My new phone

It's over. I bought it and it was worth it.

I love my new Nike Free Dynamic TR

Splurge on quality shoes. I've been eying this shoe for a long time now so it was definitely a no brainer buying this pair at 20% off.

Christmas Prayers

For Christmas I offer a special prayer for all my friends who are going through a lot these days. May the God's grace through this Christ's birth give you clarity, peace of mind and strength.

A blessed Christmas to everyone. May love continuously abound in our lives.

To genuine friendship

I'd like to take a moment and remember all the genuine friendships I have and lost these past years. You have made my life so worthwhile.

I'm Melting

Two melting incidents this week.

First was Thursday night. I saw my long time crush. She knows my name! When will I see you again? You look gorgeous, by the way.

Second was Friday night. Up Dharma Down was playing at R6. They played The world is Our Playground, I melted. Then, they played We Give in Some Times, I melted some more. I bought their new album BIPOLAR and had it autographed then I had my picture with Armi. Ain't that sweet! And yeah, we talked for a few minutes. Damn, I'm such a fanboy for Dharma.

Those were too unforgettable nights worth melting for.

Emo-ing over Dashboard's Stolen

Waaaah. That's my theme song for this week. It's just so sad the song. Thursdays at Ponti makes it all the more meaningful.

Dashboard Confessional's Website

Speaking of emo. I did and wrote the unexpected last week. It's so sad that the person I wrote to never replied. So much for friendship. Oh how I miss what we had before everything became complicated. But it doesn't have to be. You don't have to let it complicate things, right!? It's a choice and clearly you have chosen complicated awkward.

Suit Up

Bought myself a suit. I actually prefer our Filipino Barongs over a suit given the choice but a suit is still needed in every man's closet. And besides, the invitation specifically said coat and tie. The wedding season has begun for me. Signs of the times. I am getting older. My old suit was way back during my high school days. Hanging there in its lonesome at the end of my closet. It's the one I wore for my prom and ball and that era was definitely over. It's time to move on. The coat still fits me though, but the pants don't anymore. Hahaha. And the style is-- way out of style for today. So now was my chance to buy a suit that's more modern. Nate Archibald-like, very sleek. I'm actually looking forward in wearing it. Let's see if a little Archibald charm rubs on me too as I wear my new GG styled suit. ;)

Milano The New School for Management and Urban Policy

M.A, in Organizational Change Management.

Does this fit the bill? It's New York and they offer institution based scholarships.

Check it out

Road to Masters

Well, for the past days I have been adding and trimming down my M.A. list. Adding new universities, mostly from UK also with other courses that still fall on what I want out of this experience. I also have scrapped out from the list, at least for now, this one special ivy league called Stanford. I think that taking the GREs solely for this university is not worth the trouble. And the course curriculum of M.A. in Policy, Organization and Leadership studies isn't much of my cup of tea than it can be. At least for now, that's what I feel so I'm holding off my intent of applying to Stanford and taking the GRE exam for it. I hope I'm not making a bad decision.

Found a new reason to love Thursday's

I thought I was over that place in Valero. There is a stage in a person's life where you grow out of the places you liked to hang out with before. A few hours ago, I gave Ponti a second thought. I stopped going there just because I felt I graduated from it already. And back in the day, I was there for a few times to begin with, anyway. M reintroduced me to Thursday's at Ponti where they play alternative rock. Mostly covers. Songs that I definitley grew up liking and it was love love love. Thursday's there are unlike Friday's or Saturday's when most of the younger ones hang out. Not that I'm stressing my age, Thursday's there was just right. Still the gorgeous people who continue to go there there never fade, that's all I can say. Can't wait till the next Thursday night we go there.

Google Apps

I'm currently setting up the Google Apps for my company. Hats down to Google for making it easier for companies to collaborate with each other. Specially for small companies and groups who don't need a super complex collaboration system, Google makes it so convenient and without much costs. For us, we only bought the domain name for around 500 PHP/Year. And since our company is less than 100 people, the service is free. Google apps come with GMail interfaced emails, internal GTalk, Google Docs, Google Calendar, and my favorite Google Sites. I'm still figuring out how we can utilize these features best but I'm sure its going to be real useful. Check out Google Apps Website

USA 2008

I cant believe that my trip is finally coming to a close. Yes, I've stayed here for a month now, but it doesn't seems that long. Although, I'm ready to go home. I think that I was able to do the things that I planned on doing -- and more. This trip exceeded my expectations and I recommend that everyone should at least try going on a trip like this once in their life. This trip not only got me traveling but also allowed me to reconnect with friends, family and myself. A big chuck of the things I'll treasure throughout this trip are the bonds formed -- old and new. Something significant to put on the books.

Yes, I've fulfilled my dream of going to New York but what's special is that I got more than just that. It's a bit cheesy but I wanted to know myself more throughout this trip. Challenge my independence and be comfortable being alone and being with others too. I did. I got to realize some things I wouldn't even think of because of life got in the way.

The possibility of studying here and taking up an M.A. came up too. An unexpected opportunity that I'll grab and work on once I get back in Manila.

When you reach a certain age, really, we're all the same. Enough of the awkwardness of meeting people older or younger than you. Even people I hardly new. It's surprising how you can make something memorable out of the conversations you have over a dinner or breakfast.

Now was that chance to deepen friendships. No regrets. I am so thankful to God for blessing me with a life that allows me take this trip. Everyone I met here will forever be part of this quarter life adventure chapter of my life.

P J D Ma Me O T C S Pe B L Jo Jh E Ja... Thanks for making this trip the best! I love you all!

Obama '08

I'm not an avid follower of Philippine more so American politics but I feel so lucky to have witnessed American history unfold while I was here. His victory has won not only American minorities such us Blacks, Asian, Latinos but also opened doors for people like us in Asia to not be afraid to dream. Yes we can make a difference. It's nice to be able to be part of this era and to have lived to wintess this unfold during our time.

Roller coasters and good friendships

Spent a day with P at Magic Mountain today. It was fun. We got to ride almost all the rides they have. Exag. More than that, it's fun because we got to talk a lot. We had a lot of time to talk about different things, actually -- despite the many rides we've ridden. It's nice how better a conversation is when there's only two of you. As Philo would go, mas matinag at mas may talab kung dalawa lang ang nag-uusap. I like how we were able to catch up on things and realize how much I can know more about him after all the years we've been magkabarkada. Specially now that we're older and been living separate lives (He being based here while I stay back home). It's true, from my previous post, to say that no matter how much we've changed as persons, our friendship will never change. He's a real friend and I'm glad we are.

Halloween at Simi Valley

I joined my nephew out for trick or treating today. Was able to get a feel of the Americana culture of this holiday. My nephew is 7 years old. He's falls on the lower bracket of the Halloween franchise, so the trick or treating is G rated. It didn't last long. I joined them, along with the other parents, go to around just a block of houses. After that, everyone went back to the 'host's' house where the adults socialized drank some alcohol and ate some chili while the kids played with each other in one of the rooms there.

My cousin introduced me to the folks there and they were very accommodating. They don't get a lot of Asian visitors around that predominantly white neighborhood. It's funny how one of them remarked how good my English was. Just goes to show how less she knows about Filipinos. There was another lady who figured out that I was Filipino, because of how I speak. Her sister in law is a Filipina and she can only say nice things of her. And there was this guy too who was embarrassed to tell me that he hasn't traveled as far over to the east.

I remember this book about the 10 Things you can do to help the Philippines and one of the things there was to speak highly of our country to other nationalities. I'm a proud Filipino and the world should know that people from our country are well educated and good natured. I'm glad I did my motherland proud a while ago.

San Francisco Weekend

Love the weather! I can't rave about it enough. I came in a good time they say. The sun and the breeze was just right.

J toured me around the first day I arrived. We went to Alcatraz and walked by the pier area. Got the I heart SF shirt I planned on buying. Only shirt left now for this trip is the I heart LA shirt. I hope I can grab one before I leave. Ate at famous Mitchell's ice cream. I only see them on Discovery Travel until now.

Stayed at T's couch for the weekend. So nice to see her and her husband C, now with their eight month old baby. She is the cutest. Very obediant and stress free baby. T is still the T I know-- Only now she's a mommy. Auntie C must be so proud of her.

Was able to catch up with E too. Spent the afternoon walking around Union Square.

The trip was just right. Of course, I wished I could have stayed longer. No stress.

Masters

Getting financial aid seems harder than I initially thought. It's a deal breaker. I don't know if its too much to ask, but I'd only go for full scholorship (sponsorship) or nothing. I hope my everything turns out well and fall into place. Right now everything feels so daunting.

University of San Francisco

Just went to their website. Found the an M.A. program that interests me. M.A. in Organization and Leadership. Saw USF too while I was here. Apparently my cousin T and his husband C graduated from here. It's a Jesuit school too in the west coast (where the weather is much warmer). But of course, Georegtown can still be something else. Still contemplating on what to do with my life.

East Coast Top 10 (random order)

NYC
1. Getting lost in the subway
2. Going home to the Bronx at 230am
3. Coney Island Boardwalk
4. Hole in the wall restaurants
5. Times Square lights
6. Chinese take-out dinner
7. Street and Subway performers
8. Walking and walking some more
9. Behind the scene tours
10. Street Food

DC/Maryland
1. National Monuments
2. Union Station
3. Driving in Maryland
4. Jefferson Memorial
5. Seeing Philippine references in the monuments
6. .15 cent wings
7. DC by night
8. Air and Space museum
9. Zorba's restaurant
10. Oli's house and Mela's Apartment

Washington DC

Just visited some friends in DC to cap off my east coast leg. I feel bad because I wish I could stay longer. I don't miss the weather there, though. Now I know what they mean by Fall attire. I overheard a guy based in DC commented that the shift to fall was the most abrupt change he has ever experienced. Question is, will I ever get used to the east coast weather if I finally decide to study there?

What a dilemma. Visiting the east coast has opened doors for me to try and consider taking my M.A. there. Most of my friends that I visited there are/were studying there, so I saw a part of me in them while hearing their stories both good and bad. Haay, what to do. I went to the Georgetown website and I saw the perfect course for me. M.A. in Leadership. It was really scary because while reading the course write-up, it seemed like it was talking to me. Describing me.

My friends J and M are encouraging me to grab the opportunity that will definitely change my life. A part of me wants to but a part of me doesn't. Mainly because of the impact studying has on the life I'm already living. I think this will change me-- I know it will. I know it will change me for the better. I just want to do a lot of things and I'm sure taking an M.A. will bring in more things since I will surely see the world a new. I think I have to really think hard and discern before I make my decision.

Back in DC, I met up with my old officemate O. We spent the day touring the monuments while catching up on the things back home. Me being there served as a refreshing break for him since he misses everyone back home. Back in his house in Maryland, I drove for the first time. Not bad. I'm still a nervous US driver, though. I couldn't stay long. I wish I could stay longer.

New York New York

As a first time new york traveller, I travelled like there was no tomorrow. I didn't let my legs bother me from walking at an average of 30 blocks a day. That could be nothing to the typical yorker but that's just far over the walking rate of a manilenyo.

Got the NYC Pass and a 7 day unlimited Metro Card to move around. Getting lost was part of the adventure which can be correlated to the average blocks that I walk everyday. Nevertheless, it was still so much fun.

Very happy tired right now.

Big Apple!

Finally, I'm in New York. Took the Greyhound bus at 1:10am from Washington DC. Had Greek dinner at Zorbas, Yoghurt dessert at Yogato and walked around DC with M. DC by night is something to experience. Got to see the White House and the Mall all lit up. The weather was perfect. Surprisingly warmer than usual according to her.

Slept most of the trip going to NY. Good timing because when I woke up what seemed to be out my window was the skyline of NY. Was that the Chrysler Building? Am I really here? Grabe, it's all so surreal.

P picked me up at 6am and we walked around Times Square and Central Station. Of course, we had to take pictures. I did the 'Hiro Nakamura' pose in Times Square. I just had to! It was fun walking around that early in the morning. The sun was not out yet, so i seemed like night time still without the people. Even saw the set 'Good Morning America'.

I'll be going to the Bronx Zoo later. Good timing because Wednesday is FREE entrance day. Might go to Central Park after lunch. We'll see.

So far, I'm having the time of my life!

Hollywood!

Went to Hollywood today and took in the 'celebrity-ness' of the place. Been there before but this time around it was really different since I'm much older and I appreciate it more. (I can associate Hollywood more with the movies and shows I watch) I'm pretty sure that I'll continue to have this feeling as I tour around the states.

Going back to Hollywood. We we're looking for a place to park and we ended up on the underground parking of the famous Kodak Theater! Funny because that was where we were headed. I didn't see any celebrity, though. Only celebrity look alikes wearing these downgraded costumes. I saw Batman in his tatered outfit and a thinner version of Superman among others. Supergirl came up to me. I saw Darth Vader, Marilyn Monroe, and Nacho Libre look alikes too.

Walking around Hollywood and seeing places like the Kodak Theater and Roosevelt Hotel felt so surreal. I'm actually here seeing the places I only see on TV or in the Movies. This is the real shiz.

I had so much fun walking around and reeling in whatever the place has to offer. I love that feeling. The feeling of being on vacation.

Kodak Theater

From LA DAY 0 and 1

Saw a 90210 ad

From LA DAY 0 and 1

Jimmy Kimmel Live

From LA DAY 0 and 1

Darth Vader talking to Marilyn Monroe

From LA DAY 0 and 1

Roosevelt Hotel

From LA DAY 0 and 1

Chinese Theater

From LA DAY 0 and 1

Victoria Secret Angels

From LA DAY 0 and 1

Finally here!

Yey! Arrived earlier than expected. Apparently the winds were strong making it faster for the plane to get to LA faster. Just woke up. I purposely tried not to sleep during the trip so that I won't get jet lagged as much.

My Uncle and Aunt's place is near downtown LA. On the way there, I saw the Disney Theater and Staple's Center.

I got my T-Mobile phone running. Thanks to sir M.

The plan today is to go around Hollywood and Rodeo Drive. Tomorrow, I'll be flying to DC first thing in the morning.

Countdown

Almost done and I'm ready to leave for my quarter life adventure. Bought myself a black notebook so that I can put down notes on my trip. The goal is to write something in central park, and in all the other parks I go to. Drama music full volume. Senti mode on. Hahaha. R, this one's for you. We were just talking about my trip and what I'll do in NY. Didn't bother buying a moleskin notebook anymore. It would have completed the whole 'introspective traveler' look.

Psyched for my trip

Prepping for my trip is like catching a taxi during rush hour. Seems like I barely got the time to really get things together because of the demands of my work. It never ends. The only way to end it is to leave it all together with a prized vacation. I'm leaving in a few days for the adventure of this quarter life. I'm leaving for the states and I can't wait. After all, I deserve this vacation. I earned it every sweet minute of it. Traveling alone has never been this exciting for me. Come to think of it, this is the very first time that I'm traveling alone (on a vacation). I feel like I'll be embarking on this 'discovery travel' like trip and I'm the host.

Since I'm considering this as one of the legendary trips that I'll be making in my lifetime, I plan to blog away and immortalize this in cyberspace for my future grand kids to hopefully stumble upon in the future.

Keep posted.

UAAP Champs!

Woooohooo! We're the champs!

It feels so nice to have the championship back after so long. What I thought happened. I was not able to watch the game. It's really frustrating. To think that it was a championship game. Circumstances didn't allow me to watch. Me being in Laguna and everything that comes along with it.

In our attempt to at least watch the game on TV, me an C drove all the way from Laguna to my house. Dad was sending us text messages of the game. It was raining. It was conveniently traffic. We made the wrong turns. And when we finally reached my place, we were already champions. Everyone was on the court already jumping for joy. Waaaaah. Bitter sweet. I still can't believe what happened last night.

As the blue fan that I've grown to be for the past years (to think I came from the green camp from Kinder until HS), this moment will not be complete if I wont go to Gesu and celebrate with the community. Again, braving the rain and the traffic along C5 and EDSA, we made it. In the end it was all worth it.

Champions again next year? I can get use to this.

Congratulations to the team! Rabeh, Nonoy, Job, Eric... galing ninyo! Chris Tiu, you're my idol in more ways than one.

*Though I'm a Blue Eagles fan, I will never ever disown my green roots. I cam from La Salle Greenhills and I owe a lot to that school. They have contributed a lot to the person that I am now. I love that I'm Blue Green Blooded. Not a lot of people can have the best of both worlds.

Game 2 Blues

I have a feeling that I won't get to watch Game 2! Aaaargh. Stupid meeting. What make's it worse is that I do not feel any support from my teammates offsite. I mean, yeah, we're expecting and volunteering to get all the hits tomorrow. I'm actually resigned with the fact that we will get burned in the meeting. Burned with things that aren't even our expertise. We will defend you yes, but you have to give me some ammo first. A little help over here would be nice. A little pro-activeness here. This is completely the opposite of what we're proud about when it comes to our group. Do we actually mean it when we say, 'we not me'?

A part of me wants a game 3 just so that I get to watch a championship. But of course I wouldn't want that. I'm just saying it coz im inis.

Why I should remain single now

I think I'm single because I need to focus on my relationship with people such my family and friends. Not that I'm taking them for granted, I feel that there's so little time to spend with them. With work and all. These past months have been so hectic. I feel that my sister needs someone to talk to with matters that my parents couldn't really relate to. I need to start playing golf again with my dad. Before his body prevents him to do so. I need to be there for my mom because I know she misses me most. As for friends, I should focus of being friends first with everyone I'm with, old or new. It's less complicated that way. And I don't need complicated right now.

Weekly staple food

I have noticed that I have never missed eating pizza, at least once in a week, for the past 5-6 weeks. It's comfort food. Everything is there already. You got your carbs, protein and veggies all in one bite. Yum yum yum.

Olympic Moment

Read this article on Yahoo! about Samia Yusuf Omar of Somalia. I find it so moving. Mixed emotions. Happy because she was able to represent her country and take part in the Olympics. Sad because conditions in some countries like Somalia are . Angry because the world may seem so unfair. The have's have it all while the have not's are left with nothing. Hope, just because there is always hope.

I'm so proud of her accomplishments and her drive to be better. The Olympic spirit so to speak. In my opinion, she deserves a gold medal with her flag raised and anthem played. Not because she won in her sporting event, but because she rose above her conditions and fought when everything was going against her.

There were only two athletes from Somalia. Samia and his team mate Abdi Said Ibrahim. He too is worthy of such recognition.

Read the article and be deeply moved.

“I was happy the people were cheering and encouraging me,” she said. “But I would have liked to be cheered because I won, not because I needed encouragement. It is something I will work on. I will try my best not to be the last person next time. It was very nice for people to give me that encouragement, but I would prefer the winning cheer. - Samia

I don't want to feel any pity for her. She doesn't need it.

When the silence breaks

How do react to this. After months of no communication, the person who puts a prized friendship in question suddenly reaches out? Must I act cold and or grab that opportunity to have back whatever was left in this friendship. I have been telling myself that if there was someone who has changed, it wasn't me. But why did my reaction change. I wont deny that there was still some hurt lingering somewhere between the things left unsaid. I think I am entitled to that. Will I still be there when she needs a friend in me? Ask me again, I'll say yes no doubt. But why is it so hard to do?
I'm loving country music these days. So as faith hill would put it -- I hope she would just cry a little. Lie just a little. Pretend that you're feeling just a little more pain. I gave not wanting something in return so cry just a little for me.
You can pretend it never happened. It leaves me no choice to pretend also until I can fool myself that it never did. But for now, can you just die a little so I would feel just a little less pain? Why don't you just cry a little for me.

So you think you can dance!

Raving over Katee and Joshua! Such great dancers. Search them on YouTube. Galing galing galing. Love all their dances. Special mention, No Air, Bollywood, Iris. Katee, if you're reading this... I LOVE YOU!

Happy Birthday Keena

Hey Keena today you're turning 26 years old. I can't imagine how it will be if you were still with us. It's been 15 years. It's been awhile since we've talked. Sorry. Life got in the way. Thanks for always watching over me. Miss you dearly. Happy Birthday! Visit me in my dreams.

Quarterlife kicks in

Seems like the years are becoming to short. 2008's midway and I feel that I haven't done a lot of things I wanted to do. If only I had more time and resources in my hands. It's hard to fulfill all your plans and not having to sacrifice one or the other. Juggling everything because you want everything.

Definitly, Maybe

Just watched Definitely, Maybe. It's a chick flick interesting enough for guys to watch. The movie makes it so simple -- portraying how ex-lovers can talk about their past relationship without being all awkward about it. And realizing that the love of your life can be there all along.

Gotta love New York City.

The fight is over

I haven't talked about it, really. For the longest time I kept this to myself. I think I got used to it. Keeping this in secret.

I have finally accepted it. It's over between us. No words from your end. It's okay. Maybe, you just don't want to deal with it now, or ever. Come to think of it, this thing has been going on for half a decade. At least now I am more at peace with everything. I have given what I can. I know I can give more. Really. But I know I gave what I can with what was given. Fair enough.

I am more sad with what has happened, though. I thought we could stick through this. Weather this. I thought wrong. What we have wasn't as strong as I though we had. Really, the saddest part of everything that has happened was to realize this.

Yes, maybe I am still in denial. I am still hoping things will turn out between us. By some twist of fate you realize that we could be together. Or, maybe it's just wasn't meant to be. It's your call.

As the song goes. I know you'll meet someone better, would you still think of me? If he would hold you like I did, would you run back to me? Yes I know these things shall pass. Gave all this time still we couldn't last.

Call me stupid for feeling as if I came from this "make believe" relationship. It just feels that way. Because when you love, we're allowed to be crazy sometimes. Because with crazy, we get the courage to leap, to risk, and to lay it all out.

I will surely miss this.

No regrets.

Go Rafa the Spaniard!

Just started watching Wimbledon tennis last year when I was in Bangladesh. That time Nadal lost to Federrer. This year he wins! Yesss!!! Idol!

He's stronger, faster and more mature. He has improved a lot on his mental game. Lesser wedgy picks too! Hahahaha.

More here: http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/tennis/7492502.stm

One Big Fight

Loved the game. Go Ateneo!

I missed singing the La Salle Alma Matter Song.

Missing the life I left in Manila

I think I can do so much more when I'm back in Manila. I'm missing out on a lot of things. I miss weeknight gimmicks, spending more time on OrgForward, helping NLS with things that do not require my SAP skills.

My non-existent love life has been put on hold. When will it ever start?

I don't like this anymore. I'm really tired. This is definitley taking a toll on my life. I have again proved to myself that I am a city boy.

* I understand the circumstances that surround me (all of us) staying in Laguna. No worries.

A birthday message

I went to my friend K's birthday celebration the other night. There was a part in her party that friends would give K a birthday message. I liked the message of one of her friends. She said, even though they (K and her) have changed as persons they will never change as friends. Now isn't that genuinely sweet?

Now, you want to work here?

"Yang flew solo, you should be celebrating because that means your doing your job, teaching her how to save a life.

Residents are like puppies, eager and enthusiastic, and you need to learn how to teach without crushing their spirit.

Now, you want to work here? With my residents? Then, you need to do better. You need to be a better teacher."

Chief Richard Webber to Erika Hahn - Grey's Anatomy

In our company seniors are expected to teach the junior consultants. Expected. This office culture makes us stand out among other IT companies out there. The typical consultants would fend for himself in this skill-selfish industry. Its funny how the typical would operate as a unit when in fact SAP is all about integration.

Not for us. We, at least how I see it to be, intentionally go against the norm and asks 'what if we do it differently?' We dare to go against what is expected. Not because we just want to be different. Because we feel that this is the right thing to do. Why be selfish?

As a person who sees the value of mentoring, I love this line from the Chief. I hope this is lived out to the full here at Netlogic.

Down the halls

Passed by Ateneo yesteday. Lucky me, I caught some students preparing OrSem. I forgot that it was OrSem season. That means TNT training season too. I saw TNTs in groups going around practicing for the campus tours. I miss college. And I realized how old I was because I don't recognize anyone from TNT. I was watching from afar and to no avail, I didn't recognize anyone. No one recognized me either. Thinking, 'hey! I was a TNT too you know?!' Hahaha. 'TNT core pa!'. It's all good. Hahaha.

I also passed our bench at Kostka. memories. It was so nice to visit. I suppose I visit Ateneo more regularly than the average alumni. Even so, Ateneo never fails to recharge me. I think the Jesuits put something in the trees.

Someday soon I'll teach there.

On success and making a difference

It's nice to find out that there are other people out there who pursue the same things that I hold important. K, A college mate of mine emailed me two days ago telling me how he found OrgForward.com very interesting. And how he and his business partners also came up with a business called EntrepBuff, a profitable yet socially relevant venture. Although I was not surprised that they're pursuing this, it still gave me a good vibe that they we're actually and similarly doing something to make a difference. That I am not alone in this. We are not alone. And it so nice that I learn of that people I know from college too are pursuing these type of endeavors. "Civic-minded" batchmates as C describes it when I watched a fund raising concert she organized for the special children of Ang Arko ng Pilipinas.

I've always thought that Ateneo played a big role in me ending up like this. Maybe it's the Theo and Philo classes, the orgs I became active on, ASLA, or the different people I interacted with throughout my four year stay in college. Whatever it was, it sure did change my perspective on success and brought "making a difference" to a whole new level.

Brooke White

Was watching the re-runs of American Idol last weekend and it just dawned on me that Brooke White is so gorgeous. Could have realized this sooner if I get to watch American idol religiously. It's so obvious how TV deprived I am during the weekdays I spend here in Laguna. Going back to Brooke, I really like her. I still haven't heard all the songs she sang in the show, but I like her already. Will YouTube her when I get the time. Too bad she didn't make to the finals though. Her being part of the top 5 is completely respectable, although I think she shouldn't have left just yet. Maybe top 4. Jason Castro should have left that night.

TED: Ideas worth spreading

I love TED.com! Great talks, perfect to download or watch online. Will I ever make it to speak there? Short term goal is to watch it live. TED.com

An invitation to restart

Cuz when we go just so you know
I'll be right here to carry you
Erase the traces
Restart everything, everything new
With wounds to mend
Hearts break but it can rebuild again

I don't know about other people but sometimes I draw spiritual healing from love songs. When I do this, these songs start to play in a different tune. I love it. It becomes so real for me - His love. Jess speaks to me like a persistent lover who only knows how to love me unconditionally. Before I went to sleep 3 nights ago. I played An Invitation by Urbandub, for that purpose. I wanted to hear what He has to say if he could speak to me. I have been through some tough shit in my life. We all do. I have fought battles in this civil war of mine, and so far have come out victorious. But still I have to hold my ground. The battle may have passed but this war is far from over. I know we all have our personal struggles. Our own brokenness. I'm glad that I saw things through with Jess beside me. Reassuring to be there when I fight the fight. His love endless and true, specially in the darkest of times. It was the Coldplay songs that spoke to me then. Dark times. Those songs spoke of my situation and encouraged me to rise above it. Their songs presented a whole new meaning for me. Thank God that right now this battle has ended. I'm starting a new. Though this war is not yet over, I am hopeful that in the end I will be victorious. Jess, I love you. I accept your invitation. I know everything will be made beautiful.

My contribution to 'office romances'

It's inevitable. It's convenient. It's unavoidable. It's meant to be. It's perfect timing. It's infatuation. It's love.

I am not totally against office romances, I suppose. Just as long as it is something serious, and not just a just-for-kicks thing, I'm cool. For those who are thinking of pursuing that office relationship. This one is for you! (or for us? hmmmm... maybe.)

Greenwich Meat and Cheeze Pizza overload

A must try. Soooper sarap.

Next time I'll try the Greenwich Special Overload. Who wants to join me!?

Bulong by Pedro Valdez

Watched Bulong last Saturday at Fully Booked Bonifacio High Street. I intended to go because I read about it on the newspaper last last Saturday. It got me interested because from the article, Pedro Valdez, the director, intended the film for the youth. With the whole orgforward.com thing in the works, I felt that I needed to catch this film to see if its for real. Good thing I remembered the screening since I had an hour to kill before going to mag:net and watch the band my friend L is managing, Bembol Rockers. When I reached Fully Booked, the place seemed like there was no viewing whatsoever, so I just carried on thinking maybe I jumbled up the dates. Funny thing I bumped into two people from college, and they told me that they were about to watch Bulong but couldn't find the viewing place. Since I was killing time, I tagged along until we found the viewing room hidden on the basement of the 5 floor bookstore. Looks like I'd get to watch after all.

The movie was made really well. Great picture, sound, directing, editing, acting, set design, the whole package. It looked like they really spent a lot for this production. I am not an avid watcher of art films, indie films and short films because sometimes I feel that they get to artsy for me that I end up getting lost with what the film is trying to say. Bulong got my mind worked up. In a good way. There were a lot of things going on, and a lot of thinking was spurred up as the movie progressed. The film got me thinking throughout the whole 20min. What does this film trying to say, yada yada yada. Good thing, after the show was an open forum with the director and the whole team. The movie was became clearer me after that. I'm really glad I watched it. It's really perfect for orgforward.com. One of the requests of Pedro for the audience was to help him get the word out thorough blogs and such media. Ting, orgforward! i went up to Pedro right after the viewing and told him that I could help him get the word out. He gave me his contact and we'll see how we can work things with Bulong.

Good thing I bumped into B and G since I was already okay with missing the screening. Seemed like the law of attraction was there to make sure that I be there at the right place and time.

Tying the knot: Jason Magbanua style.

A wedding music video? They actually do that? My sister showed me one of the works of Jason Magbanua a few days ago. He's one of the world's most influential videographers and he's Pinoy! Actually, I know not of videographers until this. I thought that photographers and videographers are one and the same. Apparently not quite. You should check out his videos. It takes a while to download but its worth it. My personal favorite was the Paolo and Sheila onsite video. The RJ and Vanessa was also cool too. Come on, I don't even know who they are personally but the videos seemed to successfully draw me in the emotion and the drama of their weddings. Very cinematic. Some scenes even gave me goosebumps, to think they only produce the whole video in a matter of hours. Amazing. My sister showed me his videos in an attempt to influence me in learning how to produce a video like that in time for her wedding. Uhhh... I don't think I can. But, thanks (or no thanks) to my sister, having an onsite video is now an option for my wedding. I am officially opening the 'patch wedding video fund' to raise 90K for a 3-4 minute onsite video. Shoots. But before that, I got to find myself a wife. My one true love. For as long as we both shall live. Double shoots.

C is for Company, that's good enough for me

Three C's of the company. Competency, Commitment and Character. Competency being the least while Character being the most important. Whatever happens, we'll all turn out as better people. Definitely better than the next guy.

Kiwi

I notice this about myself. When I like something, I cannot stop raving about it. It gets really annoying sometimes. Even I get annoyed at myself for being so wow-ed with whatever I'm wow-ing over. Anyway, today over lunch I decided to drink C2. While I was choosing which C2 to buy, I tried to be adventurous and bought myself a C2 Kiwi. Lo and behold, it was sooooo good! I had the right sweetness. Call me boring, but that's the way I like my C2. I don't like how the other C2 flavors are too sweet. This Kiwi one was just right. That's why among the C2 flavors, I like the Green one (for obvious reasons) and until today, Kiwi comes in a tight second. Cheers to C2!

Juno MacGuff

I love Juno. Just watched it last weekend. It's a nice alternative to the romantic sappy movies on young love. A great break from life's normalcy. Lot of great insights. Love the dialogs and the soundtrack. Didn't realize that Ellen Page can portray such a role. She seemed really sweet to me in X-men. Of course, Michael Cera never failed to entertain me with his character. Arrested development rocks! Jason Reitman and Diable Cody are boss!

Love the duet in the end.

I never realized how much I like being home unless I've been somewhere different for a while

Someday you'll be back here on your terms

I guess normalcy isn't really my style

I don't see what anyone can see than anyone else but you

The two-minute date

Watched the latest How I Met You Mother episode. The one where Britney Spears guested in. The following contains spoilers. In that episode, Ted Mosby gave a two minute date to his hot doctor. She doesn't date her patients and is also a single mother. I felt heavy hearted and a bit frustrated because it was so romantic. It was such a heartwarmer that it hurt! Why, oh why!? Hahaha. It took awhile for the feeling to subside. My housemate O, was laughing at me because I couldn't get over the episode just yet.

I wish that someday I can do that for her. When you really like someone you should really go for it and not give up. Even if everything seems so gray. Look at Ted Mosby. Patient, positive and persistent. Traits that I have to acquire big time.

When the fighting is over. At least for today.

Nothing beats a good night out after a stressful day at work and a semi-aching heart. Went to mag:net high street last night to watch a gig with my pals Jo and C. For 150, pesos I was able to unwind and vent out all the stress through music, booze, great conversation and a couple of cigs. Yes. I have broken my fasting from yosi and now consider myself a social smoker. Meaning of social, those boundaries I still need to define. It was such a recharge to hear familiar beats from Urbandub and Taken by Cars. Lalay played all out last night. For that, I crush Lalay even more. Hahaha.

We opted to stay outside so we can smoke. The place was pretty full. Good thing there was an empty sofa by the balcony. Downside was there was a glass pane preventing us from hearing the bands play in their full glory. Also saw my college professor A. I told him i wanted to teach and he told he could help me get in with his recommendation. Yesss. I'll try next school year. By then I should have the program of my elective prepared and syllabus.

It was a worth it night. Totally compensated for the shitty day I had yesterday.

Quote of the night. Nothing worth having ever comes easy. Thanks J and C and Scrubs for sharing those wise words.

In Memoriam: Abby Parong

I found out two days ago that my freshie Abby Parong passed away. I hate it when I receive of bad news like those. It never fails to tighten my lungs a little bit longer than usual.

One of your tasks as a TNT is to take care of your freshman block. It's usually the course blocks, as compared to the english blocks, that you become more close to. More attached to. That was true with my Legal Management block O1. My only legit TNT block and the block where Abby was part of. It's so surreal that most of them, if not all are now a year off college. It seems like it was just yesterday that these totoys and nenes were running around the field for their OrSem GDs, asking me and my partner Jc tips on surviving college, and calling me from far away when they see me on campus. Memories like these make me want to go back to college. There, everything was more simple. Life a little kinder and death a little rarer. In block O1, I remember Abby being one of the more kalog and outgoing freshies. She seemed to be one of the glues of the block as she makes sure that O1 is the wacky LM block that they were. It breaks my heart that death can, yet again, take away people just like that. It's ironic that the she passed away from that car accident on Easter. A life was taken away when we should be celebrating life. Maybe this is the message that Easter brings through this dark time. Abby's death is not the end, it's only the beginning of the new life she now has up there in heaven. For us left here on earth, lets celebrate the life Abby has shared with us, no matter how short it was for us.

I feel sad that I couldn't go to her wake. Now that you are in a better place, I just wanted you to know that you are not forgotten.

DJ DM

Nope! Not DJ Delfin Montano. Although, his hate blog c/o Brian Gorell is addicting like the drugs he snorts. Go check out DJ Dense Modesto. The creator of the Janina San Miguel Remix and a lot of other cool remixes. I'm listening to the BIOMAN remix now. Gotta give him props for the great arrangement.

Check out Dense's Multiply Site

Weekend Realizations

It's nice to know that there are friends, no matter how seldom you see each other, are still your friends. This has been proven time and again with my carpool mates. After 2 months since we last saw each other and almost a year before that, the gang hung out again last Friday at M's house for some pizza, alcohol and such sinful desserts care of J, our resident pastry chef and also the reason for the night. J is to leave a few weeks from now for the states, again. Back to being the head Pastry Chef in this Hampton Summer Lodge she wowed everyone over. Good job! We haven't tasted any of her desserts ever since she went into culinary school, left for the states, and got back - only to leave again. And because she now jokes on how baking cupcakes are so amateurish, it makes me wonder how advanced her baking prowess is now. She brought us cheesecake and creme brulee. I was so rich and definitely sinful. A purist as she would describe her baking philosophy. The desserts melted in my mouth no less.

In the middle of eating pizza, drinking and eating J's desserts, we look back on our favorite carpool memories. The first time we formed the group, our first impressions on each other, and our most memorable experiences as a carpool. And just like the good ol day, we talk about the usually things we talk about to and from Ateneo. An hour to an hour and a half of honest to goodness banter. Usually crazy things and sometimes we talk about serious stuff.

One thing that can take from that carpool night was when we started talking about our plans for the Holy Week. M has been going to missions and she was narrating how sometimes these voluntary works really tires you physically and how it can really brings you out of your comfort zone. Serving until it hurts. And because you choose to be there, you continue to stick it through. It goes to a point that it's not much for self fulfillment anymore. Or maybe this comes in retrospect. But you continue to serve for its genuine reason, that you chose to do it in spite of all the things that you have to endure throughout the mission.

I always like it when we go deeper into ours conversation. It makes me realize a lot of things. It makes me real thankful for having friends like them. We are a group different from each other. You wouldn't immediately associate us with the same circle of friends in school since, we don't really hand out with the same group of people. Though there could be some overlaps, you can say that we really are an odd bunch. But we are one that clicks. That what makes this group significant to me. In our diversity we learn a lot from each other. And during our carpool trips we just see each other for who we are as individuals.

From the previous night's conversation with my carpool mates. I have come to realize during the prayer session with my unit mates the morning after, that going out of ones comfort zone is not the goal. In tough undesirable situations, we convince ourselves that we should go beyond our comfort zone and stick it out to make it work. But why should we get out of our comfort zones? It was such a coincidence that what we were sharing during our carpool night was continued in my prayer session hours after. It amazes me how my own perception of things can evolve into something deeper in a matter of hours. To expand ones comfort zone is something I can associate best with how Scott Peck explains love. Loving is expanding ones ego boundaries. It is allowing yourself to be more accepting of the things and situations that you don't normally like. Living a life of love can therefore be an expansion of ones comfort zone in times of hardships and trials. Saying that these hardships are not different from you but a part of yourself. You take ownership of what you go through, thus making it more you.

Susubukan kong maging Pilosopo at ipapaliwanag ko ang aking sarili si Filipino: Sa pamamagitan ng mag 'papalawak ng nakagisnan' tuwing nakakaranas ng paghihirap, inaangkin mo ang nararanasan mo at inilalapat iyon sa iyong pagkatao. Dahil dito masasabing ikaw na ikaw ang dumaranas ng pagsubok. Mas may talab ang pagpapalawak na ito sa iyong pagkatao kumpara sa 'paglabas sa nakagisnan', tuwing nahihirapan. Ano mang kaligayahan o gantimpalang makukuha mula sa pagdanas nito ng buo ay siguradong mas masinag at matalab kumpara sa pagdanas nito mula sa labas tungong paloob.

Funny book about dating in the 21st century

I just finished reading this book I got so intrigued with after hearing RJ Ledesma (the author) on a morning radio show. He was promoting the launch of his book called "Lies my Yaya Should've Told Me". Like a a stand up comedian, he started talking about his theories and case studies on dating in that radio show. Hours after, I catch myself buying my own copy of the book. Not bad for 170 bucks. Apparently, the book is a compilation of his articles from Manila Times.

So, I bought the book. I even bought another for my friend. It was his party that weekend and I thought that it was a fitting book for him. I mean, us. A funny take on our bachelor-ness, so to speak.

I actually wonder where he gets his theories from. His out of this world insights on dating gave me a good laugh nonetheless. Especially now that I'm based in Laguna, got nothing to do in here but catch up on my reading.

My new Converse (PRODUCT) RED Skid Grips

It's now or never. I didn't want to delay myself from buying these shoes. I feel that the opportunity is right to buy me one of those Converse slip-ons. Not only do I want to contribute to the Global Fund, I also want to help in getting the word out there. It's a statement I can wear. An advocacy I like everyone to know about.

Although, honestly, battling AIDS is not one of life advocacies. But, I still believe in the power of this campaign. We can be heroes in our own way. As the shoe tag line would say, there is no such thing as small change.

Just to share what was written on the tag that comes with the shoe. Converse (PRODUCT) RED presents an original way of thinking about shoes, creativity, and doing good. Basically, you buy the shoes you would've bought anyway, but you buy them in RED.



And of course, it looks good. What a consolation!

INSPI(RED) about (PRODUCT) RED

I stumbled upon the GAP website while surfing at work and I came across a particular line of shirts. It looked familiar because I saw these just the weekend before but in a Converse store, and they were marked on shoes. The GAP shirt was red and it had INSPI(RED) on it while the Converse shoe had different (RED) words all over. Like, INSPI(RED) ADMI(RED) DESI(RED) etc. It looked really familiar since I remember seeing a (RED) sign somewhere else. Like on a billboard or poster. But I really don't remember. Hehehe.



Anyway, GAP and Converse are both partners with this movement called (PRODUCT) RED. It's a campaign to help the Global Fund for AIDS. They partner with the private sector. Mostly consumer goods like clothing and electronics. A certain percentage upon purchase of the (PRODUCT) RED product goes directly to the Global Fund, and 100% of this fund is used for AIDS grants in Ghana, Rwanda and Swaziland. Other partners are Armani, Motorola, Apple, Dell, and Microsoft.

Makes me want to get me a pair of those Converse slip-on shoes. Besides, I've been wanting to buy new shoes. This time though, I get to contribute to something bigger than myself.

I'm so inspired about this campaign that I want to start something like it. But of course for a different cause. Which cause? Of course, something that's close to my heart. Something that has to do with the youth/education/leadership/nation building/social change kinda thing. Just now, I felt this rush that made me realize how small I really am. The task to make a difference seems so daunting. But you got to at least try, right? Who knows you just might do more good that you initially expected. It's all in the heart, I suppose.

Learn more about (PRODUCT) RED by visiting their website joinred.com and their blog.

*Can someone buy me that GAP hoodie?