everything under the sun

updated?

2010-11-08T13:49:00.000-08:00

I'm trying out this new design template... the old one just don't work anymore with different browsers. The background is glaringly white though... and am not quite sure I like it. Sadly, since I'm no expert at website design, I still have to figure out how to change that... hopefully I can ;p

birthday surprises, wishes, and appreciation

2009-01-22T21:08:00.001-08:00

No rest for the weary... birthday or not I had to work. Couldn't very well take another vacation seeing as I had only come back from one ;p But, I am not complaining. In fact, I think this must have been my best birthday to date.

Sliding into my parking space at 12:30am of Jan. 21 (my bday, having had to work my usual midnight shift), I felt a little tired but surprisingly okay. Checked our mailbox, got on the elevator, opened the door... hmmm, why is it dark? and... three people jumped out from under the sheets and started singing happy birthday! It turned out that Kyla, Axel and my Mom labored hours before to come up with an impromptu birthday dinner... and I even got another cat necklace for my gift. Best surprise ever!

But the surprise did not end there... On the afternoon of the same day, Axel sent me a text msg saying somebody sent me flowers but he doesn't know who it was from. I told him maybe its from Lola, saying jokingly that why would she give me flowers when I'm not dead yet. I say this because my Mom would always buy flowers for my Dad and my sister for their special days (and they're on the other side of life). Axel finally figured out who the flowers were from... Ralline! And I got something to look forward to (again) going home from work ;D

2008 has been a humbling year for me. Loss... always a hard thing to bear but made doubly so because of how dear it was to me. I lost a part of me I could never recover. The pain... was nothing compared to the void that settled within me. I would have preferred the pain than this void I could never fill.

My children, the main reason why I exist. To my daughter... I am glad to finally see you breaking out of your self imposed shell. You will never know how much it pains me to see you so unsure of yourself, so affected by what others think of you. We may not be going through the same things, but believe me when I say, I know. I know how hard it is to really believe in yourself and be happy. Things happen for a reason, but it is what we do with the things that happened that matters. To my son... always so patient and protective of me, I'm happy to see you finding yourself and enjoying life. It's okay to be a teenager. I love you both.

To my Mom... I know at times I'm short of patience, but that does not mean I don't love and appreciate you. I can only keep trying and I promise to always be here.

To my nephews... I know how hard its been for the both of you and I am so proud with the way both of you have handled what is probably the most difficult year of your lives. Keep looking after each other and remember that we are all here for you.

My dearest friends, as always, saying thank you will never be enough.

Dibbs, at times you know me better than I know myself. I've been a heavy cross to bear, yet you never wavered. During those times that I start to crumble, you patched me up, reinforcing my will, willing me not to give up.

Ralline, I have been continuously blessed having you and your family looking after me and my family. More than the gifts you never forget to shower us with, I always look forward to spending time with you... adventures seem to follow us around when we're together.;p Time and distance are but trivialities we have to deal with.

Mary Ann and Ella, I know our schedules get in the way, but thank you for being there when I needed all the help I can get.

Pet, Bong, Opet and even Roger... know that I am here for you guys as much as I know you are all there for me.

Zyrel and Jo deserve a special mention... for pushing me to go back to school. For believing and making me believe that I can still do it ;p

JanJan and Camille, for friendships beyond ;p ... I'm a cupcake fan forever!

Andre, a pleasant surprise to hear from you. I'm always just a message away.

Beloved, hmmm... you are a special person and it takes a special person to really understand and appreciate you. Your daughter adores you, but more than that she loves you and I know she'd like nothing better that to see you happy, really and truly happy. I may not have seen you for 20 years, but I still remember how your eyes light up when you're happy. I wonder if I'll ever see it again. I'm sorry.

Al, rare for me as it is, my prayers are with you. We're all here for you.

As for my birthday wish... I have none. I have given it away to the one person who needs it more than I do. And my birthday wishes are nothing to laugh about... they've always come true. So, wish away, you know who you are. This is the only gift I can give that is worth more than anything money can buy.

Birthdays give one a chance to look back, to see everything that's happened, to remember and appreciate every single event that led to the present. Life is never easy. It is the journey through it and the people that walk with you along the way that counts.

P.E.P.P.E.R-achelle

2009-01-21T11:58:00.000-08:00

I haven't had time to come up with my own birthday post so I'm borrowing Ralline's bday post for me, he he he. I could never thank you enough. ;p

Pancakes. Electronics. Phad Thai. Phantom. Entertainment. Rachelle.

Today is Rachelle’s 39th birthday. Much as we want to have a Sistahud gathering to celebrate her birthday, we simply cannot. She lives thousand miles away from the rest of the girls and not to mention, it would cost us lots just see physically her smiling face.Yet, even before she turned 39, I already surprised her with several birthday presents when she visited us in Las Vegas during the holidays. I was really happy to see her again even for just 25 hours. It is time (and money!) well spent with one of my dearest friends. Lucky us!After driving for almost four hours from Alhambra to the City of Lights, we shared breakfast at I.H.O.P. wherein they are known for famous American breakfast foods such as pancakes, waffles and omelettes. We shared a hearty meal with my sister and brother. Filling up our tummies with coffee and good food, we started our day in Las Vegas.

We got lost several times but we did reach our destination and we even saw the Welcome to Las Vegas Signage. We just could not resist so we took pictures. Then we went around the shopping district of WalMart, Office Depot, Ross, Best Buy, Circuit City and the like. Wow in 3 hours that is like a year’s worth of salary! He! He! He! It was fun updating each other with tons of stories and laughing out loud while waiting in line in the retail stores.After shopping for the much needed stuff, we got tired and hungry. Finding a good place to eat, Rachelle saw one of my “memorable” restaurants in Las Vegas. I won’t tell the whole story about the said restaurant because I keep on laughing just remembering our faces. We had Thai food for late lunch and Rachelle got her dose of Thai Iced Tea and we had Phad Thai, Chicken and Pork BBQ, Tom Yum Goong and of course a big bowl of Steamed White Rice. Yum!!

Unfortunately, time is upon us and we had to get ready for our ultimate entertainment experience for the night. We treated Rachelle for an evening of music and opera, Phantom: The Las Vegas Spectacular at The Venetian Resort Hotel Casino. It is one of my absolute favorites ever and really anticipating this event the whole time. Rachelle loved the show and the state of the art technology and effects, even the custom-built theater made us feel that we were in the Opera Garnier in Paris. To complete the Phantom experience, Chloe and Reyboy bought her a Phantom souvenir coffee mug while I got the famous music box. Fantastic!

No trip to The Venetian would be complete without dining to one of its fine dining restaurants. Where else?! We made reservations prior to our Vegas trip at Mario Batali’s B&B Ristorante. It features Batali and his partner, Joseph Bastianich’s acclaimed blend of exquisite Italian food. We enjoyed our selection of appetizers and main courses and though Rachelle didn’t order dessert, I shared with her my chocolate gelato. Pure heaven! I can still remember the taste and am craving for more right now. That gelato is worth the trip and the wait!

Before heading back to our hotel after the late dinner, we strolled around the Venetian, had a picture taken with Humpty Dumpty, played a few slots and eventually drove throughout the Strip to see the lights.

It was already morning when we head back to the hotel but we had fun and enjoyed the trip! Then Rachelle gave me a Christmas present that was so cute. Thanks a lot my friend! I had sleep before heading back to Alhambra while I pack some stuff for her to bring home. I have gifts as well for dearest Nanay Charing, the uber tall Axel and of course, Kikay Kyla. Hope they enjoyed them!Although it was just 25 hours, the time spent with Rachelle will certainly last for several months. I asked her prior to her leaving as I was hugging her if she enjoyed the day, she said she did and was so happy with all of her presents.One thing that she just mentioned as she was pulling off the hotel driveway, “come back soon and stay longer”! Well, we certainly will now!Rachelle, happy 39th birthday! Hope your day is filled with surprises and dreams come true.

New York Vacation 2009

2009-01-13T18:39:00.000-08:00

Here are some of the highlights of my New York trip. Obviously being a shutterbug (not necessarily a good one) I ended up with more than a thousand photos. Needless to say, I enjoyed my vacation and I still love New York although it did fail me on producing snow while I was there. I've been told that some flights were delayed a long time after our plane to LA took off, guess why? Due to snow... I don't know what's up with that, but its the second time I've taken a vacation to see snow and ended up empty handed. Makes me wonder what that means if it happens again the third time. I'd like to thank my host and friend, our Beloved for having me and to JanJan for the very delicious, fun-filled and stomach satisfying adventure of my life.

My first view of the waters surrounding New York
View while circling around for the landing
This was the most snow I'd see in my entire stay...

Waking up to a nice day in New York

Taking the train to the City for the first time...

Grand Central Station, NY
Empire State Building at the background
Statue of Liberty
St. Patrick's Cathedral, NY
Gee! That's heavy! ;p

Christmas Tree @ the Rockefeller Center

I think this is Liberty Park

New York City, New Jersey view
Central Railroad of New Jersey Terminal
Cobbled stones, near Central Railroad of New Jersey

Everything sweet @ Ferrara Cafe, NY

My only photo of Chinatown :)

Alexander Hamilton Custom House
Gotta pose for this...
Not sure what they're doing... some weird stunt/dance show
Ellis Island

One of the most delicious and expensive steak house, so I've been told.
Only female buddha
Hmmm... there sure are a lot of these around NY

I'll post some more later... am still recovering from flu...

back to normal...

2009-01-12T07:57:00.000-08:00

Just got back from my New York vacation. It was a fun-filled, food overflowing, miles of walking, literally more than a thousand photos, cold, friends generating and eye opening vacation. In short, I enjoyed myself... and I still love NY (although as usual, snow was missing from the scene, it did start to snow just before I left, hu hu hu).

Now it's back to work for me, I'm sick and feeling whoozy from the meds I have to take to get better, but I'm glad to be back. I missed my kids, my pillows and my unlimited access to the internet, he he he. The kids are happy with their souvenirs, cupcakes (courtesy of JanJan), but most of all, I think they're just happy to have me back :)

Will post the pictures when I recover a little from this flu...

Rejoice!!!

2008-12-15T14:19:00.000-08:00

Today marked my last day for the Fall semester. Although the semester does not officially end till Dec. 17, I am through.... because all of my course requirements have been turned in. I have now become a certified bum (again) until the Spring semester. Hooray!!!!!

Finally!

2008-11-23T15:07:00.001-08:00

MySpace Countdown Clocks

Cerritos Library

2008-11-09T16:20:00.000-08:00

You'd think that because I work in a library I would have had enough of it to last me a lifetime. But no, I continue to be amazed by what technology has done to make libraries more inviting and inspiring to young questioning minds.
I had to make this a separate post. We went to Cerritos Library as part of our group assignment. All I can say is, "WOW!" The library, especially the children's library is a sight to behold. I even got my very own library card without having to pay for membership because the library we go to is part of MCLS (Metropolitan Cooperative Library System). If not for that, it's a $100 fee, yikes!

back posting

2008-11-09T15:47:00.000-08:00

Ok. got some time so I figured I'd do some blog posts that's been long overdue.

October 11, 2008

My ex-husband wanted our kids to celebrate his birthday, so he had Kyla choose a restaurant to go to. It's supposed to be French cuisine, although I'm still convinced it taste more Italian to me. We, or at least I ordered Princesa (champagne with raspberry puree) to celebrate ;p actually, I wanted my kids to taste it so they're not completely clueless when it comes to liquor. I'd rather they try it in my presence than experiment without me knowing it. Restaurant choice was Camilo's California Bistro. Food was good but came in small servings. Axel ate more than half of what I ordered because he was still hungry. I guess French cuisine won't be on top of his favs, he he he. Anyway, we did have fun even though the birthday celebrant was missing (he's in the Philippines), so thank you for dinner and belated happy birthday.

leaving with full stomach after eating a 3-course meal

October 24, 2008

Had to visit a congressman's office. Part of our assignment in class is to write a letter to a congressman about a cause that we want him to support. Sorry, did not meet the congressman, he wasn't there. I did manage to deliver my letter (and got full credit for it in class), and took some pictures just for the heck of it.

notice my Mom sitting in the car like she's the politician? he he he...

A Winning Moment For Americans

2008-11-04T20:34:00.000-08:00

President Barrack Obama, 44th President of the United States... nothing special about that. But if you take in the fact that President Obama is the first elected black president, then it becomes extraordinary. America is clamoring for a change and they got it. But this is just the beginning. A change for the better or worse? America must remain vigilant.

US Presidential Election 2008

2008-11-03T20:19:00.001-08:00

Obama vs. Mccain
It is time for a change. How much change will depend on the choices we make. Exciting times, for sure...

win a free handbag

2008-10-06T11:43:00.000-07:00

Win a free hand bag? Why not? No credit card required and no S&H fees... got nothing to lose except the few seconds it will take you to click and enter your email address. Who knows you might win a really cool handbag, he he.

to blog or not to blog...

2008-09-21T19:38:00.001-07:00

I have not been blogging. Not that I don't want to, not that I don't have anything to say, but mostly because how I feel is too melodramatic to commit to paper (or in this case a blog entry).

My sister's birthday is coming up, after that it will be my Dad's birthday. What should have been a celebration is still very much a cause for sad reflection. And as I navigate through conflicting emotions, I find that indeed, I am suffering from basket case depression. There is one more reason for my current state of mind, but on that I chose to keep quiet.

So what do I do to alleviate my depression? Let's see... I traded in my car for a new, and as my friends tell me, a better car than what I had. Expensive way to amuse myself, but there it is. I did it. I wasn't sure at first if this is the car that I wanted, truth is, I wasn't sure I'd be qualified to get a new car. Apparently, I have reached that state of credit worthiness.

So, why did I change my car? Hmmm, let's see. The car squeeks, it needs to have the brakes changed, its due for the 45T miles maintenance, and it reminds me that part of the reason why I got it in the first place is to use it to take everybody for trips out of town. The first three reasons requiring a lot of money and the last, well... since we're two members of the family short...

But all is well, I like my new car. And though I still haven't figured out what the hype is about over satellite radio, I'll figure it out eventually. I love the ergonomic seat which now provides full support for my back. The old car has it too, but the new one felt better on my back. I now have less space as the new car is only a 5 seater, but that would mean less junk left in the car ;p And now, I have better chances when I get lost... the car has a compass though still lacking a GPS (still too expensive for me). It feels weird though because it has a screen that tells you a door is open, two doors open, back door open, or you have so and so miles before gas is empty, etc... weird... and the key! OMG! I thought I broke it the first time I took it off the ignition. It doesn't have the part where you see the metal teeth. Sorry, but I'm clueless with car technology. It's called a Fobik key (though not the one with remote start, pity... that would make it a "Kit" car he he). I found that out after reading the manual.

And so after two days of driving the car around, I'm still not at full excited mode but I'm slowly getting there as I discover all the features of my new Jeep Grand Cherokee Laredo.

Happy Birthday Elline

2008-09-17T09:39:00.000-07:00

Hay! another birthday celebration missed...

Metrolink crashes with freight train

2008-09-15T08:28:00.000-07:00

I never liked reading newspapers. Most of the time it's got some really depressing headline splashed across the front page. Once in a while I would watch the news channel but only to make sure I did not miss anything catasthropic.

Friday afternoon. I had my daughter leave work early. I'll be taking them to watch a concert at the Verizon Amphitheater in Irvine, CA. It was traffic, bad. I was beginning to worry we won't make it by 6pm, the time they said people will be allowed in the venue. On the way at I-5S, there was an overturned vehicle. It was curiosity causing the traffic. What's curious to me is how they could end up in such a bad accident with so much traffic. I cannot imagine how a car can get up to the speed it would require for a car to flip over and another car to lose it's entire hood all with Friday traffic. But all ended well, at least for us. We got to the concert's venue in time, we even got and early entry pass because we bank at WAMU. My son later said it was a good thing because it's quite a walk to actually get to where they'd be sitting.

Little did we know that as we prepare to have a relaxing evening, at the other side of town, a tragedy is unfolding. A Metrolink train crashed head on with a freight train. Kyla later told me that some of her friends texted her to make sure she's alright. How that could happen is currently being investigated. As of today, there's been 25 fatalities, 135 injured, 40 of them in critical condition.

Today, I hastily glanced at the LA Times... the main headline is about Wall St. (something to do with a bank filling for bankruptcy), but the main photo was of the train crash. It said investigators are focusing on whether the signal was broken or if it was missed by the engineer. The crash happened on a curve, but I'm a lot more curious as to why these two trains are on the same track... signal or not, they would have been too close to each other traveling at a speed that would make it hard for any of the trains to stop. I should say that there was no mention of some sort of side track where the other train could have moved to had they been warned by the signal.

Towards the back of the paper, there was a feature story on the lives lost in this tragedy, and some story of the people still struggling to survive. Loss of a loved one is always a hard thing to understand

discovering Josh Holloway

2008-08-23T09:40:00.000-07:00

A new commercial by Davidoff Cool Water perfume is being shown literally at every commercial break. I got hooked the first time I saw it :D My God! I never watched "Lost" so I had no idea who the model was for that commercial, so I did some research. Did not take me long and I now had the name of the model... Josh Holloway! What is it about him that caught my eye? I have no idea, but he looks great on camera... and I now have a crush! Woo hoo!!!

A whole new world...

2008-08-14T19:43:00.000-07:00

Have been somewhat busy the last couple of days. One of my class for MLIS started early. It's an introduction to everything that we'd be doing for the entire duration of the program. Part of the assignment was to join Second Life immersive environment. I find it weird... but I guess it's okay if you like to spend hours on your laptop talking to other "people" (avatars in this case). I had to do this twice but only because my avatar always end up naked or worse have a box literally hanging on it's hips. When I finally stopped on the first avatar, it ended up looking like a hyped-up junkie... the second attempt was more successful.

first avatar...

second avatar... looking much, much better.

There was a lot to learn, a ton of reading materials and videos to view, it wasn't that bad, but I've been out of school for so long that I had to literally adjust my brain cells to accomodate all the information. Thankfully, I am now done and am awaiting the official start of the fall semester which would be on Aug. 25.

sick...

2008-07-30T08:11:00.000-07:00

Still sick. Been off work 2 days in a row and I am bored... Shouldn't really complain because I doubt if I can manage to drive myself to work with all my coughing and my meds.

****** Update: Gone back to work but still coughing. I had to call my doctor to complain about a wheezing sound when I breathe. She's prescribed additional medication, so if you see someone looking spaced out, that would probably be me, high on antibiotics, he he.

man or woman?

2008-07-14T12:54:00.000-07:00

I saw this in Greenbuck's blog and thought, why not? This just goes to prove that there must have been a mistake when I was still developing in my mother's womb...

As a 1930s husband, I am
Superior

Take the test!

As a 1930s wife, I am
Poor

Take the test!

OMG!!!! Thank God I wasn't born in the 30's, although I would have made a superior husband if not for the fact that I'm a woman... ha ha ha! I must be missing a body part...

huntington beach parade 2008

2008-07-13T10:05:00.000-07:00

Waking up on a real fine day...
Huntington Beach, CA
marathon
chilling out while waiting for the parade
cool way to skateboard
HB Parade 2008

boy scouts and the American flag
All dolled up
Queens of the parade
Snoopy
drumming on to peace...
the media taking a shot of me as I was taking a shot of him ;p a friend of mine called to say I got my few seconds of fame in one of the news channel covering the parade.
war veterans
sailors
motorized plane
Mom at the parade
clowning around
Bob the Builder

old fashion diner girls
kid wonders
Silver Surfer at HB
my son's band
Queen?

Axel
families enjoying the day
Lincoln look-alike
house decors

clean-up crew
acrobat
huntington beach
relaxing at the beach

sunset at the beach

lamplight
fireworks display

going home

one tired bear

finding a diversion

2008-06-24T18:22:00.000-07:00

When one works two jobs, it might seem impossible to get bored... but it happens. And today is one of those days. Good thing that there's a film that's being shot right here at SWL. It stars Billy Bob Thornton (the ex-husband of Angelina Jolie). My friends had to educate me on this one... I simply had no clue as to who he is. But, that's normal for me... don't really follow the entertainment industry. Took these photos, from where I sit at the circulation desk...

And that, my dear friends, took care of more than an hour of my time although they only shot about less than 10 minutes of film.

Note: I just had additional input from my co-worker. This movie is called "Manure", comedy about manure salesmen in 1960s heartland America.

***photo taken using my sony ericsson z750a fone...

Where in the Philippines...

2008-06-19T17:02:00.000-07:00

Been tagged. I think I've done this before, but since I got nothing better to do right now, why not do it again... ;p

With so many islands, so many great places to see, it's no wonder I was only able to visit a handful. Now that I'm here, chances of being able to see other places of interest in the Philippines is becoming nill. Maybe someday...

My Lakbayan grade is C+!

How much of the Philippines have you visited? Find out at Lakbayan!

Created by Eugene Villar.

welcoming summer

2008-06-15T14:22:00.000-07:00

As spring loses it's yearly battle with the coming of the summer season, we headed off to the beach for an afternoon of fun, food, sun and sand (well, maybe not necessarily in that order). The sun, for all it's warmth lost it's battle to the cold front... and I meant it really got cold and it's not even 5pm. I gave up my sunbathing efforts as the cold wind kept me shivering instead of baking. Took some comfort in taking a few photos and having some snacks.

sob.... :( am not able to wait for sunset, too cold.

Kyla, not hungry anymore after finishing off some chix teriyaki stick and beef teriyaki

Axel's better smile... he's too tired though from battling the waves.

A storybook style house. I drove by it so the kids can see. Looks like one of those houses from LOTR.

breakwater

bikepath at venice beach
sailing
Axel and Kyla
waves are coming!!!!
hmmm... wonder what the fuss was all about?

Happy Birthday Ralline!!!

2008-06-11T16:24:00.000-07:00

The Sistahuds celebrated Ralline's 32nd birthday at FlapJacks. Again, I have to content myself with pictures of the said celebration as they are, alas, thousands of miles away. How I wish I was there to celebrate with them.

Physical presence made impossible, all I can do is write about it... to rouse myself from a self imposed mind slumber and celebrate with them the only way I can.

Ralline, Rae to some, is quite literally a "big" person. Not so much in size(well, maybe a little ;p), but with the goodness of her heart. Friendship with her came as a pleasant surprise way back when we were still in college. I obviously am batches ahead of her, what with all my LOA's which I think happened with more purpose than just starting a family... meeting her and the rest of the Sistahuds are certainly one of the most welcomed perks of my otherwise ordinary life.

With everything that she has accomplished early in life, Ralline stayed pretty simple. Very easy to get along with, ready to listen, lend a helping hand, even take me and my kids for a much needed vacation :) Sometimes, she tends to be too good and people take advantage of that fact. She always gives too much of herself, not just to her family but to all of her friends.

Almost 20 years... that's how long I've known her. And every year is an added blessing to my life. Thank you for being you, for being my friend and a part of my family's life. Knowing you has made me realize that there are indeed silver linings and you're one of the best.

a little catching up

2008-06-09T11:49:00.001-07:00

Time flies when you're having fun... or not. It's been awhile since I posted anything, been longer since I've actually sat down and wrote anything that has some semblance of sense in it. I guess sometimes that cannot be helped.

I have been somewhat busy, and just plain lazy the rest of the time. To recap some of what I've been doing...

- Got accepted at San Jose State University for the MLIS program. It's finally a "go" since I've been granted a loan to cover almost all of my expenses. Am a little anxious about going back to school after so many years of "inactivity". I think my mind is in that perpetual state of laziness so I need a really good jolt to get it going again. A shame that all that hard work when I was still in the Phil go to waste... but no sense in crying over spilled milk.

- Started going to Curves... need exercise to strengthen my core muscle to alleviate my low back pain. No, I did not sign up for a regular membership, still am not sure if it's going to work out for me. They gave me advise on eating healthy, but so far the only thing that accomplished was to mess up my digestion. Had to see my doctor last Friday because something's not right. Was told that although it is good to eat a low fat, low calorie diet, I should not go to the extremes and just change my diet drastically. Though I have some amount of fat stored up, I am not overweight and am exactly at the middle of the normal range, plus my weight has not really changed in the past year. No raw vegetables... which sounds quite odd if I am aiming for a low fat/calorie diet since most of my vegetables come from salads. Oh well, I've always said that diet is not for me...

- I've started reading again and finished 3 novels in one week. I should keep this up, might need to practice speed reading since I've been told that the MLIS program requires a lot of reading... hopefully I don't fall asleep trying to read those articles ;p

- Am trying to do more home-cooking. But I think this is not a very good idea. My son has gained some weight and he's told me that it's because he tends to eat more when I cook. Isn't that flattering? I cook and they eat. I am trying to find recipes that are at least a bit healthier than Filipino food (no offense, but we do tend to eat rich)... good luck to that.

- Have to start on my project again... I've put it aside for too long and it's now June. Hopefully, with everything else going on, I can have that done in time for Christmas... yeah, yeah, I know I have half the year.

- Finished painting the kitchen, well, sort of. There's a tiny patch that's out of my reach that needs to be painted, other than that, we now have a periwinkle shade for the walls and a really cool green for the cabinets. The floors have also been redone.

That seems to be all, though there were tiny details omitted. In all, everything's great with some drawbacks... which is what life is all about.

BlAsian Exchanges

2008-04-20T09:30:00.000-07:00

BlAsian Exchanges, a novel is about Earvin Ilokano, a Filipino American journalist in San Francisco, who decides to become a novelist in the midst of career and work frustrations. The tale he writes is a recollection of his attraction for Black women and Black culture in relation to his racial (Asian American) and ethnic (Filipino American) heritage. To stoke his poison pen,
journalist Ilokano - who is married to a Black woman - recruits Black women on the Internet to serve as his muses and consequently makes the story more "interactive" and the writing experience a little spicier for the reader not to mention the writer. For more information on this book, please visit http://www.blasianexchangesanovel.blogspot.com. (press release)

Attended another book launching at the Filipino American Library in Historic Filipino Town, Los Angeles. This time for BlAsian Exchanges by Sam Cacas.

Sam Cacas, author Reading a chapter from his book...
Demonstarting a European pirouette...
book signing...
Thank you Sam for a wonderful afternoon... Socializing with attendees...
Making the introductions...
Listening intently...
Event Volunteers ;p My daughter and I almost did not go to this book launching. Kyla has to read Hamlet and we all know how hard that can be... and I am just plain lazy. But Jonathan(administrator of FilAm Library) called and he needed some volunteers so we made adjustments. Lucky for us we did. The afternoon proved to be very interesting and entertaining. I had to ask... if he's half Filipino and half Black, sensing his love for both cultures. But no, he's Filipino who grew up in the US, in a Black community. Just goes to prove that with an open mind and a loving heart, the gap separating people as Asians, Blacks, Whites, etc can be done away with. More power to you Sam!

Taga UPLB ka kung...

2008-03-31T09:58:00.000-07:00

Found this on another site. I can so relate...

1. Kilala mo si Mang Pogs.

2. Nalilito ka kung saan nakalagay ang banga ni Mariang Banga.

3. Tubig na lang ang tingin mo sa gin.

4. Ginamit mong reviewer ang mga old exams para sa mga midterms, prefi at finals sa math, stat, chem, physics, eco etc.

5. Hindi ka sumasagot ng UP (yupeee) kapag tinanong ka kung saan kagraduate. Hahaha! Sagot mo elbi.

6. Taga-elbi ka kapag kilala mo yung professor na nagbi-bike ng naka-barong na kupas. (Si climax! kalahating albert einstein, kalhating mang pandoy)

7. Ok lang pumasok sa mga klase kahit naka pambahay/pantulog attire ka.

8. Pag nagtanong si manong driver ng "may animal ba dyan?", at may sumagot ng "meron po" ay di ka natawa.

9. Pag nagtanong uli si manong driver ng "may mens ba dyan?", at may sumagot uli ng "meron po" ay di ka natawa.

10. Di ka nahihiyang magbitbit ng malaking payong.

11. Taga-elbi ka kung pagkatapos mong magbakasakali kay Mang Pogs, diretso ka na kay Mr. Midnight .

12. Bumibili ka ng blue book sa Coop.

13. Alam mong hindi pwedeng ibato ang Batong Malaki.

14. Nung pinanood mo ang movie ni aga at regine na shot at elbi (sa may gaygay gowns) at nagtawag ng taxi si regine e nagtawanan kayo ng mga taga-LB at clueless ang iba.

15. Alam mo kung nasaan ang White House.

16. May tanline ka ng tsinelas.

17. Alam mong mas masarap ang pancit canton na niluto sa 'heater cup'

18. Sanay ka maglakad.

19. Thursday night ang gimik night mo.

20. Alam mo na ang pinakamalaking banyo ay ang Ellen's Fried Chicken, at Sizzler's ang tinitingalang kainan.

21. Kilala mo sina Saniano Boy at Girl.

22. Alam mo kung nasaan ang "Johnson".

23. Alam mo ang kaibahan ng dalawang Flatrocks.

24. Kaya mong pumasok ng hindi naliligo.

25. Alam mong si Carasus at Pegabao ay iisa.

26. Alam mong ok lang na pumunta sa Maahas.

27. Tumatambay ka sa APEC para mag inom.

28. Alam mo kung nasaan ang Fertility Tree, Kwek Kwek Tower , at ang Templo ni Bruce Lee.

29. Tuloy ang klase kahit signal number 3 na.

30. Alam mo kung saan ang pilahan ng jeep papuntang IRRI, Forestry, o kaya ay Jamboree...

31. Sawa ka na or Hindi ka kumakain ng buko pie.

32. Alam mo na bago pa man nauso ang unli rice sa Tokyo Tokyo, marketing strategy na ito ng Salad Country.

33. Hinahanap-hanap mo ang chocolate cake sa Mer-Nel's.

34. Alam mong bawal tumawid sa UPLB Gate (main), muLa Guard House papuntang harap ng Carabao Park...

35. Alam mong may oras lang na pwede kumain sa IRRI pag di ka IRRI employee.

36. Sanay ka maglagay ng Knorr Seasoning sa kanin.

37. Alam mong ang hanging bridge ay di talaga naka hang..

38. Alam mong hindi lang dalawang pulgada ang layo ng Bayog sa Anos.

39. Kapag nate-take mo na di magpalit ng pants hanggang ilang araw... hehe..

40. Alam mo kung nasaan ang tatlong Ellen's fried chicken sa LB.

41. Apektado ka sa pagsasara ng ic's

42. Pag may sakit ka, hindi ka pumupunta sa "infirmary" except lang pag kukuha ka ng excuse slip.

43. Marami kang alam na ghost stories, sa ilag's, sa men's dorm, sa faculty village, sa may social garden etc...

44. Pag umihi ka na sa gilid ng SU (tuwing feb fair).

45. Alam mo na ang tunog ng pillbox. (rambol!)

46. Taga lb ka kapag kilala mo si "manang slow"..

47. Hindi mo na naabutan ang Vega mall at Robinson's.

48. Taga elbi ka kapag mas gusto mong tumambay pag feb fair kesa manood ng kung anuman sa stage.

49. Kaya mong i-identify ang specie at subspecie ng bawat punong nadadaanan mo.

50. Alam mo na ang shortest way sa papuntang st. therese from Hum ay ang dirt road...

51. Taga-elbi ka kapag alam mo kumbaket maraming natatalisod sa raymundo gate.

52. Hindi mo kailangan ng rason para uminom ... hindi mo na rin keilangan ng mesa pag iinom (... hindi mo na rin minsan kailangan ng baso).

53. Alam mo kung nasaan ang Soils.

54. Mas trip mo mag-redhorse kesa mag San Mig Light.

55. Kung di man natuloy ay binalak mong umakyat ng peak two.

56. Taga elbi ka pag nakakita ka ng snow pag summer (yun yung bulak na nagkalat sa campus... kapok).

57. Taga-elbi ka rin pag handa mong gawin ang lahat pag nag-prereg ka makakuha ka lng ng slot sa subject na yon (lalo na pag GE).

58. Alam mo kung saan makakabili ng masarap na proven at chicken skin-- dun malapit sa white house.

59. Alam mong ang devcom ay dating under ng ca.

60. Mas enjoy mo ang gimik sa apartment compared to bars and restos.

61. Alam mong ang "audi" at DL Umali Hall ay iisa.

62. Alam mong may gasolinahan sa loob ng campus (sa likod ng CEAT).

63. Sineryoso mo na kailangan may kasama kang date pag drill night.

63. Alam mo kung nasaan ang Ilag's, Raymundo's at Catalan.

64. Dismissed or graduate ka na pero sa elbi ka pa rin nakatira.

65. Alam mo kung nasaan ang Batcave.

66. Gusto mong pasabugin ang PhySci building.

67. Alam mong ang LB Square ay dating vacant lot na puro talahib.

St. Patrick's Day Party

2008-03-20T19:38:00.000-07:00

Due to insistent public demand... or rather the demand of one person in particular (like dutiful kids, we say, thank you Tito Alex), I came up with a speedy way of making a St. Patrick's Day party happen.

First off, I am not Irish, so I don't have a clue what or how to celebrate this day. So, being the typical librarian, I searched the internet for ideas and recipes (I was told that there are particular foods that need to be served on this day). The most popular of which are corned beef and cabbage. I figured, that's easy. I can just buy the canned corned beef and cook that, cabbage is always an easy thing to grab from the store. But alas! I've been castigated for even thinking that I can do this and get away with it. "It has to be the coned beef that needs to be sliced", I've been told. Clue, same person as the one who insisted that I have this party to begin with. And so, with much frustration and a lot of time calculation, I set out to find the easiest recipe for this "corned beef" (the Irish way). As luck would have it, or rather the lack of it, said corned beef can only be done by curing the meat for at least seven days. Seven days! When I'd rather have the food ready in seven minutes if I can manage it? Geez! And so, I diverted my search to what else can I make that is very close to this corned beef. I finally decided to get the ingredients for the Irish corned beef and mix it with some Filipino recipe. I've also substituted pork for beef, I do want to eat and getting beef tender enough for this will take too long. Axel would have killed me had I taken any minute longer getting the food done.

And so, the "corned pork" was born. Axel thought of this name while we were eating. Sounds good enough for me. I just simmered the sauce to get a thicker consistency so we can get more flavor out of it. I added the sweet peas, why? For the green color, of course!

Here's some more food stuff... It's been said (at least according to what I read on the Internet), that Irish people like to have potato in their diet. So I looked for a recipe that'll be easy for me to make. I found this one called "Colcanon" or "Irish Smashed Potato" As you can see it's not mashed, like what we normally have but rather smashed, which means you'd have to leave bigger pieces of potatoes in and not mash it to oblivion. It actually calls for the cabbage being mixed in to the potatoes, but I thought this might taste too different for my kids so I just served the potatoes on the cabbage;p No gravy! Just heavy on the butter. Kyla really liked this one. Of course I did not tell her the butter stuff. She's always saying she's on a diet, so I don't want to hurt her feelings ;p

Then of course, I have to round it off with something healthy (wish). So I made some veggies, just broccoli and carrots with cheese on top. Did I say healthy?
Axel, who's been patiently waiting for Kyla to arrive has been constantly going back and forth from his room to the kitchen. Taking a peek at what seems to be worth the trip, here's what's on the table...
And what would a St. Patrick's Day party be without the booze? No, I did not go for the traditional on this one. I did not get that famous "green beer". I am not much of a beer person and I doubt if anyone else at home would really want to drink it. But yes, I still got something alcoholic and actually got carded for it. Damn those cashiers! Although some would be thrilled to get carded when buying liquor, I definitely am not. I think I am way passed that stage where cashiers should demand to see my ID when I buy liquor from the store. In fact, I would have thought that what I got has so little liquor on it that it doesn't deserve to be called liquor. What did I get? Margarita. Of course one that's green.
I made my kids drink a little, and no, I am not trying to turn my kids into alcoholics. I got them to taste it so that they know what it's like. That way, they won't be fooled into thinking that yeah, there's hardly any liquor in this so I won't get drunk even if I have a couple of glasses. I'd rather be present when my kids try something that might prove to be potentially dangerous later on when I'm not around. I share my Dad's view on liquor, what you know won't hurt you or at least give you an insight to make the right decision.

And so, that was our impromptu St. Patrick's Day party! Maybe we did start a tradition on this one, who knows? Thanks are in order to the one responsible... (doing a chorus), thanks, Tito Alex! One last look at the party goers... (what wonders a new camera and a tripod can do).

I'll have sunrise to go, please.

2008-03-17T07:40:00.000-07:00

One cannot help but be happy and grateful when the scene that greets you in the morning is something as spectacular as this. One fine day in California, on my front porch right before I left for work, this morning display took my breath away.

Tagged...

2008-03-13T17:45:00.000-07:00

I AM… ridiculously happy for no apparent reason... or is there?
I WANT… to enroll in culinary school.
I HAVE… nothing to do except answer this meme ;p
I WISH… I can stay ridiculously happy, he he.I HATE… those people who lie and get found out.
I FEAR… not finishing what I set out to do.
I SEARCH… for nothing... I've already found what I've been searching for.
I WONDER… what else is in store for me.
I REGRET… not taking more risks in life.
I LOVE… my family.
I ALWAYS… drink coffee to calm myself.
I AM NOT… as vocal as I want to be... that's why I need to write about how I feel.
I DANCE… at every opportunity I get.
I SING… terribly.
I CRY… over silly little things.
I WRITE… about things I cannot say.
I WON… a couple of beauty pageants.
I AM CONFUSED… about my current inner state.
I NEED… to know where I'm headed.
I SHOULD… finish my masters degree.
THE LAST THOUGHT YOU GO TO SLEEP WITH IS… Hmmm...

Filipinos in Hollywood

2008-03-09T16:50:00.000-07:00

The Filipino American Library (FAL), in collaboration with Filipino American Service
Group, Inc. (FASGI) and Burger King Corporation, presents…

“Filipinos in Hollywood”
Book Launch

Saturday, March 8
2:00pm

Filipino American Library (FAL)
135 N. Park View St.
Historic Filipinotown
Los Angeles, CA 90026-5215

--- Free Admission, Donations Accepted ---
--- Food and Drinks Provided ---
--- Please RSVP by WED, MAR 5 to filamlibrary@sbcglobal.net ---

Author Carina Monica Montoya, who was born and raised in the Hollywood area, has
collected these vintage images from the early Filipino families who settled in Hollywood,
the Filipino community, and Los Angeles historical organizations. These remarkable
photographs capture the spirit of and challenges faced by Filipinos in America, as well as
their triumphs, recognition, and success in Hollywood.

In an effort to increase my awareness and ultimately my involvement in anything Filipino here in LA, I took my kids and my Mom to this book launching event. Although, I am a librarian by profession, this is the first time I've attended such an event since I settled here a little over six years ago. I am very impressed at the way they've handled said event, everyone was very professional with your usual Filipino warmth thrown in, from the welcoming committee, the volunteers, and the guests. Needless to say, I have listed my name down as a volunteer for future events hosted by the library.

The author, Carina Monica Montoya is very knowledgable. She really knows her history and can tell the story very well. I was never really into history, so any information coming in is processed and forgotten, until such time that I have some use for it, so you can say that going to a launching of a book about history is a big step for me to reconnect with my own roots.

More power to us Filipinos!

wishing i was there...

2008-03-09T12:05:00.000-07:00

Just got this camera Fuji FinePix S700. Testing to see how good the images will turn out. This is the view from our apartment balcony miles away... wish I am there right now instead of my balcony taking pictures, but I guess that will give me a totally different view ;p

Blog Award

2008-02-28T21:23:00.000-08:00

Got this cool award from Rachel. Thanks a lot. Sure is heartwarming to find a friend even though we're thousands of miles apart. Hopefully I can get to meet her in person on my next trip to the Philippines.

What's your name's hidden meaning?

2008-02-19T15:59:00.000-08:00

This is interesting... Saw this on Carl's blog and I went ahead and tried my name. Seems to be pretty accurate like Carl said. Hmmm.....

What Maria Rachelle Bedia Means

You are confident, self assured, and capable. You are not easily intimidated.

You master any and all skills easily. You don't have to work hard for what you want.

You make your life out to be exactly how you want it. And you'll knock down anyone who gets in your way!

You are usually the best at everything ... you strive for perfection. You are confident, authoritative, and aggressive. You have the classic "Type A" personality.

You are wild, crazy, and a huge rebel.

You're always up to something.You have a ton of energy, and most people can't handle you.

You're very intense.You definitely are a handful, and you're likely to get in trouble. But your kind of trouble is a lot of fun.

You tend to be pretty tightly wound. It's easy to get you excited... which can be a good or bad thing.

You have a lot of enthusiasm, but it fades rather quickly. You don't stick with any one thing for very long.You have the drive to accomplish a lot in a short amount of time. Your biggest problem is making sure you finish the projects you start.

You are very open. You communicate well, and you connect with other people easily.

You are a naturally creative person. Ideas just flow from your mind.

A true chameleon, you are many things at different points in your life. You are very adaptable.

You are truly an original person. You have amazing ideas, and the power to carry them out.

Success comes rather easily for you... especially in business and academia.

Some people find you to be selfish and a bit overbearing. You're a strong person.

You are friendly, charming, and warm. You get along with almost everyone.

You work hard not to rock the boat. Your easy going attitude brings people together.

At times, you can be a little flaky and irresponsible. But for the important things, you pull it together.

You are relaxed, chill, and very likely to go with the flow.You are light hearted and accepting. You don't get worked up easily.

Well adjusted and incredibly happy, many people wonder what your secret to life is.

You are full of energy. You are spirited and boisterous. You are bold and daring. You are willing to do some pretty outrageous things.Your high energy sometimes gets you in trouble. You can have a pretty bad temper at times.

You are balanced, orderly, and organized. You like your ducks in a row.

You are powerful and competent, especially in the workplace.People can see you as stubborn and headstrong. You definitely have a dominant personality.

At last!!!!!

2008-02-04T07:38:00.000-08:00

Yes! Finally, I'm a proud owner of a signed copy of Papa Carl's ZsaZsa Zaturnnah. It took me a while to get this copy mainly because I now reside in the US and though I would have been able to purchase a copy online, nothing beats having a copy personally signed by the author.

ZsaZsa Zaturnnah was recently given a special mention in Butch Dalisay's Philippine Star column, "Penman" in his "Animating Philippine Literature" (originally published on his blog Pinoy Penman).

The adventure, starting out as a comic book, turned into a musical (that won lots of critical acclaim), and finally into a movie. I've seen the movie, and I now have the book... next stop, to watch the musical, that is, if I'm lucky enough to have it playing when I go back to the Philippines.

Thanks a lot Papa Carl! Especially for my wet kiss, ha ha! Love you lots!

dry river bed...

2008-01-30T16:48:00.000-08:00

reality bites... HARD!

2008-01-24T23:02:00.000-08:00

Once in a while something happens that makes you question every single thing around you. Last January 22nd was one of those days you'd wish never happened. I was busy minding my own business on my way to work stopping as the traffic light hovers between yellow and red and thinking what kind of breakfast I should get along with my hazelnut coffee when BAM! I've been rear-ended by some dude who thinks that he can beat the red light with me blocking his way. It really makes me wonder how anyone can think of going faster than the car in front of them and actually thinks they can get away without having an accident.

And so, information changed hands... all was well... at least up to that point where I dialed my sister's cellphone number, only to realize that no one would be answering my call. After that, forget it. I was a mess. The accident was nothing compared to the impact of realization that my sister is forever gone.

The car, now in the shop for repairs, my body, hopefully on the mend, and my mind, thankfully too drugged up to care about anything else. And so days passed and I am precariously doing a balancing act. With everything that's happened, I cannot help but be amazed that I am still here trying to accept reality as it tries to bite more chunks of what little sanity I have left in me.

Another Birthday...

2008-01-21T00:01:00.000-08:00

One whole year has passed. Once again, here I am celebrating my birthday. Last year's birthday was the first one in years to be celebrated with almost everyone in the family present... yes, my Dad went away too soon to be with us that day. And this year, what makes it even sadder is the fact that we are now two members of the family short... this time, it was my sister who passed away last December. It's hard to live day to day without their presence. I guess I'm just too used to having them around all the time or at least after my case or just a phone call away.

Looking back, I at least can say, I have partially fulfilled my promise to my Dad. I know, partial is not enough, but I'm sure he understands why it has to be that way... at least for now.

Nothing can ever make up for the loss of my Dad and my sister. Be as it may, I am still thankful for a lot of things that came my way.

To Tatay ang Ate Beth - both of you made it a point of looking after everyone else. I think that's the reason why even now that both of you are gone, we still go on as if we'd wake up and find both of you here, with us. It's been hard, first with Tatay gone, then Ate Beth... but just knowing how much we are loved by both of you is enough to keep us going. And for that, thank you.

To Glenn - I never thought I'd see myself do this, but thank you. Took me a long time to understand just who you were and how important you were in my life. Now I know. You were the push I needed to get me to where I'm supposed to be. Took a lot of pain, a lot of tears to get there, but I made it. I hope you've found happiness wherever you are, just as you have led me to mine without even knowing it. Again, thank you.

To Andre - the one true friend who stayed by my side at my worst. The only friend that I miss the most because I've lost you. I lost you when I left, It was all my fault I know. Now I am glad that you are with someone who loves you the way you deserved to be loved. I hope someday I'll be able to see you again and meet this lovely woman you chose to spend the rest of your life with. To you and your wife, thank you.

To Dibbs and her beloved - the two people who knows me better than I know myself. It's sometimes scary that both of you know what I'm thinking and what I'm going through even without me saying anything. Most of the time, both of you will say something just because you picked up something at the sound of my voice. Dibbs, you've always been an integral part of me. I could never have made it this far if you have not been there to guide me. Sometimes, just listening to me ramble on is enough to calm me down and make me see what it is I have to do. Beloved, you have this amazing knack of knowing when I need cheering up. It's like you have this massive antenna aimed at me telling you I needed someone to talk to. We've not seen each other in years, yet you have been present in everything that's happened in my life. Both of you have made life a little easier and no amount of gratitude can ever repay that. Know that I am also here for both of you whenever you need me. I love you both and am glad that I have the two of you in my life.

To Ralline, Ella and MaryAnn - the other 3 members of the Sistahuds. You all must think that I always get myself into a lot of unnecessary trouble. Yet, inspite of that you guys never wavered in your belief in me. Whatever it is, you just take everything in stride and still love me for what I am. I am so blessed to have friends like the three of you. Remember, I may not be with you physically, but you can always count on me.

To Pet, Bong and their respective wives - Years may pass without us seeing each other, but somehow, the bonds of friendship that we all share is made stronger. Everytime I go back, both of you always made me feel as if I've never left. Thanks to your wives for putting up with me ;)

To Nap and Family - Lost time because of distance and busy schedules. All these matters not. No matter how busy you were with your schedule, you always know when it's time to step in ang give me a much needed shaking, or a shoulder to cry on, or a joke to make me smile... even a song to remind me of how precious life can be especially with friends like you. Saying thank you will never be enough... To your wife, who I've met, thank you for treating me like an old friend even though we've only seen each other once. I'm so glad that Nap found you or is it you who found him? Much love to both of you and to your little one.

To my ex-husband and his wife - I will pray that you finally get what you've both been hoping for. I'll have this as part of my birthday wish...

To my Mom - I know it is hard, first to lose the man you love, then to lose a daughter, in a span of 13 months. I know because I too am feeling the loss. There is nothing much I can give you at this point, our loss can never be recovered, but I'm still here and your grandchildren are here. We've always joked that you are my sister's Mom and I am my father's daughter, but behind that joke, we all knew that we are family and we are loved.

To Kyla - I hope you finally find it in you to be strong, just as I know you are. All you need is to believe in yourself and you will find that elusive happiness you always seem to be losing. I know happiness can come from being in love, but beyond that true happiness is being true to yourself, accepting what you are and finding happiness in it. Believe and you will become.

To Axel - I have placed a lot of responsibilities on your shoulders at such a young age. And though you never complained, I know how hard it must be for you. Keep believing and keep dreaming...

To my other friends - no, you have not been forgotten. I hold you all close to my heart.

To the source of my happiness - yes, this time, aside from my kids, there is someone else. Thank you. I may not be able to express myself as clearly as I would like, but that's just the way it is. Never for a moment doubt what I've told you, I have doubted myself enough for the both of us. For everything that's been said, I can only thank my lucky stars that anything was said at all. For more that's been left unsaid... maybe someday we'll know.

A much needed break...

2008-01-09T10:07:00.000-08:00

Finally went off and had a real vacation. Just a short one, but very much needed to get me recharged. Flew out of Ontario airport @ 8:15am and arrived at Cleveland airport at 4:30pm. It was just a 5 hour flight, but there is a 3 hour time difference.

As expected, I got shell shocked with the cold weather, although I was assured that at high 30's it's actually pretty warm. But, no matter, I was just so excited to see snow everywhere I look. Thankfully, my host picked me up as agreed upon... either that or he doesn't get his order of El Pollo Loco chicken, he he. Went off to pass by Best Buy to get Resident Evil: Extinction dvd. Spent a quiet night watching it after dinner, well, quiet aside from my screams ;p

After that one quiet night, it's tourist mode! Here's some pics I took from this trip, the rest you can find at my multiply site...

It was a weird feeling going on a vacation. I guess, I'm not used to it. Don't have to wake up early, no need to prepare breakfast, lunch or dinner, no need to rush anywhere, and no traffic. Most of the places we went to, I would not go to by myself. But that's what I promised myself I would do... do things that I don't normally do when I'm in LA. So, I got a hefty taste of culture. Ohio has plenty of museums to choose from, ranging from natural history, to music, to science and contemporary art. I even got attached to one of the paintings and bought myself a poster of it The Dream by Salvador Dali

There were some activities planned that did not push through, mainly because it rained and the snow melted. A little disappointed, yes, but I won't miss it. Who would actually look forward to either falling flat on your face or smack down on your butt? Skiing, I mean (which I haven't done, maybe next time). There's also that rock climbing which was thankfully closed by the time we got there... to high for me, thank you ;p I'm afraid I'm not the sporty type, but had there been snow, then I would have tried it, of course... gotta do it at least once in my lifetime.

There might have been things that I was not able to do, but there were certainly things that I did for the first time, and boy! that in itself was a novelty and so much fun. Driving in the snow... while raining, stepping on real snow (not the type that comes out of machines), touching it, just seeing it everywhere you turn... Snow overdose!!! So sad it went away so soon. Cleveland hit their record high temperature the weekend I was there, ergo, melted snow.

Ah, but the food... it's real food, with flavor and not the usual bland taste of American food. I was told that it's because most of the produce are really fresh from the farms. Blueberry cream hotcakes... dreamy. I would not normally eat something like that, too sweet, but this one, I liked very much. Dinner at Pier W is something I would like to do again. Not only was the view breathtaking, the food was excellent, the staff great... my "date"? well, not really... my host for the evening, although he complains too much that I'm too quiet, is great company. He just won't give up on trying to extract information from me... personal ones at that, hay!

I met "the walking dead"... she's a local waitress at a great diner (won't mention it in case she protests, he he). No complaints about the food, in fact we went back so I can try their famous omelette. But man! She is one hell of a character. We couldn't stop laughing. She's the only person I've heard speak as if... she was really dead... very flat tone of voice, no variation in pitch whatsoever and she moves ever so slowly and looked too dazed to know what she was doing. I still crack up everytime I think of her... maybe next time I'll take a video of her and put her up on youtube.

I even got to go to a bar to watch the game between OSU and LSU. Now this is something I've never done before, nor would I do it if it was only me(not a football fan, sowee). But it turned out to be so much fun! It was certainly amusing to watch the whole place erupt with cheers for Ohio State and boos for the other team. It's contagious, I tell you, pretty soon I was as loud as they were. And although they did not win this time it was still so much fun... not to mention I got to drink beer (Guiness), the first in 11 years and got to taste that famous garlic wings ;)

And not to forget, people over there, also don't know how to drive, wah ha ha. I was only there a couple of days, and though they are pretty easy going with their driving, I think they should go back to driving school.

Still so many things to do, and sadly, so little time. To some, going to Cleveland might sound tame for a vacation, but that's just exactly what I needed. Some peace and quiet... a slow kind of existence. Everything was perfect!!! Down to my host's incessant complaints about my bouts of silence and his insistence that I did not want to do what I think was fun with him. Fun is relative, and I am easy to please.

life cut short...

2007-12-06T17:36:00.000-08:00

Elizabeth Bedia Magaru

October 14, 1957 - December 5, 2007

My sister, Ate Beth, died of cardiac arrest at 1:53am of December 5, 2007.

A life left behind...

2007-11-28T15:47:00.000-08:00

A few years back, I left the Philippines for the land of milk and honey. I did not want to go, certainly never meant to stay, but circumstances necessitated my journey and responsibilities warranted me to stay. I made my choices, and though at times I think about what could have been if I had not left, I am here, living a different life.

A life left behind... I beg to differ. I did not leave my life. I am living it. A different place, a different time, with different friends, but most certainly still my life. Some friends, now long gone, still, some remained the same. Life changes for sure, but life is never left behind.

Change... sometimes it is hard to keep up. Oftentimes we blame others for imposing changes in our lives. But change we must, because it is the only way to move on, to live life, to be alive. We can spend all our time looking back, wishing to get back what we lost, hoping to go back to what we had... wanting that life we left behind, but it would all be in vain. For time has moved on and what once was can never be again. It is hard, I kid you not, but live in the present we must, for it is all we have. What we make of our present will set the foundations of our past and pave the way for our future.

Choices... I made a lot of them, some good, others never to be repeated. All done with good intentions, these choices nevertheless imposed my will on others. Regrets? I think not. At times, I still question the wisdom of choices I made, only to realize that there is no need to wonder, but there is a need to understand, and a need to accept the choices made and the consequences that came with it.

As a parent, I had to make choices. I must initiate change. Years ago, I questioned why there was a need for me to follow. That is the folly of the young. I now realize, there will always be a time in one's life where we need to follow and a time when we will have to lead. When I was young, I followed and I questioned... now that I am older, I lead and get questioned. A life left behind... had I kept looking back, I would not be where I am now. I would not have seen the places I have been, nor would I have met the people I know now. I would have missed the opportunity life had given me, and that would have been the greatest tragedy... a life not lived because of the desire for that life left behind.

A Big Thank You

2007-11-27T17:23:00.000-08:00

Wow! This is the first time I got an award for my blog, and such a great one too... I would like to thank Rachel, of Heart of Rachel for this award. I never thought blogging would be such a rewarding experience and a great way to gain new even if virtual friends.

I too would like to share this award to some people, who in one way or the other touched my life.

Ralline - She's a big woman with an even bigger heart, thoughtful and generous to her friends and totally dedicated to her family. She made my entire family feel like an extension of her own family. I feel really blessed to be her friend.

Ella - Usually the silent one in our group, but don't let that fool you. I admire her drive to go places and simply enjoy what life has to offer, as is evident with every picture she takes. A woman with very few but always meaningful words.

Carl - We've never really been together. I haven't seen him in years, but I always have this comfortable feeling about him. I am a great admirer of his work (Zsa Zsa Zaturna, among other things), not to mention he's been my "Papa Carl" for as long as I've known him ;)

two things...

2007-11-08T17:10:00.001-08:00

Hu hu hu... my poor hand. Sprained a tendon (accdg. to Dr.) on my left wrist while re-shelving books at work. Since they are very strict with injuries at work, I had to go see a doctor right away. Waited long... as we all tend to do when we want to see a doctor. The Doc squeezed and twisted my wrist which made it hurt all the more. Now it hurts more than when I first got to the hospital to see him. And so he needed to give me pain killers which would render ME inoperable or rather incapacitated for the next couple of days.

And then I saw this(car on fire) on my way to my other job...
So I just said to myself, someone's day is worse than my own... shouldn't complain, hay!

Halloween 2007

2007-10-31T18:41:00.001-07:00

One of the fellows at work brought this mask for Halloween and was kind enough to let me borrow it so I can have a picture of me in a costume... pretty cool ! spoon nose ;)

torture week

2007-10-29T07:48:00.000-07:00

I have now been officially stuck indoors for a week. The wildfires made it impossible for me to go out for extended periods. Last week, I thought I was having a heart attack when I cannot breath all of a sudden. I had to stop walking and take gulps of breaths to no avail... I walked on to get inside the library and started inhaling and exhaling. Mind you, if I wasn't able to breath properly after 5 more minutes I probably would have called 911, never mind my phobia of emergency rooms.

Fortunately, after a few more minutes I seem to be okay. I did call my doctor just to be sure. She wanted me to go to the ER in the beginning, but I said unless I'm about to die, I don't think the ER is an option. Who would relish having to wait for hours for some resident to take a look at you then send you home? Not to mention the cost of going in the first place. So she asked me to tell her everything that happened, what I felt, etc. And I did. Turns out that since it's been really windy and the fact the we had 16 fires going all over California, smoke has a way of getting in your lungs even though you're miles away from the fire itself. Solution? Stay indoors, close all windows and doors, have the aircondition at recycled air, do not drive with windows open, have an air purifier on at all times, limit outside exposure at a minimum... and on and on and on... man I have more things to remember for this than when I hurt my back.

I am now a little cranky for not being able to do anything, not that I do a lot of things, but just the thought of "can't do it because" is enough to irritate the hell out of me. TV helped a little, the internet surely, but boy! hopefully the air clears a bit so it'll at least be "safe" to go outdoors again. Hopefully my excitement over my new bike won't wane by the time I can do it again...

The only good thing out of these fires? A really spectacular sunrise. Yes, it looks like a sunset, but it really is sunrise... I guess air quality still very low, but hey, you do get to enjoy the view.

great times

2007-10-27T17:05:00.000-07:00

Lantern Parade (UP Diliman) '90 or '91

I can't believe it! A picture from about 16 years ago... (from Igor). I miss those days...

new hobby...

2007-10-21T19:32:00.000-07:00

I recently bought a new bike... maybe now I can have some sort of exercise ;p
At Venice Beach after a long ride on my new bike...
Kyla's sporting a new "pink" bike... hopefully this will help her lose the extra pound she thinks she has (don't ask me where... surely a teenager's thing)
Stopping for a much needed snack and drink. Good thing all 3 bikes fit in our car.

Happy Birthday Mom and Sis

2007-10-21T19:22:00.000-07:00

Late posting... My mom and sister just celebrated their birthdays last October 7 and 14 respectively. Here are some photos...

the birthday cake...

My Mom and sis...

Sunday Scribblings #81

2007-10-18T17:59:00.001-07:00

My first act as Queen of the World would be...

Oh my, no question about it... it will have to be to have Pierce Brosnan over for dinner. What?! Can't I do that? I can, I am Queen of the World am I not? It's just that I've been a fan of his for so long and I have yet to see him in person. Now with that taken cared of, we can move on to other stuff :)

*violence would have to be eradicated. I've seen enough of it to last me a thousand lifetimes.

*ice cream should be free ;p

----hmm... maybe add chocolate to that too...

*create a cleaner, greener world.

*coffee/tea time a must everyday.

*husbands should take their wives out to dinner at least once a week (vise versa)...wives should cook dinner at least once a week (vise versa)

... but seriously? Queen of the World? It's going to be one tough job...

Sunday Scribblings #80

2007-10-17T17:53:00.000-07:00

I just found this blog and would like to try my hand at it.

What it is: Sunday Scribblings was set up to provide inspiration and motivation for anyone who enjoys writing and would like a weekly challenge.

How it works?
* Every Saturday (or thereabouts!) we'll post a writing prompt. (No, not on Sunday because then you can post your writing on Sunday!)
* You create a piece of writing inspired by that writing prompt.
* You post your writing on your blog and leave a comment here to let us know you have participated. (Please try to leave us the perma-link to the actual post if you can!)
* We'll publish the links here for people to follow and read!

I will be starting at #80 - First Job, Worst Job, Dream Job

First real job... one that I regularly get paid for, was for a pharmaceutical company. It was a full-time, temp job, classified as "auxiliary promotions". As the title implied, it was to promote a newly released drug (high dose antibiotics). My job was like a typical medical representative, without the pressure of having to make a quota. I loved this job. I met a lot of interesting people, made a lot of friends and got to visit places I've never been to. The best part was when you get to sit down and talk to the doctors at length (at times, not even job related), and to the patients, somewhat sharing their lives for a short while.

I don't think I have one that qualifies for the worst job. In a way I guess I've been lucky. I did move around quite a bit, sort of trying to find my niche in society. I've worked mostly in my own field of interest which is library science, so yep, I am a librarian, through and through. Did some consulting jobs, was an assistant and moved to being head librarian. I got to work in different kinds of libraries too, from public, private, non-profit orgs, and school libraries. I think I enjoyed school libraries the most, not only because I have a lot to do everyday, but I also get to teach kids what fun libraries are. It's always heartwarming to see a kid find joy in sitting down quietly in one corner and read.

All that changed when I uprooted myself from my comfort zone and moved to the United States. Here, I got to try all sorts of jobs, from activities coordinator in a retirement home, to a receptionist/all around office person, customer service and even a tiny bit of accounting, before finally landing where I am right now... yep! you guessed right, in a library. I love working in a library. Aside from the obvious quiet environment, I get to read to my hearts content, surf the web, learn new things and help my always seemingly lost students.

As for my dream job? Hmmm... I don't really know, simply because I haven't even started going that way. I would eventually like to take up a course in culinary arts, not only because we (everyone in the family), love to eat, but also because I love trying new things in the kitchen. As with everything else, not all endeavors turn out right, but hey! I can always try again. So, the dream job? maybe a chef? but it has to be my own business. That way, I also get to be the boss :)

Remembering...

2007-10-11T17:07:00.000-07:00

The light played tricks on the wooden mahogany box sitting on the table. Shadows danced, a faint lavander perfume permeates the air, the silence deafening, the heart heavy as memories rush forth unbidden.

A year... has it been that already? Somehow it still feels like yesterday. I can never forget that moment when I received a text message saying you have been rushed to the hospital. News were not forthcoming. The country had just been buffeted by a vicious storm and phone lines are bad if not downright busted. Suddenly, my world came crashing down. The source of my strength weakened as you lie in your hospital bed. I wanted to be there, but we were, literally, oceans apart. By the time I came, you were gone.

I blamed myself. I could not grieve, could not even shed a tear. Death took you, just when we were about to live life. All the planning, all the sacrifices, the loneliness... it almost amounted to nothing. But even in death as sure as if you'd been alive, you made sure that everything will turn out right.

I hear your voice in my solitude, gently reminding me of my promise... telling me to believe. I hear your laughter when I do things just as you would, I see your tears when I cry, and I feel you, just as if you were here by my side. The past year has not been easy, and it will not be for years to come. Grief is just beginning to sink in, but I take comfort in knowing that you reside here in my heart.

Words will never be enough. I love you, Tatay.

We miss you, Tatay.

2007-10-09T21:43:00.000-07:00

What Classic Movie Are You?

2007-10-08T07:44:00.000-07:00

I've been tagged by Rach, looks like we're on the same page :)

What Classic Movie Are You?
personality tests by similarminds.com

Photohunt - CURVY

2007-10-05T20:28:00.000-07:00

Taken at the Griffith Observatory. I remember seeing this exhibit and thinking how nice it must be to see such beauty up close. One of the things we can thank technology for... a chance to see the beauty of what's beyond the limits of our horizon.

Ella's Birthday

2007-10-03T16:42:00.000-07:00

Ella (the birthday celebrant), with Ralline and Mary Ann eating to their hearts content at Mickey's.... wish I was there, if not for the food then for the good looking chefs I've heard so much about :)

PhotoHunt - Original

2007-10-01T18:43:00.000-07:00

First science project - This is my son's very first science project when he first started school here in California. It took us a lot of re-shaping before we got the marble to go straight through the tube.

100% Pinoy Librarian

2007-09-24T11:35:00.000-07:00

My dear friend and kumpare Igor has very kindly sent me this new ILS shirt (the back reads "100% Pinoy Librarian", the front says "And isip, tulad ng aklat, ay mainam kung bukas")... the least I can do is model it, he he.... Thanks a lot ;D

Paper

2007-09-24T10:49:00.000-07:00

Books - I think, are the best products that ever came out of paper. It does not justify the dwindling trees in the forests, but at least it contributed something good for mankind. Now with better technology, information and knowledge are being disseminated with less danger to trees.

Sunrise

2007-09-18T15:49:00.000-07:00

View in the morning when I wake up.

Plastic

2007-09-16T21:14:00.000-07:00

My son, making his science project out of heavy plastic and wood. He came up with a mini-hovercraft. The picture is minus the leaf-blower used to inflate the plastic.

Fun! Fun! Fun!

2007-09-11T18:44:00.001-07:00

Photo Hunt - Music

2007-09-10T08:00:00.001-07:00

I know, I know, I'm late... but I am never near a computer on Saturdays...I have this picture posted in my blog before. Mind you, I cannot carry a tune, so I labeled this "love is deaf".

Monday Madness

2007-09-10T07:42:00.000-07:00

1. Do you have children in school? Yes, I have 2, one in high school and one in college.

2. Are YOU currently in school (any level)? Not right now, maybe in the future.

3. Did you (or your children) attend a public or private school? Me and my kids attended a private catholic school in the Philippines from pre-school to highschool. I graduated college from the University of the Philippines, Diliman (state university). My daughter went to UP for one semester before moving here to the US, she is now enrolled in a community college. My son is in grade 9 at Alhambra High School.

4. As far as formal education, what level have you completed? Post-graduate, although I am a thesis shy of completing my masters degree.

5. Do you, or did you have loans out for your (or your children's) education? For me, no. There was no need. For my kids, now that they are here, we might have to take out loans... that is if we don't qualify for any scholarships :p

6. What are your thoughts on the cost of tuition for colleges and universities? Costs of tuition for community colleges I guess are okay. As long as one is a resident of that state, discounts are applicable. Costs of books are way too expensive, though, especially if you do not have financial aid or scholarships. Of course, transferring to a university is another matter... hopefully, we can qualify for a scholarship or at least get some financial aid to help with expenses.

Special Thanks

2007-08-28T21:00:00.000-07:00

Tito Noel and Tita Judith, our hosts during our stay in Las Vegas. Thank you so much for taking us in and letting us enjoy your company. It was great meeting the two of you. And of course, Ralline, one of the Sistahuds, again... saying thank you will never be enough for all that you have shared with me and my family. You made this trip possible and just in case you don't know it, me and the kids enjoyed our mini-vacation very much. Hope to see you again before you return to the Philippines.

Las Vegas-Day 1

2007-08-28T20:21:00.000-07:00

HOT! HOT! HOT! As in super duper hot. But I guess not hot enough to stop us from going shopping at the Las Vegas Premium Outlets.

The main reason why we braved the heat... Big Dog Sportswear. Got Axel two shirts and a pair of swim shorts... Ralline got something for herself and her Cheeblings :)

Buffet lunch at Circus Circus

Trying our luck at this giant slot machine. Man! That lever was sooooo heavy, it took the whole of me dangling from it to actually move down... wah ha ha!!!

108 Floors up... Stratosphere Hotel, at this height your perspective can certainly change :P

The rides Kyla wanted to try... she rode Insanity (will have more on another post)

Coca-cola's new models...

Hmmm... and I thought I was the one excited about going to M&M's World

Stratosphere-the Rides up close...

2007-08-28T20:19:00.000-07:00

This is the same ride from other theme parks, the free-fall one, only it's 109 floors from the ground. I don't know about you, but isn't that like double daring fate?

I don't know about you, but even with seat belts, I would not want anybody trying to throw me off this thing from 108 floors up, would you?

The ride that Kyla chose... mind you, when I saw this ride, I felt that it was me about to fall off the roof. What can I say... would getting old be a good excuse for not riding this thing? Kyla was making fun of me for backing out... sorry dear, I had enough to worry about watching you do it ;p

Too high!!!! Ralline needed to get her bearings before braving walking around the outer viewing deck. I do think she lost at least 5lbs from breaking into a cold sweat for doing this... joke, ha ha ha!!!

Axel, Ralline and me shortly before Kyla went on the Insanity ride.

First photo-Photo Hunter

2007-08-27T22:44:00.000-07:00

Just joined PhotoHunt and I wanted to start by posting on a "Happy" note... Kyla, Axel and me(my kids who always make me happy) on our first vacation made possible by Ralline.

U.P. Ako, Ikaw ba?

2007-08-27T15:00:00.000-07:00

Nakita ko itong post na to... why not makunat?

Wala Lang Post… U.P. AKO. IKAW BA?10 08 2007
Nababato na ako sa kinauupuan ko. May isang kaibigan na nag-post sa Multiply, so piantulan ko na Ü Post ko na rin dito. Kung feel n’yo gawin n’yo na rin
1. ANO’NG STUDENT NUMBER MO?- 86-39003 wah ha ha... getting too old :p
2. ANO ANG FIRST CHOICE MO NA COURSE?- Dentistry (feeling matalino e, he he)
3. SECOND CHOICE?- BS Biology feeling pa rin yan, ended up in Veterinary Medicine at UPLB)
4. ANO COURSE MO NA NATAPOS?- Bachelor of Library and information Science (had to shift because I was getting sick from the formalin used with animal cadavers)
5. NAG-SHIFT KA BA?- Yep
6. CHINITO/CHINITA KA BA?- nope!
7. NAKAPAG-DORM KA BA?- Of course.
8. NAKA-4 KA BA?- Opo, sa Spanish... di kinaya ng powers ko e kasi bading yung teacher.
9. NAG-KA 3 KA NA BA?- Meron din, Math kasi yan ang subject na never ko na-gets ;p
10. LAGI KA BANG PUMAPASOK SA KLASE?- Oo naman, wag lang may sakit.
11. MAY SCHOLARSHIP KA BA?- Sa umpisa, yung STFAP.
12. ILANG UNITS NA ANG NAIPASA MO?- All of it plus some more electives na di ko nagamit when I shifted.
13. NANGARAP KA BA NA MAG-CUM LAUDE?- Nope, but my average made it, di na nga lang pwede kasi I did not finish on time.
14. FAVE PROF- Dr. Sison sa ILS.
15. WORST TEACHER- Meron but I won't say it na lang kasi last time naging mabait na sya sa kin
16. FAVE SUBJECT/S:- Lahat ng Philo subjects ko except yung logic, don't know why he he.
17. WORST SUBJECT:- Math, never could understand it.
18. FAVE BUILDING:- Nung nasa LB pa ko, Auditorium, nung nasa Diliman na, Main Library
19. PABORITONG KAINAN:- UPLB - Ellen's at Mother's Best; Diliman - Beach House at sa fishball and isaw stand(sa may Kalay)
20. MAGKANO BA ANG BINABAYAD MO SA JEEP?- 1.25 ang tanda ko, but I wouldn't bet on it... matanda na nga e he he he.
21. LAGI KA BA SA LIBRARY?- Nung sa LB? Not really, di nga ako marunong gumamit ng library noon e. Nung napunta na ko sa Diliman, biglang oo. Patunay? Graduated sa Library Science nga e, and am now working sa library.
22. NAGPUPUNTA KA BA SA CLINIC?- Infirmary ang tawag, kaso mo sa orientation pa lang sinabi na sa min na Infirmatay talaga yun... got first-hand experience pa nga a lot of times kasi medyo sakitin ako nun... hay maloloka ka sa kapalpakan ng staff at doctors... ewan ko lang ngayon...
23. MAY CRUSH KA BA SA CAMPUS?- Oo naman... he he.
24. ANU-ANO ANG MGA NAGING P.E. MO?- swimming, PE1, tennis at... at... hay nakalimutan ko will thinka bout it.
25. KAMUSTA NAMAN ANG BLOCK NYO?- Had one sa 1st year. The best!!! Got great friends from that block and we're still friends up to now, ninong at ninang pa nga ng mga anak namin ;)
26. MEMORIZE MO BA ANG HYMN NIYO?- Ah, yan ang hindi... di naman ako songer, este singer pala
27. MEMBER KA BA NG VARSITY TEAM?- di po, sakitin nga e, bawal
28. NAKA-PERFECT KA NA BA NG EXAM?- meron din naman
29. DITO KA BA NATUTONG UMINOM NG BEER?- Nope, my Dad taught me kasi ayaw nya magkaron ako ng excuse na nalasing ako ha ha ha!
30. DITO KA BA UNANG NA-IN LOVE?- Hindi, but I think this is where the memories actually started staying with me.
I miss those days, and problema lang ay gumawa ng assignments at pumasa sa exams. Now mas mahirap na at mas maraming taong involved.
Kayo naman!

Monday Madness

2007-08-27T09:38:00.000-07:00

1. Where you live, what kind of weather (or weather-related tragedy) do you fear the most?

In California it's either cool, hot or sunny, nothing extreme. But I think the thing to fear most is dry weather conditions coupled with strong winds... this can cause wildfires to erupt which are hard to contain and very dangerous to put out.

2. What kind of weather do you MOST enjoy?

Cold weather... this and a cup of coffee simply makes my day ;-)

3. What kind of weather do you LEAST like to drive in?

Hot, humid.

4. What is the scariest weather-related experience you've had in your lifetime?

A really nasty storm in the Philippines. Strong winds blew out a lot of rooftops, lots of trees falling and tree branches flying everywhere, not to mention torrential rains that brought floods reaching waist high in certain areas.

5. Share a "weather picture" with us!

Bicol, Philippines (picture taken by my daughter, Kyla)

Sistahud just wanna have fun...

2007-08-25T09:00:00.000-07:00

Ahem!!! This deserves it's very own spot on my blog. Less than an hour after we reached Las Vegas and only minutes after reaching our dinner destination (Il Fornaio, New York New York), Ralline (youngest of the Sistahud's) has already snagged "Papa Joaquin Hagedorn". Hmmm... I must really be getting old. Or maybe I should start introducing my kids as my siblings :p

Il Fornaio

2007-08-25T08:48:00.000-07:00

Kyla and Axel at Il Fornaio, New York New York
Ralline and me (where art thou Mary Ann and Ella?)
Two of the Sistahuds and kids with our dinner host Tito Noel.

The lights of Las Vegas

2007-08-25T08:28:00.000-07:00

Driving along The Strip before going to our final stop for the day

Our final stop, New York New York. Dinner will be at Il Fornaio.

We have arrived... Viva Las Vegas!!!

2007-08-25T08:21:00.000-07:00

Arriving in Las Vegas around 9:24pm.

Las Vegas, here we come...

2007-08-25T08:16:00.000-07:00

Stopping at Burger King for snacks and coffee

Posting for Ralline

2007-08-20T15:35:00.000-07:00

Halu! (from the nananabang tropa)

Nagkita na kami ni Maria Rachelle kasama ang dalawang kids na si Axel at si Kyla kasama si Nanay Charing. They went to our Hotel at Torrance for the Kapatiran 2007 Reunion of my Mom. Dinala na namin lahat ng mga pasalubong at ang padala ni Atty. Amador.

I'll see them again on August 25. Hayan muna ang pictures namin.

Ingat!

Addendum:

Left early to meet up with Ralline. I have no idea how to get to Torrance and some receptionist at the Double Tree Hotel apparently gave me the wrong directions... or maybe she's right, she just wanted me to go the roundabout way (hay!). I would have given her a hard time, but I was in a good mood because I'm meeting up with a friend. Good thing my nephew looked it up for me at mapquest. We got there ahead of Ralline. They were coming from Riverside and there was a lot of traffic.

Ralline finally arrived and we went up to their room. The kids excitedly opened up their package, while Ralline gave me my share... coffee, choc-nut, ube, and relyenong bangus... YUM!!! Kyla finally got to look at her picture and write-up in the yearbook. We joined Ralline's other relatives in another room and ate some food. We left not too long after that. Mami has a reunion to attend ahd they have to get ready. Took some pictures before we left...

Can't wait for Saturday ;p

Happy 14th Birthday, Axel

2007-08-20T09:42:00.001-07:00

14 years ago, my son, Axel was born. To this day, I still cannot believe that the baby I held in my arms not so long ago is now a young man.

People would sometimes say that Axel is my favorite. In a way, I guess that might be true. But it is more because of the fact that having him was against all odds at that time. I wasn't supposed to have any more children, at least not so soon after the first. I had a herniated disc 4 months after giving birth to Kyla, that even after 3 years, my doctors didn't think it's safe to have another one.

Pregnancy was hard, I had to take medications to make sure I don't lose him during the first trimester. Then after that, I almost lost him at 6 months because I had UTI and that started my contractions. Same thing happened at 8 months, and by that time I was scared. My doctors were great and I kept thanking my friends sister and sister-in-law for recommending her. The situation was made worse because I did not tell my parents that I got pregnant. They had to come here to the United States to see my sister, and I knew that had I told them, my Dad would never have left. Thank God for friends!

Giving birth was a breeze. None of the difficulties I had while pregnant. Axel made sure I know he wants out at 2:30am of August 20th. Called my cousin (a surgeon) to make sure it's not a false alarm (wouldn't want to go all the way to PGH from Biñan, Laguna for nothing), called my Aunt, who in turn woke up a policeman friend of theirs to drive us. Turned out to be a good thing, he had all the lights flashing and the horn blowing all the way to the hospital. Made it possible for me to make it ;p Once there, it took a right hook to a nurse (making her nose bleed, yes, I punched the nurse because she yelled at me to stop pushing when all the while I was turning blue from not breathing trying to stop the baby from coming out... so I'm a bitch!), a mad dash for the delivery room, an argument because I refused to let another doctor deliver the baby, and a joke about getting what I want and Axel is crying his lungs out. All this, in less than 15 minutes. Have I mentioned that everything about Axel is a mad dash all the time? My Aunt and my now ex-husband were still waiting for doctor's orders so they can get a room when the nurse came out saying that I have given birth and was ready to be taken to my room. Whew!

The first year of Axel's life was touch and go. Although he doesn't have any serious illness we ended up going to the hospital almost every month. All the nurses, doctors and interns knew us by then. It's always one thing or another, and it's hard to divide time with a 3 year old and a sick baby.

Axel's always been an easy baby to take care of. He lies quietly and was sleeping almost through the night after a week. He plays on his own and only cried out when he's hungry or needed diaper change. He started late walking, but once he did, we had a tough time trying to catch up with him. It was hard when I had to leave him with my parents to come to the US. It was harder still, when I asked him to take care of his Grandma when his Grandad passed away. All these he took in without complaining.

And now, he's finally here with me. I am discovering what I missed while he was growing up. And he's grown up to be a fine young man. My baby... who's now bigger than me and is looking after me and his sister more than I am. You have such a long way to go still. Life is just beginning, enjoy it like only teenagers can. Believe and it shall be.

Draw a Pig

2007-08-15T16:50:00.000-07:00

Saw this "Draw a Pig" in Rachel's blog and gave it a try...

You drew the pig...

Toward the middle, you are a realist.

Facing front, you are direct, enjoy playing devil's advocate and neither fear nor avoid discussions.

With many details, you are analytical, cautious, and distrustful.

With 4 legs showing, they are secure, stubborn, and stick to their ideals.

The size of the ears indicates how good a listener you are.The bigger the better. You drew large ears, you are a great listener!

The length of the tail indicates the quality of your sex life.And again more is better! You drew large tail, WOW!

Ha ha ha!!!! Very funny. I should have drawn a bigger tail... hmmm....

Thanks Rachel!

My Two Things

2007-08-05T09:58:00.001-07:00

I was tagged by Ralline.

Two names you go by: Rachelle and Maria
Two things you are wearing right now: Jogging pants and body shirt
Two things you want in a relationship: Respect and Honesty
Two of your favorite things to do: Reading and Relaxing with a cup of coffee
Two things you want very badly at this moment: A vacation and more vacations :)
Two pets you have had: Kisses and Apple
Two people who will fill this out: Nobody in particular
Two things you did last night: Watched Pops Fernandez at US-Phil Expo and took Kyla's friends home
Two people who live at your house: My kids
Two things you ate today: Tapsilog and Chocolate Croissant
Two people you talked to last: Robert and Theresa
Two things you are going to do tomorrow: Go to work and cook dinner
Two longest car rides: LA-San Francisco and LA-Las Vegas
Two favorite holidays: Christmas and Haloween
Two favorite drink: Coffee and Thai Iced Tea

Not tagging anyone, but if anybody wants to do it, then consider yourself tagged.

Happy 17th Birthday, Kyla.

2007-07-31T17:11:00.000-07:00

I never get tired of telling this story, probably because it's too funny not to be told... plus I still am not over leaving my halo-halo behind :p

17 years ago today at around 12:30pm(Phil. time), me and my now ex-husband were at the food court of SM North Edsa. We went there because I badly wanted to eat some halo-halo from Sandosenang Sarap. With a wide grin on my face, I got ready to eat my bounty. As I lift the spoon to my mouth, a sharp pain stopped me... ooppss, I said, I'm having contractions. So I put my spoon down and did some deep breathing while massaging my tummy. After a few minutes, the pain went away. I happily picked up my spoon and was about to place my much awaited halo-halo in my mouth when again, pain kicked in... with dwindling patience, I put my spoon down again for the second time, did some more breathing exercises, etc... again, after a few minutes, the pain went away. And so, I got ready to eat (again). As the spoonful of halo-halo neared my almost watering mouth, a third stab of pain hit me. By this time, both my ex and I are getting worried that I am indeed starting my labor pains. He decided amidst my protestations that we should immediately leave for the hospital. Obviously, I don't want to do that, not when my halo-halo is still left untouched. He prevailed, and bundled us off in a taxi headed for PGH.

Once there, I was admitted and was taken to the labor room. No offense, but I did not particularly liked my stay in that room. What with women shouting all sorts of obscenities to their husbands for putting them in this situation, not to mention the fact that at that time, there was a hysterical woman who kept shouting because according to her, it was too painful. Now, imagine that, and it's your first time to give birth... scared to death was how I felt with all the ruckus going on. Luckily, I was given an intern to monitor my progress. He's gay, and quite frankly, I was very thankful for that because he took my mind off the pain and the horror that was going on inside that labor room, by being... well, gay and very funny. He even taught me how to push when the time came... now this came with complete instruction plus facial expression (imagine what a raisin looked like and imagine that looking like someone's face)... so you see why I was laughing the whole time I was in labor.

Seeing I had to leave my halo-halo behind, I was getting impatient, but my baby decided not to come out till the early hours the next day. I couldn't remember the exact time (old age), but it's either 1:11am or 1:21am of August 1. At the delivery room, everyone was placing bets as to who will give birth first(there was another woman giving birth in the adjacent room). And the race is on... celebrity gossip was the topic of the day (I think it was Maricel Soriano and Edu Manzano at that time).I wasn't sure who won the race for giving birth, I was pretty much out of it by the time the baby came out. There was one thing I had to do first before I totally relaxed. I had to make sure how she looked like, I was weird that way, I had to make sure the name will fit the baby. It took me months to decide on her name and I had to make sure the name becomes her.

My mothering skills were far from orthodox. That's why I am so lucky to have a daughter like you. I know I've made decisions that were not popular, but luckily, they're turning out to be the right ones. We won't always agree, the mere fact I am your mom will see to that ;p plus you have a lot of me in you (something you believe otherwise... well, maybe not the "bitch" part, you're way to good to ever be that), but you are after all my daughter.

And so, here you are, 17 years later. A beautiful young lady, slowly realizing your own dreams, struggling to find your niche, sometimes still unsure of yourself, but nevertheless determined to make it. You are your own person, and you will become what you make of yourself. Family, friends, collegues, acquaintances and even a special someone, they will all be part of your life, but remember, through everything, it is YOU that matters. Live life to the fullest, experience everything, shy away from nothing, dream... never stop dreaming, learn from your mistakes, but most of all, do not regret life. Accept, learn and rise above every challenge that comes your way and become what you have always been meant to be, your very own self.

in contemplation...

2007-07-29T12:05:00.000-07:00

In church while waiting for the bride's arrival. Haven't really been to church for quite some time (unless having mass for my Dad's wake counts). But my friend, Obi, is getting married, so I had to come. I have never been a church-goer, probably because I always find it irritating that most priests in the Philippines would rather talk about politics than the word of God. Not to mention numerous secrets they hide behind their robes. It was a great day for a wedding even though I think we reached triple digits with the temperature. Good thing both the church and the reception venues were air-conditioned.

It was a Catholic wedding although the bride and groom are both of Nigerian descent. It was because of this that a lot of the guests were wearing their traditional Nigerian attire complete with elaborate hats. I would love to post a picture, but am not sure if they might take offense( so I took this from the web). They also incorporated some of the Nigerian wedding customs like the breaking/sharing of the "kola nut". After the ceremony the nut was passed around for the guests to taste... it has a weird combination, slightly spicy and totally bitter. Two flavors I am not fond of... Yikes! I had to chew on something else to get rid of the taste from my mouth. Lots of dancing followed with guests throwing money at the new couple (kinda like pinning money on the bride and groom at Filipino weddings). I could not even begin to comprehend everything that happened in that wedding. All I know (and I think that it's the most important), is that it was a great wedding and my friend (the groom) is made a happier man.

you may kiss the bride...

A night of comedy

2007-07-27T12:28:00.000-07:00

I spent a great evening with friends. Yey! Good times a few and far in between so I like to savor it. We went to Improve Comedy Club at La Brea and watched SLANTED COMEDY with EDWIN SAN JUAN. It's great when you watch something worthwhile. Most of the comedians are good (almost all Asians, I think it was some sort of Asian night), though there were I think 2 or 3 that could use some good materials for their 10 minutes of fame. Aside from Edwin (who also acted as host of the show), one other comedian stood out, JoKoy, who will have his own slot in Comedy Central this fall. Jokes were racially motivated, some are the usual greens, but all was done in the spirit of fun. Part I liked most was when they highlighted some Filipino traits like saying "hoy" to call someone or using your lips to point at something and not to forget the use of "big" English words that are not even used by Americans... those were hilarious.

They have other shows lined up, so if you have time, check them out at their respective websites.

Better... and excited.

2007-07-23T08:57:00.000-07:00

Finally, things are looking up. I am finally feeling a lot better from my "accident". I have decided to stop taking my meds (the ones prescribed to me) because I felt that I am not getting better because of it. Indeed, I was getting migraines! The minute the pain meds run their course, my headache starts to come out, not to mention I have this heavy feeling on my shoulders... really, it's just one long list of something else wrong aside from my back. So, I decided, no more pain meds. I will just have to tough it out or just take Tylenol or something. The first few days... not fun, but I got the hang of it. At least I can feel it if I do happen to have pain in my body. This way I was able to gauge how much I can do, which way I can move, etc. Hah! And that I hope is the start of getting better :p

And now, I am excited! My friend just flew in from the Philippines. I wil be picking her up later today. Wohoo!!! So many things to catch up with. Haven't seen her in I think 2 or 3 years. Sadly, my schedule at work did not agree with her schedule so I have but limited time to spend with her. But that's okay, the most important thing is to see each other.

Scrapblog

2007-07-18T18:30:00.000-07:00

Joined Scrapblog win a trip to BlogHer Conference 07 ;p

of all the stupid things...

2007-07-15T19:34:00.000-07:00

No, I did not officially break any bone in my body, at least I don't think so. I might have pulled a muscle or so by doing a really stupid thing. What? I lifted a 50 lbs sack of rice. Stupid? Yeah, I know... but i was so used to doing this all the time. But it wasn't the pain that's prompting my visit to the doctor, it's something else...

When I lifted that sack of rice, I heard a small but distinct "popping" sound, then immediately after hearing it, I felt the pain shoot up from my back, alongside with that pain, my vision "blacked out" as in all was black... for about 2 seconds, then when light came back, it was totally blurry. No, I did not compound my stupidity by falling flat on my face. I managed to hold on to the corners of the kitchen counter and when my vision did not return to normal, I called my son to escort me to bed. I called my friend, who's a "hilot" and went to see her. Why did I not go to the ER? Sorry, but unless I am about to die, I do not relish spending thousands of dollars and end up getting sicker from worrying where to get the money to pay for all the bills. Sadly, even with insurance, that's just the way it is. So I opted to get a massage, which gave me immense relief afterwards and scheduled a doctor's visit for Monday. Back pain is somewhat normal for me, I have it every now and then, it's the "black out" thing that worries me. I probably would get x-rayed which is fine, hopefully whatever I have will not warrant crutches... and whatever else, I'm keeping my fingers crossed.

- - Update - - I do have pulled muscle, I'm on pain killers, need to see a nuerologist and I think I need to have a life ;p

Monday madness

2007-07-09T09:11:00.000-07:00

This morning, my daughter and I were greeted with a humongous traffic on the 10 freeway. We listened in to the traffic report which said that there's been an accident on 10 west at 710 north. I figured we'd just hang tough, we have enough time to get to work. When we got to the accident site, there was a yellow plastic covering something. My first thought was someone must have had a really bad accident and am wondering if that person is dead. Once I got work out of the way, I looked up the cause of the accident which made me late. Sigalerts call for partial or total road closure, this one caused more than an hour delay on a 1 mile stretch(I do not want to imagine what it was like for those coming further away). Imagine the surprise I got when out of the site that reports traffic incidents, it said,

10 West at 710 North
Attempt Suicide - Jumping from Bridge
6:15 AM

I guess whoever that was succeded... it's sad that one should have that much burden, enough to cause his/her death. I hope finally there's peace.

heavenly corner

2007-07-08T12:20:00.001-07:00

A tiny corner for me to start or end the day. A good book and a cup of coffee sure goes a long way. Bench courtesy of my friend, thanks a lot for contributing to my character quirks.

for what it's worth...

2007-07-05T23:44:00.000-07:00

the mind wanders, where the heart dare not go
seek out the truth, instead of drown in emotions
a blessing or a curse that I am made this way
this is me, that is all I have to say...

fragile life...

2007-07-01T11:34:00.000-07:00

Once again I am reminded of how fragile life can be. How we can lose everything in a blink of an eye. That no matter how we plan everything to perfection, life might find it necessary to change our point of view.

A friend once said to me, enjoy life, make sure you live it to the fullest, do not leave a stone unturned, don't miss out on the happiness a moment might bring... in the end, all you can really say is, I have lived. He said this so long ago that I have forgotten, until yesterday when he said my Dad's generation's time has come. They've lived their lives and reached the end of their journey, so it's time to move on. The ones left behind will grieve, but we also have to move on because life continues for us.

I feel really blessed. To have friends who knows me well enough to find the right things to say at the right time. Life can be tough, but with friends like you, living it becomes easier.

Farewell, Tita Leony

2007-07-01T09:59:00.000-07:00

Oftentimes we go through life, focused on what we have to do, where we want to go, almost forgetting that there are more important things we need to keep track of in this life. After a tragedy, we try so hard to get on with our lives hoping that we can wake up one day and everything is as it should be. But sometimes, life can be unfair. Instead of waking up to a bright new day, you wake up to find yourself living in another nightmare.

We've had two deaths in the family last year. The first one was my uncle who passed away after months in a coma. The next, my own Dad. He passed away within months of his older brother. We still haven't recovered with the loss. I still break down at times whenever I remember all the plans we made... And now, my Dad's sister just joined them. I woke up to my phone's ringing... my cousin informed me that Tita Leony passed away due to aneurysm. Details eluded me at the time, all I heard was that someone had died... again. After putting the phone down, I got up and went through the motions of making coffee. I just had to have one... I need it to calm myself down. And I sat there, thinking nothing except for the fact that for the third time, we lost someone in the family... and if I wanted to be superstitious about it, they all died within months... nine months(more of less) of each other's passing.

Tita Leony... a prominent figure as I was growing up. Every Christmas morning after mass, we'd go to their massive house for breakfast and gifts. We'd even stay for lunch, they always have a feast because they have such a big family. I'm always excited going there for Christmas, I always get something special. And then there's this Lenten season tradition. We'd go there on Black Saturday to string sampaguitas together. This is for the Risen Christ, the one that goes on parade at the break of dawn to meet up with Mother Mary. My Dad was the one always assigned to polish the gold and silver ornaments on the cape. If it weren't for these occassions, I probably wouldn't have gotten to know all my cousins. I know she took my Dad's death really hard. After my uncle's death, my Dad would call or sometimes drop by for a chat. I can understand the feeling of being totally alone. Her other siblings are here in the US, I guess it almost felt like there was only the two of them left.

Death... an end and a beginning. Acceptance is one thing, but the pain will persist, so will the loneliness. Only time can tell when the memory of the loss won't hurt as much.

Farewell, Tita Leony. I know you will be happy where you're going... and you will be remembered by all of us with love.

thank you...

2007-06-25T14:42:00.000-07:00

Funny how hearing someone's voice calmed me down. Life was beginning to feel like a tight squeeze and I was getting antsy. I got a call with "so, what do you need?" for an opening line. And though, that confused the hell out of me(because I did not ask him for anything), that placed a smile on my face, and settled my restless soul. Thank you, for always knowing when I need something even if I don't know it myself.

dinner @ Noodle World

2007-06-24T23:31:00.000-07:00

Sea Food Tom Yum

shrimp, mushrooms, and rice vermicelli noodles in soup flavored with lemon grass, lime juice and chili.

Yakisoba (beef)
choice of chicken, beef or pork pan fried with japanese egg noodles and mixed vegetables.

Garlic Spare Ribs

Oreo Chocolate, Thai Iced Tea, Lychee Cooler

Was feeling a little tired when I got home. Didn't feel like cooking anything... solution? Noodle World which is only a block away. Yum!

love is deaf...

2007-06-23T13:30:00.000-07:00

My poor son... who's proven time and again that love is not only blind, but definitely deaf. Thankfully, he hasn't turned deaf yet from my awful singing (or should I say howling, he he he)

attending a church fair

2007-06-22T20:52:00.000-07:00

this reminded me of someone... ti-hee!!!

I do not know what this contraption is called... but seeing how it worked, I chickened out of riding it... sowee, my stomach already sommersaulted just looking at it ;(

This I rode with Kyla... never again!!! Imagine yourself on the ride's car hanging upside down for countless seconds... feeling yourself about to slip off your safety harness and screaming your lungs out. I am just thankful I got out of it alive... whew!

summer is here!!!

2007-06-22T17:30:00.000-07:00

In front of Mid-Valley Public Library

We were in search of an elusive book for Kyla's English 101 class. Saw this bush and realized that summer is indeed here... as if I cannot feel the heat yet :p

Congratulations to the Class of 2007

2007-06-21T20:09:00.000-07:00

Axel graduating from Middle School at the Marguerita School

My nephew Dexter graduated from Cal State LA with a degree in Business Finance

Alaala ng isang ama...

2007-06-17T10:36:00.000-07:00

Happy Father's Day. How I wish I am able to say this to you in person, rather than to an obscure wooden box that held your ashes. I know I haven't been there for you the last years of your life. I've been here, far away, trying to rebuild my life just as you've always wanted. And then it was too late. You just slipped quietly away, on your own terms, not giving us a chance to argue.

It's been a little over eight months since you passed away. Life's been tough, but good. But I think you already know that. Just like you've always known that I always keep my promises no matter how hard it becomes. There's still a couple of things I need to do, then hopefully, I'd have been able to do things just as you hoped I would.

I've always been a Daddy's girl ever since I can remember. Maybe because my sister has always been a Mommy's little girl. Whatever it was, it made life interesting. I was the son you never had growing up. But just as I was getting comfortable being a son, you decided that I needed to be a girl. Now, that took a lot of work. Am not even sure we succeeded on that one, but hey! we did manage to take home some beauty titles and a lot of great memories.

We would always manage to end up arguing, no matter what the topic may be. You're too philosophically inclined not to argue, and I have too much of you in me not to follow suit. Sometimes, we'd end up upset because we are too stubborn to give in. What I liked best was the quiet mornings, just before anybody else is up. You had coffee ready and I would sit there with you just talking, laughing at something silly we did years before, remembering together and planning for the future.

That I think makes it doubly hard for me. All my plans, I made with you. A lot of my memories are also of you. The house I dreamed of buying... with a huge garden for you to spend your time in, growing those flowers and plants you've always loved. The car that I bought... so that all of us can fit in when we want to take off. And all the rest... we talked and planned, miles apart but always in touch.

Now, I have to content myself with memories... You believed in me till I learned to believe in myself. You held me up till I was strong enough to stand on my own. You lighted my way till I can see with my own eyes. And you let me be, till I can become what I've always been meant to be. Life has never been easy, but you taught me how to live and be part of the bigger picture, to enjoy every single moment as it comes, to learn from the mistakes of the past, to not crumble with life's burden, to believe when no one else does, and to look beyond the horizon, because there will always be a tomorrow to wake up to.

I love you Tatay, and I miss you so much. At times, when I'm missing him too much and on the verge of crying, I'll hear his voice, just as if he were next to me saying, " Anong ipinagmumukmok mo dyan? Kaya ka napangit, e." That would make the tears fall faster, but that also brings out a smile, because I would always answer, "Kung pangit ako e di pangit ka rin?" Not to be outdone, he'd retort, "Napalitan ka lang naman sa ospital e." To which I'd say, "hmp! kaya pala tayo pinagbiyak na inidoro." I'd still be sad afterwards, but I'd feel a little better knowing that he is in my heart... always.

unexpected talent

2007-06-14T18:39:00.000-07:00

Now, this video is priceless. Notice the look on the judges faces just before he began singing. Piers Morgan took on his long suffering look, Simon Cowell gave a big sigh... After the first line, Simon looks up with a look of disbelief on his face... did I tell you this one is priceless? The audience loved him, some were moved to tears, I certainly got goosebumps!

memorial weekend...

2007-06-07T16:34:00.000-07:00

Such a shame not to say anything about a great weekend spent with an old friend from college. All I did so far was to post pictures of the said visit, and none was said of the good times and stories that should have accompanied such photos. So, let me remedy my laziness and bore my readers with our escapades.

Friday

Did not go to work (shhh...). My visitor said he's be arriving before lunch so I figured I'd just take the whole day off instead of having to fight traffic. Woke up early (around 6:15am), have to get the kids ready, work (for Kyla) and school (for Axel). Made coffee first (a must if I want to stay sane the whole day), then started on breakfast. The kids were complaining a bit, they are so used to going with me wherever I go, so taking of with my friend for the afternoon without them is something new.

Tito Al (as my kids call him), came around 11am. We spent some time actually looking each other over (we haven't seen each other in 20 years, except in pictures). After that, I let him rest a bit before we drove off to West Covina for lunch. Hungry as we are, we did not stay too long, we have tickets for Pirates and we did not want to be late. Him, being a photographer, took pictures along the way. After watching the movie, we looked for a place to have coffee, where else? Starbuck's (apparently his fav). Time flew so fast, as it always does when one is having fun. We did a lot of catching up as old friends do. It was great seeing him again. After that, we went home (he'd be staying with us for a few days). He still has to meet up with his other friends later that night.

We got home and the kids rushed out to meet him (first time in person). No shyness whatsoever. Axel had already challenged him on a football game (XBox 360). While we watched some show, Tito Al got ready to go out again. He left, but then he came back (he left his cellfone :P, ulyanin din pala, he he), then he left again... only to come right back... his friends cancelled on dinner. He was really disappointed about that, but then he decided to ask the kids to go out and have dinner. Kyla and Axel hurriedly got ready (never one to pass up food). So off we went to.... Applebee's. Tito Al and Axel got steak, I got fish and chips and Kyla (amidst teasing), got a weight watcher's dinner terriyaki something... Tito Al got subjected to a lot of teasing from my kids, it's like they too were long time friends. It was a refreshing sight to see. More stories, food, a lot of teasing. 'Twas a great night. All too soon it was time to go home.

The night was still young (I'm not). Tito Al and Axel played NFL, while we watched. Sent the kids off to bed after that. The oldies stayed up for a while with more stories. Sleep was a welcome respite.

Saturday

Woke up at the sound of my cellfone's alarm... WT.... Then it dawned on me that I am supposed to wake him up so he can get ready for the baptism he's going to attend. Tried to wake him up... and tried again... his own alarm went off... no success, tried waking him up again... Man! He's worse than my kids. He just won't wake up. Finally, after more than half an hour of alternating alarms and me shaking him up, he woke up.

While he got ready, I had coffee and breakfast going. Can't very well let him starve. He left after breakfast. Didn't really do much with him that day. This was his day with other friends. I had to wait up for him, though. Have to let him in. We ended up watching some Tagalog movie with the kids (Agent X44). Yeah, yeah... the things I have to put up with to entertain my guest. At least the movie was funny enough and have the kids chuckling to themselves as they got ready for bed.

Sunday

This was the big day. We are going to Griffith Observatory. But first we have to get through the morning. Tito Al made breakfast this time ( a late breakfast, seemed like no one wanted to wake up early after staying up late for 2 nights). Had bacon, eggs, toast, rice, coffee, orange juice. Learned a new way to cook bacon and eggs (thanks!). After that they had to get the steak ready for BBQ. Tito Al actually got my kids to help with the preparations, my only part was to get the grill going. The steak was a great success! Made some mashed potatoes to go with it, and of course, rice is a must... We were almost late in starting out because we were enjoying our late lunch too much. Good thing that there was no traffic and it was easy to find parking once we got to the shuttle that would take us to the Observatory.

At the Observatory...

Shuttle trip was a bit of a ways. Tito Al fell asleep, and I think so did we. Woke up just as the shuttle was parking. The view was breathtaking! We took our time walking up to the entrance. I have one professional photographer and an aspirng photographer in tow... not to mention I was handed a digital camera and was instructed to take as much pictures as I can. That proved okay because something was going on at the Observatory when we got there. People were actually outside waiting to be allowed in. Apparently, there was some fire somewhere and they were taking precautions in case we have to be evacuated right away. Minutes later, we were allowed in, false alarm, whew!

We started by going up the side stairs... we were more interested in taking lots of picture than actually seeing what was inside. This proved to be a lot of fun ( but I hate stairs...). This trip is highly recommended, but be sure you're ready to walk (a lot!) and you're not afraid of heights... We stayed awhile, looked at the exhibits, we even got to see the moon close up using the huge telescope. Axel got stuck between the columns, I liked the part where I weighed less than half of my real weight (big grin), Kyla got excited over a compass and Tito Al had the time of his life taking pictures of whatever took his fancy.

Too soon it was time to go. It got really cold while we were waiting for the shuttle to take us back to the car (brrrr!!!!). We decided to have dinner at In-N-Out Burger (more fun), and then went home. Tito Al and Axel got to play more games, Kyla watched, I was too tired to stay awake and kept closing my eyes while they played. Sleep..... please.....

Monday

It's Memorial Day, no work! Yey! We did not get up till late. We did get ready though we're not going anywhere because Tito Al took our pictures (pang-portrait daw). With that, the visit was over. He left before lunch because he has a golf game that day. We stayed and lounged around the apartment the whole day watching anything that comes on screen. It was a good thing though... friend coming over for a visit is always fun but also tiring.

It was nice seeing you... hope we can do this again sometime. And thanks from all of us.

june gloom and flu...

2007-06-06T15:32:00.000-07:00

Finally! The haze lifted, the sun came out and the weather is perfect. It's been too overcast the last few days here in LA, you'd think that the sun forgot that we exist in this part of the world. Along with the perfect weather came my long awaited recovery. Today marked the first 20 hours that I do not have a fever. I'm trying to stay away from my cough medicine which is very effective but always makes me feel really tired and sleepy. I'm still on antibiotics and hopefully that will wipe out all the germs that seemed to have invaded me. In all, things are starting to look up again and I might actually get to enjoy the start of the summer season. Kyla just finished her final exam last Monday. She has a week off before starting her summer class. Axel will be graduating on the 14th. My nephew is also graduating from college this Saturday, so I guess it's busy, busy, busy...

weekend with a friend...part 2

2007-05-30T22:56:00.000-07:00

photographer & sidekick

photographer & ...kick?

Al w/ Kyla & Axel

Al's Angels?

taking a picture of...

An afternoon at the Observatory...

more photos... weekend with a friend