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2010-02-22T04:51:00.003+08:00

Makes me wonder

Learning from Conan O'Brian

2010-01-26T05:24:00.000+08:00

I haven't really researched on why Conan O'Brien is leaving the Tonight Show and NBC. Not really up to date with this. Don't judge me. Hahaha. But I watched a video on YouTube where he was saying his final words before the wrap. What struck a cord was when he said to the people, especially to the young viewers not to be cynical. Cynicism is his least favorite quality. Doesn't lead anywhere. No one in life gets exactly what they want... but if you work hard and are kind, AMAZING THINGS CAN HAPPEN.

Thank you Conan, though I am not an avid viewer, you have made my day. Your person and character has made me fan.

My Christmas in Italy

2009-12-31T02:39:00.000+08:00

Just got back from my Italy trip. It was tiring but an adventure nonetheless. Met a lot of new people along the way. Strangers at first but our common love for travelling and the fact that we are living (in Europe) away from the people we love made us friends right away. Specially at a time where you should be with family, Christmas.

Christmas wasn't all that bad. Aside from the drama of missing being away from my family and being torchured by seeing families during the season, I was having the time of my life.

I started in Rome. Stayed there for 5 days. In hindsight, I should have tried taking a train somewhere else since 5 days was too much for Rome. The highlight was seeing the Pope and attending the Christmas Eve mass INSIDE the St. Peter's Basilica. How awesome it that? Thanks to P, for getting me in. The experience was so surreal, words cannot explain. Also followed the Angels and Demons trail which made me feel like Robert Langdon. I Spent 2 days with the merchants of Venice and made an impromptu day trip to the land of Romeo and Giulietta in fair Verona. I missed out on Pisa and Florence. I should do that next time.

Spent a few hours in Brussels. Checked out the peeing statue and had my hair cut. I have yet to taste Belgian chocolate and drink Belgian beer. Maybe next time.

Blog Traffic because of Veronika Decides to Die

2009-12-31T02:17:00.000+08:00

I just noticed that people have been landing to my blog because of my post about Veronika Decides to Die. Sorry guys to disappoint you because I do NOT have any links to its OST.

Just like you, I am a fan of the book, SMG and the upcoming movie. Nothing more.

Roma

2009-12-24T22:49:00.000+08:00

Im spending Christmas here in Rome. In a few hours I will be seated inside St. Peters Basilica for the Christmas Mass. I feel so blessed and lucky to be able to get that chance to be in His Holinesss presence. First it was Notre Dame in Paris, now this. It couldnt be any better than this. Though Im so sad that Ill be so far away from my family and loved ones this Christmas, Im still happy to be here. Only if I can be in two places at once, Id be the happiest ever.

Prayer Time

2009-12-11T15:17:00.002+08:00

Just something to ponder on.

If we do not want to hear what God is saying to us through the people and situations in our life, we can so easily rationalise and reject the bearer’s frailty and in the process reject the Gospel as well - which is actually quite illogical. "A priest shouted at me in confession so I don’t go to church any more." It would be like rejecting democracy because of the corruption of a democratically elected official.

http://sacredspace.ie/livingspace/a1026g/

Christmas in Italy

2009-11-23T01:31:00.004+08:00

Hello All,

I can't believe it. After hours of trial and error for the best cost of this Christmas trip... I just finished booking everything for my Christmas in Italy! Saved on a few but its still pretty expensive. Shoestring na 'to, sagad pa! Maybe, I wont just eat for the entire trip. Hahaha.

Just a glimpse of my itinerary, without the price of course.

16-Dec 1:15 PM 4:15 PM Flanders
21-Dec 6:35 PM 8:35 PM AD 1 Hostel
22-Dec AD 1 Hostel
23-Dec AD 1 Hostel
24-Dec Chianti Hostel
25-Dec Chianti Hostel
26-Dec Chianti Hostel
27-Dec 9:45 AM 10:50 AM Ostello de Venezia
28-Dec Ostello de Venezia
29-Dec 9:25 PM 10:55 PM Sleep Well
30-Dec 12:45 PM 2:15 PM

I'll be missing the Philippines so much during the holidays. Something to keep me busy. I'll be meeting Paolo and Fr. Danny during the trip to keep me company.

I'll be spending my New Years at Lille. I hope I get to find a nice party there. If not, I just hope I wont get homesick.

Patch

New place like home

2009-11-18T20:44:00.001+08:00

Today I finally got my own place. Not to shabby but fits the bill.

Things I like about it
1) Its saves me a lot of money. Rent is 50% cheaper than what I budgeted
2) Its close to school. Literally, just walking distcance
3) I got my own place

I'm annoyed by my faucet at the moment. It drips. I have to have it checked by Mimi, the designated maintenance lady of the building. She might think I have something to do with it. I didn't break it, excuse me.

Had dinner with Iulia from Romania, my classmate who lives on another residence down the street. She's not for globalization/capitalization.

She showed me a shorter way to get to my place. If I knew about that, I wouldn't have walked a mile from the metro with my luggage awhile ago. Oh well. Did I mention it was drizzling when I moved in. Imagine me walking with all my luggage. Hassle. But all is good. I'm just glad I can finally settle down.

Classes got cancelled for tomorrow. I'll do some shopping for my new space. Some things on my list. A water filter, some hangers, detergent, air freshener, bedsheets, pillow, sticky tape, water boiler, few snacks, and some things to make this place more like home.

Until then.

Patch

First few days in Lille

2009-11-17T01:35:00.003+08:00

Hello All,

I'm finally in Lille. Been here for the past 5 days already actually. It's been crazy. Been walking a lot. There are two major things that I need done ASAP. First, that I get enrolled. Second, that I find a house.

So far enrollment is a FAIL. Apparently you need to schedule an inscription appointment online. The slots for these not that much. So I'm still waiting for my turn. Maybe next week I get to do it. Please!!!

As for the lodging, good thing a fellow GEB student told me that I need not be enrolled to apply for a CROUS residence. Voila. I was able to get one today. But before that even happened, I was already panicking that I looked for a place outside the residences. I found one. Out of desperation. At least for the next two weeks. The place was actually nice, I visited it and talked with the landlord and told them my intention to start moving in tomorrow. But now, since I've got CROUS, I wouldn't be needing the private lodging. Although the private one will definitely be much bigger, its going to be very far. The CROUS - Galois residence wont be as big but its closer to the school. And did I mention way cheaper. That means, more travelling money for me!

I hope everything goes smoothly tomorrow.

Patch

Paris Leg

2009-11-16T01:25:00.003+08:00

Hi Everyone,

I Arrived in Paris at around 1pm of November 4, 2009. It was a long flight from Manila-Abu Dhabi-Paris. Wasn't able to rest much. Plane rides aren't really that comfortable to say the least. Stopped over at Abu Dhabi for a few hours. Had time to Skype with my parents for the very first time. Also read the 'black book' my officemates from NLS gave me during my despedida party. Thanks guys! I really appreciate your kind notes and warm wished for this new chapter in my life.

I prepared a few French phrases before landing to help me communicate better. Like, where the bus station is, etc. To no avail, I never got to use them that day. I was too shy to speak French. I ended up speaking in English. Good thing, they understood.

I stayed at my cousin Lea's studio for a few days. Luca, her friend picked me up from the bus stop at Gare de Lyon. Luca's Italian, funny and nice. We had a few after-work drinks the day after. I met some of Lea's friends too. Aside from Luca, the Italian, I met two of her Filipino friends Ginger and and Mack a Polish guy who loves the Philippines so much after spending just a few years there.

While waiting for JP to arrive, I toured by myself. Learned how the metro system works (not to difficult to learn, just like NYC metro). When JP finally came, we transferred to a hostel. There we met some interesting people. Our first roommates were Canadian girls. They we're fun and friendly. We went out for some drinks a just few minutes after we arrived. We bar hopped or pub crawled our way through rue Mouffetard. Awesome street lined with pubs, bars and restos. I particularly liked a bar called the Fifth Bar. It had a nice underground room where this unplugged band was playing. Thanks to the Canadians, we got some free drinks. We saved around 14 euros worth of drinks that night.

JP and I toured around Paris. We went to some museums. The Musee de Orsay to look at Van Gough's portrait and Louvre to see the Mona Lisa, Medussa, Victory, and Venus of Milo. The joined a free Paris walking tour also. Something I highly recommend to everyone who visits Paris. Apparently they do have free walking tours in other countries where SANDEMAN operate. It's completely free. They just work for tips. The tour was fun, with lots of trivia. Just prepare your legs because you'll go for a long walk. Around 5km. Well paced.

We wen't bar crawling again. We invited Melissa, a girl from LA who's living the same hostel as we were staying in, to join us. At the bar crawl we met some Australians, Austrians a New Yorker and a Canadian. The Australians were lightweights, one of them threw up at the 3rd bar. We were partying until 2am and we missed the metro back to our hostel. We ended up walking because taking a taxi will be too expensive. From Champs Elysee we walked back to the Latin Quarter. 5km walk again in an hour. You can imagine how tired our legs were. Though it was so late in the evening or should I say too early in the morning, we were safe and got back in one piece.

We planned to go on the Sacre Coeur walkig tour but it got cancelled because the group didn't meet quota. We just did our own walking tour instead. Walking the streets of Montparnase gave us time to check the French portrait artists at the plaza. The view from the Sacre Coeur was breathtaking. What I liked more was the mini concert by the steps. Everyone was in a good mood. Similar to Bom Bom's at Boracay. Really steady, feel good music at sundown. To top it all off, we we're drinking a bottle of Heineken. It's just so weird that we're drinking in front of a Church. After Sacre Coeur we wend down to check out the famous Moulin Rouge.

We went to Versailles with Melissa, since she had nothing better to do that day. We took a 30 minute train there. The place was so big. I couldn’t believe my eyes. Talk about a cribs. The farm house of Marie Antoinette was cute also. They're like little hobbit houses. They really must have been living it to have those as her 'play houses'. That night we met up with JP's officemate Jason and walked up the Champs Elysee to the Arc de Triomphe. It was Armistice Day that day and we were lucky to catch some ceremony for it beneath the arc.

We pretty much covered a lot during this trip. After spending hours walking the streets, climbing up stairs, taking pictures. I must say that this trip was well spent and worth every aching muscle in my body.

Patch

Life in Europe

2009-11-16T01:21:00.002+08:00

Hello everyone,

In my intention to keep in touch and update you with my experiences here in europe, I decided to write blog posts instead of emailing each one of you. I hope you keep in touch too by leaving in some comments or emailing me at patchdulay@gmail.com

Patch

Grandfather Bartolome

2009-10-23T02:05:00.004+08:00

I just realized now how I wish my grandfather was still alive. I never had the chances to appreciate his life until now. You see, he died when I was around 13 years old. When I was young I never got the chance to know him then. Because I was young. Now, how I wish he was alive. My friend C whose father knew my grandfather said that I am very much like my grandfather, and my father. Now I wonder why she said so. But from the little memory I have of my grandfather, I must admit that yes, I think we're alike. I'm just sad he's not around anymore for me to verify that fact. I don't even know what he was like when he was living. How he was with his friends and all. How he was a father. A person. I really wish he was still alive, especially now that I am older and more interested to know my past. I am my father's son. But am I my grandfather's grandson worthy to carry his name?

My exit has begun

2009-10-10T03:05:00.007+08:00

So it is set, I am leaving for France on the 4th of November. I barely have a month to prepare myself to leave. Seems like the time will never be enough and nothing can ever prepare me fully to what I'm going to leave behind. It's 3am. I just came from a despedida my officemates organized for me. Although I accidentally foiled their plans to surprise me, I must say I still got surprised. Never has anyone organized a surprise party for me and I have always wondered how that would feel like when it does happen up until last night. Thanks for the love you guys. You will really give me a hard time not missing you when I am in France.

The begining of the end has started. With a few weeks left to spare, I'm still trying to figure out how I can say goodbye to everyone who means a lot to me. Again, we don't have much time. Just thinking about it makes me feel sad. I never expected that leaving would be this difficult.

Even though a year to two wont seem long. It's the idea of not being able to see the people you love when you wish. It sucks. I think that this thought makes it all the more difficult to leave. But there is no other way but to deal with this. In order to fulfill my dreams of studying and experiencing living abroad, leaving the people you love comes with the package. It bites but you got to do what you got to do, right?

1000 strong

2009-08-25T11:36:00.000+08:00

My campaign has reached 1000 supporters this month! Well, not really 1000 supporters but unique pageviews. But nevertheless I'm still celebrating that this blog is now 1000 supporters/pageviews strong from when it started.

I haven't been writing the past month. It's been a whirlwind of a month actually. Mainly because of my grad school applications. I haven't really talked about what happened to my applications on this blog after may similar post months ago.

I applied to the University of Science and Technology Lille last month and got accepted. Though I really planned on studying in 2010 and not 2009, I pursued USTL anyway since they're willing to adjust and let me go to France in October. The program starts in september, but since I already have a strong IT background, I can opt not to take the intro IT courses. By the way, I got accepeted to their Global E-Business Masters program. They have a french translation of the program, but i forget. So I decide on pursuing this once I got news that i got accepted, leaving my other options behind. The price was right and the location was perfect. I just have to mention that Lille is in the center of Paris, London, Brussels and Amserdam. Winner, right! And since I'm the first and only Filipino in for the GEB program, it was really much of a low brainer for me to decide to go for USTL. Though the school and the program is not as popular as lets say Oxford or Harvard, it's still and international education and an education is what you make out of it, right?

Before I forget what made my day

2009-07-13T21:29:00.003+08:00

Among other things, there was really one incident that made my day today. I was in Robinson's Galleria and I went in Bench to kill some time. I was looking through some clothes and when I saw something I liked, I asked the sales lady to show me where I can find more of those. So she started going through the stock quite frantically since it was kind of hidden behind other clothes. Until she found what I was looking for and showed it to me. Typical customer I was comparing the different designs until I noticed that all she was doing was pointing to the price but not uttering a single word. She gave out a little gasp of air, as if she was trying to say something when I realized something was different. So I asked, innocently if she can speak. Then she pointed to her ear and showed her special ID. Apparently she is differently abled. Couldn't hear much and couldn't speak. I smiled, laughed a bit and told her I thought that she had some sore throat that's why she couldn't speak. We both just smiled at each other. It was a pleasant surprise to encounter someone like her today (kudos to bench for giving them the opportunity to have a job at their stores). I'll be honest, my heart melted for her. Got me more thankful for all the blessings God has showered me all my life. And gracious for God has made things possible for differently abled people like her. I wasn't really planning on buying... I was just window shopping. I ended up leaving. Felt pretty guilty after that... I should have bought the piece.

So before I forget. Let me write it down.

Movies imititating life imitating movies

2009-05-17T14:04:00.002+08:00

I sometimes feel that I don't feel anything at all. Odd as it may seem for an idealistic person like me. I do feel numb at times with the things going on around me. Maybe it's because of my fear to go against the current or speak my mind that I just do nothing at all, and to do that I desensitize myself of the things that make me tick. I just want to conform and just live life like everyone else. Be normal. It becomes tiring to be extraordinary or at least hope to be one every waking day.

I've have been watching movies I missed ever since I got introduced to the world of downloading torrents last week. Yes, just last week. I watched Dead Poets Society yesterday and Garden State just now. DPS talks to about how we should suck the marrow of life but not choke on it. Carpe Diem. Garden State proposes a more melancholy approach toward the same issue. I've always wondered why people rave about this movie so I download it to see for myself. It's speaks to the broken-ness in all of us. Specially us who are in our quarter-lives. Lost and numb in the world. It's so tragic how we can allow ourselves to not feel at all. why? Because we're tired of battling through life. The infinite abyss (reference from GS). This metaphor about our lives is what life is all about. And what we plan to do with it. Will you discover it and see it unfold or just let it lay there in its darkness. These movies has reminded me about how idealistic and how tired I am at the same time to chase my dreams making me go for it even more. Why, because i choose life and all the surprises hurts and quirks it brings. I am actually scared to be found empty inside and let the lithium (another GS reference) take over my system.

Six Flags Roller Coasters

2009-05-01T23:35:00.005+08:00

When I went to LA last October i went to six flags and rode almost all the roller coasters there. Just wanted to share some of the coaster I rode. Mindblowing and totally awesome!

Tatsu: Highest, Longest, Lying roller coaster in the world. Got really scared with this coaster. Specially while ascending at the start.

Goliath: On of the tallest ones in the US. The first drop goes straight to this black tunnel. The coaster is like a shot straight down to hell.

Superman Escape: From 0 to 100MPH, 'nuff said. Fighter jet?

Viper: The best during its glory days during the early 90's. Hehehe.

OrgForward.com 2.0

2009-04-26T21:06:00.003+08:00

Check out the new OrgForward.com website. Made some major changes with the site design early this year. I'm going for a more blog type feel to it. I'm using Wordpress as my base system and found a nice template design perfect for OrgForward. Tweaked some stuff with the code and the CSS. Really hope that launching the 2.0 version of the site this school year will be a success. Partnered with EntrepBuff for some video contant. Still partnering with Dare It Forward and Starfish magazine.

I miss New York

2009-03-31T00:02:00.003+08:00

I miss New York. I feel that there is so much to be discovered in that city. Though, I've only been there for five amazing days, I feel that it has already won me over. Just finished watching Nick and Norah's Infinite Playlist, a movie set around the streets of the Big Apple, and yes it brought me wanting New York more (just like any other show about this place). How I wish to be there this moment. Or maybe not... I don't think I can stand the cold. :(

Unique New York. Unique New York. Unique New York. Unique New York.

Karev's words of wisdom

2009-03-29T14:29:00.003+08:00

"Maybe we need to get a little messed up so that we can step up" - Alex Karev talking about the significance of trauma

Love the Grey's Writers, thank you for writing such beautiful material that speaks about the ups and downs of life.

I don't get to write anymore...

2009-03-21T00:22:00.003+08:00

Not that I consider myself as a writer. I try. Hahaha. Defensive. Anyway, it's been a roller coaster ride for me the past months mainly because of my Fulbright scholarship apps. I'm finally passing my application this coming Monday and the rest I leave it up to God's grace. I did what I can, now it's time for destiny to decide my fate. Speaking of destiny, Jai Ho is such a catchy song and Slumdog Millionaire is a must watch movie. I like how they were able to have a real nice storyline and still show the different facets of India in the process. Makes me wonder why our own Filipino movies are stuck with love stories of JLC (John Lloyd Cruz). I watched the JLC and Sarah movie 'You Changed My Life', by the way. I watched both movies, actually, Part 1 and 2. Ha! Maybe that's why they make it. Because they sell. But, I think Filipino producers should consider doing other movies for a change. We have great talents. Filipino's have so much potential.

That's what we do. That's our job.

2009-02-21T16:51:00.005+08:00

I quoted something from Grey's Anatomy before. Here I go again with something worth pondering.

"You're unmotivated. You're careless, selfish, distracted. And pretty much the people in this hospital I would least trust with my life. But that's how it's supposed to be. You're interns, you're babies. And you are all lucky to be here. We're all lucky because we can save lives. Everyday we get to save lives. That's what we do. That's our job. And it's not something a lot of people get to do."(And then, Dr. Steven's continues by teaching them how they can learn from their mistake and improve as doctors)

Sometimes it's hard to bank on people who don't show appreciation for what they do. Or how lucky they even are to be on that spot. But sometimes, you have to go one and hope that they learn along the way and be the person you invested on, and more-- in the first place.

Veronika Decides to Die (2009)

2009-02-01T11:37:00.003+08:00

A good read. Looking forward to watching this. Sarah Michelle Gellar pa!

"Sarah Michelle Gellar portraits with emotion the Veronika I had always imagined." - Paulo Coelho

Contemplating over Fulbright

2009-01-18T16:27:00.004+08:00

I don't know if I should even attempt to apply for this scholarship. I heard the tough competition for this and the usual candidates they look for. What's keeping me from pursuing this is the fact that I might not give a compelling application and its just a waste of time for me and those who would do my recommendation letters. I don't think I'm the person they're looking for although I know (in my heart) I'm scholarship material. But who knows, right? It really doesn't hurt to try. I need to get going if I want to apply for this.

2,500 USD for OrgForward.com

2009-01-13T18:47:00.003+08:00

I'm will enter OrgForward.com to the I Will Teach You To Be Rich Scholarship for Social Innovation. It won't hurt if I try. I hope my application is compelling enough for me to deserve the scholarship.

On overcoming adversity

2009-01-02T21:20:00.006+08:00

I just finished watching Homeless to Harvard: The Liz Murray story. We talked about that movie in passing at B's place while waiting for the January 1 sun to rise. So it made me revisit that movie over at surfthechannel.com since I barely remember how it went. All I know was that she was homeless and she got a scholarship to Harvard. So when I watched it over again, it was like seeing it for the first time.

It is a very moving story about overcoming the worst obstacles life throws on us. Liz's story was so real. She still lives, by the way, at 28 years old. She didn't live decades ago, her story is as real as today. She grew up in the Bronx and crawled her way to an education. It really is possible to have a 360 degree turn in your life. You just need to believe and don't let anyone shoot you down.

"Don't look at the people around you who are doing things and think that they are made of something more than you. They learn some stuff and they're putting it to use and they're probably willing to work really hard for it but they're not made of anything different than you are, don't get psyched out" - Liz Murry

Watch this video about her.

Watch the movie.

Part 1: http://www.tudou.com/programs/view/n9H5oTR52VM/
Part 2: http://www.tudou.com/programs/view/gQ7JfpkNeY4/
Part 3: http://www.tudou.com/programs/view/01RlTSGDWTY/
Part 4: http://www.tudou.com/programs/view/a3YPBXVFDcU/
Part 5: http://www.tudou.com/programs/view/Qy_8KQt6ZVk/
Part 6: http://www.tudou.com/programs/view/uqN3K29xPjU/
Part 7: http://www.tudou.com/programs/view/9xGOyqK9pYY/
Part 8: http://www.tudou.com/programs/view/Yb6JgxbU4x4/

My new phone

2008-12-31T02:17:00.002+08:00

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

I love my new Nike Free Dynamic TR

2008-12-25T21:31:00.005+08:00

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

2008-12-24T20:46:00.003+08:00

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

2008-12-23T01:16:00.003+08:00

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

2008-12-21T01:01:00.002+08:00

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

2008-12-18T00:21:00.003+08:00

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

2008-12-15T23:17:00.003+08:00

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

2008-12-11T20:36:00.003+08:00

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

2008-12-01T17:01:00.005+08:00

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

2008-11-28T02:58:00.005+08:00

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

2008-11-26T18:11:00.003+08:00

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

2008-11-08T18:48:00.009+08:00

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

2008-11-07T13:22:00.002+08:00

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

2008-11-03T12:50:00.004+08:00

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

2008-11-01T12:54:00.003+08:00

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

2008-10-31T07:35:00.004+08:00

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

2008-10-31T07:29:00.003+08:00

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

2008-10-28T01:20:00.003+08:00

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)

2008-10-24T05:31:00.003+08:00

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

2008-10-24T02:43:00.005+08:00

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

2008-10-21T10:43:00.002+08:00

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!

2008-10-15T20:16:00.004+08:00

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!

2008-10-14T08:32:00.003+08:00

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!

2008-10-13T21:49:00.007+08:00

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

2008-10-11T22:30:00.004+08:00

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

2008-10-05T23:00:00.002+08:00

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!

2008-09-26T12:25:00.004+08:00

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

2008-09-24T19:28:00.004+08:00

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

2008-09-21T21:19:00.003+08:00

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

2008-09-16T13:06:00.003+08:00

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

2008-08-27T21:35:00.005+08:00

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

2008-08-19T17:32:00.003+08:00

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!

2008-08-18T18:48:00.004+08:00

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

2008-08-07T09:52:00.001+08:00

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

2008-07-27T12:18:00.002+08:00

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

2008-07-18T22:03:00.003+08:00

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

2008-07-12T22:10:00.004+08:00

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!

2008-07-07T09:33:00.005+08:00

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

2008-07-06T23:37:00.002+08:00

Loved the game. Go Ateneo!

I missed singing the La Salle Alma Matter Song.

Missing the life I left in Manila

2008-06-29T21:01:00.003+08:00

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

2008-06-22T15:20:00.005+08:00

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?

2008-06-13T20:32:00.005+08:00

"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

2008-06-01T18:57:00.006+08:00

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

2008-05-28T17:35:00.009+08:00

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

2008-05-20T09:31:00.003+08:00

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

2008-05-07T18:12:00.006+08:00

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

2008-04-29T16:58:00.003+08:00

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'

2008-04-25T09:17:00.002+08:00

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

2008-04-24T11:34:00.004+08:00

A must try. Soooper sarap.

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

Bulong by Pedro Valdez

2008-04-21T14:47:00.008+08:00

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.

2008-04-16T17:55:00.007+08:00

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

2008-04-09T18:36:00.003+08:00

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

2008-04-03T18:37:00.006+08:00

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

2008-03-31T18:15:00.006+08:00

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

2008-03-28T14:50:00.005+08:00

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.

2008-03-27T09:21:00.016+08:00

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

2008-03-26T09:03:00.002+08:00

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

2008-03-24T18:08:00.000+08:00

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

2008-03-18T13:22:00.001+08:00

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

2008-03-14T16:33:00.000+08:00

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

2008-03-09T16:55:00.002+08:00

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

2008-03-07T23:44:00.003+08:00

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?