Wednesday, December 21, 2005

I am scrooge

The holidays are upon us once again. It’s that one time of the year when people are a friendlier, more giving and more patient than usual... talaga lang ha?

Call me jaded, pero more and more, I associate the holidays with stress and sometimes with disdain. While it is true that people are friendlier and more giving this season, I can't help but notice that some are taking advantage of the season.

My case in point:
1. garbage collectors, postmen, etc hand you envelopes (with merry xmas written on it) expecting you (ney, thinks that it is your obligation) to give them cash gift.

2. "carolers" who "sing"(?) a few lines of Christmas songs and expect you to dole out some cash. Buti sana kung maganda ang rendition, eh sumisigaw lang tapos di pa natatapos yung isang kanta. Namamasko ba kayo o nambubuwsit

3. Taxi drivers who take advantage of commuters laden with bags and bags of Christmas shopping. Parang pag nakita nila ang mga ito, ang nakikita nila ay hindi tao kung di peso sign. Tsk tsk...This is a time for contracting passengers or asking for additional P50-100. Others even have the gall NOT to give change since "its Christmas naman". Hello, pareho lang kaya tayong nagtratrabaho. I need the money just like you do. Money doesn't grow on tress noh.

4. Have you tried going to groceries, supermarkets or the wet market these days? Aside from hordes of people doing their Noche Buena shopping, you would notice that prices of fruits, beef and chicken as well as other "Christmas" food fare soar (like crazy). This trend will most likely continue until new years. Tsk tsk.

5. One of my pet peeves this season is your kumare / friend texting you to "remind" you of her son/daughter (your inaanak) gift from you. Not only that, she tells you what she thinks you have to give her child. Hay naku, minsan, iniisip ko na kinukuha kang ninong o ninang dahil lang sa mga regalong inaasahan nilang ibigay mo sa mga anak nila.

I used to love the holidays during my younger years. I always associate it with spending quality time with family and friends, vacation and food. These days, I feel like going on a sabbatical from the holidays, hiding out in my room and never going out unless I really need to. I am becoming such a scrooge.

Thursday, December 15, 2005

killer santa?

just when you thought you have seen them all... a killer santa is on display in front of Joel Krupnik and Mildred Castellano's Manhattan mansion. Hidden partly behind a tree, the merry old elf grasps a disembodied doll's head with fake blood streaming from its eye sockets.

you can read more about this "statement" here:
Macabre Christmas Display Makes Statement

Wednesday, December 14, 2005

stir-fried veggies

A quick dish for people on the go. perfect with fried chicken or lumpiang shanghai.

ingredients:
> 3-4 cloves garlic, chopped
> 1/2 to 1 head onion , chopped
> 1-2 cups togue
> 1 carrot, shredded
> 1/3 to 1/2 head cabbage, shredded
> butter
> beef cube (maggi or knorr)
> black pepper

directions:
1. In a wok, saute garlic, onions and beef cube in butter until onion turns translucent.
2. Add carrots and togue. Saute for 2-3 minutes.
3. Add cabbage and lots of black pepper to taste. (if you want you could add a dash of liquid seasoning, adjust to taste). Saute for additional 2 minutes or until cabbage is cooked.
4. Serve with fave dish.

Monday, December 12, 2005

wala lang

my mind has been a blank slate for the past few days, must be because i miss a certain someone. since i have nothing to post... eto n lang.

pho
You are Form 0, Phoenix: The Eternal.

"And The Phoenix's cycle had reached
zenith, so he consumed himself in fire. He
emerged from his own ashes, to be forever
immortal."


Some examples of the Phoenix Form are Quetzalcoatl
(Aztec), Shiva (Indian), and Ra-Atum
(Egyptian).
The Phoenix is associated with the concept of life,
the number 0, and the element of fire.
His sign is the eclipsed sun.

As a member of Form 0, you are a determined
individual. You tend to keep your sense of
optomism, even through tough times and have a
positive outlook on most situations. You have
a way of looking at going through life as a
journey that you can constantly learn from.
Phoenixes are the best friends to have because
they cheer people up easily.


Which Mythological Form Are You?
brought to you by Quizilla

Friday, December 09, 2005

big four

While most of the Philippine viewing public will get to watch the final night of the highly watched and sometimes controversial Pinoy Big Brother, I won't be able to. You see, I will be spending Saturday night in the company of friends watching a Martin Nievera Concert. In other words, I will get to know the big winner on Sunday's the Buzz.

While I would really want to who among Uma, Nene, Jason and Cass would be named the big winner (and take home P6M in cash and prizes), I just can't pass the chance to be with friends. It has been ages since we last went out. Besides, I would only be paying half the price of the concert ticket (thanks RG!). I am looking forward to a night of laughter and full bellies. hehehe.

bed weather

the cool climate brought about by the 2nd day of steady rain as well as the december air makes one want to spend more time in bed.

yup, it is getting harder to get up in the morning... one would just want to snuggle in bed rather than brave the traffic and the stress of going to work. Hay, can't wait for the start of my vacation!

Friday, December 02, 2005

spicy chicken with veggies

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For the past weeks, I have been assigned in the kitchen since I arrive way earlier than my sister. And since I arrive home around 6pm, I try to prepare dishes that would be ready in less than an hour. This dish can be prepared in 30 minutes.

Spicy Chicken with veggies


You would need:
> 1- 2 pcs chicken breast, cubed
> 5-6 cloves garlic, chopped
> 1/2 onion chopped
> 1-2 pcs bell pepper, cubed
> 5 small tomatoes, cubed
> 1/3 -1/2 pack mixed veggies (corn, carrots, green peas)
> chili powder
> cayanne pepper
> pepper flakes
> salt and pepper to taste
> olive oil
> 1-2 pats butter
> a few drops of hot pepper (i used tabasco)

Directions:
1. Season chicken in garlic, chili powder, cayanne, salt and pepper. Let the chicken infuse with the seasoning for 5 minutes.

2. Saute chicken in olive oil for 5-6 minutes (or until chicken is cooked half way). Set aside.

3. In the same skillet, stir fry garlic, onions, chili flakes, bell pepper and tomatoes until soft. Add mixed veggies and 1-2 pats of butter. Cook for additional 3-5 minutes.

4. Add chicken and a few drops of hot sauce. Simmer for 2-3 minutes more.

5. Serve hot with rice.

Wednesday, November 30, 2005

women and violence

Violence against women is not limited to domestic violence, wife battery, rape, trafficing and forced prostitution. It includes violence in armed conflict, such as murder, systematic rape, sexual slavery and forced pregnancy. It also includes honour killings, dowry-related violence, female infanticide and prenatal sex selection in favour of male babies, female genital mutilation, and other harmful practices and traditions.

Below are just some forms of violence committed against women in the Philippines:

Domestic violence, especially wife beating, is the most wide-spread form of violence committed against women. While, news on domestic violence is nothing new in the Philippines, it recently hogged the limelight so to speak when one member of the "upper-class" came out and told her story.

Recently, Plinky Recto, a tv-personality and Pilates instructor, sister to Sen. Ralph Recto and Vice-Gov. Ricky Recto, grabbed the headlines. Nope, it was not for her effectiveness as a host nor was it for her Pilates business but because she announced to the public that she was a victim domestic violence.

In her numerous interviews, she stated that the four-years she stayed with her partner was a nightmare., that she has a permanent neck injury brought about by the abuse and that her son was "kidnapped" by her partner.

In her numerous statements and inteviews she refused to give the public the name of her partner, stating that he is so influencial and has many "agents" that can make life miserable for her, her families and friends.

Pressed for clues in her interview in the Buzz Sunday, Ms. Recto gave a clue: the man was one of the reasons Gen. Jarque went into exile.

(for more into this matter, you might want to check this site out: http://plinkyrecto.blogspot.com/ - this blog sheds light into the indentity of Ms. Recto's partner as well as issues affecting her case)

Gabriella, the women's activist group is supporting Ms. Recto on this matter. Lets hope that this case will have a positive ending.

*********
Verbal Abuse -- this too is a common form of abuse against women. Wife, girl friends and yes even employees are subjected to this form of abuse. Words such as boba, stupid, good for nothing can and will lead to the decrease of self-worth and confidence of these women, making them feel that they are second rate citizens.

Other forms of verbal abuse are offensive jokes and innuendos on sex, sexuality, gender bias and women.

*********
Violence in War and Conflicts -- In Mindanao, especially in the war torn areas of Jolo, women continue to be affected either directly or inderctly.

Abuses are not limted to sexually assults to women and children as strategies to war, but more on their rights to live as a decent human being. Her (and her children's) right to basic necessities such as food, water and shelter as well as education is deminished.

relationship tips

I got this email from a friend... these advice runs true for any form of relationships.

(My reactions to the "relationship tips" are in italics)

The biggest fear when it comes to a relationship is whether or not a certain person will leave you hurt, heart broken or otherwise affected. What I've found though is that many people open themselves up for potential hurt by not following a few common sense rules. It seems that the desire to be around someone who is interested in you, even if you are "settling" by being with him or her, is worth the risk. If you find yourself in, or afraid of these types of situations, keep in mind the following tips. They just might help you avoid a future hurt.

==============================


Find Out Where You Stand

"The unknown is a powerful force. It can drive you crazy, make you doubt yourself and potentially destroy a relationship. Don't let this happen to you! Make sure you know where you stand in your relationship. In the same respect, make sure you continually let your partner know where they stand as well. You'll both be happier, and you'll have an easier time of communicating to each other."

Not knowing where you stand can lead to feelings of insecurity and self-doubt which is really draining emotionally as you continiously feel second best. These feelings could eventually lead to being "makulit" which could trigger fights that could last for days.


Don't Play Mind Games

"The person you are involved with, or about to be involved with, is another being -- just like you. Playing mind games is just another way to increase your chances of getting hurt in the end. Personally, I feel that if you are willing to play mind games with a person, then you don't respect that individual enough for a relationship anyway. So do that person a favor and let him or her go."

While mind games are good for business, it is bad for business, especially if you use jealousy as a leveling factor. This only increases distrust for one another.

The "pa-awa" effect is also one form of mind game used in a relationship. Some who wish to "save" their relationships resort to telling lies such as them being sick or being in the family way and "guilt-trip" their partners into staying with them.



Don't Sleep With Someone You Don't Know Very Well Yet

"This may seem obvious, but for many people it is not. I've heard countless requests for advice which involve a person not sure where they stand with a certain person, yet they've been involved intimately with them. Now they are faced with a potential loveless affair, are completely unhappy, and are being driven by the fear of the unknown. No matter what the urge is, if you are interested in someone for more than just a fling, don't do it until, at the very least, you are clear about the other person's feelings for you. You can avoid many future downfalls by following this tip!"

To aviod getting hurt, the best advice is to get married first before getting into bed with your partner. However, if one can not follow this advice, then at least consider this:
(a) you must be in a committeed, serious relationship where you know where you stand with that person.
(b) be aware of the consequences such as STDs, and pregnancy. There are ways to avoid these such as pills, condoms. Better yet, do it when you are married, that way, both of you avoid the emotional stress that comes with unexpected pregnancy, false alarms and complications / sickness brought about by STDs.


Be Honest With Each Other

"Your honesty, or lack thereof, can either build or destroy your relationship. Be honest with your partner about everything, and expect the same from your partner. Too many times, I see people who have let their partner lie to them about everything, cheat on them, and worse -- yet, they continue to be with them all "in the name of love." That type of love is no love at all. It is clinging to the fact that being with someone, even though they are hurting you, is better than being alone. It is fine, and perfectly reasonable to have strong feelings or affection towards someone, but it is altogether something else when you allow yourself to stay in a relationship that has a negative effect "
on you.

This hits the nail right on the head. I mean, why stay in a realtionship if it does not do both any good. Why be in a relationship when that other person is holding you back or is causing you pain? You are first and formost an individual who can think for yourself. I mean, before having a relationship you have your own life right? Besides, even if you are in a relationship, you should have your own circle of friends (so that you can take a break from him once in a while, hehehe).

Again, honesty is the building block of relationships. Honesty = trust & credibility = love


Don't Settle

"If you know that a person isn't right for you -- go find someone who is. Don't wait to see if the relationship could turn into something better. You'll only find yourself a few years down the line in the same, or in an even worse, situation than you are in now. If you find yourself nit-picking about too many of your partner's traits early in your relationship, think forward to how much these "traits" will bother you after a few years."

Do i need to comment on this??? :) If you won't settle for an inferior brand of shoes, then why settle for a person

==============================

"A relationship is 50% your responsibility, and 50% your partner's. Sometimes those numbers change depending on the situation. If you find things going down the wrong path, speak up and do something about it. Don't let it slide, thinking that things will get better. Proclaimed ignorance is not an excuse."

"This is YOUR life, don't be afraid to do things that will make it better."

Now my only wish is that I can follow these tips and my own advice. hehehehe

Tuesday, November 22, 2005

promises

Promises ... easily made and just as easily broken?

Much has been said about giving promises, but the one thing that I go by is never make a promise that you cannot fulfill. For me, a promise is a binding oral contract between oneself and the person you made a promise to... that is why I really feel bad and disappointed when ever a friend breaks a promise.

*********
Keeping a promise increases one's credibility and level of trust.

Most, if not all politicians level of public trust and credibility are eroded because they have broken promises left and right. While this may have become the norm in Philippine politics, it is a disservice to the public.

*********
Trustwortiness = character + integrity = good leader

A person known to keep his promise (a man of his words) has character and integrity -- a leader’s character can make or break an organization. Great leaders inspire because people trust them. Now I see why this country of ours is going down the drain. I mean how could you trust someone who has broken his / her promises not just once or twice but a great many times? How could you trust a person who says one thing, turns around and does something else completely? How could you hold a snake when it has bitten you once?

Trustworthiness is an important factor in any relationship (personal and professional) -- the glue that holds together a family, an organization, a nation. If people don't trust you, how would you possibly lead them? how would they possibly follow your orders?

Saturday, November 12, 2005

women

got this from a friend. nakakatawa... bwhahaha, attempting to define women scientifically, bwhahaha


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Wednesday, November 09, 2005

Mahathir bin Mohamad's commentary

Mahathir bin Mohamad's commentary on Islam's forsaken Renaissance as published in today's (Nov. 9, 2005) Inquirer.

Mahathir bin Mohamad was prime minister of Malaysia from 1981 to 2003.

Monday, November 07, 2005

Bitin

Bitin! That is what I felt when it was time for me to fly back to reality that is Metro Manila. Being away from the hustle and bustle of the metropolis made me crave for a more relaxed paced of living. After spending a week in Zamboanga, I wasn’t ready to let go of my family, of the abundant sea food and the relaxed atmosphere that is my hometown.

Life is much simpler there. Everything is just 10-15 minutes away from home… the nearest mall, market, beach, the airport, the seaport and yes, even fast food giants Jollibee, Mc Donalds and KFC -- All the comforts of the province with a taste of Manila. Bwhaha.

*********
Thought I could post an entry or two while vacationing but I guess the "Tamad/Vacation bug" bit me and all I did was laze around the house and enjoy quiet (!?) moments (ie walang work at walang boss), but it seemed that these quiet times were few and far in between as the week as full of activities from the day we (my siblings and I) arrived until our last day in zc.

Had "bukah" / breaking of the fast at my cousin's home. All of our favorite dish were served ("siki sapi", yellow rice, agar-agar, mangoes, fried chicken, turle eggs, etc). Bukah was never this good in Manila. My plate was filled to the brim with food! grabe, umuwi akong bondat! bwahahaha.

Anyways, the week was filled with bonding time with cousins and siblings as well as meeting up with old friends. I had my fill of tula itum, satti (ate satti right after eid prayers, as it is (early am) the best time for satti), pastil, kurma, yellow rice and other native delicacies. I must admit that I think I gained more than a couple of pounds while I was in Zamboanga (Parang hindi nag fast kc mas lalong tumaba during Ramadan)

A day after Eid, my family and I (plus cousins, etc) went to the beach (ang sakit ng sunburn ko!)... we went to a private island where the sand was as fine as that of boracay. Had a great time feasting on native mangoes, fresh fish, barbeque, as well as spending a day in the sun. My siblings and cousins went snorkeling while I stayed near the shore to watch over my nieces. But I was not disappointed as the water was so clear that I can see some starfish and a school of small fish just a few feet away from us. (Will post pictures of the island soon.)

*********
Belated Eid Mubarak to all Muslims!

Friday, October 28, 2005

2 tulog na lang!

Dalawang tulog na lang at vacation time na!

Since we only have 2 days of work next week, my siblings and I are going to Zamboanga for some needed R&R and to celebrate Eid! I am really looking forward to having a week off and in fact have scheduled as much activities as possible.

Really looking forward to tasting the Tausog food such as Pastil, Sati, Tulasug as well as pork-free siopao and pancit. hehehe I'm sure that I will gain at least 2 pounds during the week off. Oh, well, we only live once right? Besides, I still have the whole of November to shed-off the unwanted pounds.

Aside from the food, I am also looking forward to spend some time with my family, cousins and friends. I just hope that I can squeeze in some alone time and get to finish reading / summarizing a book for a friend. (hmmm, do I hear a distinct "cashing" sound come mid-November?)

*********
Can't believe that it has been a year since I posted my frist entry. At first, I didn't know if I could regularly update my blog since I am notorious for starting a project / activity and having no follow-through. Glad that I did though, I met some great people on line. Thanks for visiting my blog!

*********
A year has gone by, and I noticed that so many things have changed, but some still remained the same. Grabe noh, the only constant in this world is taxes and change. hehehe.

My office had a change of leadership in less than a year (11 months to be exact), and although there may have been a change in management style, the routine and the frustrations at the office remained the same.

Transportation fare, Electricity and other commody prices hadgone up (and is most likely to increase next year due to the E-vat), but (gov't) wages remain the same. Tell me again, how can this can spur consumer spending and economic change?

Call for PGMA to step down is getting louder, the faces may have changed but the mindset hasn't.

I have gotten a year older, but I am no where near marriage. Bwhahaha.

Thursday, October 20, 2005

count down begins

1 more week and its vacation time for me!

Can't wait to taste satti and sunburst fried chicken and all the tausog food I can eat for one week! I'm sure that right after Eid, it will be early morning satti for me and the beach picnic that I really miss.

Monday, October 17, 2005

hasta la vista

Suddenly it hit me like a ton of bricks… you will be leaving in a few days and I will not be seeing you for the next three to six months. The day that I have been dreading is fast approaching, and as I want to spend more and more time with you, it seems that the time spent is just not enough. Why is it that time seems to move faster when we are together?

I will miss the time we spend together, your cooking, your smile, your touch and your voice. I think I might even miss our “petty” quarrels (but I know you will NOT miss my being makulit).
Let me take this opportunity to thank you for being such a huge part of my life, for always being there when I need you, for being my shoulder to cry on and for being my “rock”.

Thanks for being my “kakampi” even if sometimes we don’t agree on the subject and most of all, thanks for the understanding and patience even when I am being makulit.

I do not want to say good-bye, but see you soon. I know I will miss you, but I must learn that this is part of life’s journey. As you embark on a new endeavor, I wish you all the best. See you soon my dear, till then, I shall be waiting for your embrace.

Friday, October 14, 2005

beef kurma

Tausog cuisine has been influenced by Malaysian / Indonesian cuisine... this influence is reflected in one of my favorite dish, the beef kurma.

Ingredients:
1 kilo beef cubes / beef ribs
40 gms curry powder
2 pcs beef cubes (maggi or knorr)
4 pcs potatoes cut into quarters
50 gms tomato paste
4 pc garlic chopped (pwedeng damihan)
1 onion chopped
1 small ginger chopped
1-2 bay leaf
1 kilo grated coconut (for gata -- you need to get at least 3 "piga" / cups of cocomilk )
oil for cooking
salt and pepper to taste

procedure:
1. Marinate beef with curry and ginger for 30 minutes
2. Saute garlic, onion, bay leaf and 2 tbsp of curry powder.
3. Add tomato paste, beef, and beef cubes.
4. Put in the 2nd and 3rd "piga" of coconut milk / gata.
5. Once the beef is tender, put in the potatoes and the 1st "piga" of gata
6. Simmer until potatoes are tender
7. Serve with Roti, pita bread or rice

Enjoy!

Wednesday, October 05, 2005

taking a break

Since this is the month to reflect, I will be taking a breather for the next few days... will take time out to contemplate and try to be at peace with myself and my decisions.

Monday, October 03, 2005

a quiz

sometimes I would take this quizzes for the fun of it, and once in a while, results hit home.

Understanding
Dominant Personality: Understanding

Good Traits: You gravitate towards people, and are a shoulder to lean on. You give advice at any given time.

Bad Traits: You aren't close with any one person. You immerse yourself in other people's problems and forget your own.

People see you as: Friendly, secretive, and popular. People envy you, and may try and use you as a tool

You're most like: Grace. You both have positive relationships with people. Neither of you have close friends, but unlike graceful people, you try to help people out and aren't as arrogant.

You need more: Solitude. You hardly get the chance to breathe when you take on the world's problems. You can't take other's responsibilities or put them before your own. Be selfish once in a while and discover who you
really are.


What's your dominant trait? (10 unique results)
brought to you by Quizilla

time to reflect

On October 4 or 5, the holy month of Ramadan officially starts. It is a time for inner-reflection, devotion to God and the practice of self-control (by way of fasting among other things) -- a kind of spiritual tune up.

For the next 30 days (give or take) Muslims around the world will be observing Ramadan and with it Fasting. Fasting starts at the breaking of dawn and ends at the setting of the sun. (One does not only abstain from food and drink, but also smoking and marital sex.) The usual practice is to have a pre-fast meal (suhoor) before dawn and a post-fast meal (iftar) after sunset.

Able bodied Muslims are obliged to fast during this month, excepted are the sick, travellers, and womena with certain conditions (pregnant or having their monthly period) but must make up for the days if they are able.

From :http://www.colostate.edu/

The third "pillar" or religious obligation of Islam, fasting has many special benefits. Among these, the most important is that it is a means of learning self-control. Due to the lack of preoccupation with the satisfaction of bodily appetites during the daylight hours of fasting, a measure of ascendancy is given to one's spiritual nature, which becomes a means of coming closer to God. Ramadan is also a time of intensive worship, reading of the Qur'an, giving charity, purifying one's behavior, and doing good deeds.

As a secondary goal, fasting is a way of experiencing hunger and developing sympathy for the less fortunate, and learning to thankfulness and appreciation for all of God's bounties. Fasting is also beneficial to the health and provides a break in the cycle of rigid habits or overindulgence

For me, this will be the month of self-reflection. Time for me to see and analyze what I have done with my life and what I want to do right in my life. I will also be practicing self-control as I will be fasting this month -- fasting from food and other "luxury" items that I have gotten used to.

Friday, September 23, 2005

a tired heart

sometimes the heart just gives up
it stops to love
it stops to feel
and starts to numb

sometimes no matter what we do,
life takes unexpected twist and turns
leaving us with nothing but memories
of what we used to do and how much we loved

sometimes the heart just breaks down and refuses to function
sometimes all it needs is rest
a rest from the world around,
a rest from you

Monday, September 19, 2005

what a shame

It is no wonder that people are losing hope...one just need to see the front pages of newspapers, listen to TV or radio news program to get a glimpse of what is troubling the "private citizen".

So called "public servants" are really serving the interest of their parties and NOT their constituents as what is reflected by the recently concluded impeachment proceedings.

Government employees are losing hope in getting salary increases... the "cute" government has stated that our coffer is already running dry -- heck even the over time pay has been cut and to think that this is one bright light for an employee who is underpaid and never appreciated.

On the other hand, the “pork barrel funds” of congressmen, senators and other top-level officials have grown by heaps and bounds… tsk tsk, no wonder this country of ours is not going anywhere.

Since last year, government offices have been advice to cut down on cost and save. This is a good move to help the cash-strapped government since we really do need to save with the rising cost of fuel and all.

However, the so-called leaders are not practicing what they themselves are preaching. They still go around town with their gas consuming SUVs, indiscriminate spending on so-called communication expenses (i.e. cellphone calls) and going on so-called “official trips”. It is no wonder that people take whatever press releases the government churn out with a grain of salt.

Now in the midst of the so-called austerity measures, we learn that the arroyo government is spending P50M to a US lobbying group to convince the US government re charter change.

That is millions that could be very well spent on employee salaries or for infrastructure development… but no, the government has to spend this to get the nod of Uncle Sam. And here I thought that we are an independent country!

Hay naku, what is wrong with this picture? I guess even in this so-called modern era, after all the revolutions we had to gain our freedom, our leaders still think of themselves as little brown Americans, forever bowing to the dictates of Uncle Sam.

Friday, September 16, 2005

wet, wet friday

It has been raining non-stop since Wednesday night and being a commuter I find it a bit of a hassle to go to work. One sometimes arrives at work wet and shivering.

I was procrastinating this morning and even had the option to stay in bed the whole day. Alas, my conscience got the better of me, and so, I lazily got off my bed and prepared for work even if I know that I would be arriving a bit late at the office.

And now, there is nothing I would like more than to be in bed right now instead of being in the office. Hehehe. Things are a bit slow since it is Friday and I work at a government agency, so here I am writing something to keep me from sleeping. 

*********
Is it just me, or does the colder weather makes people want to eat more? What are rainy day foods for me? Let me think, hmmm… arroz caldo, chicken soup, hot chocolate, popcorn, chippy, coke, cake, basta ang dami.

*********
Reading a good book with some chips by your side is surely a treat … maybe I would do that later, or maybe I would have a bowl of puttanesca later.

Thursday, September 15, 2005

taking a break

Since I am taking a break from everything (work, life, thinking [?], emotions), might as well do something that will take my mind off things...

Your Personality Profile

You are dependable, popular, and observant.
Deep and thoughtful, you are prone to moodiness.
In fact, your emotions tend to influence everything you do.

You are unique, creative, and expressive.
You don't mind waving your freak flag every once and a while.
And lucky for you, most people find your weird ways charming!


Your Birthdate: June 17

Your birth on the 17th day of the month suggests that you are very lucky financially, because this date indicates a solid business sense.
Although you are probably very honest and ethical, this birthday enables you to be shrewd and successful in the world of business and commercial enterprise.
You have excellent organizational, managerial, and administrative capabilities enabling you to handle large projects and significant amounts of money with relative ease.

You are ambitious and highly goal-oriented, although you may be better at starting projects than you are at finishing them.
A sensitivity in your nature, often repressed below the surface of awareness, makes it hard to give or receive affection.


Cheese Pizza

Traditional and comforting.
You focus on living a quality life.
You're not easily impressed with novelty.
Yet, you easily impress others.

Wednesday, September 14, 2005

Running on empty

Things are not working out the way I wanted them to. Plans were put on hold and even cancelled. Moreover, I was really looking forward to spending some time with a friend of mine (my friend’s hug and presence always seem to lift me up and makes me feel that every thing is all right with the world).

Lately I feel that I am running on empty – getting up in the morning has become somewhat of a chore. Work is not that exciting anymore, in fact it has become somewhat of a bore / routine. Maybe the reason why I feel what I feel is that I can’t find fulfillment in my job anymore, or maybe all I really need is a word of encouragement and complement for a job well done. Maybe it all boils down to feeling appreciated.

Appreciated not just by the people, I work for or with whom I work with, but more so, by the people who mean so much to me… People, who I consider part of myself, part of my life.

A gift of shoes or books would do wonders in lifting my spirits. A simple thank you or a gift of chocolates would be enough to get me through the day. A simple call or text to find out how my day went will surely bring a smile. In other words, a feeling of being loved and appreciated is all there is to it. .

down and out

darn, having the blues and seeing no sign of it leaving... Must be due to hormones, or the moon or what ever, but I do hope that this feeling of hopelessness and dispair will lift soon. Grabe, even my fave dark chocolate can't help... baka hug lang katapat nito, or maybe a long vacation from everything!

The problem with taking a vacation is that you need to have disposable income, and that is one thing I really don't have... wawa naman.

Wednesday, September 07, 2005

the secrets of staying young

Got this off my email and would like to share the views:

1. Throw out nonessential numbers. This includes age, weight and height. Let the doctors worry about them. That is why you pay them.
2. Keep only cheerful friends. The grouches pull you down. (Keep this in mind if you are one of those grouches;)
3. Keep learning: Learn more about the computer, crafts, gardening, whatever. Never let the brain get idle. "An idle mind is the devil's workshop." And the devil's name is Alzheimer's!
4. Enjoy the simple things
5. Laugh often, long and loud. Laugh until you gasp for breath. And if you have a friend who makes you laugh, spend lots and Lots of time with HIM/HER.
6. The tears happen: Endure, grieve, and move on. The only person who is with us our entire life, is ourself. LIVE while you are alive.
7. Surround yourself with what you love: Whether it's family, pets, keepsakes, music, plants, hobbies, whatever. Your home is your refuge.
8. Cherish your health: If it is good, preserve it. If it is unstable, improve it. If it is beyond what you can improve, get help.
9. Don't take guilt trips. Take a trip to the mall, even to the next county, to a foreign country, but NOT to where the guilt is.
10. Tell the people you love that you love them, at every opportunity.

Tuesday, September 06, 2005

new phone

After a few days wait, my free phone (N6020) from globe handyphone was delivered! I can finally change my old (and abused) phone. hehehe.

I was really planning on aquiring a new phone (a SE or N6230i) by the end of the year, but couldn't pass the opportunity for a free phone (even if it wasn't the phone I really wanted). My philosophy -- as long as i can text and call my family and friends, ok lang kahit hindi masyadong high end. Besides, the phone is free!

The free phone is part of the globe rewards for their loyal customers (hey been with globe since 1996). As part of the reward, I would be renewing my contract with the company for 1 year. I have since computed savings (if i down grade my plan) and the cost of a new phone and found that renewing the plan and getting the free phone (aka bribe) is well worth it.

Actually, the rewards was not limited to a free phone or a discounted one, the customer can choice from rebates, handset discount / free handset or G-cash. Since I was really planning on getting a phone, I decided to get the handset discount rewards. There were other handsets (one pays for the cost less rewards discount) but I guess the miser in me kicked in... why spend so much on a handset that is more likely to depreciate in a few months? I would rather spend the money on books, shoes and FOOD! hehehe. Besides, the handset model that I really wanted was not part of the rewards handsets.

Anyways, just want to share this... to other globe post paid users/customers, check nyo with customer service if you are entitled for a reward once your contract is up. You might just get a good deal.

Monday, September 05, 2005

what now?

house majority kills impeachment -- will people take to the streets? even if PGMA will not be oust, her presidency will always be under a cloud of suspision... and who can lead a nation when no one trust you? The so-called impeachment process was just a moro-moro of PGMA's political survival.

SC says E-VAT constitutional -- with the ever raising cost of crude oil due to demand and the "Katrina" descruction, this latest news can just be the thing that will break the camel's back. Raising fuel prices means that Filipinos will spend more on basic necessities (fuel, food, electricity, etc) and less on other spending. Less disposable income would mean less spenditure on other goods which we really need to fuel our economy. Less spending means inflation. Kawawa ang Pinoy.

Higher cost would mean less food on the table... more people going hungry ... more people getting desperate, will the peace and order go next? No wonder more and more Filipinos are seeking work abroad.

Thursday, September 01, 2005

disappointed

somehow life is not what it used to be... PANO LAHAT NG POLITICIANS BINEBENTA ANG PINAS! minsan nakakainis maging pinoy.

Tuesday, August 30, 2005

of friends and best friends

Got this off my email and want to share it:

What is the difference between a friend and a Best frined? the difference is clear!!!!!!!!!!

Friend: calls your parents by mr. and mrs.
Best friend: calls your parents dad & mom or tito & tita.

Friend: has never seen you cry
Best friend: has always has the best shoulder to cry on

Friend: never asks for anything to eat or drink
Best friend: opens the fridge & makes herself at home

Friend: asks you to write down your number.
Best friend: they ask you for their number (cuz they can't remember it)

Friend: borrows your stuff for a few days then gives it back.
Best friend: has a closet full of your stuff

Friend: only knows a few things about you
Best friend:could write a biography on your life story

Friend: will leave you behind if that is what the crowd is doing
Best friend: will always go with you

Friend: will ask where you've been (after going AWOL)
Best Friend: will say MISS YOU & goes on being your friend

*********
Natuwa lang ako sa paglarawan ng best friend... pano, kung nasa bahay kami ng barkada eh parang bahay na rin namin. bwhahaha

Thursday, August 25, 2005

intermission

An little intermission:

A precious little girl walks into a pet shop and asks, in the sweetest little lisp, between two
missing teeth, "Excuthe me, mithter, do you keep widdle wabbits?"

As the shopkeeper's heart melts, he gets down on his knees so that he's on her level and asks, "Do you want a widdle white wabbit, or a thoft and fuwwy bwack wabbit, or maybe one like that cute widdle bwown wabbit over there?"

She, in turn, blushes, rocks on her heels, puts her hands on her knees, leans forward and
says, in a tiny quiet voice, "I don't think my python weally gives a thit."

Tuesday, August 23, 2005

time line tag

I was tagged again by Major Tom and this time it's a timeline tag. I have to shift through my gray matters to remember events from 20, 15 and 10 years ago. The last time I made a timeline of my life was in 2000 during an exercise in an MBA class (remember doc?) Anyways here goes nothing:

TWENTY YEARS AGO. Hmmm, that would make it August 1985 and I would be ten years old and in grade 4. I remember vividly not being in the top five of my class during a certain grading period because I have a grade of 79 in art class (My first and only failing grade). I should have submitted all requirements, bwhahaha but I am not that creative anyways so I really did not bother accomplishing the required task. Needless to say, I was punished for this.

Learning for the first time that my aunts were part of the moro struggle (original group) and the real reason why they were not in the Philippines (I met my aunts and cousins a year after, when the 1986 peace pact was signed and they were able to come home and now my cousins have become like siblings.)

Hmmm.. what else ba? Ah, having lunch at school (baon) for the first time. I live near our school (WMSU appox. five minutes ride) and always have lunch at home. I had friends who would take their lunch at school and I wanted to experience eating with them. After lots of pleading my parents allowed us to have the lunch at school experience though I never really experienced bringing lunch. My grandma insisted that we (my sister and I) eat piping hot food prepared at home. So we were the only students that I know of who have lunch delivered (complete with iced water / juice) bwhahaha mga brats talaga.

FIFTEEN YEARS AGO. That would be August 1990. I am in third year high school and am 15 years of age. Significant event? Hmmm typical junior high school student -- hanging out with barkadas after class (usually at home and at our regular tamabayan place near our school [WMSU]) and on weekends (usually the beachwe did have some parties at the beach organized at the last minute). You can check out my previous post re friendship.

Things / events I remember the most: Making the most out of my pocketbook collection. I guess you might say that I was an entrepreneur when I was a lot younger. I sold shirts, blouses and even had my collection of books rented out (5 to 10 pesos a week yata plus fine for late return). Since my parents taught us that not all that we wanted will be handed to us on a silver platter, I made do with what I have to have money to buy the things I want. I even had enough profit at the end of each week to buy a book or two and sometimes I buy jeans with my earnings. Those books paid for themselves.

I remember wishing / planning to open a bookstore / restaurant were people can browse, borrow, read and buy books, eat and have the freedom to discuss book of the week. I even have a name and a business plan those were the days of dreams and ideas! How I wish I could do that in ZC. Anyone interested to partner with me?

TEN YEARS AGO. That would make it 1995. I would be 20 years old and in 4th year at the UP CMC. Nothing much except that my friends and I are excited and scare at the same time re gradutation. OJTs in ABC-5 and the UP radio station as well as preparing for thesis keep me busy kuno. bwhahaha. My friends and I are fast becoming cum laudes in SM 101. hehehe

Wednesdays are prebooked for our SM class (note movie watching) and the sunken gardne become our study corner. The friends I met during the first few days of college have become my confidnats and are still my closest friends to this very day.

PS. Still no BF and I had chicken pox that year too. hehehe

FIVE YEARS AGO. 2000 -- a year of change and roller coaster ride. I resigned from my privious job (actually we closed down the travel agency not long after I resigned), took a chance in the UP MBA entrance examination and managed to get in the day program. Met some really good friend (Hi doc!) whom I learned a lot from.

Also the year I met my special someone. Even though our relationship was like a roller coaster ride, I learned more about relationships from him than anyone else. With him , I ceased to be the brat that I am and learned about the "give and take" thing in relationships. You can say that I grew up / matured with the things I've learned from him and from my other friends.

It was also the year that my baby (my youngest sister) left for the UAE to pursue her studies. It is the very first time for her to be so far away from my parents (good thing that my brother was with her). The first time that she was oceans apart.

THREE YEARS AGO. 2002... graduated from MBA program. Started to look for work. Had a 6 month stint as a sales consultant in a record company. Tried a hand in giving / conducting seminars / workshops and enjoyed the work tremendously. (Would love to conduct workshops in the near future)... Got back with my old flame (is love sweeter the second time around?)

LAST YEAR. Transistion time...SLPL recently resigned and SACY takes over. I really did not know if I will go with SLPL or stick it out with the Department. Eventually I stuck it out with the government (the pay is not all that but I had ither things to consider -- like savings, peace of mind, stress)

Started blogging upon the influence of some friends... and has not stopped since then.

THIS YEAR. Nothing much... applied at the ADB, passed the IQ and computer test, but failed the typing test. ... Giving myself another year working for the gov't.

NEXT YEAR. Reapply for that ADB position, or look for another job. Try to save more for the condo unit.

TEN YEARS FROM NOW. I would like to be any of the following: 1) working for a multinational or the ADB; 2) be a consultant / trainor; 3) have a business of my own (maybe I might just open that bookstore; 4)help out in our school (SBLC) and more community work and 5) happy married with 2 or 3 children.

WHO I WISHED WOULD TAKE THESE QUESTIONS: kung may time lang po -- doc emer, baby pink, elf ideas, delish and any one who would like to do a time line of their life.

*********
Why are memories from childhood more vivid than recent memories? I guess because it takes you to a time of innocence, dreams and ideals.

Big Brother

The phrase "Be careful of what you say, Big Brother is watching you" has been associated with George Orwell's classic novel 1984. This book tells about a totalitarian society in which the government has complete control over the the people and Big brother is the supreme leader of the government (aka the Party).

The term Big Brother is associated with the government, corporations or any "leader" that is "taking people's freedom" and bringing them under control. For them control is power -- the more control they have over people (what they think, how they act, what they should buy, etc), the more powerful they become.

These days, the term Big Brother can very well be associated with the "voice" that tells 12 housemates what do do and how to act inside the "Big Brother House" in a chance to win 1 million pesos, a house and lot and a nissan pick-up truck.

*********
Pinoy Big Brother (with the tag line -- ang teleserye ng totoong buhay) is said to be the first "real" reality show in Philippines. 12 housemates (6 males and 6 females) are vying to be the last one "standing" / left in the "Big Brother House" after 100 days in order to win the said prize.

According to their website this is what to expect with Pinoy Big Brother:

1 house
12 complete strangers
100 days of isolation from the outside world

No phones, newspapers, radio or television sets
No contact with their loved ones

But there is someone who sees everything they do.
He guides, he challenges, he inspires…

He is Pinoy Big Brother.

*********
With the advent and success of reality based TV shows in the United States and the airing of these programs in the Philippines, it was only a matter of time before one of the networks buy copyrights of a said show (in this case Big Brother) and produce it locally.

Our society has turly become a voyeur society... we like to watch and talk about what our neighbor /other people are doing.

News has somehow ceased to be reports of facts but rather reports of what people say and what the government / "influential people" want the public to percieve ( see sassy lawyer's article on this matter).

TV programs that rate are NOT public affairs program that tells us the facts, rather these are programs that tell the public what celebrities are doing and what certain politicians are saying. Reality based shows are becoming more and more successful (which networks also love -- they spend less money on production cost but have high ROI).

I really don't know if this show (Pinoy Big Brother) will be successful, all I can say is that reality shows in the Philippines (Extra challenge, as well as the american produced shows) are raking it in (ratings and ROI).

Thursday, August 18, 2005

I've been tagged

I have been tagged by Major Tom and Diane.

The Book Club Tag

What's in a book? Tough one... A book can take you to places you have never been before...a cheap way to travel to fantasy land or into the real world. A world / instrument where you can have your imagination run wild, your knowledge expanded and your "gray cells" challenged.

Number of books on the shelves: No time to count... I think hundreds na including those left in zamboanga. Includes non-fiction (biography, business books) and fiction (mystery, suspense, fantasy, romance, children's)

Last few books that I bought: To name a few: American Gods by Neil Gaiman; Saints and Sinners by Tom Holt; Harry Potter and the Half Bold Prince by J.K. Rowling;

Books I bought for /with my sisters: Confessions of an Ugly Stepsister by Gregory Maguire, Girls in Pants: the third summer of the sisterhood by Ann Brashares and a number of weird but interesting children's book. I think the we close to 20 books in the last 2 weeks alone.

Book that I'm reading now: American Gods (last few pages)

Last few books read: HPHB, The second Summer of the Sisterhood by Ann Brashares, It's your ship by Captain D. Micheal Abrashoff, Career Warfare by David Alessandro, Blink by Micheal Gladwell, The new messies manual by Sandra Felton.

*********
Getting to know me

Your complete name: Anicee Sharima Tan Lim

Interests: Literature, Travel, Cooking, Food (dinning out and trying new stuff), Movies

What things can’t you live without? Family, Friends and Food (!?)

If you were a guest on “Fantasy Island”, what would you ask for? A stress-free paid vacation to places of my choice with my love ones for 3 months and at the end of the vacation -- my dream house / resort. Syempre dapat libre lahat ng expenses... hmmm, pwede ba a successful business and a good economy? Isa pang hirit: NA staying with us for good.

What do you have handy at your bedside? My mobile phone, a book to read before sleeping, the tv remote, chocolates for that midnight craving.

A big movie producer wants to cast you in his film and lets you pick your role… what would you pick? Can I work behind the scenes? bwhahah... actually wonka of the chocolate factory seems fun

If you had a chance to spend one whole day with a TV character, who would it be? MONK!

If you had to talk about something for 2 hours, what would it be about? Life and childhood

If you could choose one person who would remain youthful forever, who would it be? papa

At a moment’s notice, you were given a chance to step into a “talent duplicator machine” which could duplicate any person’s talent and make it yours for life. What talent would you pick and whose? Donald Trump's talent of turning nothing into something

If you had to live in another country, where would you go? England

You get transported into Cartoon Land and get to pick any cartoon identity to have as your own. Which cartoon character would you choose? Mulan (of Walt Disney)

Looking back in time, which year would you have wanted to last twice as long? 2000 & 2003-4

Who is the person you most admire and look up to? My dad

If you were stuck on a desert island and could have only one kind of food for the rest of your life, what would you want it to be? puttanesca

If you had to be a lifeless object for a day, what would you be? A book or a TV

If you had to be an animal, what would you want to be? A bird or a lion

Name the top 3 dream jobs you’d like to have: 1) consultant; 2) trainor ; 3) travel / food writer / broadcaster

What is your favorite feeling? being alone... solitude

What do you think is the worst feeling in the world? disrimination / prejudice

What’s the best advice you’d give yourself today? get out of the safe zone

Describe your dream vacation. Tour of Europe and a cruise to an exotic local (pwede na rin the disney resort in the bahamas, bwahaha)

Describe your dream home. A balinesse inspired beach house with lots of room for children and adults to play... an asian inspired city house with all the latest gadgets.

Your ideal man/woman? Someone who would love me for what I am and not what they want me to be. Someone who would allow me space to be me.

Monday, August 15, 2005

afternoon tea

Last Saturday, My family and I were in Greenhills to run some errands (and book shopping) while waiting for my father to arrive from Zamboanga. hmm. who are we kidding, we went to Greenhills for 3 things: lunch at Gloria Maris (my mom was craving their dimsum and I their veggie pao), book shopping (at fully booked) and pants / socks shopping at the tiangge.

My mom was really impressed with how much Greenhills has changed since the last time we went there more than 8 months ago... (she [together with my siblings] were also able to pray at the controversial prayer room). It was not just a place for bargain hunters, but a place where food lovers (like us) to enjoy.

After browsing through Fully Booked (bookstore) for more than 2 hours (where my sisters and I ended up buying armloads of books), we decided to have our mid-afternoon snack at Bizu. (This after having dimsums / lunch at Gloria Maris less than 3 hours before! -- our family sure loves to eat! hehehe)

While my mom and siblings ordered cakes and pastries, I decided to take the afternoon tea set menu (comes with sandwiches, pastries and 2 chocolates and a pot of tea all for P400) for 2, shared it with my brother's girlfriend and we eventually shared it with everyone else. hehehe. (afternoon tea treats shown below, pics c/o the bizu website)

Image hosted by Photobucket.comAfternoon tea treats (sandwiches, pastries) are served in this cute three tiered thing.

Image hosted by Photobucket.com A close up shot of the treats

Image hosted by Photobucket.com the lovely and scrumptious cakes sold at Bizu

The cakes were really scrumptious and heavenly that we really didn't mind the price of P140++ for a small personlized serving. Hey, its nice to treat one's self once in a while right?

I had such a nice experience, that I want to share it (the experience and the afteroon tea) with a friend...Hmmm, would anyone want to have afternoon tea with me?

Thursday, August 11, 2005

life tips

Basic life tips are learned in kindergarten, some we pick up as we move through life and experience it, others we pick up reading emails... here are some tips sent to me by a friend:

Tips

1. Give people more than they expect and do it cheerfully.
2. Marry a man/woman you love to talk to. As you get older, their conversational skills will be as important as any other.
3. Don't believe all you hear, spend all you have or sleep all you want.
4. When you say, "I love you," mean it.
5. When you say, "I'm sorry," look the person in the eye.
6. Be engaged at least six months before you get married.
7. Believe in love at first sight.
8. Never laugh at anyone's dream. People who don't have dreams don't have much.
9. Love deeply and passionately. You might get hurt but it's the only way to live life completely.
10. In disagreements, fight fairly. No name calling.
11. Don't judge people by their relatives.
12. Talk slowly but think quickly.
13. When someone asks you a question you don't want to answer, smile and ask, "Why do you want to know?"
14. Remember that great love and great achievements involve GREAT risk.
15. Say "bless you" when you hear someone sneeze.
16. When you lose, don't lose the lesson.
17. Remember the three R's: Respect for self; Respect for others; and responsibility for all your actions.
18. Don't let a little dispute injure a great friendship.
19. When you realize you've made a mistake, take immediate steps to correct it.
20. Smile when picking up the phone. The caller will hear it in your voice.
21. Spend some time alone.
22. Spread the love... good karma will attract good.

Monday, August 08, 2005

grilled chicken infused with garlic and ginger

I tried out the South Beach Diet once (cant live without rice or chocolate for a week that's why the south beach diet went north -- hehehe). Anyways, here is one recipe that is simple enough to do and can be a base for chicken bbq.

What you need:
Chicken Breast fillet (1 500g pack-- about half a kilo)
Olive Oil (just enough to coat chicken)
Garlic (5-6 cloves minced)
Ginger (small - minced/ diced into small pieces)
salt and pepper to taste

What to do:
Marinate chicken breast in olive oil, ginger and garlic for 4 hours or overnight for flavor to penetrate.

Add salt and pepper before grilling. Adding salt and pepper in the marinate will draw out the chicken's natural juices and will dry the chicken out.

Serve with fresh green salad with balsamic dressing.

You can use yogurt or coconut cream instead of olive oil for "Sate" effect and add achuete or yellow food color for effect. You can use a mixture of soy sauce, calamansi and chili pepper for dipping sauce.

An enchanted weekend 2

This post has been long over due... As I said in my previous post (an enchanted weekend, 11 July 2005) I will be posting some pictures from our family "adventure" at the enchanted kingdom... Most of the pics were taken while we were in queue since taking a picture while on the ride seemed hard, well we were there to enjoy the ride and not take pictures. hehehe.

Below are our day in pictures. ENJOY!


Image hosted by Photobucket.com The EK facade calling our name!



Image hosted by Photobucket.com getting ready for an enchanted weekend. (L-R Japy, Amina and me)

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Patak-patak time! Who's in charge nga? (that's me in stripes, my sister amina (white shirt), eldest sister ghania (in hijab) and Japy.

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My sister and I inside the park.

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In queue for the bump cars

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In queue for bump boats

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Enjoying the bump boats! Our first foray in getting (someone) wet. Time to attack amina!

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Waiting for our turn in the Jungle Log Jam (L-R my brother Aziz, Japy and Amina)

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Enjoying the ride

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The law of gravity...What comes up must come down (wet!)

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After getting wet and wild.

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Waiting for the 3D experience to begin. Time for more pics

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The 4D experience. Aren't our yellow glasses cool? hehehe

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Atchie Ghans and Aziz taking it easy after a ride

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On to Rio Grande where we ALL got WET (be sure to bring extra change of clothers and underpants).

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Eating, munching, talking and resting time

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AH ice cream! (my bro & I)

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Pondering on what to do next... Rio grande again!

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A pic on the wheel of fate

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The wheel of fate ground view

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One last round at the rio grande (we made 4 rounds of this ride) before going home and "closing the park"

Friday, August 05, 2005

pasta puttanesca

Image hosted by Photobucket.com pic from foodnetwork.com

I love pasta and pizza! One of my favorite pasta dish is pasta puttanesca -- I love it so much that it is sometimes served at least once a week or once every two weeks. It is easy to prepare (minimal ingredients and takes less than 30 mins to cook). We usually have this with garlic bread or galic and cheese pizza.

Here is the recipe (I dont really measure when cooking, dinadaan sa taste at smell lang. just adjust the recipe for personal taste):

olive oil (around 3 tablespoons)
garlic , minced (6 cloves, but I usually use one head -- I love garlic)
anchovies
1/2 teaspoon chili flakes
sliced black olives
capers
2 cans diced tomatoes (I usually use hunts diced tomoto flavored with basil) -- i use 1 tin of anchovies per 1 can of diced or stewed tomatoes (i usually do mixed - 1 can diced and 1 can stewed)
milk
spagetti cooked al dente
black pepper, italian seasoning

Soak anchovies in milk for 15-30 mins, then drain.

In a large skillet, heat oil, anchovies, chili flakes and garlic. Saute mixture until anchovies are dissolved and garlic tender.

Add tomatoes, olives, capers and simmer for 10 minutes. Add pepper, italian seasoning to taste and let simmer for additional 5 minutes.

Toss sauce into cooked pasta. Serve with garlic bread / garlic and cheese pizza.

ENJOY!

Thursday, August 04, 2005

my childhood weekends

I love the beach.

As a child growing up in Zamboanga weekends were usually spent picnicking near the sea since the beach is just a few minutes ride from home. Having a seaside picnic was always a big event – a big family gathering.

I remember getting up real early Sunday morning. It is usually chaotic when you enter the kitchen and garage as aunts, uncles, siblings and my parents are preparing for the “outing”. Some will be packing cooked rice in banana leaves, others will be preparing the picnic lunch (fish, green mangoes, agar-agar, and tausog native cakes, dishes), while others are taking care of transportation and logistics.

We usually arrive at the beach between 9 – 10 am and stay there till 3 or 4 pm or until we are sunburned. Hahaha. Talk about spending the whole day at the sea shore! You can usually find us kids swimming, or making sand castles or looking for shells and star fishes. Adults are usually in charge of cooking and making sure that there is always food at the table.

As I grew older, Weekend picnics are spent not only with family, but with friends as well. (you can read about my HS friends [friendship, june 21 entry] here). However, my love for the beach did not in anyway diminish. My friends and I celebrate birthdays, and other occasions at the beach.

Ah those were the days! Days of innocence and endless wonders! How I miss it… How I miss going to the beach and spending time with family and friends. Working in Manila meant no more weekends at the beach since the beach is hours away/ or if I want to go to the beach I have to plan in advance.

Lately my friend Binoe is encouraging me to take up scuba diving lessons. Since I love and miss the beach, I promised him that I will take up on his offer as soon as I get some disposable income (maybe near the end of the year).

Meanwhile, I will be contented with watching finding nemo… hehehe.

********
If you want scuba diving lessons pls check out www.fundiveasia.com. you can email him at bino@fundiveasia.com (just tell him you got his email off my [annie] blog).

Tuesday, August 02, 2005

is it our culture?

What is wrong with the Philippines? Why have we lagged so far behind from our ASEAN neighbors? What hinders our growth? Is it because of too much politics? Is it because of poverty? or is it perhaps due to our culture and how we view things?

Let us dig deeper into our culture and how we percieve certain things:

Juan Tamad: this character is often portrayed as the "hero" in Philippine tales and folklore. He seems to epitomize the basic Filipino character flaw. Someone who wishes riches but will do nothing to attain it.... walking or driving down a typical Philippine street, one can see Juan tamad in different shapes, sizes and forms.

At your corner store, you see pinoys starting the day with a drink or two or playing billards...Housewives who have seemingly nothing else better to do but talk about their neighbors and the latest showbiz news... Pinoys who bitch about the economy and their lives but do nothing about it... People who are just too "lazy" to climb the stairs / use the pedestrian overpass and cross the street just about anywhere... People who want to alight right at their doorstep/ destination instead of walking a few meters from the bus / jeepney stop... these and so many other small things that when taken as a whole, contribute to a chaotic place to live in.

Being too forgiving / loyal to a fault: Loyalty to family and friends are great Pinoy traits, Our close family ties ensure that our family members are treated well and in case of problems -- family members make it a point to help one another. Strong family ties and great interaction with family members keeps one "sane" and helps one fight stress and depression.

I guess we sometimes take some good traits a little too far and make it into a negative. Erring government officials (such as the case of Marcos, Erap and Gloria) are easily forgiven. They never really learn their "lessons" or are not punished (ie. put in jail) as their "sins" are easily forgiven and forgotten. There is no accountability for past actions as long as you say "I am sorry".

Pinoys value family and "Utang na loob" to a fault. Loyalty to family, friends and "padrinos" come first before loyalty to country. This trait sometimes hinder us from upholding justice and the rule of law. This is why I think American justice system (ie jury system) can never work in the country...a place where anyone seems to have ties with everyone.

Bringing other people down instead of being happy for the success of others. It seems that instead of looking at the positive, we always tend to look at the negative / find fault on why certain people are successful than others. We tend to make-up stories to justify our percieved notion of people.

Gustong "maka-isa" sa iba: These are people who make it their life's purpose to do one over other people. We sometimes break simple traffic rules/laws para lang makaisa sa ibang driver.

"Keeping up with the Jones" or Pabonggahan. Fiesta / Celebrations means a grand gathering regardless of expenses. Most Filipinos would rather loan money from loan sharks to put out a feast or to buy things that their neighbors have regardless of the long term effect it might have.

I am not a sociologist nor do I pretend to be. This is how I view certain things...There are positive as well as negative cultural traits ... but it is up to us to really make the most of the positives and learn from the negatives.

Monday, August 01, 2005

sick and tired

I haven't watched the news lately... I have gone to the habit of changing channels (thank God for cable!) when ever there is a "flash report" or the nightly news. I am just sick and tired of the daily "dirt" being hurled by the different camps, the weekly "surveys" and "expose", and the never ending Telenovela that is Philippine politics.

For once, I would like to wake up to a day where Good news is THE NEWS. Where Philippine economy is in the upswing and where Filipinos are praising each other instead of pulling each other down.

For once, I would like to wake up to a different culture of people "getting the better" of their fellow men. Where it is deemed great when people not just think about themselves but how they contribute to the community as a whole. Where they realize that their actions (whether it is small or not) is part of a greater picture.

I would like to wake up to a Philippines that is united in the sprit of making the economy strong instead of being united in plotting ways to over throw the administration and taking the ecomomy down with it.

Until then, let me be happy watching five queer guys make the world better one straight man at time. Let me stay in my bubble and dream that I won't wish to work and migrate to another country anymore.

Wednesday, July 27, 2005

I love...

These are the things / smells / sensations that make me smile...

1. The smell of freshly made bread
2. Sleeping on fresh sheets (100 percent cotton with 250 and above thread count is a bonus).
3. The feel of "coolness" under my pillow.
4. The smell of a new book.
5. Getting lost in a bookstore and/or a shoe store.
6. The smell of my parents, they remain to be my anchor and my security.
7. The taste, sensations of preparing a meal.
8. The smell and taste of dark chocolate. Yum yum
9. The smell of durian (hehehe).
10. Being near the beach... I love the smells and the picnics (takes me back to my childhood where picnics by the beach are done almost every weekend).
11. Hugging ... I just love the feeling of hugging and being hugged. Makes me feel loved, safe and secure.
12.Taking long baths with body wash / scents that linger.
13. Receiving emails and letters from siblings and friends.
14. The smell of cheese and garlic pizza.

What makes you smile?

csi

It's the season finale of CSI! Can't wait to just veg-out in bed with pop-corn and soda. hehehe.

Friday, July 22, 2005

Life and coffee

Got this in my inbox today... just want to share it:

Mayonnaise Jar and 2 cups of coffee...

When things in your life seem almost too much to handle, when 24 hours in a day are not enough, remember the mayonnaise jar...and the 2 cups of coffee..

A professor stood before his philosophy class and had some items in front of him. When the class began, wordlessly, he picked up a very large and empty mayonnaise jar and proceeded to fill it with golf balls.

He asked the students if the jar was full They agreed that it was. The professor then picked up a box of pebbles and poured them into the jar. He shook the jar lightly, and the pebbles rolled into the open areas between the golf balls. He then asked the students again if the jar was full; they agreed it was.

The professor next picked up a box of sand and poured it into the jar. Of course, the sand filled up everything else. He asked once more if the jar was full. The students responded with a unanimous "yes."

The professor then produced two cups of coffee from under the table and poured the entire contents into the jar, effectively filling the empty space between the sand. The students laughed.

"Now," said the professor, as the laughter subsided, "I want you to recognize that this jar represents your life. The golf balls are the important things: your God, your family, your children, your health, your friends, and your favorite passions--things that if everything else was lost and only they remained, your life would still be full.

The pebbles are the other things that matter--like your job, your house, and your car.

The sand is everything else: the small stuff. "If you put the sand into the jar first," he continued, "there is no room for the pebbles or the golf balls.

The same goes for life. If you spend all your time and energy on the small stuff, you will never have room for the things that are important to you. Pay attention to the things that are critical to your happiness Play with your children. Take time to get medical checkups. Take your partner out to dinner. Play another 18. There will always be time to clean the house and fix the disposal."

"Take care of the golf balls first, the things that really matter. Set your priorities. The rest is just sand."

One of the students raised his hand and inquired what the coffee represented. The professor smiled. "I'm glad you asked. It just goes to show you that no matter how full your life may seem, there's always room for a couple of cups of coffee with a friend."

*********
Take time out and share this over a cup of coffee with a friend...

Thursday, July 21, 2005

reality check

If you are 30 and living in manila, are you doing any of these?

§ Having massages at least once a month
§ Meeting up with friends / gimmicks would mean any of the following: dinner, coffee or movies. If there are any drinking involved, one might consider doing it at home with friends since you find bars a bit too noisy.
§ Thinking of changing careers or have changed careers at least once or twice
§ Thinking of getting an MA or MBA
§ Thinking of getting a job abroad
§ Making down payments for a house, condo unit or a car
§ If and when you have disposable income would most likely to spend it on: a new mobile phone, shoes, clothes, cds and / or books.
§ Having most (or all) of your friends married or engaged.
§ Being a ninong or ninang to at least 3 kids
§ Have tried the following diets – south beach, atkins – at least once
§ Engaged in one of the following sports: Badminton, swimming or billards
§ Taking up a new hobby – cooking, baking, crafts
§ Planning to have more vacation but finds no time to take it
§ Most likely to have gone to Boracay or Palawan for fun under the sun
§ Read the latest Harry Potter book (hehehe)
Any more I have missed? Do tell… Tama ba ang assumption ko? If you are 30 (or in your 30s or late 20s) and living in the UK, US, Middle East or any part of the Philippines / world, what would you and your friends be (typically) doing?

Monday, July 18, 2005

tick tock

Like sitting on a time bomb i wait on the outcome of my future... I don't know where I will be tomorrow, nor do I know where I will be next week. I just hope that I will still continue to do the things I love and be paid for it.

Thursday, July 14, 2005

independent mindanao?

Doc. Emer sent me an email this morning and suggested that I post a reaction to an idea of an independent Mindanao.

I am posting the email sent to Mr. Ducky Paredes with my own reactions on the matter:

"Dear friends and fellow Mindanaoans:

"For a long time now we have wanted a free and progressive Mindanao to our chagrin. The Republic of Manila is the real obstacle to our dreams of an independent Mindanao. Despite taking a backseat in national affairs, we are and always have been a milking cow for the people of Manila.

"The bulk of tax revenues of Mindanao are always brought to Manila, but we only receive a miniscule amount in return for our budget, and a big share of that revenue remains in Manila for their flyovers, roads and over-paid and corrupt politicians. And what do we get in return? Nothing really.

"We are a hardworking people, resilient, tenacious, and our love for Mindanao has always brought us together. Mindanao is a very beautiful place (country for most). It is very rich in natural resources and peopled with visionaries. But, our actions and lives are restricted by people living hundreds of kilometers away. Despite the restrictions, lack of government support and lack of funds, we have survived, we always have.

"Cities like Davao, Cagayan de Oro, General Santos, Tagum, Zamboanga, to name just a few, have managed to outperform most cities in Luzon and Visayas despite the terrible lack of funds and support from Manila. An independent Mindanao would give us strategic trading and business ties with parts of Indonesia, Malaysia, Brunei, Singapore, Thailand, even countries such as Japan, China and Taiwan. Because the people of these countries respect us more than those in Manila. And the opportunities for business and growth in Mindanao are vast. Just imagine if we are an independent nation!

"Mindanao would be far more progressive economically and far better socially than the banana republic which is the Philippines (Republic of Manila).

"There is no point in being a part of the Philippine Republic. There is no future in that country. It is mired in debt, which it can barely pay even the annual interest. Investors avoid that country, preferring other Southeast Asian countries, which are outperforming the Philippines in every aspect. To the people in Manila, politics is their first and most important priority. It has even become a national pastime. Just ask yourself this question: "Would you like Mindanao to be an independent country and be given the best but rare chance of starting out clean and fresh, armed with a highly educated and hard-working population with strong leaders, with a land vastly rich in natural resources? Or would you prefer to remain with the Philippines, which is being sucked into the abyss?

"Mayor Rodrigo Duterte of Davao City has called on all Mindanaoans to unite and we must now start work on establishing an independent Mindanao. A call to all Mindanaoan professionals, business people, politicians (real politicians), industrialists, educators, students, Mindanaoan soldiers, all Mindanaoans from all parts of the globe, let us now start work.

"Contact all your relatives, all your local politicians and business leaders, friends and co workers. Let us establish and re-establish strong communication lines among all the different cities, towns and municipalities throughout Mindanao. Let us start with the basics and then progress to more complicated issues in nation building. Let us do this one step at a time but with the same objective of creating a united and
independent Mindanao.

"If you have received this message, please forward this to all your relatives and friends and other fellow Mindanaoans. Do whatever it takes for us to achieve our shared goal and vision. Let us all join hands for a
United and Independent Republic of Mindanao!" — A Friend, A Mindanaoan

*********
My family has long been involved with the Moro struggle and the hopes of having a truly independent Mindanao. Those were the days where idealism seem to fuel their souls and where fighting for your right / idea spells heroism.

I remember my parents telling me stories of how sulu was before the great fire. How beautiful it once was -- it was safe to stroll late at night, how their friends from Manila would visit and gush about the place and about endless parties, picnics and island hopping. Those were peaceful times ... times that seemed forever trapped in the past and never to happen again?

Why do I say this? I have never lived in Sulu, but from accounts to me by my relatives it has changed completely... Gone are peaceful walks, clean streets and neighborhood parties, instead it is said to have been replaced by guns, goons and golds. What happened?

I don't want to think that the struggle (and lives and property lost) were all for naught. I used to think that when the people who fought be given a chance to govern, things will be better, but I was proven wrong.

Times and indeed people change. Those who fought against the system and who said that when they will be given a chance to govern, they will install genuine reform. Alas, it was not meant to be, they were eaten by the system. They embraced the very idea they fought against and it saddens me.

It saddens me to think that the sacrifice of many be for nothing. It saddens me that people who said they will help rebuild the place rocked by war will only rebuilt their homes and it saddens me that they who said are for the people are in the end only for them selves. They amass wealth and power while poverty grows around them.

I truly believe that a city/town/province is as great as its leaders and its people. No matter how much we say we wanted change, we do nothing to change it. We let circumstance and situation dictate what we do instead of having the ‘balls’ to truly change our “world”.

An independent Mindanao? The proposition that Mindanao should secede if GMA resigns is outrageous. I liken this call to a Brat giving an ultimatum. How can our country progress if we continue to live and be in a “tribal” mentality? How can we really move forward if we are torn in divisiveness? I believe that until we change our attitude towards politics and life, we are destined to repeat the past.

Great nations became what they are today because their people willed themselves to work together in achieving a common goal. United is the key word here. Love for country and pride in themselves are other factors. There is no You or me, rather a collective thought of Us and We are the driving force.

I love Mindanao and feel that it is more beautiful and bountiful than Luzon or Visayas, but alas until we resolve the fighting (peace and order) and the prejudice then I doubt if we could really move forward.

Wednesday, July 13, 2005

negatives

Why would some people focus their attention and/or enerfy in seeing only the negative in other people and situations? Why do they have to impose their own belief on others? And why do people who say that they are "religious" (can) be the most hypocrites? I ask why and haven't found any answers.

*********
I am just sick and mostly tired of people who are just so full of themselves (that) they think they are always right, have the right to do what ever they want and have the right to everything. Kainis!

Tuesday, July 12, 2005

crazy

crazy weather! one minute it's so hot that you could fry an egg on the pavement, the next moment it rains so hard. Seems that the weather is turning to be like a traditional politician (you won't know / comprehen what they would do or say next or what their political colors are) hehehe... no wonder the Philippines is going to the dogs.

house of cards

Just when I thought nothing else could go wrong, everything did... now the walls are closing in... everything is falling like a house of cards.

Monday, July 11, 2005

an enchanted weekend

With all the “noise” and excitement generated by last Friday’s turn of events, my siblings and I decided to get away from it all… Away from the chaos and panic, that is Metro Manila.

So off we went to Laguna for a day of fun, adventure, excitement and enchantment … off to a park where we could relive our childhood and forget the troubles… off to a park called enchanted kingdom.

Image hosted by Photobucket.com

*********
We left Manila a little after 12nn with the intention of having lunch along the way. (Petron and Shell stations along SLEX offers a variety of food choices ranging from kfc, jollibee, mc donalds, starbucks, etc). After a leisurely lunch at KFC, we arrived at the park around 2pm ready and eager to enjoy the rides.

The first ride we went on was the bump car ride where we made a "target" (aka most bumped car) out of my sister and her boyfriend. After that we went directly to the ride closest to it, which was the roller skater.

The ride to make you "hurl" was anchor's away, and it took a lot of convincing to take the ride. Midway through the ride, my sister and I were screaming for it to stop... For a person who is a bit afraid of heights, it took guts to take this ride...

I rode almost all the rides except log jam (kc walang seat belt -- plus I already rode it a few years ago) and space shuttle (the last time I rode this ride, sumakit ang leeg ko. Tama na, d ko na kaya ang feeling -- I am so chicken!)

Image hosted by Photobucket.com I really enjoyed being a kid for a day… the rides I enjoyed were Rio Grande (I liked the ride so much that I rode it not once nor twice, but four times…hehehe. We were even one of the last groups to take the ride – we closed the ride at 10pm. Expect to get really soaked on this ride so you have to bring an extra change of clothes), 4D Discovery Theater (a real treat and great sensory experience -- the additional admission fee was well worth it) and the flying fiesta (we called it the spin dryer since we rode it after the rio grande experience).

We stayed till closing time (10pm) and enjoyed the fireworks display. All of us went home wet since we only bought a change of shirts (did not expect to get soaking wet sa rio grande, but since basa na kami, might as well take the ride 4x - bwahaha). Good thing that we have plastic covers sa car kung hindi basa din ang car seats.

It was a bonding experience for us and well worth the admission price. The first time we went to EK was just months after it first opened in 1995, now 10 years after; we get to relive the trills once again.

*********
The 500php park entrance (aka EK day pass) lets one have unlimited use of rides such as Space Shuttle, Jungle Log Jam, Roller Skater, Dodgem, Wheel of Fate, Anchors Away, Bump n' Splash, Rialto, Rio Grande Rapids, Flying Fiesta, and much more. However, attractions such as the 4D discovery theater, kart trak and xtreme paintball have separate admission fees.

Aside from the rides, park also offers visitors various treats such as the fireworks show every weekend, dance presentation by the park’s in-house talents, theater shows, seasonal shows, well-manicured gardens, classic American brownstone facades and establishments, and a variety of characters and mascots led by the Wizard.

*********
PS. pics will be posted soon.

calm before the storm?

After the "noise" made by calls for resignation last friday, all is quite at the homefront... what happens next is anybody's guess

Friday, July 08, 2005

waiting game

Should or rather, would PGMA do a Nixon and resign? The next few days are critical

the ball has dropped

The ball has dropped following the resignation of her cabinet and calls for her resignation, the ball is now in PGMA's court. what happens next is up to her and to the Filipino People.

MANILA, Philippines (AP) _ A third of President Gloria Macapagal Arroyo's Cabinet quit Friday and urged the Philippine leader to step down, saying she has been crippled by an election scandal and has lost the ability to lead.

It was the latest blow to Arroyo, embroiled in accusations that she talked to an election official about ensuring a million-vote victory in last year's presidential vote.

The backbone of Arroyo's economic team _ her economic, trade and budget secretaries _ were among the eight government ministers and two other members of her Cabinet who abandoned her.
God help us all.

*********
Latest news:
Liberal Party asks for PGMA to resign
Cory to call on PGMA to resign
Makati Business Club ask for PGMA resignation
 

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