies over Crunchyroll , if you are fanatic of Asian series and movies it’s a good site for you guys.

Well of course before I get myself indulge to this diversion of mine. I finished all my chores first. Yes you heard it right. I do household chores after work which I don’t like doing before but now getting used to. Laundry, sometimes cooking, cleaning the house and feeding our pets (Alex, our rabbit, Cody, our dog and our fishes “o di ba mini zoo na kami). I made a joke out of this to my colleagues at work; the job I landed here in Singapore was to be a full time DH (Domestic Helper) and a part time Human Resource practitioner. There are other side jobs too like Airport pickup (I send our newly hires from Pinas to their places here in SG), Work Permit Liaison Officer, Tour guide, etc.

That’s how multi tasking I could ever be and stressful as well :grin: Good enough I have so many Pinoy Tsokaran (colleagues) at work. No boring lunch moments as pure cultured pinoy laitero at chismoso talked about anybody and laugh, sometimes even at ourselves. One more thing, I try get some exercise to get fit and maintain a sexy hunky body (asa pa!). Lastly, writing my way of releasing the emotions deep inside my veins and exercising my mind.

Net. Work.Family.Home.Gym.Writing. Few things that keeps me going on and on…. Addictive but good vice to continue…

Ciao, goodnight and good morning

I miss home..

2007-11-14T20:23:00.000+08:00

Obviously for the past entries, all I have were rants and heightened emotions. But don't get me wrong it's not all lonely here it's just I miss "pinoy lifestyle" hehe...
And I guess I envy those people who can easily go home to Pinas whenever they want as if Divisoria and Quiapo. More than that special occasions are about to come and I miss the family gathering every year. The food, my nephews and nieces, Megamall, traffic jam, street vendors(fake dvds)...

In a few months time, I will be home. Save a little and experience the holidays here (subtle way of saying I don't have to give gifts to 20+ pamangkins, 7 siblings and spouses and inaanaks!)... For the meantime I will be glad to hear stories from friends and colleagues who gone home and bring pasalubong (chicharon, polvoron, etc) that make us so happy and update us to latest chika and happenings.

Hayyyy... I miss you all

Emo...

2007-11-13T01:57:00.000+08:00

For the past weeks its been a roller coaster of emotion. My life here in Singapore, away from home, is truly an adventure. While trying to conquer the greatest and most common sickness of every OFW, (missing home) pressure and people from work tend to add up from time to time. Most often than not I feel burnout and want to escape from the reality even for just one night.

But then again, this is a choice I made and maybe all that I am feeling are part of what you call adjustment. I dont know how long I can be fully adjusted to a culture so new to me... I hope soon for this is one of the reasons why I am here... testing my inner strength. Amazing Race ala Survivor in a Big Brother House where lessons be learn by understanding yourself and win by knowing the rules of the game. I am just on my first few challenges and I hope I will win and survive the adventure I am in now, otherwise I will bring home the lessons and memories I have gathered here.

Smile on my face...

2007-11-08T03:26:00.000+08:00

It’s almost 4 AM and I can’t sleep, so many things rumbling in my thoughts. I can’t vocalize as it may sound stupid to others or I just don’t want to tell the same story all over again. Even I got tired of complaining and telling the sad stories… seeing myself as the victim of the situation and helpless. I hate it!

That’s why most of the time; I keep it to myself and laugh about it, until it fades. I always wish that every laughter I make cures the deepest scar and pain I had and hidden inside me. So loud that my happiness will exude to my entire system and my life… until what’s left are memories, lessons and true happiness that everybody dream and deserve.

Everything will be okay soon and while it’s not I will put a smile to tell the world “I can smile today even in the toughest times and soon you will hear the laughter from the top of my lungs”. :D

Officially OFW

2007-10-27T00:43:00.000+08:00

After ten years here I am updating my blog once again....

What the hell happened to me? So many things that I could say Im taking a new chapter of my life right now.
Few months ago I am the one recruiting people and send them to work in an international cruiseline and hearing stories from them about their lives away from home and the hardships they encountered along the way. Here I am, while writing this blog, is on my 4th month in Singapore and has fair share of stories to tell. Honestly I did not see myself as an OFW until I was on a remittance center sending the fruits of my labor to my folks. Calling them almost everyday just to hear their voices to make me feel closer to them. Eating pinoy foods and hearing familiar accents by Dudung and Inday made me smile. Simple things that I tend to ignore and find jologs when Im still in the Philippines makes me feel at home. I guess I accepted the fact that I am officially an Overseas Pinoy Workers... mga bagong bayani (new heroes) as our government termed it.

Four months and I can say I had already adjust myself with the lifestyle and culture both workplace and outside. Although totally different lifestyle but I learned to appreciate my independence and the responsibility to myself and others as well. Moreover, I am gaining friends and family that make me feel comfortable and Singapore a home away from my own.Of course there's no place like home and I am missing my family and everything in the Philippines but while away from them I might as well enjoy everyday of my stay in a foreign land as an official OFW.

Ciao till the next update....

Sorry Guys on Multiply Network

2007-10-26T21:34:00.000+08:00

My apology to all the guys on my network. I didnt mean to flood your board but I just tried to update an entry from my blogger account but I forgot to untick the entries... all of them were pasted.again sorry!

Cycle called Love

2007-10-22T01:10:00.000+08:00

Have you ever had the feeling that the pain is too much that it’s going to explode anytime? Too much hurt to contain by your vulnerable heart that believed something that could never happened no matter how much you tried. It’s too complicated too many reasons why you can’t be together.

When in the first place you never expected such thing to happen in your life, fate will test how strong your will to stand by your principle. But who are we claiming to be the strong enough and can live alone when love caresses our stone cold heart? We bend on our knees, we swallow our pride and we forget all the pain that we had in the past and treat each morning with a brand new light. As if we could conquer the world with just a little hope in our hearts that wish to blossom to something good called relationship. But just when you just open your heart and believed all of these, you will wake up from a dream and find yourself all alone again.

Alone with nothing but a wish that everything will be okay again and the cycle of pain and separation stops even for a while. So that our heart can experience a love without a deadline, a relationship not just for benefits, a one true love. But while waiting for that time to come, let us heal our wounds first and be one again… Cause nobody will ever complete you but you. Until then you are ready to love and be hurt but will never be broken.

The Secret

2007-07-28T23:55:00.000+08:00

Do you believe in the law of attraction - that if you really wish for something and you really believe it will happen, it will?

It's true. It's not infallible, of course, but consider the corollary: if you don't wish for something and you doubt it will happen, it probably won't. Neither you nor anybody else around will be compelled to make it happen. As they say the universe is listening and whatever we conceived will happen as we attract them to.

Wishing alone is not enough. Believing alone is not enough. But without wishing and believing, there can be no action.

Wish. Believe. Action.
That's attraction!

Here's a video will help you explain what I am trying to tell you. After watching then tell me what you think?

The Secret

Do you believe in luck or do you make your own?

2007-07-28T00:21:00.000+08:00

Last night I saw a movie about a person who’s all her life full of luck and all of sudden switched to a life full of misfortune to a guy who became her love interest. Well the movie is the usual teeny buffer love story but what caught me is, are there really people who’s just got lucky?

We always say good luck or best of luck to others when they about to take important leap in their life but do things really happen because of luck? That we can achieve things effortlessly? I don’t think so. For everything that we do is a result of our efforts or actions from the past that prepare us for now and the future, as the saying goes “what you sow is what you reap” or other termed it Karma. You won’t get successful if you don’t work hard and seek for opportunities. Even the richest men didn’t get to where they are out of accident; they work hard to put their plans into action; their dreams into a reality.

Thus explained some important things happened to me for the past weeks. I got a job offer on my 3^rd week of job hunting after several interviews and literally hundred of online applications. The position I had hands-on experience for the past seven years and a salary I aspired. Two days ago, I got the final rating from my teacher from the course I enrolled at the University of the Philippines Open University (UPOU) with final grade of “Completed the Course with High Distinction”. I was in ecstasy and told my family and friends about the good news. Some says I am lucky for good things are coming my way and some even say this is your month and 2007 is my year. But neither of those things sink in my mind, instead I contribute all of these to what I have done to achieve and the people who helped me.

But then again thanks for all the people who gave me their “goodlucks” for this worked in lifting my spirits and encouraging me to strive hard and reach for my goals. We can have good life (not luck) if only we strive and make it.

Desiderata

2007-07-23T15:06:00.000+08:00

Go placidly amid the noise and haste,
and remember what peace there may be in silence.
As far as possible without surrender
be on good terms with all persons.
Speak your truth quietly and clearly;
and listen to others,
even the dull and the ignorant;
they too have their story.

Avoid loud and aggressive persons,
they are vexations to the spirit.
If you compare yourself with others,
you may become vain and bitter;
for always there will be greater and lesser persons than yourself.
Enjoy your achievements as well as your plans.

Keep interested in your own career, however humble;
it is a real possession in the changing fortunes of time.
Exercise caution in your business affairs;
for the world is full of trickery.
But let this not blind you to what virtue there is;
many persons strive for high ideals;
and everywhere life is full of heroism.

Be yourself.
Especially, do not feign affection.
Neither be cynical about love;
for in the face of all aridity and disenchantment
it is as perennial as the grass.

Take kindly the counsel of the years,
gracefully surrendering the things of youth.
Nurture strength of spirit to shield you in sudden misfortune.
But do not distress yourself with dark imaginings.
Many fears are born of fatigue and loneliness.
Beyond a wholesome discipline,
be gentle with yourself.

You are a child of the universe,
no less than the trees and the stars;
you have a right to be here.
And whether or not it is clear to you,
no doubt the universe is unfolding as it should.

Therefore be at peace with God,
whatever you conceive Him to be,
and whatever your labors and aspirations,
in the noisy confusion of life keep peace with your soul.

With all its sham, drudgery, and broken dreams,
it is still a beautiful world.
Be cheerful.
Strive to be happy.

One step at a time

2007-07-11T19:21:00.000+08:00

The lights of the city is captivating, places are alluring, and the people are so diverse that you can be just you… these are only few things that made me come back to Singapore. After the two weeks vacation last year, here am I trying my luck to seek employment and finally settle in this unique city.

I am more than a week and beginning to sink in that this is not just a vacation. After seven years of working and dealing with people, all of a sudden I am a bum and alone. Homesickness is what they call it, missing the people, food, places and the things that you’ve accustomed to every single day of your life. Now I understand the stories of my applicants and their uncertainties before they go onboard the luxury lines and work away from home. Now I understand the meaning of sacrifice, being selfless for the sake of greater benefits… the reason for working abroad of most Filipinos.

Well for me, this is a real and big challenge for I left my work and trying my luck here. Still many people and circumstances are testing my persistence and confidence in pursuing my goal/dreams. Yes of course sometimes I tend to question the reasons why am I doing this? Sacrificing the security I had back in the Philippines and trying to fit in a foreign land on my own. Gambling? Maybe for most people but this will be a challenging journey for me. No failures only lessons learned along the way…

Yes it is very lonely here but then again I tend to discover, learn and do things I haven’t tried before. Good things I have friends here who made feel home and friends back in Manila who always say their good lucks and advices. Giving me more courage and strength to continue what I have started. Well I guess no matter where this journey leads me I am lucky to have them together with all the lessons I have and will learn along the way.

No pain no gain. One step at the time… and all this sacrifices will give better results

See you soon guys…

2007-06-23T10:07:00.000+08:00

Seven days to be exact and I will embark myself to a totally new challenge in my life. I will leave behind the life I am used to and the people who matters to me. It’s long time overdue actually, and now is the time that the plan needs to put into action. One thing I never consider doing is right now the only thing I have to believe in. I will go to Singapore for a month to seek employment… well of course to be with my friends who will soon be my family (if ever I get hired and stay longer than a month).

I am one of those people whom you called “sigurista” who always try to weigh things and be on the safe side. But now I realized that being safe is not always right and that we need to come out of our comfort zone. This time I am letting myself vulnerable yet strong and firm about my principles and goals. I received lot of discouragements but this is a big “risk taking” I need to take not to prove anything to anyone but for very personal reasons.

I will surely miss a lot here. The people (my family, friends, (ex) co-workers), food (especially my sister cooking which most of the time too salty), the places and corny soap operas I am fond of watching. Yet I am excited to try a new life where I could learn and do different things. Yes until now I have mixed emotions about this BIG thing but there’s no turning back because I am looking for unsure yet exciting adventure.

So don’t cry guys. I will be back
No goodbyes only see you soon …

Check out my Slide Show!

2007-02-15T13:48:00.001+08:00

I have no creative juice to write anything for quite sometime so I just updated some other links and created this slide. you can check more photos at www.fotki.com/yototab

Heart's thought

2007-02-13T09:08:00.000+08:00

I will love you with all my heart
without expecting that'll come back
I'll just wait to grow it in your heart
If it doesn't I just let it blossom in mine

Shoot the Stars!

2007-01-18T17:16:00.000+08:00

After so many thinking and resisting on Star shooters I finally decided to join the team but I wasn’t able to attend the first night orientation. Moreover, I have several batch mates in the team that convinced me to grab the opportunity. I was really indecisive because of so many obstacles in my head. Only yesterday I was able to come up with a decision to join because of people who’s willing to extend their support and resources.

I was so excited and so was my batch mates, but then again when your about to reach your goal another obstacle is right on your face. Tita Vicky told me that I cannot join the team because I missed the first session and no other way but to wait until April for the next training. I am disappointed yet positive because at least I have learned to conquer my fears. That I’ve managed to talk to people and attract them to sponsor part of the fee and I even applied for a loan which I’m usually afraid of. Sometimes what matters most is not really the goal itself but how to pursue it.

Weeks ago as part of the goals I have created in PSI Basic, I researched about schools offering short term courses and registered as initial step in achieving it. And today I got a mail from UP Open University and even talked with the administrator about the whole process and I was so amazed and happy about the talk. I will take the course and no prior plans will be affected by it since it’s a non face to face learning (distant learning). One more thing, my loan is approved and I can encash it tomorrow for the enrolment. I am so excited for my new challenge. Though I am not part of Team 66 Guys… let’s shoot for the brightest star!

Whatta Feeling!

2007-01-16T18:54:00.000+08:00

Drained yet full of energy. That’s me right now. How could that be? I got it from the people I served and worked with for the past four days in PSI basic 209. I do volunteer works but not as much as 4 consecutive days of physical work after the usual office stuff. Wheewww… muscle and back pain because of so little sleep and lots of physical activities. I even thought of giving up on the 3rd day but then again… it’s a challenge I need to face. Be of more service without any expectation. And voila… finished like a snap of a finger. An overwhelming feeling that I shared not only my time but the lessons I learned and the thought that 70 more individuals changed their outlook in life.

I thought I am tired but I even went out with my PSI 208 friends for late dinner and a bottle of beer. Share some wacky jokes and serious talk with few weeks ago strangers in my life. It was a nice evening to wrap up the week I had and nice start for the year 2007.

I am a winner

2007-01-11T10:10:00.000+08:00

While everyone writes their new years resolutions I am jotting down my affirmations and goals at least for the next months. Since resolution is improving oneself or the wrong habits we had last year or for many years, I decided to write declaration of who I am, I want to be and new things I want to do and create. A positive approach to draw the picture I want without drawing back to the past. On this case failure is not an option.

Before, just like you I wrote down resolutions but never really observed them. I ended up having the same habits and mistakes I had last year. Maybe I am not committed enough then and not surrounded by people who will push me to achieve my goals. But now I am surrounded with lot of people who’s doing the same thing, living the life to the fullest. Thanks to PSI, it opened up my desire to change and have a clear outlook in all aspects of my life. Right now I am in control and have a clear vision of what I want to do. I am making small steps… baby steps towards changes in my life. But I intend to do it as practice it for my own good. Not only to be successful but also to happy and contented.

Last night was our last staff meeting and I was really amazed the leap I made. In every staff meetings we shared our winnings… small accomplishments in the week or weeks we had. With this I tend to appreciate the slightest details of what’s happening in my life. And from then on I am writing my everyday success in my journal to remind me that this day I am a winner. And last night I shared some of my biggest wins and its amazing how these people responded and supported me with my aspirations. I definitely belong and feel that I am truly a winner on my own right.

Navidad con Familia el Provincia

2006-12-18T20:10:00.000+08:00

One week and it’s officially Christmas. When I was kid I count how many sleeps there’ll be for this day to arrive. So that I could wear my new clothes, open the gifts and “ampao” with twenty peso bill. Now I count how many gifts will I wrap for all my inaanaks, pamangkins and apo (Yes I am on the record a Lolo at 28).

Thank God I’m done wrapping and all the people on my checklist has something to receive. I’ve been to Divisoria, Baclaran, Megamall, Glorietta etc to find little something to give to each and everyone. Better cheap but at least they have something to keep. Thanks to Sanse Liza for accompanying me I don’t have the patience to bargain and walk every corner of Manila.

I came from a big family and since it’s seldom to gather all of us in one occasion this Christmas would be special. I think the last gathering we had was my college graduation day, don’t ask how many years ago that was. But when we meet it’s definitely fun, the chismisan and laughter that will fill up the whole place. It’s a priceless moment with your family.

Now that all the gifts are ready, the menu, transportation, program and games that will surely be fun. The kid in me can’t wait to get home and light up the Christmas tree again to welcome the family and see my old folks again. Can’t wait to experience another Christmas ala probinsya de kumpleto de familia. Hahaha

Reborn

2006-12-15T10:27:00.001+08:00

Two weeks ago I attended a 4-days training in Makati. My only idea was it’s a leadership seminar. Ahhhh just the usual this and that blah blah blah… so I drag myself to go to the first night as the schedules were kind of weird, 6-pm to 12 midnight of Thursday and Friday and 9am to 8pm of weekends. There was a typhoon coming that weekend so I said to myself I have a reason to excuse myself for the next sessions aside from the fact that it’s a long holiday. Since it’s a company sponsored seminar it’s safe to say we’re a little bit forced to attend it. We’re six on the group and the 2nd batch to send to the mysterious training as the first group didn’t mention anything so it triggers my curiosity.

We arrived an hour early and the first group to register so we saw all the participants. It’s a mixed crowd from all walks of life so it surprised me more to see what’s this training is all about. I sat on the front row with my colleagues to have a full grasps of the lecture. But surprisingly there were no handouts, slides or video shown. All he used was a pen and paper to point out important points. The content of the training were far beyond what I expected thus on the first night I hardly sleep and read through my notes instead to see what’s special about the training. I didn’t figure out that night but I found myself an hour early on the lounge on the 2nd day of the training. Excited? Maybe, as my curiosity risen to see what the next activities are on the coming sessions. Then there I was sitting on the front row most of time absorbing every bit of it and relating it to my life (the past, the now and the unknown). The approach was holistic and not merely concentrating on the career aspect of being a leader as what I have thought. I successfully finished the training and I’m so glad I did for I have learned so much.

Another good thing about the training was the “Graduation day”, it’s a simple gathering to distribute the certificates but like graduation day you can bring your family or friends. Not only to witness and have a glimpse of what the participants went through but to share the results and invite them to experience it as well. I brought Lirio, a close friend whom I share anything about my life for the past months. Frightened and literally all the butterflies crumpled in my stomach as I said my peso worth of testimonial about the training. I told them the excuses and hesitations at first to undergo the next sessions but finding me indulges every bit of a second of each activity. I compared myself to a blind man walking in his lifetime, blinded by the superficiality of the world, but after the training finished I am like a new born baby with so much greatness ahead of me, awakened, pure and with so much purpose.

Two weeks has gone and as the speaker always say, our training was a “fake training”. The real deal is our everyday life and how we are going to apply what we have learned from the 4 day sessions and activities. And it’s a challenge for all of us to live the life we want to be… with better perspective and tools we have… It’s a challenge we’ll overcome.

Passion for Teaching

2006-11-15T18:11:00.000+08:00

" Teaching is more a passion than a profession."
Written in 2006 by Mau Nivales (Philippines)

And this week I met two people in teaching profession with both passion in their craft. Although we haven't met personally our exchange of instant messages let me see their love and dedication for their dreams, family, aspiration and teaching in general.

Lets just call Teacher 1 "Bro". He's taking an education course as his second degree for personal reasons and on the side volunteering as a teacher in a shelter / orphanage somewhere in Manila. He worked for 2 years in a multinational company but chose to share time and his knowledge to the kids. Given a chance he prefer to teach in areas who really need proper education like the mountains. On the other hand, "Rod" our second teacher is on his 3rd year as Physics teacher in a secondary level in Quezon City. He's one of the few who really took the profession for the love of it. He's taking Masters and majoring in Special Education. Unfortunately, he will leave the country early next year to fly to the United States for understandable reasons. His family and career growth.

I myself is teacher by profession knows that to be one is a very big and important responsibility in shaping the minds and lives of the young. And with this responsibility comes pride and joy that no amount of money can buy. That's why they say it's noble. And with this overwhelming thought I decided to take a leap on Human Resources as my career because I am not ready for the challenge. Because to be a teacher is not enough if you successfully translated your lesson plan or presentation at the end of the day but what impact did you make to their lives. Teachers teach more by what they are than by what they say.

And these two guys are good example why schooling would be fun and interesting. I am a teacher and at the end of day... I learned something important from my fellow teachers - Passion.

Dumb Questions

2006-11-14T13:09:00.000+08:00

Everyday we're facing lot of questions and most often than not many are left unanswered. That's why life is a journey... a puzzle to be solved. As part of my everyday work I usually throw structured questions and what I get in return are scripted answers. And game shows are mainly full of these as well although some are dumb questions or answers are obviously given.

But how would answer these dumb questions?

How dead is the Dead Sea?
Which is the other side of the street?
Who killed the Dead Sea?
Why are some gay people so unhappy?
If a pronoun is a word used in place of a noun, is a proverb a word used in place of a verb?
If a word in the dictionary were misspelled, how would we know?
Why do they make scented toilet paper?
Why don't they call mustaches "mouthbrows?"
Why don't you ever see the headline "Psychic Wins Lottery"?
Why is "abbreviated" such a long word?
If I save time, when do I get it back?
Why do they report power outages on TV?
If all the world is a stage, where are the audience sitting?
If 7-11 is open 24 hours a day, 365 days a year, why are there locks on the doors?
How do you write zero in Roman numerals?
Why are all blackboards called that when some of them are green?
Where did Webster look up the definitions when he wrote the dictionary?
When they first invented the clock, how did they know what time it was to set it to?
What kind of fruit is in Juicy Fruit gum?
Do infants enjoy infancy as much as adults enjoy adultery?

Now I realized most of my questions in life can be answered compared to these. LOL at least not as stupid as them.

Adik sa'yo

2006-11-11T11:31:00.000+08:00

Minsan kahit gano kasarap ang ating bisyo talaga yatang pagbabayaran natin ito sa lumaon at madali. Dahil ngayon parang oras na para pagbayaran ko ang masarap at pinakamamahal kong dibersyon... ang kape. Sa umaga, pagkatapos ng lunch at minsan bago mag uwian galing trabaho, di pwedeng di masayaran ng kape ang lalamunan ko. Iba kasi ang amoy... nakaka engganyo tapos ang init na dadampi sa lalamunan mo dama mong iba ang hagod. Minsan di ko namamalayan kung nakakailang tasa na ako basta kasabay ko sa bawat tipa ko sa computer keyboard at mga job interviews ko. Wheewww

Ngayon eto ako, di malaman kung ano ang nararamdaman ng aking tyan. Hilab, kabag o anuman. Basta alam ko wala akong nakaing anuman na pwedeng ikasama. Tama nga siguro ang mga doctor kwak kwak na kinunsulta ko baka dahil sa palagian kong pagkakape at pagpaliban ng pagkain. Hayyyy masakit man, tama na muna siguro. Sabi nga sa mga komersyal. "Bawal magkasakit ngayon" kaya dapat "Drink moderately" na muna. Andyan naman ang Milo with Actigen E, Chocquick, Ovaltine at Tsaa... di man kasimbango at sarap ng kape ... pwede na muna.. kaya goodbye muna kape ko.

Flash: New Company Policy

2006-11-10T16:16:00.000+08:00

I just finished my marathon interview and about to take a break when this mail from my niece got my attention. I have been into Human Resources for six years and handle all areas including company benefits and policy administration. After reading the mail I am wondering to incorporate the following policies.

NEW COMPANY POLICIES

Dress Code
It is advised that you come to work dressed accordingly to your salary. If we see you wearing Prada shoes and carrying a Gucci bag, we assume you are doing well financially and therefore do not need a raise. If you dress poorly, you need to learn to manage your money better, so that you may buy nicer clothes, and therefore do not need a raise. If you dress just right, you are right where you need to be and therefore do not need a raise.

Sick Days
We will no longer accept a doctor's statement as proof of sickness. If you are able to go to the doctor, you are able to come to work.

Personal Days
Each employee will receive 104 personal days a year. They are called Saturday and Sunday.

Toilet Use
Entirely too much time is being spent in the toilet. There is now a strict three-minute time limit in the stalls. At the end of the three minutes, an alarm will sound, the toilet paper roll will retract, the stall door will open and a picture will be taken. After your second offense, your picture will be posted on the company bulletin board under the "Chronic Offenders category". Anyone caught smiling in the picture will be sectioned under the company's mental health policy!

Lunch Break
Skinny people get 30 minutes for lunch as they need to eat more, so that they can look healthy. Normal size people get 15 minutes for lunch to get a balanced meal to maintain their average figure. Fat people get 5 minutes for lunch, because that's all the time needed to drink a slim fast.
Thank you for your loyalty to our company.

We are here to provide a positive employment experience. Therefore, all questions, comments, concerns, complaints, frustrations, irritations, aggravations, insinuations, allegations, accusations, contemplations, consternation and input should be directed elsewhere.
The Management.

Just kidding!

Kahit na...

2006-11-10T09:22:00.000+08:00

Kahit anong sikil
ang puso'y walang tigil
sa pagtibok
sa pagsilip sa'yo
Kahit sugatan
at tanging luha na lang
ang dumadaloy sa aking mga ugat
ikaw pa rin ang hinahanap
Upang muling masaktan
at madurog
dahil sa tuwing pupulutin ko
ang piraso ng aking pagkatao
Nadarama ko ng paulit ulit
ang pagmamahal
ang tunay kong pag-ibig
na inaalay ko sa yo
at sa manhid mong puso

Blogging isn't boring at all

2006-11-09T08:52:00.000+08:00

According to Blogger.com A blog is our easy-to-use web site, where we can quickly post thoughts, interact with people, and more. So I am giving you more with my Radioblog. Where I can share not only my random thoughts but also some music I like to listen to. Unfortunately, it's not downloadable.

You can get this plug-in at Radio.blog.club and include in your website or blog. You can put a player and upload your songs (like what I did and put on my sidebar) or simply select a song from their database and post it on your webpage (like what I put on my Life is Short post). Since I am not that techy I have to read the forums for more detailed instructions and help. But its worth the long hours co'z now I can share some songs to you guys! Blogging / reading blogs will not be boring as before.

Enjoy! Let me know if I could be of help...

Video: Sitti Navarro - Para sa akin

2006-11-07T17:00:00.000+08:00

I'm fond of listening all types of music and I fell in love with this song when I first heard it on the radio. Very nice song, the lyrics, melody and soothing voice aside from the fact that Sitti is cute.

Kung ika’y magiging akin
Di ka na muling luluha pa
Pangakong di ka lolokohin
Ng puso kong nagmamahal

Kung ako ay papalarin
Na ako’y iyong mahal na rin
Pangako ikaw lang ang iibigin
Magpakailanman

[Chorus]
Di kita pipilitiin
Sundin mo ang iyong damdamin
Hayaan na lang tumibok ang puso mo
Para sa akin

Kung ako ay mamalasin
At meron ka nang ibang mahal
Ngunit patuloy ang aking pag-ibig
Magpakailanman

[repeat chorus]

Kung ako ay papalarin
Na ako’y iyong mahal na rin
Pangakong ikaw lang ang iibigin
Magpakailanman

[repeat chorus 2x]

Para…….

Sa akin…………

visit Sitti's website

Seriously: Life is Short

2006-11-07T11:34:00.000+08:00

Life is so short to be bitter and angry so rather enjoy it as you can. That’s my philosophy and I am trying to live it as much as I could. Most of us waste our time carrying so much pain and whining about what happened in the past that we don’t have any control. We drown in tears and convinced ourselves that we have moved when actually we’re not. And I am guilty of that most of the time.

Grey’s Anatomy reinforced this belief as I was hooked every episode of it. Life can be so damn short that can be taken away from us in a snap of a finger. Walking in the street and get shot or hit by a car or just simply not waking up to see the sunshine or traffic jam. If ever that happen to us or at least know you’re gonna die, do you think you’ve done what you have to do in your lifetime? And how would you live the remaining days of life? Well in my case. Few things i plan to do:

Throw the happiest party with family and friends
Have a great sex with someone I really love
Take my last pacute picture
Check my friendster and write my last blog
Sleep

We really can’t tell how many days or hours left in our lives but its better to live it in such a way we don’t have to look back and say our “what ifs”. I don’t have many regrets in my life for I try to do things base on my belief even sometimes it doesn’t turn the way we want it to be. Life is not really fair… and so short… but beautiful if we live it to the fullest. "Seriously? Seriously!"

Pangarap Shelter

2006-11-06T09:32:00.000+08:00

It was eight months ago when I attended an orientation with Hands On Manila in Megamall and only until Saturday I really had the chance to go to actual volunteering. I was with Teri, my niece and Dennis (his boyfriend) walking under the heat of the sun trying to find the location, it’s Pangarap Shelter in Libertad. We entered the blue gate and inquire for HOM coordinator Ms. Dona Viernes who welcomed us and gave a brief orientation regarding the organization and the activities.

Pangarap Shelter is an exclusive haven for street children (boys) and as temporary shelter for underprivileged kids who happened to have parents who can’t raised them. They provide their basic needs and education for some. And HOM helps the organization to supplement their knowledge by having a two hour tutorial sessions every Saturdays. Since most of the kids wander on the streets for a long time and first time to undergo formal education, we are to help them learn the basics, Math, Reading and Comprehension (both in English and Tagalog). Each volunteer have a student or group depending on the level we’re going to teach or facilitate.

I was assigned to Crisanto, a 9-10 year old guy who is currently enrolled in Grade 1. His record showed that he undergone a couple of tutorial sessions with basic Math skills so I started from there. I gave him couple of numbers to add, subtract, multiply and divide. Surprisingly the kid has good math skills for his level as he could process up to 3 digit numbers for all math operations. After an hour, I asked him what other things he wants to learn and he said reading. Although having a hard time reading the syllables he tried to read the paragraph as much as he could. The kids have a very short attention span so we don’t force them to learn. Fifteen minutes before tutorial ends, Crisanto excused himself to play and my time to give some notes to Ms. Dona.

They were bunch of regular tutors in the shelter and as a newbie they welcomed us and offered us to comeback, which I am planning to do. Pangarap Shelter a haven for the kids who’s giving them hope and a chance to build their own dreams. For me, they’re giving me a chance to help and dream for myself. I will be back and hopefully stay for the kids and for myself as well.

T.I.I.S.

2006-11-02T14:00:00.000+08:00

Sabi nila pag lumampas ka ng trenta at wala ka pa ring asawa… myembro ka na ng T.I.I.S. (Tang Ina I’m Single). Samahan ng mga sawi sa pag-ibig o sadyang minalas na di makatagpo ng matatawag na kanilang tadhana?

Wala naman kaming lahi ng matatandang dalaga o binata pero mukhang sa ngayon di ko pa natatagpuan ang matatawag kong kabiyak ng aking tadhana… ang aking Julia. Matagal tagal na panahon na rin ang nakalipas ng matapos ang aking huling relasyon. Maikli man ay singsakit din ng mga naunang pagkabigo at matagal bago mahilom ang sugat. Kaya siguro madalas ay nagdadalawang isip akong sumugal ulet… dahil malalim ang mga sugat

May mga ilang pagkakataon ring sumubok na buksan ulet ang puso sa pag-asang baka sakaling siya na. Pero higit na masakit pala ang umasa ng maaga pagkatapos ay biglang mawawala. Akala mo hawak kamay mo na pero biglang huhulagpos at ikaw ang mahuhulog sa bitag na ginawa mo… Ewan ko ba…ibang tao ako kapag nalason ng sobrang paghanga ang puso ko (madalas akala ko ay pag-ibig). Pero agad namang nakakabangon kahit may pait ay may konting pag-asa pa rin.

Sa ngayon singol sa edad na bente otso. Dala ng mga pangyayari at personal na desisyon. May pagkakataon na nga akong natanong “Kailan ka ba mag-aasawa?”. Para bang pedeng pitasin sa tabi-tabi ang mapapangasawa ko. O kaya makasalubong ko sa isang mall ang isang maganda at seksing babae at masabi kong “Miss pede bang pakasal na tayo?”. Okey lang kung OO ang sagot nya pero nakakatakot pa ring sumuong sa isang aspetong di ka siguradong handa ka. Masaya na muna ako sa mga bagong nakikilala… mga taong kahit papano ay nagiging parte ng buhay ko at sa pamilya at kaibigan.

Habang naghihintay, sa ngayon myembro pa rin ako ng SMAC (Samahan ng Malalamig Ang Christmas) at ng TIIS – Tol I’m Irresistibly Sexy… Ah basta, alam kong may darating sa mga susunod na araw. Kailan yun? Sabay nating abangan…

Death, Resurrection and Hereafter

2006-10-31T11:27:00.000+08:00

Death is inevitable and every one of us willingly or unwillingly will enter the grave.
But most of us are afraid of it… and even I when I was a child was so devastated when somebody close to me died. Maybe because were not ready to face it or enjoying the life we’re having. Maybe we’re still searching for contentment in our lives and everlasting happiness.

Good thing about death? They say the enclosed box is the door to the world that is more beautiful than before. And spirit will rise to into the wide circle of the Eternal Beloved One’s mercy. It is a pleasant and everlasting life free from suffering. Maybe that’s why others commit intentional death or suicide to free them from misery (that’s not a good thing to consider don’t you think?)

Well, God never told us that this life would be easy. That our journey will be smooth sailing and always in the express way… free from traffic, humps and holes along the way. We bumped humps and holes once in a while just to tell us “Hey, take it slow”… and that is why every journey has its stopovers. That would be our life in general… sometimes full of chaos like rush hour in EDSA but there are times that we’re on top of everything and driving just fine.

Good thing about life? Even we don’t physically enter the grave… we died for so many times but we managed to resurrect and continue to fight the challenges God presented to us. All we have to do is bury the worries and pains we keep inside and search for the happiness beyond material things and imperfections of the world. Hereafter…That’s when we truly enjoy living.

Sabado Nights

2006-10-23T16:46:00.000+08:00

It’s another weekend when all the interviews and reports are over. And here I am with friends and a cocktail drink to accompany me in another cold night. Perhaps a couple of shots will help me forget and eventually enjoy the night. With the loud trance music I tried to sway my stiff body to the beat, maybe the deafening music will finally calm my soul. This bar is a miniature Manila, noisy, polluted and full of people trying to secure his own little space. Struggling to dance to the music called life. Whatever the beat and whatever the steps everybody has their own way to deal with it.

Whenever you look, their faces were painted with smile. No trace of uncertainties just pure happiness. In the crowded dance floor I drowned myself to the bliss as much as I could enjoy, grooving to the music and letting the alcohol take charge for a short lived and paid seventh heaven. This is why I like about “Sabado Nights”… the blinking lights, the sounds and people who party as if there’s no another day coming.

But as the dance floor became crowded and the night is getting deep. I began to feel the sting of a non-stop dancing and few cocktails. And I just felt so isolated and cold in the middle of the great weekend escape. I am sober and the party is officially over. I headed home and went to bed to finally get a good rest and cuddle my pillows. Behind closed doors I lay myself and bid goodnight to the good times and tomorrow will be another cruel day to overcome. Sabado night is over but good thing is I have a next one to look forward.

Basura

2006-10-20T19:52:00.000+08:00

Sa tuwing nilalandas ko ang bawat sulok ng kamaynilaan di ko maiwasang mainis sa dami ng kalat kahit saan ako lumingon? Sa lahat ng sulok, kanto o iskinita kahit na nga may karatulang “Bawal magtapon ng basura”, doon nakatambak ang nakakasulasok na timbon ng kalat ng bawat pamilya. Samantalang may mga palad namang kumakalkal at pilit humahanap ng saysay sa gabundok na kalat na ito.

Sa harap ng mga plastic bags na nakasabit sa tarangkahan ng aking daraanan… biglang sumikad sa aking isipan. “ganito rin ba sa ating relasyon?” Ang basura ba ng iba ay kayamanan para sa atin?

Minsan sa ating buhay, tayo ang taong nagtatapon ng “kalat” kapag wala na itong silbi sa atin. Kung wala na tayong nakikitang kinabukasan o pakinabang kung patuloy pa itong kukupkupin. Minsan naman ay tayo ang walang pakundangang itinatapon at iniiwan sa isang malamig na sulok ng bangketa. Nababalot ng masamang pangyayari at alaala. Umaasang sa madaling panahon ay may darampot sa atin at may makakakitang may higit tayong silbi kaysa sa dating nagmamay-ari. At may pagkakataon ring tayo ang mismong nakakakita ng ginto sa bunton ng basura kahit na sa apat na sulok ng maliit na iskinita…Inaari nating animo walang bahid ng maduming kahapon at nilalagay sa pedestal.

Isang malakas ng putput ng truck … senyales na aalis na at tutungo sa susunod na bundok ng mga basura. Ano na ang mangyayari sa basurang di na pedeng irecycle? Ibabaon na lang ba sa ilalim ng lupa… mabubulok at kakainin ng mga uod o patuloy na namumuhay sa madilim na lugar hanggang sa may humukay. Sabi nila lahat ng bagay ay may silbi… pero pano kung ikaw ang kalat na wala ng gustong umangkin? Susunugin na lang ba at magiging maitim na usok at hahalo sa alapaap.

Hayyy … sa akin kaya may pupulot pa?