Adventures of the Bored Slacker

It's the HEAT. It must be THE HEAT...

2011-06-01T07:21:00.000-07:00

I swear, it's the heat....

How else would you explain why I booked a flight to Taiwan on July 14 - 19? Okay, given that there's a 50% promo fare on all international flights, it still doesn't explain why I booked it since I usually ignore those damn promos!

Yes, I'll go to Taiwan on my birthday. I'll go there equipped with confidence and little money. I guess I'll say hello to poverty.

Gosh, why is it sooo hot today? What's with the weather?!

(Planning to book my flight to Korea this October. Someone seriously needs to slap me back to my senses)

Trip to Tagaytay - February 20, 2011

2011-02-20T05:01:00.000-08:00

We agreed to meet at Starbucks People Support around 10am. Being the punctual lady that I am, I arrived at the rendezvous 10:30am SHARP!

Kristine, Linel and Kuya were already there. Jen and Joey arrived five minutes later. Off we went to...dun dun dun dun...TAGAYTAY!!!

Mel isn't feeling well that's why she can't come with us (Mel, you really better NOT feel well because I will bug you for the rest of your life if you just backed out for no apparent reason! This has been my DREAMMMMM!!! <*insert exaggerated hand gestures here> And you didn't join us!!! <*sob sob sob>)

Jen called Chochoy and he said yes in an instant. He will be joining us later.

We decided to go to Tagaytay when we had dinner last Friday (Mel, Kristine, Linel, Jen and Joey). In my entire life, I haven't gone there for reasons I cannot fathom. Whenever they decide to go to Starbucks Tagaytay, I unfortunately cannot go. Hmmmm....this screams conspiracy!

Leslie's - home of heart attack Bulalo

Heniwayzzz, we arrived at Leslie's around 12 noon. There's already a huge crowd loitering in front. My gut feeling tells me we'll have to wait long before we can be seated, and I was right (it always spells misfortune whenever I'm right).

I took some photos first just in case we wouldn't be able to eat in a restaurant overlooking Taal Lake.

That right there is not Taal Volcano. Sadness =(

And yes, Linel shattered my happiness when she told me that the volcano (or whatever that is) that I'm taking picture of is not Taal Volcano...Not Taal Volcano? NOT TAAL VOLCANO???!!! <*runs away while crying>

It turned out we're number 13 on the waiting list. So Linel and Kuya used the GPS to search for the location of Antonio's Grill, then they walked there while Kristine, Jen, Joey and I stayed at Leslie's to take some more photos of the NOT Taal Volcano. We were about to follow Linel and Kuya when they sent us a message that they're going back because Antonio's Grill is really far. That's when Jen saw the sign of the establishment at the right side of Leslie's. The sign said - Antonio's Grill. Sucks, right?

But fortunately, when Linel asked Leslie's again, it turns out we're going to be seated next. Hooray for the GPS!!

After having lunch at Leslie's, we left the car there and took Kuya's car to go to Flower Farm Corporation. Surprisingly, the gate is closed so we thought publics are not allowed to go there or it may be closed during weekends. When we asked the guy by the gate, he said it's open but you can only enter if you have an appointment. My eyebrows immediately shoots up to the sky. APPOINTMENT???!! My Gesh!

We went to Sonia's instead. We bought bread at Panaderia - cheese hopia and pandesal.

Afterwards, we ate at Bag of Beans. Just a caution about this place though, they have some huge badass mosquitoes (probably from the Jurassic era). I'm really mortified. I mean, they're really huge that you can't miss them! I bet they'll suck the blood out of you like a vampire (not those sparkling vampires that you're probably thinking of).

We stopped by Leslie's to get the cars. There were some people from the wedding that were standing at Chochoy's car. We laughed imagining they were probably taking pictures in front of his car since it's white and would pass as a bridal car.

Chochoy: What if I go there and say "Well, well, well.. Look do we have here!"

LOLLLLZZZZZZZ!!!!

On our way home, we bought some sweets at Rowena's. I bought strawberry cheese tart. There's a bunch of mini coopers at the parking lot. And we encountered this same of group of mini coopers when we stopped over at SLEX. We were wondering how is that we didn't notice them on our way there. Sneaky little cute toy cars!

Oh, and one more thing. Looks like Tagaytay has also been infected by the Bieber Fever. At both Leslie's and Bag of Beans, the musicians that sings for the restaurant customers and asks for donations sings the infamous Baby, baby, baby, OOOOooohhh......please kill me now. They should be the one giving me money for listening to that song. Don't get me wrong, I don't hate it. But one can only endure so much.

13th Zodiac Sign - Ophiuchus / Serpentarius

2011-01-15T08:32:00.000-08:00

There was a disturbance in the force....

And I found myself having a different ZODIAC SIGN!!!

Apparently, there's a 13th Zodiac Sign called Ophiuchus or Serpentarius - The Serpent Bearer and it falls between Scorpio and Sagittarius. Those who are born in November 30 - December 17 are Opiuchans (?). Sounds cool.

So from being a Cancer which is a water element, I became a Gemini - an air element. I dunno whatever the heck this means to my life or to my personality. I'm still crazy in the coconut though.

Tambay Conversations with the Guys

2010-12-31T00:38:00.000-08:00

Here are some excerpts of the conversations that happened in front of the office building during slow days when we just want to fast-forward the time so we can go home.

(Disclaimer: Please bear in mind that these are for pure fun and always ended with us laughing our ass off)

___________________________________

One of my friends asked O about something that Caloy told him, and it turned out it was wrong.

O: E tanga pala si Caloy e! Teka tawagan ko lang ha...Hello caloy, antanga mo pala e!

___________________________________

I noticed that O had a new haircut.

Me: Uy bagong gupit ah!

O: Sobrang iksi nga e.

Me: Ok naman ang length e.

O: Well buti na lang gwapo ako bagay kahit na anong gupit

D other friend: Oo nga nasa nagdadala lang yan

O: Mabait talaga ang Diyos. Sa totoo lang bobo ako e, pero buti na lang gwapo ako. Pano na kung mataas IQ ko? E di unfair naman sa inyo.

___________________________________

May limousine na dumaan:

O: Ang hirap sigurong i-parallel parking nyan pare. Kung ako yan, mga isandaang ulit sigurong pakabig-kabig.

___________________________________

PANA conversation (hint: country)

O: Sabi ko nga kay Tin, "Naku Tin, ginto ka dun. Baka pagbaba mo ng plane, luhuran ka agad dun."

==

M batchmate: Nung mga first week, di ba aircon sa office, mahilo-hilo nga ako e.

Me: Naku e di malamang gusto mo buksan ang bintana nun. Nasa 17th floor ka e noh, 'can we open the window?'

==

O: Gantihan lang yan e. Kung di sila naligo ng Monday, sa Friday ka na lang din maligo.

M batchmate: Sa elevator nga may dala akong....

Me: Listahan? Nililista mo kung sino mga di naligo nung araw na yun?

M batchmate: Hindeee!!! Lotion, para inaamoy ko nalang kamay ko

Me: Ah, akala ko listahan e..did you take a bath today? no..mmm lista ka.

Christmas Eve 2010 - Julie's Concoction

2010-12-24T02:44:00.000-08:00

I haven't seen a helmet as useless as this. The inner lining is styrofoam (yes, you read it right) and the snap is a paper clamp. We managed to go to the city with me wearing this. Thankfully, nobody wanted to smash my skull because this piece of sh!t will not be able to withstand the tiniest impact.

And of course, we went to Jollibee.

Here's my cousin Karen and her daughter Pia. A lot of people say Karen looks a lot like me and have mistaken her as my sister.

Behold, my brother's recipe! Squidball with Suicidal Sauce!! Why suicidal sauce, you asked? I was wondering the same thing. He said because when you taste the sauce, you will want to commit suicide because of its awesomeness. My brother, ladies and gentleman.

Karen's sister, Shirley is cooking fish and failing miserably. It already looks like coal.

Ta-daaaa!!! Julie's Spaghetti Concoction. Top Chefs will shed tears upon tasting my cooking. This is not a spaghetti sauce, this is a MASTERPIECE!

If you're wondering what that thing is where the pot is sitting, it's a tin can with cement where you put coal and light a fire to cook. Only in the Philippines?

And here's a Barbeque Grill - Pinoy Style.

By the way, I'm officially abandoning my diet until the end of the Holidays! Let's have a cholesterol-filled Christmas!!

SKYDIVING!!! WOOOHOOOO!!

2010-08-08T11:15:00.001-07:00

My Instructor Lance and my Videographer Frank

It was already 7:30AM when we left the hotel and went to Cedartown, Georgia. As soon as we arrived, I proceed to the window and gave the lady the Rain Check. We were asked for our IDs and were scheduled at Load 3 afterwards.

I thought there was this ongoing lesson because there was this old guy recounting the things that needs to be remembered about skydiving. "Remember, when you guys shout NO NO NO, it sounds like GO GO GO to us". LOLZ, that was kinda funny. He also reminded this guy who is obviously excited to jump to NOT scream like a girl when he's up there. 'Only girls are allowed to scream', he said.

At first, the board said that my Instructor was Julie and my Videographer was Leslie. I don't know what happened but things changed a few minutes afterwards. I guess they were reshuffling coz the instructor should match the height/weight of the student.

There was this guy in orange shirt shouting "JULLIIEEEE". I turned around, looked at him and left. I thought he was calling for the instructor Julie. I didn't know at that time he will be my new instructor.

Jimboy went to look for me and he was already in a harness. When I went inside again, I looked at the board and the names changed. My instructor is now Lance. Now I had a feeling that Lance was the guy in the orange shirt shouting my name whom I deliberately ignored. He he he.

After a few minutes, Load 2 is already leaving. And I'm still not in my harness. Good thing Lance came looking for me again. He set me up and he was very nice as he went through the instructions. He even demonstrated it to me. Lance makes me feel comfortable even if I'm freaking out.

Then my videographer came. It was Frank. He's obviously a no-nonsense guy. He was supposed to be Jimboy's instructor last Friday who said the same thing as my instructor, Junior. They both said their hands are off-limits when we are skydiving because they need their hands.

While waiting, Frank did my video interview. I didn't even realize half the shit of what I was saying. Fck! I'm soooo freaking out!! 14000 feet above the ground???!!! My ass is gonna be hurled outside the plane at 14000 feet above the ground??!!! Holy shit!

So anyway, I think I said 'Happy 5th...(*pause...stutter) Anniversary' to my batchmates. ARRGGHHH!!! I can't even say anything straight!!

When we were about to load in the plane, Lance was teasing me coz I was walking like I was about to go to my death sentence. Well....I really am!

Off we went to the plane. I was beeing squeezed by the guy in front of me so I can barely breathe. I don't even have time to get scared because everything happened so fast. The next thing I know, Lance was asking me to bend my knees and put my legs up his ass. Good thing I remembered that I should look up during freefall.

Lance and I, Freefalling!!!!!!!! Me, freaking out!

As soon as I saw the sky, I FCKING SCREAMED MY LUNGS OUT!!!!!!!!!! AAAAAAAAAAAAHHHHHHHHHHH!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! We were above the clouds! Then I saw Frank taking our videos. I was smiling from ear to ear the whole time doing all these hand gestures like the peace sign and all that sheezz. I knew that I looked like a fcking retard but I don't care!! WOOHOOO!! This is skydiving!!

Peace!

Frank waved goodbye and Lance pulled our parachute. We were tugged pretty hard but that's fine; it's better than detaching from Lance and screaming my way down the solid ground. Lance taught me how to maneuver the parachute. It was so fun!! We really took our time as we flew around.

Landing Time! Wooppss..

Then it's time to land. "Pull your legs up, gravity is a downer", that's what I heard Lance said. Again, I was screaming like there's no tomorrow. Frank was waiting at the ground taking a video of our landing. We slide down and landed on our asses. Smoothhhhhh!!

Frank and I highfived and I hugged Lance. "Welcome to Skydiving, Julie", Frank said. BOOYAHHH!!!

Note: the excited guy was wearing a tuxedo when I went inside. cool

Skydiving got CANCELED!!! Bummer....

2010-08-06T10:45:00.001-07:00

Our appointment at the Skydiving Center is 12 noon so we left the hotel around 11AM. I was all set; my camera is ready and an extra shirt just in case I need to change my shirt.

We got lost for a couple of minutes since we were looking for Airport Road as indicated in MapQuest. MapQuest failed us. So Jimboy had to call ASC so we can get directions.

We arrived a little after 12PM and a bunch of people are already there. We met Sarah and we were asked to fill-up and sign a Registration Form where we pretty much waived all our legal rights. Basically, the form is saying 'if we fucked up, don't sue our asses since you knew the risks beforehand!'. That summarizes all there is to it. And, we signed it.

We passed the form at the window and we were asked if we want to go an extra 4000 feet. My reaction was 'CRAP!!!'. As expected, Jimboy said yes. So we paid extra $10 for the additional altitude. It was a total of $309.75 for the weekday Tandem Skydiving + Video and Photos + extra 4000 feet.

Watching others screaming their lungs out and sliding on their butts

While waiting, I watched the others who went before us. At first, I can only hear the plane but I can't see it. It must've been above the clouds. Then, a couple of parachutes popped here and there on the sky. It looks really fun and at the same time scary. There was this chic who glided just above the Viewing Deck. I can't help but say 'Holy Shit!!' as I watched them go over and pray that they won't crash. I also watched a video of the lady who just did Tandem Skydiving. It was awesome! Now I really wanna do it!

My supposed-to-be instructor, Junior

Our names are written on the television and we were at Load 8. My Instructor was Junior (JR) and my videographer was Ashton - the lady whom I asked about the emergency parachute. Junior put me in a harness and went over the instructions. I was really scared at that point. My instructor needs to go to Load 7 first and he has to run to get me for Load 8. That was the plan.. And it fcking didn't happen because of this freaking weather!!!

There was a storm passing by and we were still waiting...and waiting...and waiting...and waiting... Then there was thunder. That doesn't sound very promising. I asked Sarah if I could get out of my harness. She loosened it first then asked my instructor if she could take it off me. Then she went back and took the whole thing off.

I went outside and looked at the clouds. Yep, those clouds are not a very good sign. It was really dark and it was only around 5pm. We were waiting here for 5 hours! Damn! I was looking at the clouds asking them to GO AWAY! Mother Nature failed me.

MapQuest and Mother Nature are conspiring. So Jimboy and I went home with a Rain Check - rescheduled this Sunday.

BUMMER!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Skydiving??!! AM I INSANE????!!!

2010-07-31T18:48:00.000-07:00

HOLY SHIT!!!!!! I AM SO FREAKING OUT HERE!! WHAT HAVE I DONEEEEEE!!!!!!!!!

<*breathe in, breathe out> Okay, I'm calm...I'm calm... Here's the story. During my first week here in Georgia, Jimboy and I agreed to do skydiving. That was sometime in July before my birthday. I figured, why not? Afterall, it's one of my bucket list. Besides, I'll be turning 27 so I might as well do something life-threatening, right?

Originally, we plan to do it during my birthday but since I'm still not emotionally prepared, I asked Jimboy if we could do it on the first week of August. He agreed. Today is July 31 and we are going to skydive NEXT WEEK!! HOLY CRAPPPPP!!!!!!!!

So anyway...I searched the net for a skydiving center here in Georgia and found one that looks like they've never have any casualties/deaths before so I decided to call them. I asked the girl a lot of stupid questions but I don't give a damn! Fck, I am scared shitless by just imagining myself jumping out of a plane! I even asked her if girls are required to wear tampons to which she laughed. I regretted asking her that. I inquired about the rates for Tandem Jumping and here's the details that I got:

Tandem Skydiving
weekends - $195 (without tax)
weekdays - $159 (without tax)
videos and photos - $90

Clothes to wear: denim/blue jeans, shirt and tennis shoes or rubber shoes

I called Jimboy and informed him and we decided to go for it. I made an appointment for August 6 (Friday) 12 noon. The total is $261.45 (Tandem Skydiving + Videos/Photos + Tax).

Now....I'm going C-R-A-Z-Y!!! GAHHHDD!!!! I can imagine myself lying unconscious in my own puddle of blood! Heaven help me!! What if I suddenly detached from my skydiving partner? What if the parachute won't open???!! FCKKKKKK!!!!!!! <*faints and dies>

Santa Celebrates 4th of July at Downtown Kennesaw

2010-07-04T10:57:00.000-07:00

Miss Claire and I went to Downtown Kennesaw yesterday to see the fireworks in celebration of the 4th of July. I did not expect to see a LOT of people out there. They brought their own chairs and tables as they chill to the band's music while waiting for the fireworks show to start.

It turns out this is a historic place. I'm not sure if this is where The Chase took place involving the General (name of the Locomotive).

We found a good spot and sat by the wall looking at people as they come out of the tunnel. I bought a hamburger and some nachos to munch while waiting. I can't help but notice the 3 teenage guys playing around with a neon colored necklace which they use to 'catch' cute girls. Oh man, such a lame move.

We saw other interesting people like a guy who looks like a pirate slash biker guy with his silver and gold teeth and with all the blings. BUT, what's more surprising is that Santa sat near us! He waves to the kids as they go by. Good ol' Santa. He even gave me his calling card!

The fireworks display started around 9:30PM and ended around 10:05 PM. It was magnificent. After the show, Miss Claire and I went to Brusters to eat some Chocolate Raspberry ice cream. Yummmm!

Baseball Game - Braves vs. Rays!!

2010-06-16T22:47:00.000-07:00

Just for the heck of it, we agreed to go to the baseball game. I'm glad we did coz it was so awesome! I never watched a baseball game before except for animes like Ookiku Furikabute and One Outs. That pretty much sums up my idea of baseball.

The game will be held at Turner Field in Atlanta. At 4PM, we left the office and went to Jarad's house where we left the car. We then hopped on Dawn's car and she zoomed at the highway amidst Atlanta traffic. With the help of Becky's 25 year old smile which she flashes everytime it's needed, we were able to get through. It turns out she was teasing Dawn about her 25-year-old way of driving.

Before the game, we ate at The Varsity. The food is something that will surely clog your arteries but it's delicious. I had the chili burger, fries and diet coke. I tried Dawn's frosted orange drink too.

Everything that could go wrong went absolutely wrong. The traffic is so congested that Jarad instructed Dawn to take the sidestreets. I think our souls temporarily leaves our body everytime Dawn had to turn to the right or left. She just speeds through the streets then abruptly turns to heaven-knows-where. She actually had to hold Becky everytime she turns (perhaps to stop her from flying out of the window LOLZ...). I also find it funny that Becky refers to the cars in first person whenever she's pissed off, for example 'Oh come on, bus! Move!' or 'Turn fast, truck!'.

We parked at the $10 parking lot and walked towards the Turner Field. Cops are everywhere as they try to control the traffic. Dawn, Jarad and Becky got the tickets (which the Vice President paid for). We went inside all the way to Golden Moon Casino to look for 322. We were at row 4, we got some pretty good seats.

Becky is wearing her Rays shirt. Since she's from Tampa, Florida, she's cheering her team. Problem is, she's probably the only Rays fan in the perimeter. We probably had to guard her life since this is the Braves' turf. You gotta salute this woman though coz she's not at all afraid to cheer for Rays despite the burning glares of the gazillion Braves fans within the vicinity. The batter of the Rays got a hit and the Braves fielder tried to catch it. Becky screamed 'Miss it!' at the top of her lungs that people around us turned to see who it was. Yep, people. We had a Rays fan right here. Now, put down your shotguns. She mean no harm.

The Braves got a score of 3 at the bottom of the 3rd inning. They're obviously winning. But Becky won't give up till the bitter end. It seems like it's going to rain so we transferred to the seats at the right which are covered. It was then that a rude guy starts shouting 'Go to hell Tampa!' whenever Becky cheers for Rays. I knew things are going to get ugly anytime soon. Man, I was so right.

I think my heart skipped a beat at the 9th inning. Not because of the game but because Becky had enough and started to face the rude guy. 'Go back to Tampa!', the redneck shouted. 'Yes, I'm going back tomorrow. And I'm happy that I live in Tampa!', was Becky's reply. Anyone can tell that guy was drunk. Good thing the audience around us are nice. A boy even said, 'but I love Tampa!' , and another guy went to Becky to tell her 'don't let him ruin your night.'

Anyway, the Braves won. In the middle of the game, I went out to buy a shirt. I wanted to buy a Chipper shirt but I forgot his surname. I saw a lady buying #6 Cox shirt so I just went for it too. I was considering Heyward, Jones, Hanson or McCann. I went back to my seat and was looking for Cox but I can't find him. Imagine my surprise when out came this old man wearing a Cox shirt. It turns out he's the coach! GrrrrrRR..I told this to Dawn and she told me I could buy a shirt outside, at the street stores. I originally wanted a Braves white jersey but it was so pricey - probably $69 or $62. So I just bought a Chipper Jones shirt.

All in all, it was a fun experience. It was my first time being in a stadium and watching a real baseball game!

Thai Dinner

2010-06-08T19:17:00.000-07:00

I wanted to eat rice for dinner so I asked Subra if we can drop by a Thai restaurant to order dinner for take out. Again, I forgot how gigantic the servings are so I ordered for two steamed rice. Back in the Phil, it would've been just two cups of steamed rice.

Then my order was given to me. Look at how freakishly huge they are:

Lessons learned.

Uneventful Day in Kennesaw

2010-06-06T17:36:00.000-07:00

I woke up around 12PM and ate the leftover GIANT burger I got in Burger King yesterday. Since Jimboy isn't here yet, I decided to call up a cab to do grocery shopping at Target. The cab driver is a Muslim and when he drove me back to the hotel, he even gave me a Koran (in Spanish) and a Muslim calendar. Cool stuffs. I just learned that God has 99 names. Hmmmm....

I met a new friend - Tory (from Tennessee). It turns out Jimbo is Jim's son (from Florida), I thought they were just friends. Jessica is from Mississippi.

Anyway, everything here in Kennesaw are nice. TownePlace Suites is nice except for the elevator that waits for the apocalypse before it closes. That damn thing is making the weirdest noise as if it's gonna be blown to pieces (with you in it) whenever it goes up/down.

It's already 9PM here but it's still bright outside. Well, at least it's not as hot as the weather back home.

I miss home =( I miss my oven a.k.a. my room

Trip to Atlanta, Georgia (June 5,2010)

2010-06-05T05:55:00.000-07:00

Manila to Japan

Guess where I am - in the Delta SkyLounge. Today is my flight to Atlanta. I am still depressed over the fact that I was not upgraded to first class *sigh. The 'kuya' behind the checkin counter kept convincing me to volunteer in bumping off my flight sched in exchange for $600, I don't know why the effing hell I said no to that offer. To add to the awesomeness of my day, the local immigration almost held me up!!! CRAPPPPP!!!!!!! I can feel my insides turning upside down when she said she needed to 'refer me' coz I know that it will take a long time because of a lot of stupid questioning. It turns out someone with the same first and last name as I has a pending case (eventhough our middle name are DIFFERENT, grrrrrrrrrrrrr. Seriously, a normal thinking mind would think that two people with DIFFERENT middle name are two DIFFERENT people!!)..Luckily, the immigration officer saw that due to my birthdate, she can't hold me up since I am still a minor when the the case of the person with the same first and last name (I'd like to again emphasize that we have different middle names) was submitted.

So here I am in the Delta SkyLounge, trying to relax while using a Mac desktop. My flight to Japan is around 7:40AM (boarding time of 6:45AM), we'll arrive there around 1:10PM (12:10PM Manila Time). The flight going to Atlanta is 3:55PM (2:55PM Manila Time) so I'll be roaming around Japan airport for more than 2 hours. I hope I can meet a lot of anime guys again (right JC Honeycutt? *fangirl scream)

I just remembered, the airlines have this policy that the checked-in luggage should match the number of passengers. In other words, the plane won't leave unless all passengers with boarding pass are already in the plane - like the incident I had in Detroit where a passenger went missing and the pilot had to turn around the plane just to pick up that passenger's sorry a*s (who was still at the airport). What if I do the same? *evil smirk

Our flight is delayed by 1 hour, argggggggghhhh!!! Eventually, the pilot informed us of the reason why we're delayed. Here's what the pilot said:

"I know you're tired of hearing my voice over and over again but you might want to know why we're still here. Apparently, 10 of the passengers are....misbehaving. My eyes are directed by the entry doors waiting for them."

LOLZ at the "misbehaving" part. On a different note, my seatmate on the plane just kept on bugging me.

Japan Layover

I ran out of the plane and ditched my seatmate. The espionage novels I read was put to use when I tried to evade him every now and then. I used the reflection on the mirrors and stuff. When my peripheral vision winds up on his yellow bag, I immediately changed on a diffent line to get through security.

BUT, I still bumped into him. Crapness... He even asked for my number (which I did NOT give). I just made up a very lame excuse that my line was cut. But he insists on giving his number. WHAT THE.... Dude, can't you take a hint?

Japan to Atlanta

Fortunately, my seatmate on the longest leg of my flight is nice. To top it all, we have overhead monitors and a selection of movies and tv series we could watch!!! It was a comfortable travel and I did not get bored as I watched Asian Movies like Kaiji, Jump and Go Find a Psychic and a Hollywood movie Percy Jackson and the Olympians - Lightning Thief.

Kennesaw, Georgia

I could never get used to the size of food here in America. I went to Burger King and ordered a whopper combo. The guy asked me what size of drink would I like - small, medium or large. I went for a large drink. He then gave me a BUCKET! Seriously, the glass is bigger than my arm! Oh man...Here in the States, when they say LARGE, they really mean it. Back in the Philippines, large drink is just enough for one person. Here, it's enough for an entire family.

My hotel suite is nice and comfortable. And the people are nice too. I just met Jim, Jimbo, Claire and Jessica. They've been around here for a while.

Timbaland Concert

2010-03-27T19:20:00.000-07:00

It was a lazy Saturday. I was actually pondering the idea of skipping class but realized that it'll be a waste if I do.

I arrived in class on time and apparently, there are a lot of absences including JC, Isel and Danielle. Oh man! It was only Bam and I who were left. I got a text from JC and she said she needs to finish a lot of work so she's skipping class. I told this to Bam and Sir Bobby asked me what JC said en español! CRAP!! JC I shall kill you!!!!

I was stuttering while translating just one statement in Spanglish and it went

Me: JC said...tengo...tengo...
Sir Bob: Tiene..
Me: Tengo...
Sir Bob: TIENE!

Que horror!!! I was finally able to do it. Actually, I got lucky compared to Bam who was asked what she did ESTA SEMANA <*bulging eyes>. Bam frantically opened her notebook so that she can at least use some keywords but Sir Bob asked her to be spontaneous. I thought I heard her mind screaming OHHHH FFCCKKKK!!!!! But, Bam was able to do it <*clap clap clap>!!! The afternoon went on without further screw ups.

During break, Bam told me if I want to go to Timbaland Concert. The idea of spending 4thousand pesos over a concert of an artist I'm really not a fan of is not very welcoming. But Bam told me she has extra tickets coz her brothers ditched her. FREE TICKETS again!! Woot Wootttt!!!! I agreed without batting an eyelash!

She asked me if she wanted extra ticket coz she actually has three. I know that Danielle wanted to go to that concert coz she invited me a week ago so I called Danielle when Sir Bob was about to resume class. When she answered, I asked her 'Donde estas?' (Where are you?), in panic she answered 'Asi asi' (Just fine). ROFLZZZZZ!!!! I would've laughed out loud if I was not so excited to tell her about the free tickets. I think Danielle realized her mistake after our conversation.

Anyway, Danielle already has a ticket but Isel doesn't have one so the three of us - Bam, Isel and I will go to the concert together!!!

Around 6pm, Isel texted me saying they're already on their way to MOA. I got a cab around 6:30PM but there was so much traffic!! It seems half of Manila decided to go to MOA at the exact same time!! Fcking awesome...<*sigh> I arrived at IMAX theater around 7:20PM and went to Starbucks near IMAX Theater entrance inside the mall. I texted Danielle that I'm already at Starbucks but I can't see them. They said they're at the Starbucks outside of the mall in front of VIP entrance. I crossed the street using the overpass and went outside. I was already in front of the VIP entrace across the street but there's no Starbucks!! Dang! I was at the Manila Bay side and Isel told me where she's at doesn't seem to be the Manila Bay side. I crossed the street again using the overpass, which is a very tedious task if I may add, and asked the guard where Starbucks is. I know, it seems to be a stoooopid question since there's probably gazillion Starbucks in this huge mall that can almost be declared a city on its own. Trivia: there are 4 Starbucks in MOA. I was finally able to met Isel at Starbucks near Fitness First in an isolated building outside the Mall, Hoorahhhh!!!

It was very crowded and really creepy. The bouncers and security guys held up a guy who I think is drunk. GAhhhDD!!! This is freaky!! Not to mention there are a lot of suspicious-looking weirdos amongst the people waiting outside the entrance. Why the hell are these people hanging around here anyway???

We met Bam around 8:30pm and she gave us our tickets. THANKS BAM!! We went inside the Gold entrance, finally! Earth hour is from 8:30pm to 9:30pm. We were waiting...and waiting...and waiting....And waiting!! Oh my effing goodness!!! When the hell will this start? Earth hour is already over! What are we waiting for? Start already and stop bullshitting us with the boring spiels of the 4 hosts! The only interesting thing that one host (the only male host) managed to say that grabbed our attention is when he mistakenly said HAR instead of HOUR. The other 3 female hosts were having a ball over his stupid mistake. Har har har, funnnyyyyyy

Then, somebody spoke. He was at the turntable at the very left side of the stage. Bam thought it was already Timbaland but when the spotlight was directed to the guy, he was just some other DJ. Bam exclaimed, "Okaayy, it's just some random black guy". LOLZZZ!!! It's really amusing what a person will say when disappointed.

Finally Timbaland appear. It was a brilliant performance but I feel bad for him and his 'brother' Sebastian because of the lousy audience. Even when Jojo appeared, only those who are in the VIP section are loud. (Jojo is looking mighty HOT by the way). When the camera spans to the audience, I wanted to smack the blank faces of everyone. MY GOSH people!! Loosen up, this is a concert! They're not gonna give us exams after this to test if you're all paying extra attention to every details! Yes, I know that the weather is so hot that you can actually fry egg on top of anyone's head but come on, groove or at least scream your lungs out! Jeezz, prayer meeting rallies would've done a better job.

Timbaland: Manila do you love me??!!
Audience: <*crickets crickets> Yeahhh <*whisper>

GREAT. Go drown yourself in your sea of depression. What the hell is up with the audience?!

A while ago, Isel asked me if i'm a fan of Justin Timberlake. I said no but I like his songs. When Justin timberlake appeared. I screamed like no other. I think I was screaming at Isel's ear the whole time. I bet she's thinking '..and you're not a fan?'

<*fan transfer in progress>

When Justin sang Sexy Back, I swear I was jumping like a lunatic while screaming my heads off!!! AAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH!!!!!!!!!!!!!! I'm bringin' sexy back!! Them motherfuckers don't know how to act!! YEAHHHHHHH!!!

<*fan transfer complete!>

Justin Timberlake, you just gained a new fan!

The concert ended around 12AM. Isel told us Justin is staying at Hotel Sofitel. Go ahead fangirls - sharpen your spears, bring out the ammunitions and raid that hotel. Let's meet at the lobby okay?

We went to the parking lot while ranting about the lack of reaction from the audience. We were really disappointed. I really hope the artists will still wanna come back to Manila.

We went to Whistlestop at Jupiter and hang out until 2AM. It was a fun experience. Thanks again Bam!!!!! (Added note: JC, sangra mi nariz? what the heck???!!!)

KPop FanGirling Experience!

2010-03-06T18:59:00.000-08:00

Last Wednesday (March 3, 2010), I opened my facebook and saw something, my jaw dropped to the ground as I read this message from Jack:

Subject: guys, check this out :)
Hey everyone! Would anyone of you be interested to attend FT ISLAND's concert this Saturday, March 6, 7pm, PICC? FTisland is a Korean boy band. My sister is the producer. I can give you FREE tickets in case you want. Ticket is valued at PhP2500. Walang catch. Carol and I are watching. It was she who told me that some of you might be interested. Text or call me through 0920XXXXXXX. Thanks!

KPop in the Philippines!!!!!!!!!!!!! Woot Woot!!! I'm a major KPop fan, I love Big Bang and 2NE1 but I don't mind watching FT Island since I'm familiar with Lee Hongki from the Korean Drama 'You're Beatiful'. And since it's FREE, count me in! Yes, I'm a sucker for free stuffs, bite me.

But if it's 2NE1 or Big Bang who's gonna hold their concert, I will freaking sell my liver to afford the tickets!!!!!!! Heck, I think a lot of people will even camp outside the concert hall a week before the show.

Anywayz, I don't know how I managed to reply, my message just magically appeared below Jack's announcement when I woke up from my trance. Holy smokes!! This is the KPop fangirling experience that I wanted to experience! I wasn't able to go to any music shows when I went to Korea since I focused on roaming Seoul.

My message went like this:
jack meron pa ba? OMG!! I'm a KPOP fan!!!

I frantically searched my phone and sent text messages to Jack and continued spazzing. Luckily, Jack replied and informed me that there are still tickets (FREE tickets, FREE tickets!!!) and asked me how many tickets should she reserve. I told her that I'm gonna ask the rest of the girls but to please reserve one for me because I'm definitely coming. Hoorayyy!!!! I'm really hyped up! She told me that Carol is also coming. Hoorrayyyy!!! I texted the rest of my classmates in Spanish class, but unfortunately they can't go this Saturday. <*groan> But JC said YES, thank heavens for JC!!!!!!!! So I informed Jack to reserved two tickets for us! BOOYAHHH!!!

When I got home, I saw another message from her in FB:
K-pop fans are so cute! See you on Saturday. :)

Yes, KPop fans are cute, especially when you hear their ear-shattering screams as their idols go on stage - that's what I wanna experience! I replied to her message:
Hahahahaha!! Thanks Jack, see you!! JC and I will be there!

So Saturday came. Since our Spanish Class is from 1 to 4PM, then JC and I can go straight to PICC after eating in the cafeteria. Jack told us to meet her around 5:30PM since the concert starts at 7PM in PICC Plenary Hall.

Off we went to PICC at around 5PM. I was chatting with JC while she was driving. I told her it's good that she agreed to which she replied, "Well, it's free so why not?". Ahhhh, the miracle of free stuffs worked yet again! There are already a bunch of people in front of PICC when we arrived. We asked the guard where we can park and he told us that there's a parking space at Gate 3.

JC drove the vehicle around as I was searching for Gate 3. We finally found it. When we were entering, the guard asked us, 'Ma'am sa FTI concert po?' My immediate thought was, what the fuck is FTI???? They just came up with the abbreviations by themselves but it still sounds weird for me. It just sounds so...wrong. LOLZ..Well not really wrong but it's just that FTI is a place up north. Okay people, FT Island is not too hard to say so let's just stick with that name, shall we? It's just one syllable more than FTI, jeezz!!

When JC found a spot to park, we noticed that there are a few vehicles in Gate 3 which is just in front of the Secretariat building. It seems not everyone know that 'Gate 3' exists. Lucky for us! I sent a message to both Jack and Carol that we're already in PICC. Jack said they will arrive after 20 minutes.

Okay, so here's the weird part. There's this guard assigned on Gate 3 who kept on talking to us. He first asked if FT Island is the one who sang 'I don't c-e-e-e-are' (yes, that's how he asked it. With the c-e-e-e-are part). I answered no, FT Island is a boy band while the one who sang 'I don't Care' is 2NE1 - my fave KPop girl group by the way! The guard doesn't just stop there, he went to us again and kept asking us questions like where do we live, where do we work, etc. He even asked where did I graduate high school and who am I gonna vote for Mayor! DUHHH!!! D-uu-hhhh!! I mean, come on, will you please cut the weirdness and just do whatever it is you're supposed to do - which I think is guarding the parking area!

Seriously, it's okay to talk to us and we've pretty much entertained his questions but he just kept on going towards us with all these weird shit! ARRGHH!!! Is he hitting on us? Coz I swear, I am going to STAB him!!

Finally, he said something that is quite relevant. He asked us where our tickets are because the hall is already open and people are already being ushered on their seats. So I sent a message to Jack again. We thought that they're also gonna park on Gate 3, but they didn't. Jack told me that they're already in PICC, in front. So JC and I went to the Secretariat building because there's a way there going to the Plenary Hall. The Gate 3 guard even accompanied us to the Secretariat main entrance.

BUT, there's this shitfaced dumb guard in Secretariat building who wouldn't let us in without any tickets even if the Gate 3 guard already told him that our friend is already inside and our friend got the tickets. This is where things blew out of proportion. I called Jack and asked her if she could meet us in the Secretariat since the shitfaced bastard of a guard wouldn't let us in. She agreed and we waited. But then, Jack called again and told me to just get our tickets at the ticketing booth. She left the tickets there. The guard still wouldn't let us in because we don't have any ID!!!!! Fck you shitfaced bastard, rot in hell!!!!!!! <*breathe in, breathe out>

Fortunately, my endorphin level is still high so I just shrugged it off and JC and I went back to the car to get my ID. I showed it to the guard (I would've shoved it down his throat if I was my normal self) and he guided us to where the PICC Plenary Hall is. In front of the Plenary Hall, man, it was a totally different world. I looked at JC. I never knew telepathy actually worked until today because I can clearly hear her thoughts. We both knew there is something WRONG with this picture. Almost ALL of the audience are...TEENAGERS!!!!!! Kyahhh!!!

FT Island Ticket

JC and I excitedly took pictures! We're in the sea of youngsters, how cool is that?! JC asked the guard in the Plenary Hall entrance where the ticketing booth is. We finally found it, it's at the main door of PICC. Jack left us three tickets, which is odd, but anyways... Before going in, we snapped a few more pictures by the main hall.

When we finally went inside the Plenary Hall, we asked the usher where our seats are. When he said we should go downstairs, oh man we were beyond ecstatic!!!! It's as if Jack gave us free golden tickets to the Chocolate Factory! And the awesomeness didn't stop right there, our seat number is D-10, D-11 and D-12 (remember what I told you about three tickets?). Row D, ladies and gentleman!!! Go figure. Yup, we're at the fourth row!!!

Plenary Hall - Sea of Teenagers

When we arrived at our seats, JC and I became Jack's fangirls! We were gushing like crazy!! At that moment we felt like Jack is the most adorable thing ever to walk planet Earth!!! THANK YOU JACKKKK!!! So the 'Jack-fangirling' saga continues as I answered her call and JC and I started talking simultaneously on the phone to tell Jack how much we love her!! You see how easy it is to get on our good side? It takes only 2500 pesos.

We were searching for Jack on the sea of faces but we can't find her. She said she's at the control booth and JC pointed at the tinted booth on the second floor. We were both convinced that she's there but then Jack said that she's near the small stairs. Okay that narrows it down alright considering there's a bunch of stairs on the Plenary Hall. We now thought Jack is directly in front of us, by the stage, since there's a small stair there. JC and I are spinning in all directions to look for our newly proclaimed heroine but she's nowhere to be found. Finally, she appeared at the aisle on our left side and that stopped us from spinning like a top that has lost its mind.

We gave her the extra ticket and thanked her endlessly punctuated by other words of praises on how amazing she is. We were really happy!! Anywayz, she told us to enjoy the show and she went ahead coz she still needs to help her sister.

If I'm not mistaken, the official color of FT Island is yellow because a lot of the audience are carrying yellow flags. JC and I continued taking photos here and there. Finally, the video of FT Island was played showing their appearances in MYX, etc. The exact mircosecond FT Island was shown on the video, the fans screamed like no other!! If it's not FT Island on the video, the audience will stay quiet. Then when any FT Island's faces are shown, the screaming frenzy ensues. Sweet heavens!! It's as if there's an imaginary 'fangirl scream' button on all of them that's being pushed whenever FT Island is displayed! AWEESSSOMMMEEEE!!!

The MC appeared and started the raffle for some goodies. Then Grace Lee continued hosting and taught the audience some Korean sentence, the gist of which is 'Welcome to Manila FT Island...' something something. I don't really pay much attention to those kind of bull. Apparently, she wants us to shout that Korean sentence when she calls the FT Island and interviews them. Yeah, goodluck on that. I bet these fans will suffer from memory loss once their idols are on stage.

Grace Lee: "So guys, when I call FT Island...."
Fans: AAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

That's what actually happened the moment she said the phrase 'when I call FT Island..'. I never knew a conditional statement can generate such enthusiasm. I understand them though, since they can only probably see FT Island through Youtube and spazz about them on fansites and forums. But now, they will see the KPop idols in flesh. I can just imagine myself when 2NE1 and Big Bang performs in Manila. That would drive me insane!! I swear, I will scream my lungs out! Call me a retard, but that's what I'm really gonna do.

FT ISLAND!!!!!

So Grace Lee finally called FT Island on stage. Holy crap, I sure hope Plenary Hall has some heavy duty walls coz the screaming extravaganza is off the charts! I thought I would be blown away from my seat. It was unbelievable!! It was insane! INSANE, I tell you!! The speakers' surround sound pale at the fangirl screams!

I actually did a little research about FT Island this morning before going to the concert. Thanks to the almighty Google and the ever-reliable wiki <*cough>, here's what I got:

F.T Island - Five Treasure Island is a five member South Korean boy band. The name F.T. Island stands for 'Five Treasure Island', with each of the five members being a treasure
Choi Jonghoon - Leader, Vocalist, Guitar, Keyboard. (Keyboard & Vocalist in FT Triple.) - March 7,1990
Lee Hongki - Lead Vocalist - March 2, 1990
Lee Jae Jin - Vocalist, Rapper, Guitar and Bass. (Guitar and Vocal in FT Triple.) - December 17, 1991
Song Seung Hyun - Rapper, Vocalist, Guitar - August 21, 1992
Choi Min Hwan - Vocalist, Drums, (Vocalist,Drummer in FT Triple) - November 11, 1992
credits: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/F.T._Island

Another trivia, Choi Minhwan (the drummer), apparently likes Dara of 2NE1. For the benefit of Kpoptards out there, Dara is none other than Sandara Park. Ring any bell? Yup, she's the 'In or Out, SCQ runner up, Ang Ganda Ko' Sandara Park.

After a few songs, which we totally didn't understand since all of them are Korean songs, they took a break and Grace Lee came out. She asked us to say the Korean sentence she taught us a while ago. Uhmmm, I'm pretty sure FT Island have exactly no idea what the fans are saying because they were chanting the statement on top of their fangirling extravaganza.

My, oh my. These fangirls have superb lung power. They're abusing it no end. JC and I were drooling over Jonghoon!! Woot Woot!!! Come here bey-behhh!!! We even went in front just to take a closer look at him. He's soooo cuteeee <*dies>. I'm actually on constant alert at the bouncer on the far right coz I think his killer eyes have zeroed in on both JC and I a few times.

It was just a one-hour concert, from 7:30PM to 8:30PM. Weird, right?? We went to Jack and Carol. Jack introduced us to her husband and we congratulated him for their newborn baby. Carol was being interviewed by a Korean reporter about her opinion on the show.

Afterwards, JC and I took pictures outside. We also saw the Primadonna fanclub Philippines taking picture at the stairs. We went to Gate 3 and thanked the security guard. On our way home, JC and I saw the fans crowding over where FT Island's car is supposed to exit.

As soon as I got home, I uploaded the pictures and changed my FB status. JC and I agreed to change our profile picture to Jonghoon's picture. JONGHOON OPPPAAAAA!!!!!!!!

(At this point, you might've noticed that I've abused the exclamation mark constantly in this post. But what can I say, it's really cool!!!!!!!!!!)

Nivel Tres Nightmare

2010-02-27T17:53:00.000-08:00

We've been informed that the morning class for Nivel 3 has been dissolved since only 8 students signed up. Damn it! Why?! Why must this happen to us? If only we're not 2 students short (yes, I'm talking to you Aie and Bingo!), we would've retained our class!

So anyway, the rest of the gang decided to just transfer to the afternoon class. I went to Instituto a bit earlier since I still have to get my copy of the receipt and schedule. Elvie, the admin staff, told me that our new professor is Sir Bobby. I asked her if he's a patient person coz he sure needs a lot of patience with us. Fortunately, the answer is yes and Elvie told me that from what she heard, he's a brilliant prof. Nice to hear that then, but can he handle us? Hehehehe

Danielle, Isel, Bam and JC went inside the room first and I just asked them to save a seat for me. As I went inside the room, I already noticed this guy sitting near the door but didn't pay much attention to him. My initial thought is, 'is he the professor?'. But I just shrugged it off and crossed the room towards where Bam is seated while talking in my not-so-loud but everyone-can-hear-me voice.

As soon as I planted my ass on my seat, the guy stood up and started bombarding us with Spanish questions! FUCK! He IS the professor! Sneaky bastard (*joking! Es broma!) I looked around, of course there are a lot of new faces. It's a different feel compared to when I first set foot on the classroom during Nivel Uno. You can tell from the other students' faces that they're in here for some serious business! Gahd!!

"Welcome to Nivel Tres", a little voice from my head said. Sir Bobby is still speaking....IN SPANISH, if I may add. So here we are trapped in this tiny room with this professor talking PURELY in Spanish. He reminds me of Sra. Hidalgo but Sra. Hidalgo still speaks in English once in a while (when she's making jokes). He then started checking attendance.

He didn't call our names since we're still not on the list. Then a guy came in (I think his name is Nick - an Ateneo Student. Can't believe he's a teenager, he's tall...Okay, nuff said) and he handed his registration form to Sir Bob. Danielle and I did the same so that we can be put in the list and that surprised him (I can only tell by his expression, not by what he's saying because he's still speaking in Spanish. *sigh* I'm officially a 'movement/action-reader' now).

He then stormed out of the room followed by his Spanish phrases which nobody understood. As soon as he went out of the room, I looked at Bam, Danielle and Isel (JC is stuck at the other side beside Jovy) and we started laughing. I told them I only understood 50% of what he's saying - NOTE: I'm not really good with 'approximations' so when I say 50%, expect it to be 100% wrong. Ooopps, just ignore my estimation shit. I don't understand him, PERIOD.

We continued talking animatedly about this whole new experience. Fortunately, everyone shared the same sentiments. I told them that when Sir Bob was in the middle of his long speech, I almost blurted out 'No hablo español!'.. Then I heard another classmate telling her friend that she only understood 10% of what the professor is saying. I wonder if she's not that good in 'approximation' as well.

The professor entered the room again and there was an immediate silence, probably in fear of being asked and having to answer in Spanish. It turns out there are 21 students in his class and that's really a lot. Anyway, he continued with the lesson and the first thing that we did is introducing ourselves!!! <*insert Twilight Zone theme song here>

He scribbled the questions on the board to guide us in introducing ourselves and as soon as he was done writing, I swear I thought I heard all our rusty brains making a clanking sound as it whirls around trying to come up with something to be able to answer those seemingly easy questions.

1. Presentarse / ¿Para qué estudiais español?

2. ¿Qué normalmente haceis todos los días?

3. ¿Cosas que te gustan y no te gustan?

OH EFFING HELL!!!! What should I do? I grabbed my Spanish Dictionary in full panic while trying to come up with answers to those questions. Meanwhile, Sir Bobby is already introducing himself, answering all the three questions with ease and even throwing some jokes while doing this. Yeah, I so wanted to listen to what he's saying but right now, my mind is in a state of emergency. Somebody please HELP MEEEE!!!

It was my turn to introduce myself. So I told these strangers my name, my age and my address. I didn't really want to divulge this information but if you're in a tight spot like I do, you just say everything that comes to mind. Heck, I would even recite my ATM PIN in Spanish if push comes to shove, since Spanish numbers are the only area I'm confident at - never mind the fact that anyone can easily get my dinero due to my stupidity.

Everything seems to be going rather smoothly until I arrived at this statement - 'Trabajo en Taguig..' The professor cut me off and asked me 'Donde en Taguig?'..Errrr..Okay, 'donde' means 'where'. So he's asking where in Taguig am I working. WHERE indeed?!!! ARRRRRgggHHH!!! I'm not even sure where! My mind completely went blank when he suddenly interrupted me with that deadly Spanish question of his! Heaven help me! I am a heartbeat away from a full blown heart attack!!!!!!

"Ahmmmm.....<*silence>....En The Fort..En Global City...??", I answered.

<*crickets>

<*crickets crickets>

"Ah, Si.", the professor finally said.

Phew!!! Note to self: You are working at The Fort, dammit!

Busy Days - December 18 - 19, 2009

2009-12-19T01:57:00.000-08:00

My classmates in Spanish class and I originally planned to attend the Instituto Cervantes Christimas Party on December 17 (Thursday) but decided to cancel since the schedule is a bit incovenient for some of us. So, we moved the 'Inuman' session on Saturday night instead. I was the brigada-texter for this event and I invited Jessie and Carol.

Friday night (December 18, 2009) was our office's Christmas Party as well as the farewell party for Jubilee that's why we dressed up in Jubilee's usual outfit (white polo with necktie). At around 4PM, we did the gift giving for Kris Kringle and the babies/mommies/daddies were revealed.

The one I got has a code name of 'Kurama' and thought it was a guy (that's what was indicated in the piece of paper unless M stands for something else other than MALE?). It turns out she's a girl. Good thing I didn't give her any stuffs that only guys will appreciate.

Afterwards, our portfolio manager held out a raffle for the planners and Starbucks gift checks. I got the gift check, Chabs got the planner so we swapped (he originally wanted both for himself, grrr). TFC (The Fun Committee) set up some booths that you usually see during Intrams or Foundation Day. We have jail booth, photo booth, videoke booth, kissing booth and wedding booth (with Manny P. as the priest).

Around 10PM, Cat has to go home so she wasn't able to drink with us. Jonard, Gian, Chabs, Jansen and I went to Burgos Circle to look for a bar but aside from the fact that almost all the places are full, the prices are not very inviting as well (75 pesos per bottle - Chabs had a violent reaction; Gian, Jonard and I can't help but laugh).

We decided to go to 32nd Street but on our way there, Gian suggested to look for other place since there are also a lot of bars around that area. We settled in Pho Bac. Dubs came, so did Bene and Lyn. We rant about work, talked about disgusting things, argued about 'favoritism' in our gang since I gave Dubs the biggest gift while I gave the other guys mirrors to which Bene exclaimed I only gave him paper which wasn't even wrapped (it was a freaking planner!), Bene's famous coke incident when he threw up and got his vomit on an unknown girl, etc.

We called it a night around 12AM. When I got home, I didn't have the time nor energy to study for tomorrow's quiz so I told myself that I'll wake up at 5AM. Yes, 5AM! I promised myself I'll DEFINITELY wake up.

Saturday came. My promise to myself was broken yet again. I woke up around 7:45AM and I have a verybusy day ahead of me and I'm completely out of whack!

I jammed up three schedules today. I have a 9AM - 12PM Spanish Class in Kalaw St.,Manila then I have to go to Tong Yang in Jupiter St., Makati to have lunch with Batch 5 and 6. Afterwards, I have a get-together with my Spanish classmates.

During the Spanish Class, as usual Bingo never fails to amaze us.

Sandra: Muy facil, no?

Bingo: Easy for YOU!

Danielle and I: <*lauging our ass off>

I was half-expecting Sandra to smash Bingo's skull open <*kidding>. After the class, Sandra is almost begging us to study our lessons during the vacation period. Can't blame her though, since most of the time, we're just staring at her with our lifeless eyes - LOST in translation. Sometimes, we all just act as mentally impaired nutcase during the class. Not to mention if Sandra asks us a question, although we try to answer in Spanish, there is no ounce of truth in it. We made up stories according to the Spanish words and verbs that we know.

Isel, Aie and I discussed the plans. It turns out Isel and Danielle were not available tonight so we moved the schedule to 4PM. We are going to drink at 4PM? I can already hear my liver's scream of protests. Nonetheless, we all agreed and I informed Jessie and Carol about the change of plans. JC can't go since she needs to go to Taytay.. BOOOO!!! Carol can't go coz it was Fonzy's Christmas party today...BOOO!!! Jessie agreed to come... HURRAY!!!!!!!!

Off I went to Tong Yang in Jupiter St., Makati. Batch 5 and 6 are already there. I ate meat and...meat.. and meat.. It was cholesterol-overload. We finished around 3PM. I couldn't get a cab and the clock was ticking. I still have a 4PM appointment! After a few minutes of useless arm-flaring trying to get a cab, Melvin offered a ride to Makati Ave. cor. Buendia. I walked along Buendia until I was finally able to ride a jeep.

I got home 5 minutes before 4PM. The only way this could be any more awesome is if I'll receive a message saying that they're already there in Ardi's. Well, what do you know. I did, it was from Isel. I hastily fixed myself and grabbed a cab going back to Jupiter St. An additional bonus to the awesomeness of it all is that the taxi driver doesn't know where Jupiter St. is!

It was 4:30PM when I arrived at Ardi's. Isel, Danielle, Bam and Jessie were already there. Isel suggested that we go 'down' since Bingo told her that he still has a scotch bottle 'down' there. Where is 'down' exactly? In HELL? Coz I'm not ready to go to hell! It turns out the smoking area of Ardi's is downstairs. We decided to change tables and go down.

Aie arrived a little later followed by Bingo. The drinking spree started. It was a whole different conversation compared to last night. Since all of us are girls except for Bingo, we started bashing the 'guys'. Poor Bingo, he's the only one of his kind in the group and it won't be smart to go against 6 girls while there are knives and forks at the table. We talked about politics, the Maguindanao massacre (Aie has a special story about this - she wrote 36 dead people at first when the body count was still 21 and was freaking out afterwards exclaiming 'Where will I get the other 15 dead people??!'), we shared our bloopers about independent life, about our Spanish class mishaps and we talked about Sra. Hidalgo, etc. Sra. Hidalgo was supposed to be our professor in Nivel Dos. She was a piece of art.

Sra. Hidalgo (aka Sra. Broma) is the epitome of a terror professor during college. She expects everyone to be a genetically engineered SUPER intelligent human specie. We watched in horror as she discussed the WHOLE Nivel Uno lessons in just 3 hours! On top of that, she was constantly reminding us that we should already know those stuffs blah-blah-blah-blah-BLAHHH!!!! Sra. Hidalgo was able to memorize our names in just one pass. Then, she'll give you the shock of your life as she calls you and bombard you with Spanish words to which you are expected to answer correctly. I was scared shitless! Man, I thought she's gonna bring a whip on our second class and whoop our ass like there's no tomorrow if she gets any incorrect answers.

On my mind, this is what's going to happen to the unfortunate idiot:

Sra. Hidalgo: YOU! Conjugate 'vivir'!

Idiot: vivo...ahmm..err....vivis??

Sra. Hidalgo readies her whip and - KapeeesshhhhH!!!!

What a horrible mess. Good thing Sandra was appointed to us again!!! Wooohooo!!!

Around 6PM, Isel, Danielle and Bam have to leave since the 2 sisters still have to go to Tagaytay, leaving Aie, Bingo, Jessie and me behind. We continued our talk when Bingo's younger brother came - a model named Eric. (Bingo looks a lot younger than him). Bingo left after paying the bill (Thanks Bingo!!!) and we also left a little later. Jessie and I grabbed some coffee first at Kopiroti in The Columns. It was only 8PM. Jessie and I have the same thoughts - it was TOO early! Weirdness...

Todavia, this day kick ass!! Bebemos muchas cervesas! Estamos allegre!!! <*fuck, was that correcto??>

Julie in the Palace - Trip to Korea - Oct 5, 2009

2009-10-05T18:50:00.000-07:00

I'm alone today (*sob sob). Cocoy and Nancy have work so they won't be able to accompany me. Cocoy told me last night to go to iPark Mall at the Yongsan Station today coz he's worried that I might get lost if I tour around alone. Given this rare opportunity to go to Korea, do you think I'll just spend my day roaming around the mall? Of course not! So at 10am in the morning, this bitch took off ready to do some Seoul searching!

Last night, I already asked Sam and NK how to use the subway station. Surprisingly, it's pretty easy even for someone with no sense of direction like me! Yee-meng (from Malaysia) also gave me some pointers on how to get to Gyeongbokgung Palace. Thanks to the ever-reliable internet, I equipped myself with proper information on which subway stations and which exits are near the tourist spots. NK gave me a small subway map and it is definitely very helpful.

So off I went to the Sinseol-dong station, ready to do battle with a small subway map, a bottle of water and a couple of tourist printouts and other details as my ammunition (Cocoy, NK and Sam's phone number and Backpackers Korea address in case I get really really lost and have to go to the police station to get my sorry-ass back to the hostel).

FIRST STOP - Cheonggyecheon Stream / Cheonggye Plaza

I went to the subway station nearest Backpackers Korea which is Sinseol-dong station (Line 1). My destination is City Hall station (follow the signs going to Incheon) which is also in Line 1 and I took exit 4 going to Cheonggyecheon Stream and Cheonggye Plaza. I walked for a couple of minutes towards the Korea Press Foundation and I saw the sign leading to Cheonggye Plaza. When I saw the big shell, I wanted to rejoice! I'M ALIVEEEEE, I used the subway and I survivedd!!!!!!!!

Then a thought suddenly struck me, how the hell am I suppose to include myself in the picture with all this marvelous tourist spots as my background? Well, I can always ask strangers, right? And besides, I can also use a timer and do some self-shots.

Bummer, I still wish I have someone with me. The Cheonggyecheon Stream is awesome! It's length is up to ..errr... I don't know how long the stream is and I don't have any plans of walking the whole stretch. But it really is marvelous.

SECOND STOP - Gwanghwamun

Gwanghwamun is just a few minutes away from Cheonggye Plaza. We already went here last night so I just took a couple of pictures again since the ones we took weren't clear.

Just an FYI: I didn't know that Gwanghwamun is 'Main Gate of the Gyeongbokgung Palace'. My next destination is actually Gyeongbokgung Palace but I still have to ride the subway station to get there. Hmmm, confusing confusing...

THIRD STOP - Gyeongbokgung Palace

Gwanghwamun Station is in Line 5 and Gyeongbokgung Station is in Line 3 so I have to go to Jongno-3(sam)-ga Station to transfer to Line 3 (follow the signs going to Macheon or Sangil-dong to get to the train going to Jongno-3(sam)-ga). At Jongno-3(sam)-ga Station, I just followed the orange signs leading to Line 3 (going to Daehwa)and hopped in the train going to Anguk (since Anguk is the next station from Jongno-3(sam)-ga and it's in the same direction as Gyeongbokgung Station).

Intermission - I need to go to the restroom...BUT!!! Lookieeee!!! I peed on this! Look where the flush is! And, there's a hairdryer and brush at the restroom too. Uhm, no thanks.

I grabbed some food (Deli Manjoo - 2000 won for 12 pieces) before continuing my journey, pretty smart huh?

I took exit 5 and ended up in National Palace Museum. After a few steps, you'll be able to see the palace. It was huge and breathtaking (mwahahahaha, did I just use those 2 adjectives in one sentence? They sounded inappropriate together kekekeke!)

I was also able to witness the 'Changing of the Royal Guards' ceremony! Cool! Admission Ticket is 3000 won for adults. I asked some stranger to take a picture of me with the Royal Guard, I can clearly hear his heavy breathing. Poor fellow, standing under the sun with all these foreigners taking a picture of him.

I find it a bit creepy that their eyes are following the tourists even if they're not moving. One guard actually looked directly at me (*shiver). The other guard is about to fall asleep, it must've been really boring to just stand there and not do anything with all these layers of colorful clothes and weapons. I have this strong urge to startle the guard who's about to fall asleep but decided against it. I value my life more than the fun of seeing his suprised face. Besides, his comrade is already giving a very fierce aura. I think he really wants to slaughter me.

After a few turns and a few hours of walking, I'm officially lost! I'm in the middle of nowhere and has no clue on how to get out of this palace! I finally ended up in the National Museum of Korea.

I don't have the energy and the time to look around so I just focused on finding the exit. According to my printouts, Cheongwadae (Blue House) is near the Gyeongbokgung Palace so I asked the lady at the booth by the exit on how to get there.

FOURTH STOP - Cheongwadae (Blue House)

Cheongwadae is the Presidential Residence and it's noticeable characteristic is the blue tiles and smooth roof which blend beautifully with the Mt. Bugaksan at the back.The lady by the exit booth told me that I just have to walk at the left to arrive at Cheongwadae. She did not tell me it will be a very long LONG walk. At the start of my very long LONG walk, I saw 2 young police officers by the sidewalk. I initially thought, 'oooppps, I might be in a forbidden zone'. So I asked the police officer at the right if I can get through. He obviously doesn't speak english and called for a backup - the other police officer immediately went to the rescue and I asked both of them for directions to Cheongwadae. They told me I just have to walk straight. Okay, so that means I can get through. As I walk, I noticed there are a lot of police or guards at every corner which means I'm going on the right direction.

The million dollar question is, when will this long walk end?!!!! I saw a woman guard and decided to ask again. She told me the same thing, just walk straight. I asked her if it's already near. She said I'll be able to see Cheongwadae once I turn at the corner. Yup, I'm seeing it alright. I'm seeing the long stretch of road again!!!! Where the heck is the Blue House!!!

After the agonizing (and did I already mention very VERY long) walk, I was finally able to see the Blue House from a distance. It's quite a sight with the Mt. Bugaksan as its backdrop.

The small guardhouse where the police officer was standing caught my eye, I saw this in Korean Drama 'I really really like you' starring Eugene and Lee Min Ki. It would be nice if they give some to the royal guards from Gyeongbokgung Palace, they can really use some of those.

My next problem is how to get to the nearest subway station. I walked and walked... and walked until I saw a guard by the corner. I asked him where the nearest subway station is and he told me I just have to walk (AGAIN!!!) straight at the left and at the end of the street, just turn right and I will be able to see the subway station.

I decided to sit at the bus stop for a while since my feet is already killing me. It feels like the skin at the sole of my feet already peeled off and are attached to my socks. I haven't called Cocoy yet and he must be really worried coz it's already 2PM but he hasn't heard from me.

After walking for a couple of minutes, I finally arrived at the end of the street and decided to turn left since there is more buzz in there. And tadaaaaaa!!! I arrived at Gwanghwamun!!!! Earlier, I took the subway to go to Gyeongbokgung Palace from Gwanghwamun and now I find myself at Gwanghwamun?!

My goodness, that must've been a really long walk. I feel utterly defeated, I wanted to just stand in the middle of the street and be ran over by a Korean car in a Koren tourist spot. I should've carried on with my plan of surprising the royal guard back at the Gyeongbokgung Palace, at least I will have my share of fun before dying (*sigh).

FIFTH STOP - Han River

From Gwanghwamun Station (Line 5), I need to go to Yeouinaru Station which is also in Line 5 (follow the signs going to Banghwa). I hopped in the train going to Seodaemun Station since Seodaemun Station and Yeouinaru Station are in the same direction. I took exit 3, walked a few steps to the left and was greeted by a great view of the Han River!

There's a lot of couples chilling out by the riverside and I also saw families having picnic at the covered spots. I really wanted to go to Yook-Sam (63) Building but according to the couple sitting by the bench, it's still a long walk from where we were (note, we communicated through sign language and bits of english while the girl was giggling uncontrollably and asked for his boyfriend's help). I decided to just go straight to Itaewon to shop for souvenirs.

SIXTH STOP - Itaewon

From Yeoinaru Station (Line 5), I need to go to Gongdeok Station to transfer to Line going to Itaewon Station. I followed the signs going to Macheon or Sangil-dong and rode the train going to Mapo Station. I got off at Gongdeok Station and followed the signs to transfer to Line 6 (going to Bonghwasan) and hopped in at the train going to Hyochang Park. I finally arrived at Itaewon Station and took exit 4 (Itaewon Market).

There are a lot of foreigners in Itaewon and a lot of foreign shops too.When I entered a small alley, I saw a Philippine Store. After a few minutes of shopping, I decided to call it a day and head home.

From Itaewon Station (Line 6), I purchased a single journey ticket going to Dongmyo Station which intersects Line 1 and Line 6 (follow the signs going to Bonghwasan). As I was waiting for the subway going to Hangangjin, I met two Filipinos (Allan and Arnold) who immediately greeted me 'Kabayan'. After a few chitchats, the train arrived and it turns out they are getting off the same station. They asked me if I wanted to eat and I agreed since I'm really hungry, I only ate the Deli Manjoo from this morning.

After eating kamjatang (which tastes like our native dish nilagang baka) and drinking soju, Allan and Arnold accompanied me to Dongdaemun which happens to be close to my hostel. Pyonghwa Market is lined up with various stores but unfortunately, they're starting to close since it's already late. We scouted for sweater with hoodies. I found a sweater for my brother at the underground market.

We took a cab on our way to my hostel and told the taxi driver that we're getting off at Dongmyo station. We were taken to Dongmyo station but at a different exit that I totally don't recognize! Then we started walking aimlessly and it turns out we're walking on a different direction and ended up in Dongdaemun again! So I told them that we better ride the subway instead of taking chances and go to Dongmyo station exit 2. At last we were able to arrive at the correct spot and I was able to go home. If there's no subway in Seoul, I'll be rotting in the hostel.

I called Cocoy around 9:30pm and he's really worried because I haven't phoned throughout the day. He was surprised to know that I was roaming around the city while hewas wondering if I was able to go to Yongsan Station safely. Even more surprising is that I was able to go to Han River while he hasn't even been there in his 4 years of stay in Korea!

So much adventure in one day. In conclusion, the 'Wandering Julie' got home safe thanks to the subway. Thank you subway!

Seoul Searching! - Trip to Korea - Oct 4, 2009

2009-10-04T21:32:00.000-07:00

Evidence 1 - Cocoy and Julie in Korea - Sinseol-dong Station

Cocoy and Nancy arrived earlier than I expected. I thought they're gonna pick me up around 10AM but they were already at my hostel around 9AM and were screaming their lungs out calling for my name hoping that I'll hear them since my unit is by the veranda. I was at the common room at that time surfing the net when Sam told me that my friends are already outside. I didn't hear them calling me, my bad. My bionic ears stopped working since it was so freaking cold last night!

Anywayyyy, I immediately changed my clothes and head out, it was already around 9:30AM. City of Seoul, HERE I COME!!! <*insert Mission Impossible theme song here>

Drinking coffee inside the subway in between the ajummas

We went to Sinseol-dong station and rode the subway going to Yeongsan station. (And yes, prepare yourself for a bunch of odd names. I had a hard time remembering where my station is, and I certainly don't know how to spell the damn thing.)

iPark Mall

Yeongsan station is located inside iPark Mall. It was a little bit early so the stores are still closed. When we tried to enter an electronic store, we were stopped by men in suits and started gunning us with Korean words telling us we can't go inside since it's still not open. Chill out man, we just tried and obviously our presence didn't go unnoticed. I took a step back pretending that I was not part of the whole ruckus. Bleh! Fortunately, Cocoy is in a good mood or else he would've unleashed his ninja moves against those men in suits and they would never see the light of day again.

Foodcourt inside iPark Mall

Julie and Beef Bulgogi (YUMMM!!!)

We ate brunch at the foodcourt. Let me just say, I was impressed. Their foodcourt was clean and.... so yellow. Back at home, the rule of thumb is you order food and pay at the stall where the food is prepared. Here, you order food at the entrance and pay for it. Then your food will magically appear somewhere on the line of stalls and they'll call your number. I ordered beef bulgogi, at last I was able to taste bulgogi in Korea! I can die now - happy, contented and with a full stomach.<*burp>

Korean streets outside iPark Mall

We took pictures here and there. Notice that whenever you're on vacation in a different place, you tend to take pictures just about anywhere. Probably to make your mark, as if saying 'I WAS HERE! IN KOREA! AIN'T IT DOPE?!'

Seoul City Tour Bus station in front of iPark Mall - Yeongsan Station

Afterwards, we went to the Seoul City Tour Bus station situated in front of iPark Mall - Yeongsan Station. As we were waiting, a beggar approached Cocoy and was asking for some spare change. Cocoy didn't give him any and this irritated the beggar telling him he has two bitches with him and he doesn't have any money? I seriously need to learn Korean. Had I known at that moment, I would've punched his face until he stops moving.

Seoul City Tour Bus is a great way to tour around the city. You just have to pay 10 000 won (around 500 pesos) and you can hop in and hop off the bus from 9AM to 8PM. The bus rounds the tourist spots in Seoul.

FIRST STOP - NATIONAL MUSEUM OF KOREA

Evidence 2 - Cocoy and Julie in Korea - National Museum of Korea

We arrived at the National Museum of Korea around 11:30AM. It was big and covers a lot of land area. One look at it and I am absolutely positive we will not be able to see all of it considering we have only a little time to move to our next destination (The bus arrives every 20 minutes or so and I wanted to visit as many tourist spots as I can. Yeah, I'm greedy, bite me!).

Exhibition Hall - National Museum of Korea

We went inside the exhibition hall and I immediately grabbed a map (for better navigation purposes??). I don't know about you but when I'm in a different place or country, I have this weird urge of nabbing all the maps or info cards that I can get especially if the name of the place/country is printed in it.

8 Buddhist Guardians

The first thing that caught my eye is the display of 8 Buddhist Guardians. They're slabs of stone sculpted with images of Buddha.

Potteries, potteries, potteries....hmmmm

There is a section in the museum for historical artifacts which is further subdivided into subsections according to era - Paleolithic, Neolithic, Bronze Age, Early Iron Age, etc. One thing I noticed is that there are a lot of potteries with comb-patterns. I wonder why. I mean, what's up with the comb patterns? It looks like a cat practically scratched the hell out of it.

Oracle Bone!!! <*applause applause, bow bow>

I'm not entirely paying attention to the displays until I saw this. Lo and behold, ORACLE BONE!!! I was so astounded I almost cried (nahhh, kidding). We also saw saw some replicas of Lotus and Yellow Dragon Gangseodemyo (Gangseo Great Tomb). These things really have kewl names!

Ten-Story Pagoda replica

I think we spent most of our time taking pictures in front of the Ten-Story Pagoda. We can't help it, it's so cool! It's tall and beautiful. Oblivious to the stares of the other people touring around the museum, we laid on the floor to get a proper shot of the tall pagoda.

Porcelains - Lee Hong Kun Collection

We then proceed to the second floor, to the Lee Hong Kun Collection. There were a lot of porcelains. As you can see from the photos, I always end up sitting on the floor while Cocoy takes pictures of me. I saw some people smiling while looking at me. They probably think I'm a retard.

We checked out Friends of National Museum of Korea Collection and Kim Chong-hak Collection before heading out.

SECOND STOP - NAMSANGOL TRADITIONAL KOREAN VILLAGE

National Army Museum

Gates of Namsangol Traditional Korean Village

At 12:30PM, we rode the Seoul City Tour Bus again and arrived at Namsangol Traditional Korean Village around 1:15PM. We walked along a narrow road full of people and cars trying to pass the narrow gaps. Amidst the hustle and bustle, we managed to get inside the traditional village.

There were a lot of activities going on. It's like the circus is in town or something. Kids were playing with a steel wheel, standing on a wooden seesaw and on a colorful swing.

Colorful Swing (of death? LOLZ)

Cocoy told me to try out the swing. Instead of sitting, you have to stand on the narrow plank of wood. Then the guy will push you as you hold on to the ropes. Great idea, lemme try! On second thought, that's a horrible idea..I can already picture myself lying facedown on the dirty ground.

Kiddo Hwaiting!! Yah! Yah! Yah!

I'm not sure if that is sticky rice they're pounding with the wooden mallet. Nancy bought the colorful finished product and I tried one, it was good. It tastes like our native 'palitaw'.

The Upper Class Ladies - Julie and Nancy (plus the mysterious guy in blue)

We walk around and saw a stage full of people crowding over various hanbok (traditional Korean clothing) that were lined up at the left side. It turns out you can rent and wear it for 1000 won and take as many pictures of yourself as you like. This I have to try!!! This is the highlight of my vacation in Korea!!!

The Upper Class Ladies - Julie and Nancy (having so much fun wearing Hanbok)

I googled 'hanbok' and this is what I've got:

The top part called a jeogori is blouse-like with long sleeves with the men's version being longer, stretching down to the waist. Women wear skirts (chima) while men wear baggy pants (paji). Commoners wore white, except during festivals and special occassions such as weddings. Clothes for the upper classes were made of bright colors and indicated the wearer's social status. Various accessories such as foot gear, jewelry, and headdresses or hair pins completed the outfit.

(info taken from http://www.lifeinkorea.com/Culture/Clothes/clothes.cfm)

Please take note of this part - Commoners wear white while clothes for the upper classes were made of bright colors indicating the wearer's social status. Uh-huh, move over commoners!! The upper classes are here! Be blinded by our red and yellow hanbok!!! Tremble before our presence!

We strike variety of poses like there's no tomorrow. I just luuuvvv the hanbok!!

Traditional Korean Houses

We also looked around traditional houses. There's a note on each house saying that it's forbidden to go inside (but I saw these two old Korean couple who went in..hmmm....) On each house, there are displays like small dolls and mannequins dressed in traditional clothing. The small dolls actually creeps me out. Imagine going here at night time. I bet it will scare the living daylights out of you.

Cute LITTLE Koreans!!

As we were roaming around, I saw these cute little kids wearing hanbok!! Aren't they the cutest??!! I want one!! No, no, wait, scratch that! That didn't turn out right.

THIRD STOP - NAMSAN-SEOUL TOWER

Namsan-Seoul Tower

Seoul Tower, also called Namsan Tower or, more recently, N Seoul Tower, is located in the centre of Seoul on Mount Namsan. Seoul Tower was opened to the public for the first time on the 15th of October 1980. Namsan Tower is 236.7 metres high and, because it stands on top of Mount Namsan, it rises to about 480 metres above sea level, thus allowing visitors to enjoy a great panoramic view of Seoul.

(info taken from http://www.seoulkoreaasia.com/seoul-tower.htm)

Walking towards Namsan-Seoul Tower while muching squid cooked in hot stones

We arrived at the Namsan Seoul Tower around 2:15PM. We still had to walk for 10 minutes to get to the tower. (This should've been 5 minutes but Cocoy managed to get it longer by directing us to the wrong way). He bought some squid (cooked in hot stones) on our way. The squid was already cold probably because of the weather. It's chewy..It's like a squid-flavored bubblegum.

Namsan-Seoul Tower's 'Locks of Love'

We finally got to the tower - hungry and tired than ever. When we went to the viewing deck, I was surprised to see the vast amount of padlocks on the fences surrounding the deck. I saw this in 'We Got Married' (Korean Show)!!! This is the site where put locks on the fence surrounding the tower wishing that they will stay together forever.

Namsan-Seoul Tower's Viewing Deck

Seoul Tower Locked in Everlasting Love - Countless “locks of love” hang on the wall of a terrace attached to Seoul Tower on Mt. Namsan in central Seoul. Young couples hang their locks of love before throwing the key away in the hope for eternal love.

(info taken from http://www.koreatimes.co.kr/www/news/special/2009/11/181_34302.html)

REAAaaaaAALLlllLyyyY?? Hmmm.....Locks so that their love will last forever? They actually believe this shit??

Don't mind me, I'm just an envious loser.

And oh, I was right. This was one of the shooting locations for 'We Got Married'.

The idea of hanging locks originated from local tourists a few years ago who saw the same thing at Tokyo Tower. It is now enjoying a renewal after two TV stars, singer Alex and model Sinae, were seen dating there in the MBC reality program 'We’ve Got Married.' N Seoul Tower’s 'Locks of Love' event was chosen as a reunion venue for the celebrities on June 15 and since then has drawn great public attention.

(info taken from http://www.koreatimes.co.kr/www/news/special/2009/11/181_34302.html)

Whoever came up with this idea is a pure genius. Why is it people with superior intelligence seldom use it for better purposes? Like, say...WORLD DOMINATION!!!

3 Excited Tourists <*ahem> inside the Cable Car

Cable Car

We rode the cable car (amounting to 6000 won) and got off at the other tower. We then realized it was a bad choice since the Seoul City Tour Bus stops at the N Seoul Tower. We can ride the cable car again to get back but seeing that the line is so long, we opted to walk hoping that there is a Seoul City Tour Bus station somewhere since Cocoy said the bus seems to be heading in this direction. We were so wrong! This is where things escalated out of control.

Is this the stairs at the last episode of 'My Name is Kim Sam Soon'?

Cocoy asked people for directions and these people kept directing us here and there. When he asked again, this time to a bus driver parked on the side of the road, the driver directed us back to where we came from. Cocoy informed us about this and I looked at him with you've-got-to-be-kidding-me expression plastered on my face. We were evidently..how shall I put it....LOST!!! gyahhhh!!

Kimbap saves our nutrition-deprived bodies

We just hailed a cab and get off at Namsangol Traditional Korean Village. We were very hunggrrryy....and tired and irritated... I can feel the shortage of nutrition in my brain. We waited for the Seoul City Tour Bus while eating Kimbap (1000 won). We hopped in at the tour bus and went to Insa-dong since the palaces close at 5PM (Darn it! I so wanted to see the palaces!)

FOURTH STOP - INSA-DONG

The Insa-dong art and antique district has dozens of art galleries and shops selling art supplies, antiques, and handicrafts along one main street (Insadong-gil) and many side alleys. It also contains many traditional tea and coffee shops.

(info taken from http://www.lifeinkorea.com/Travel2/9)

Stuck in the World of Tra-La-La

We strolled at the narrow streets of Insa-dong and we have one sole mission - to look for a restroom. We finally opted to enter what I think is an art gallery and used the building's restroom. Afterwards we went back to where tour bus stop is and bought myself some BB Cream (my other purpose for coming to Korea)!

We crossed the street to where the souveneir shops are and bought some stuffs for me to take home. I saw some Big Bang goodies by the street. Why didn't I buy some??!! Stupid stupid stupid! After shopping around, we ate Samgyupsal, etc at a restaurant by the corner. It's already 7:00PM when we hop at the tour bus and it turns out it's already heading towards the last stop which is Gwanghwamun station

FIFTH STOP - GWANGHWAMUN PLAZA

Statue of Admiral Yi Sun-shi

The statue of Admiral Yi Sun-shin is still there, standing tall in the heart of Sejongno, Gwanghwamun, downtown Seoul. Surrounding him, however, are not the multiple lanes of cars that used to drive past, but a carpet of flowers, a 'Stream of History', a Haechi madang and an impressive fountain. Together they form a new landmark in Seoul - Gwanghwamun Plaza. The plaza was the widest swath of road in Seoul during the Joseon Kingdom (1392-1910). It was where all the royal offices were located, and a place where the king, his vassals and his people mingled.

(info taken from http://www.koreatimes.co.kr/www/news/art/2009/10/153_49740.html)

City of Seoul at night

Gwanghwamun Station - going home, awwww

From Gwanghwamun Station, we went to Jongno 3(Sam)ga station to transfer to Line 1 going to Sinseol-dong station. It was a fun-filled day.

To Cocoy and Nancy, hats off. Mad props to both of you. Kamsahamnida! <*bow>

Trip to California - Feb 6 - 8, 2009 - Day 2

2009-02-07T08:23:00.000-08:00

At the apartment before going for a day out

LA road on the way to Hollywood

We woke up around 7:30 am and went to Denny's to eat breakfast. Our destination for the day is Universal Studios located at Hollywood, California which is about an hour away from the apartment. On our way there, I was able to see the mountain with a big 'Hollywood' sign on it. I feel like my trip is now complete just by seeing that sign!

At first it was raining but fortunately, the weather is nice in our destination. We first got ourselves some coffee in Starbucks and took some pictures.

Hard Rock Cafe on our way to Universal Studios Park

We bought our 1-Day ticket which is around $60 (ahem, thanks to Reymond and Randy for always getting the tab). Universal Studios Hollywood is really fun. It will take a whole day to experience almost all the rides, studio tours, shows, etc.

Tourist na tourist!

Statue in front of the entrance

I don't know how many times we've asked a stranger to take a picture of the three of us. We just kept on taking pictures here and there.

House of Horrors!!

As we were walking, Reymond suddenly turned left. Randy and I just followed him. When I finally realized where we were going, it's too late - I couldn't back out. The sign is deeply sketched on my mind - House of Horrors. My last memory of entering such a place was back in college, in Star City. It was a very unpleasant memory. I didn't enter it when Melvin and I went to Busch Gardens in Williamsburg, Virginia. But Puto was able to trick me into doing it by just an impulsive change in direction! It's a trap! This is not my idea of fun, $%#f*!k# .

Chucky, Puto and the Crybaby

House of Horrors is on the top of my list for the things that I don't want to experience again. Why would you submit yourself to such torture? It was the longest walk of my life. For the most part, Randy is just dragging me around coz I was really scared to my wits end. Ghosts keeps popping out. At one time, what I thought was a statue (a little taller than Chucky doll, covered in Mummy bandages) suddenly sticks his hand and walks toward us! F%$#k, $h!t!!! Some of the corridors and hallways are very narrow but I still cling to either Reymond and Randy so I could use them as shields in case one of the creepy figures at our sides make a move again. Then we arrived at a room full of bodies in transparent bags that hung on the ceiling. It's like a butcher's room. Then this brilliant Reymond exclaimed that one of those bodies is a real person and will chase us. Awesome...just what we need. The walk ended on what looks like a madman's laboratory where Frankenstein is created. On our way to safety, Frankenstein suddenly turned up on my right side and scared the living hell out of me. My friends were also chanting 'scare her! scare her!'. So I started to cry and Reymond and Randy dragged me out of there. Two monsters were still waiting at the exit. Great, this is soo great.

It's ogre time. Shrek 4-D

Our next stop is the Shrek 4-D. It's a 4-D movie wherein the seats move so it seems that you're also part of the movie. Water is also sprayed on your face whenever there's a scene involving splashing water.

Cars used in The Fast and the Furious

We then boarded a train for the studio tour to see the famous backlot in the largest movie studio. We were able to see the cars used for various blockbuster movies such as Back to the Future, the Fast and the Furious, Blues Brothers, Jurassic Park, etc. We also witnessed some of the special effects used for the Fast and the Furious Tokyo Drift movie.

Set for the wild west

Among the many structures we saw are neighborhoods for the wild west, European style setting for the middle ages, etc. We also passed by a lake and we get to see the special effects used for movies with sharks.

Wisteria Lane

Wisteria Lane is the set for ABC's series Desperate Housewives. I've watched a few episodes of it and it didn't cross my mind that the houses they used are not actual houses but are especially built for filming purposes.

Norman at the Bates Motel

We saw Norman (Lopez?) at the Bates Motel. He suddenly went toward us while grabbing a knife hidden on his coat.

War of the Worlds

For me, the wreckage from Steven Spielberg's War of the Worlds was the highlight of this tour. An airplane was dismantled for this scene.

After the studio tour, we tried the Simpsons Ride. At first I thought it was a roller coaster ride, thankfully it wasn't. We boarded a vehicle, the ceiling opened up and we were elevated. The whole place was like a big screen and it seems like we were part of the whole experience with the Simpsons family.

Scooby Doo and Shaggy

The guys went to the Jurassic Park ride. As I was waiting, I saw Scooby Doo and Shaggy while driving the Mystery Machine. We also entered the Backdraft where they showed the pyrotechnics. After that, we went to the Special Effects Stages. Here they presented how the special effects for Heroes were made especially the scene for Hiro Nakamura who has the power of space-time manipulation. They also showed how audio effects are added to the movie scenes.

StarWay - links the upper and lower portion of the lots

After our interesting trip in Universal Studios Hollywood, we searched for a Thai Restaurant to eat dinner. Then we head back home. It was an exciting and enjoyable day!

Trip to California - Feb 6 - 8, 2009 - Day 1

2009-02-06T19:47:00.000-08:00

Delta Waiting Area - Myrtle Beach Airport

Delta domestic flight going to Atlanta

I'm finally going to California! A week before, I decided to visit Reymond and Randy - otherwise known as Puto and Aso. I've wanted to visit them when I was in Virginia last 2007 but I wasn't able to do so. It has been years since I last saw them. I have a Dollar-off credit voucher from Northwest and fortunately, I was able to use it in Delta Airline. My flight leaves Myrlte Beach at 2:32 pm and arrives in Atlanta-Hartsfield Intl Airport around 4:05 pm. My connecting flight from Atlanta leaves around 5:30 pm and arrives at LAX around 7:34 pm (California is 3 hours behind). So, off I went to sunny California!

Los Angeles Intl Airport (LAX)

When I arrived, it was raining.....bummer. Randy and Joanne picked me up. I'm a bit surprised that with a little rain, the roads of LA gets a little flooded. Randy told me it really doesn't rain much in LA. Before going home, we stopped by Gerry's grill and I was able to eat sisig!! I really love California!

Randy (Aso) - Gerry's Grill

Reymond (Puto) - Apartment at Anaheim

Reymond and Randy lives at Anaheim. When we arrived at their apartment, I saw Puto lying on the bed. I made it clear beforehand that I'm gonna claim the bed! And both of them are sleeping on the floor! Reymond was still talking to his wife over the phone while I chase him out of the bed.

But, California or any other state, sleeping on the bed or sleeping on the floor, I really don't mind. I'm just really happy to see both of my friends. Cheers!

Poker Night

2008-10-22T18:17:00.000-07:00

The Players (left to right) - Tom, Joey, Julie, Jimmy, Genti, Jaejay (taking the pic)

The Players (left to right) - Jimmy, Genti, Jaejay, Joey, Tom, Julie (taking the pic)

Over pizza and beer, the guys tried to teach me how to play a game that can destroy a man's well-being - a game called poker. I didn't know there is a variety of poker. Jimmy helped me in understanding the game. Here's what I learned:

1. Straight flush - poker hand which contains five cards in sequence, all of the same suit

2. Four of a kind - four cards of one rank

3. Full house - three matching cards of one rank and two matching cards of another rank

4. Flush - five cards of the same suit, not in rank sequence

5. Straight - contains five cards of sequential rank but in more than one suit

6. Three of a kind - three cards of the same rank

7. Two pair - two cards of the same rank and two cards of another rank

8. One pair - two cards of the same rank

We played Texas Hold 'em, Regular Draw and In Between. At first I was winning! At one point Genti thought he already won, but it turns out my cards are higher than his. He complained that it's because of my bad shuffling. Whatever the reason is, I'm still winning! As the game continues, my chips are...decreasing. It's a quarter for one chip and our initial chips are worth 6 dollars which is a total of 24 chips. My stack is approaching its inevitable demise. Tom is dominating the game. He even got the whole pot in one of the In Between games.

I'm winning!

And so the game continues... The winner with the most gain was Tom. I lost 6 dollars while Joey and Jaejay both won around 10 dollars. Crap!

Happy faces of the Poker Winners

My Apartment in Legends Resort, Myrtle Beach, SC

2008-10-12T01:04:00.000-07:00

At first I thought Legends Resort is an apartment compound near the beach, it turns out it's a golf resort. It was raining when Jaejay and Joey dropped me off in 4578G (which is my villa number). Their villa number is 4532C, just a few minutes walk away.

After almost 24 hours of traveling, I can finally rest. I looked around and this feels like a really nice place.

Living Room

Kitchen

It seems that my apartment has a classical theme, more like a grandma/grandpa theme. The furnitures has an old feel to it (the TV has no input/output!). The alarm clock reminds me of the old radio in wooden casings used by farmers back in my province, it looks like the first 'modern' digital clock that humans have ever made. And the bible that is displayed on the living room can really fend off evil spirits, it seems as though it was really written by the disciples (not until I realized that the paper is not papyrus and it's not a Hebrew writing).

Alarm Clock (blast from the past)

Behold! First Compiled Bible!

It has two rooms with two beds on each room. I chose the room with its own bathroom. I'm not sure why I was really happy to see the hair dryer stuck on the wall eventhough I didn't forget to bring mine.

Bedroom

Bathroom

Whoaaa!!! *clap *clap *clap

My first dinner - McDonald's (I'm Lovin' It!). Isn't it amazing that halfway around the world, they have the same catchy phrase even if it's in a different language? (I'm Lovin' It! = Love Ko Toh! ). Even if that's the case, they don't have "Pa-burger ka naman! Burger! Burger!".

This is a regular size here? FRIES..BURGER..

The Royal Throne

Here's a view of 4578G in the morning.

Front

Trip to Myrtle Beach, South Carolina (Oct 11 - Dec 14, 2008 Onsite Assignment)

2008-10-11T14:42:00.000-07:00

I initially thought that this will be a very comfortable flight and that I will arrive in my destination at the planned time. Hell, I was so wrong!

NAIA Terminal 1 (Manila, Philippines) - I went to the airport 3 hours before my departure, the line was already long as expected. Surprisingly, there was no one on the NorthWest check-in counters. They were huddled up at the left side. And then...they announced the bad news over the microphone. We only understood the first few lines, the rest of the announcement was spoken using an alien language i.e. 'Attention passengers of flight NW72, we apologize for the delay. Apfarrenli we ar habin shhhhshhh shhhh (static)' . The NW personnel started handing out some cute paper cutouts with the information of why we are in the middle of such a mess. It turns out they are having some technical difficulties, their system is down so they cannot check-in the passengers. As part of their 'contingency plan', they are going to do manual check-in. As the guy in front of me blurted out, why didn't they think of that an hour ago? At that time I was actually thinking, what the hell is a manual check-in? Are they going to manually write down the boarding pass and manually write down your name or something? Anyway, whatever it is, do it and just let us have our seat. We finally left Manila around 9:30 AM (3 hours delayed as our original sched was 6:35 AM) and arrived at Nagoya Airport around 2:30 PM (Japan is an hour advanced compared to Manila time).

Nagoya Airport

Nagoya Airport (Japan) - As we disembark the plane and on our way to the next gate, we were greeted by a board with 'NW72 Detroit' written on it and with an arrow pointing to the left where the NW counters are located and where Japanese personnels were chanting 'Trip to Detroit?! Trip to Detroit?! Detroit? Detroit?' We have to line up again to get our reprinted boarding passes since some of us were checked-in manually. It was my turn. My conversation with the NW Personnel reminded me of my fave anime because of their expression when they are startled or when they heard something unusual - 'eEhhh?? '

NW Personnel: Here. Eto, final destination Washington?

Me: No.

NW Personnel: EeehhHhh? (looks at me and looks at the boarding pass)

Me: My destination is South Carolina.

NW Personnel: EeehhHhh? (looks at me and looks at the boarding pass, deciding which one to believe)

Me: I have a connecting flight from Washington DC to South Carolina.

NW Personnel: Ahhh. Different airline. This, different.

Me: But since our flight is delayed, I'm gonna miss my flight to South Carolina. Shouldn't I have a new boarding pass?

NW Personnel: In Detroit, they are going to give you. Please check in Detroit.

Me: Ok.

So off I went to Gate 19. But before that we have to pass the security check. The security people are obviously stressed out and as the items started piling up, he began saying 'Tsonto mante kudasai, tsonto tsonto' to us. (As an anime fanatic, I know that means please wait for a moment. But since nobody understands him, the passengers just kept on putting down their items.)

I was looking for the smoking area and I saw this lady who's looking for Detroit passengers and was pointing to the direction of Gate 19. I approached her and asked where the smoking area was. She looked at me and asked 'Huh? Ahhmm, Detroit?' and pointed at Gate 19. So I just asked again 'smoking area, doko desu ka?'. She smiled and said 'anywhere (pointed to her left and to her right), go straight'. So I went, well, anywhere.

Detroit, Michigan - We arrived at Detroit around 3 PM (3AM Manila Time). Again, there was so much chaos as the NW counter give us our new itinerary. They've rebooked our connecting flights. I was asked to go to Level 3 to check-in again. At level 3, a guy was shouting and swearing at the lady at the counter. Finally, the airport security were asked to take the guy away since he's becoming a threat. Three airport security then came and they hold his arms behind, placed his head over the counter. He was eventually shouting in pain.

Ceremony to honor the hero

Instead of Washington DC, I'm going to Atlanta then to South Carolina in Delta Airline. My gate is in councourse B so I head to the tunnel. My flight is again delayed! Apparently, there is a fallen soldier transported by the plane that arrived and there is a ceremony to honor the soldier. As I was waiting, I met a woman (who's also a Filipina) and asked me if I was also from the NW 72 flight. I said yes and started explaining her new flight details and showing me her ticket. She also said she has to call her someone who's suppose to pick her up (which reminds me that I also need to call Jaejay!). I helped her since she doesn't know how to use it and which coins to put saying that it's her first time in the States. Eventually, she just followed me around since she was nervous that something might get wrong because all of us have boarding pass and the new ticket issued by NorthWest is all she has. I told her to ask the lady at the Delta counter and she said she already asked her and told her she doesn't need a boarding pass, she just need the ticket. Huh?? It was finally time to board the plane, she just stick with me and asked me to help her talk to the lady coz she doesn't know what to say when they ask her. Okay, so we waited for all the passengers to board the plane before going in. She was immediately stopped by the Delta personnel saying that she already told her to rebook her flight / get a new ticket from NorthWest. I looked at her and asked her, 'I thought you said you already asked her and she said it was fine since you have a ticket? Turns out you have to rebook'. The Delta personnel asked me if we're speaking the same language and I ended up being a translator. Oh my goodness. Here's the situation, even if she gets on the plane, she'll just be stuck in Atlanta since she's gonna miss her flight going to Charlotte so she needs to go to NorthWest to rebook her ticket and choose a different flight.

Atlanta Airport

Atlanta, Georgia - I really have to call Jaejay since they are expecting me to arrive at Myrtle Beach at around 6PM. It's already 7:30PM and my flight from Atlanta to South Carolina is 8:45 PM so we'll be arriving around 10:45 PM. I rode the train going to concourse D and started to look for telephone booths. I don't have any coins so I bought a diet coke (first product I purchased in the US for the year 2008) and asked for coins for my change. I was able to contact Jaejay and Joey and told them about my flight details. This leg of my flight is on time, hallelujah!

Hooorrrayyy!!!!!!!

Myrtle Beach, South Carolina - dan dan dan dannnnn... I thought this excruciating experience is finally over... BUT my luggage is missing!!!!!!!!!!!!!! ROOOAaaaaRrrrrrrrr!!! Arf Arf Arff!!!

My Crazy Brothers

2007-10-13T05:27:00.000-07:00

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One Saturday morning, my brothers and I together with my mother decided to eat at Jollibee. My mother has a weird habit of taking the plastic spoons and forks home.
Mom: Akina yang spoons nyo.
Audrey facing me and Sammy: Bilis itapon nyo na ang styrofoam baka iuwi pa ni Nanay yan.
Mom: Aba hindi yata, yung spoons and forks lang iuuwi ko.
Audrey: Kaya nga tinawag na disposable e dahil dapat itapon pagkatapos gamitin!
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We were strolling at the department store of Mall of Asia when my mother suddenly stopped at the men's underwear section and started picking underwears for my youngest brother, Sammy. When I saw her picking the RED briefs, I knew things are gonna turn out bad so I immediately called my 2 brothers. Upon seeing the red briefs, Audrey laughed.
Ako: Sammy, naku, para sayo yan!
Sammy talking to Mom: Napakakulay naman nyan.
Audrey talking to Mom: Nanay di ko maintindihan sa inyo kung bakit tuwing maggagala na lang tayo, bili kayo lagi ng bili ng briefs namin! Pwede namang damit!
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My mother knew that Sammy can only eat 3 hotdogs for breakfast so she prepared 4 hotdogs - 3 for Sammy and 1 for her. Sammy ate all 4 hotdogs.
Mom: Amec bakit apat ang kinain mong hotdog? Di ba tatlo lang kinakain mo palagi?
Sammy: E kawawa naman yung isa, malulungkot siya.
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Audrey talking to me: Ate alam mo yang si Nanay lagi na lang sinasama yung ulam na natira nung isang araw.
Mom: Sayang naman e!
Sammy talking to me: Oo nga. Katulad nung dati sinama sa mga bagong lutong hotdog yung hotdog na natira nung isang araw pa..Akala yata di ko mahahalata, e tuyong-tuyo na yung hotdog.
Audrey talking to Mom: Akala yata e maloloko kami, matalino yata toh!
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Ako: Amec bili ka ngang pizza sa Michelle's, gusto kong mag-merienda.
Sammy: Ate wag na yun! Tinapay lang yun na nilagayan ng catsup at hotdog, tawagin natin itong pizza!
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Crying Chloue

2007-10-13T05:22:00.000-07:00

Crying Chloue

Pagkatapos makita ang batang laging kalaro ni Fions, nagdrama ang gaga dahil nami-miss na daw niya si Fiona (na nasa Dubai na)....Yuckkkk!!! Hahahahahhaha! Clauds, maga mukha mo!

Trip to New York (July 13 - 16, 2007) - DAY 1

2007-07-16T04:28:00.000-07:00

Our trip to New York was a birthday and farewell present from Carlos since my birthday is on July 17 and I'll be leaving on July 20. I really wanted to see the Statue of Liberty before I go home and I'm really thankful to Carlos and Izzet for giving me the chance to experience this. So, on July 13, 2007, Izzet, V and I went to the coolest city in United States -New York.

Chesapeake Bay Bridge Tunnel

We passed through the Chesapeake Bay Bridge Tunnel. Eventhough I stayed in Virginia for 6 months, this is my first time seeing it (well, I don't know how to drive so I'm pretty much stuck in my apartment). It was a great view. It goes underwater and if you're in a plane, you'll be able to see the submerged part of the bridge.

Chesapeake Bay Bridge Tunnel

New York is a 7-hour drive from Virginia and we were able to see Delaware, Philadelphia and New Jersey on our way there. After 3 hours of travelling, I felt really sick and we had to stop at a Dunkin Donuts in Delaware so we could use a bathroom and I could throw up.

We're NEARRRRR!!!!!!! Woohooo!!

We stopped at the Liberty State Park (New Jersey) so that, according to Carlos, we could see Statue of Liberty's ass. Since it's Carlos, I thought he was just trying to be funny. Well, what he meant was that we could see the back of the statue from the park and not the statue's bare ass.

Liberty State Park

It turns out that on this park, you could see the Statue of Liberty, Ellis Island and the city of New York.

Statue of Liberty's back

Ellis Island

New York City

At last, we've arrived....

It's New York!!!

New York was really amazing! It's exactly how it looked like in the movies. Very busy and fast-paced. People hurrying to get to work, cabs cutting through the traffic and pedestrians running for their lives. V has to use his Manila-driving skills for us to survive the city streets. Being in New York feels like home! I was even able to take a glimpse of the Grand Central Terminal on my first day here!

Grand Central Terminal

We're staying on Waldorf=Astoria Hotel. It's a renowned luxury hotel located at 301 Park Avenue in midtown Manhattan. It's a really awesome hotel. We were able to get the executive suite!

Waldorf=Astoria Hotel at Park Avenue

At the reception hall

The hotel is near the Grand Central Terminal so we decided to walk a bit to take a look at it.

Helmsley Building and MET Life Building at the back

Busch Gardens Adventures with Melvin

2007-05-14T18:11:00.000-07:00

Melvin visited me last weekend (May 5, 2006 Saturday). We went to Virginia Beach and got lost on our way. We ended up seeing Norfolk State University. (kung papunta kayo ng Virginia Beach at nakita nyo ang Norfolk State Univ, I'm sure naligaw din kayo). We still managed to go to the beach and took some 'postcard-quality' photos.

Melvin and Julie in 'Darating pa ba ang Bukas' the Movie!

On Sunday, we decided to go to Busch Gardens amusement park at Williamsburg, Virginia. Again, we got lost (surprise, surprise)...We deliberately ignored the 'Busch Gardens' signs on the street and followed the map that I printed. It turns out that the Bush Gardens-Williamsburg map I got from Mapquest is a residential area. That explains why we didn't see any roller coaster rides when we arrived on Capitol Landing road which is supposed to be the street where 'Busch Gardens' is located.

Nasaan ang Roller Coaster???

Seriously, if you want your trip to be very amusing, appoint someone with NO sense of direction (like me) to be the navigator. We are going to an amusement park and we ended up in a residential area?? (*applause) So Melvin decided to just follow the signs, we have a better chance of arriving at our destination that way.

Ayun daw ang Busch Gardens

At last, we arrived!!!! We finally saw the roller coaster! Although I really have no plans of riding it, it was such a great sight - a mark that proves we've survived the road challenge hehehehe. Next challenge, finding where the parking lot is (*sigh).

Eto na talaga, pramis!

So bale asan ulit ang Parking Lot?

Welcome to Busch Gardens, Land of the Lost!

Flashback:

Takot ako sa roller coasters, super. Punta kami dati nina Alex, I-forgot-her-name and Jaypee sa Star City. Lahat sila gusto sumakay sa malaking bakal na kinakalawang na sasakyan na may riles na kinakalawang din (a.k.a. roller coaster). Ayoko talaga pero mapilit sila. So sige, sakay kami sa kalawang. Nung pagsakay ko talagang kabadong kabado ako! Tanong ako ng tanong kung bakit loose yung seatbelt. Yun pala magla-lock lang yun pag tumatakbo na ang kalawang (a.k.a. roller coaster) .

Katabi ko si I-forgot-her-name. Throughout the ride nakapikit lang ako at hindi kumikibo. As in, para siyang may kasamang estatwa. Lahat ng mga nakasakay may reaction, ako wala. May sumisigaw, tumatawa at nagtataas pa ng kamay nila. Ako, prim and proper, nakaupo lang at nakapikit. So habang nasa ride sigaw din sigaw si I-forgot-her-name dahil sa takot. Isinisigaw nya ang pangalan ko dahil sa takot na hinimatay na ako.

Pagkatapos ng ride, tatlong tao ang nakaalalay sakin dahil nanginginig ang tuhod ko. At gusto pa nila pumasok kami dun sa parang Egyptian haunted mansion. Mga buwiseetttt! So simula dun sa entrance, kumaripas ako ng takbo hanggang sa exit dahil yung lintsak na guide na may dala ng flashlight nanggugulat pa.

Trip to Texas

2007-03-03T18:49:00.000-08:00

Izzet invited me to Dallas the other day but I refused BECAUSSSEEEE I still have to clean my apartment. Enter Carlos the Clown and Izzet told him about it. He looked at me and screamed, 'WHAT IS WRROONNNGGG WITH YOU?? YOU WERE OFFERED AN ALL EXPENSES TRIP TO DALLAS AND YOU REFUSED BECAUSE YOU HAVE TO CLEAN YOUR APARTMENT??? SERIOUSLY, WHAT IS WRROOONNGGG WITH YOU???? GO, GOOOOOO!!!'

So now here I am in Dallas. We had a 6:30 pm (Virginia time) flight yesterday but the plane left around 7 pm and we arrived at the Dallas Fort Worth (DFW) Airport around 9:30 pm (Texas is an hour late compared to Virginia). It was 3 1/2 hour travel time.

Izzet

Izzet's sister, Maite, arrived around 10 am. We picked up Jaejay at his apartment and we all went to Fort Worth to experience the Old West!

Maite

Jaejay, ang nawawalang bata

Longhorns at the back (but hey, there are two cuties in front so what the heck)

The weather was fine so we gotta walk around the town and enjoy the Texan view. We also went to the Stockyards Museum and to the Texas Cowboy Hall of Fame.

Stockyards Museum

At the Stockyards Museum, we saw the things that were commonly used during the Old West. But among the displays, the one that really caught my attention is Arnold Armadillo (I wonder why).

Jaejay aka Peter Parker is having too much fun with his camera.

La Reyna

Move over commoners, the Queen is here.

Texas Cowboy Hall of Fame Museum

Oh yeah, A real Cowboy!

I saw this cowboy sitting in front of the candy shop. Sooo, I can't let this opportunity pass! I asked him if we could take a picture of him. And he said, 'Yes, I would even stand up for yah! (southern accent, dude)'..Yeyy!

Crazy Office

2007-02-26T17:38:00.000-08:00

Situation #1: I brought my lunch at the breakroom and was eating it. Then came Charles, and my peaceful meal was ruined....

Charles: What's that?!!!
Julie: Ahm, chicken tenders..
Charles: I swear that's not meat!! Does meat look like that?? You got to add more colors to your food Julie. All you're eating are brown foods!

Carlos came in, and made things worse.

Carlos: What's happening here? Oh Julie, you bring your own lunch?! Where did you get those?
Charles: She goes to this little brown grocery store and gets little brown food!

Situation #2: It was lunchtime and I saw Charles coming in so I asked him where he's been.

Charles: I always go swimming during lunchtime..
(I looked at his big stomach...)
Julie: So, you're just floating? *smirk
Charles: I'll get back to you with that brown food of yours.

Situation #3: I wanted to drink some hot coffee but the one in the coffeemaker is already cold.

Carlos: Why don't you make a new one?
Julie: Because this is still full. I don't want to waste it.
Carlos: Dump it! You're in America! That's what we do, we're wasting so much!
Julie: No, I don't want to dump it. I'll just heat it.
(Carlos grabbed the coffeemaker and shoved it to my hands)
Carlos: Dump it! Dump it!!!
Julie: Alright, I will!
(Carlos happily called Izzet)
Carlos: Izzet Izzetttt!!! Do you have a camera?? Take a picture of Julie dumping coffee! She's Americanized now!

Situation #4: Carlos was telling the story of Norman cooking the burger patties using the microwave and they have this weird reaction about it.

Julie: Why? What's wrong with cooking burger patties in the microwave? I'm doing it.
(Everyboody looks at me with the same weird reaction.)
Izzet: Ask Charles.
Julie: Charles, why can't i microwave burger patties?
Charles: 'Coz it'll suck!!!! It will taste like rubber! You grill burger patties, not microwave them.
Julie: Yes you can! It will taste the same.
Charles: You gotta understand that microwave is not used for cooking, it's a heating device!

Situation #5: Charles went to our office and he was really frustrated about work issues. He looks lost and helpless so...

Julie: You guys have a lot of problems, dontcha? *smirk
Charles: You're lucky coz the window's not open or else I'll throw you right out of it.

Mga Hirit ni Carlos Part 2

2007-02-19T00:21:00.000-08:00

It was February 16, 2007 (Friday) when Carlos invited us to have a drink at the Hilton Hotel. We arrived around 8pm and saw Carlos sitting at the bar. He ordered me a chick drink called Cosmopolitan and excitedly talked to V about a person named 'Mini-me'... I got so curious so I asked.

Julie: Carlos, who's Mini-me?
Carlos: Do you know Thomas A. ?
Julie: Yes. Why do you call him Mini-me?
V: Have you watched Austin Powers?
Julie: Nooo...
Carlos: Do you know Dr. Evil, the one who cloned himself and turns out to be a mini version of him??
Julie: Yes! I've seen that part but I never got to finish the movie. But why 'Mini-me'?
Carlos: Because he wanted to be ME! Hahahahahaha!!!

Carlos: He was once in this project. He always keeps on telling people that he finished the Project Management Program (a course taken by project managers) and that he had a masteral on this or that. One time, he saw his name at the projector during the meeting. He came to me and told me that he wanted his titles (PhD, MA) at the end of his name. I told him, 'Ohhhh, I don't think so!' He said, 'why not??!' Well, because it is something that you don't need to brag about!

Carlos: But now he's gone, he got kicked out of the project. Behavioural training, social interaction, cultural acceptance and humility are things that you won't get from taking those project management courses. It's something that you'll learn through experience. When he was still part of the project, Mini-me told me 'Carlos, you're crazy. You're always following the orders of Mary (the client). And you don't have the balls to tell her that she's crazy..' So I told him, 'Yes! You're right! I don't have the balls to tell her that. Do you want to tell her?' He said yes and went up to Mary and told her that she's crazy!! In the client's face!! He told Mary that she's crazy!!! So Mary told me that Mini-me should be kicked out of the project. I said 'Ok! You got it! He's gone!'

Carlos: I told Mini-me, 'I'm crazy! I admit it! But I'm not stupid. You told the client that she's crazy, so you're out of the project. Are you happy now? (*smirk).' Then he realized that I was right.

Carlos: I've lived on a lot of places all over the world because of the different projects that I've handled so I pretty much understand the mind of a client. I've lived in China, in Europe, in India...

Julie: India? How long have you been there?

Carlos: About a year. It was a horrible experience... I never had s** for a year!

Julie: Hahahaha, I can imagine..

Carlos: Ohh, you can NEVER imagine! You can never imagine!

Carlos: I've also learned not to mess up with your boss. One time, my boss Mark Black and I went to Argentina. (note: Carlos is Spanish).. So I treat him to this restaurant and I ordered the food for us to let him try some new things. Soooo, I let him eat the cow intestines but I didn't tell him they are cow intestines!! When I asked him how the food was, he said, 'Carlos, they kinda taste like shit..' I told him, 'that's what it is!' He got so pissed off and told me he'll get back to me someday and that I should experience how it feels like to be in a place where you don't know the language.

Carlos: And then a project opened in China. And they were deciding on who among the project directors should be sent there. Mark Black told them that he thinks I am most fitted to be sent in China. 'Mark, I don't know Chinese! Are you doing this because remember when we were in Argentina, I made you eat the cow intestines?' Mark said, 'now you'll know how it feels like to be in a foreign country with a different language, heheheh'....

Carlos: Off I went to China. It was really hard because I don't know the language!!! I have a translator, a young Chinese girl. I asked her to go shopping with me during the weekend coz it's hard to buy things there!! All are in Chinese characters! But my translator refused coz her boyfriend is jealous and her parents are very strict. I told her, 'then bring your boyfriend with you! Let's go shopping together! You'll still get paid coz you're working, you're my translator!' She still said no. So I went shopping by myself and took a cab, and the meter is in Chinese so I just took out all my money and showed it to the driver and he happily counted and picked up anything...And Oh my goodness, preparing my expense claims is a nightmare!! Dinner?? I put on $40 and just about anything coz I don't know how much I spent! Then SPL called me and asked 'how do I know that you spent $40 for dinner?' I told her, 'You don't!! I don't either!!!!'

Carlos: Then it always take me so lonnnggg to prepare my resource plan because when I asked one question 'How many reports are left?' The translator will translate my question and she'll go 'abadi abadi abadi abadi abadi abadi', and then the client will answer 'abadi abadi abadi abadi abadi abadi', then the translator will tell me 'Seven......' Oh my Goshh!!!! So, I'll ask another question again, 'Which report should be finished first?'....

Translator: Abadi abadi abadi abadi abadi abadi abadi.....
Client: Abadi abadi abadi abadi abadi abadi abadi.....

Then the translator will again turn to me and say 'This one....'

Carlos: Then the SPL again called me because I'm one week late on submitting my resource plan. I told them I'm still working on it. But they said they need it now. So, ok. I sent them my resource plan. Then they called me again and said, 'Carlos, they're in Chinese!'....I told them 'Duh, I'm in China!!! That's what I've been working on! I'm still in the process of translating it!'

Carlos: So remember, never mess up with your boss! They can send you anywhere!

V's Birthday at Otani

2007-02-15T14:09:00.000-08:00

It's V's birthday and he celebrated it at Otani, a Japanese Hibachi Restaurant located at Virginia Beach. The chef cooks in front of you and he does some cool knife flarings and stuffs.

The restaurant gave V a balloon and a straw necklace. But the balloon immediately loses air and got smaller... (but we love freebies, so what the hell)

Carlos hirit: No wonder they immediately give the bill when they gave you the balloon, so by the time it gets smaller, you're already out of the restaurant.

We sang happy birthday and the waitress hits the gong at every line.

Happy birthday to you...*GONGGGG!!!!

Happy birthday to youuu......*GONGGG!!!

Happy birthday dear Vvvieeee..*GONNGGGG!!

(The gong really made my day mwahhahaha. Imagine how awkward it was.)

V holding a sake and Carlos holding $10

Mary (the client) gave Carlos $10 to buy V a drink (a sake). So Carlos wanted an evidence of it.

Carlos is such a clown..

They all wanted me to try 'Mudslide', a chick drink.. (I'm really into sweet stuffs so I like this one)

Carlos hirit #1: Izzet, take a before and after picture of her!!!

Carlos hirit #2: Someday Julie, you'll find out that sugar and alcohol don't really go together.

Mga Hirit ni Carlos

2007-02-14T22:22:00.000-08:00

Carlos is our Project Director here in Virginia under the Hampton Roads Sanitation District project. I've learned a lot from him. He has this cunning way of expressing his perspective on a lot of things...

Situation #1: Carlos called the SPL team for a meeting in one of the conference rooms. Washington (another SPLer) is home sick so he was put on a speaker phone so as to hear what Carlos have to say.

Carlos: I didn't call you guys so I can start bitching. But we're really in a big trouble here coz Derek and John are being rolled off next week. And right now everyone of us is in a really big mess. And unfortunately for Julie, she's also sucked up on the mess that we have.

In the morning, we should answer all the questions and help the client out and in the evening, we could get ourselves drunk and rant about how stupid these people are.

We should have a documentation on what normal CC&B day would be like. We should explain it to the end users like school kids, like 'this is a 24 hour clock, when the small hand is in number 6 and there's sunlight outside, this batch program will run..now when it's night time, this is what will happen.'

Washington: Derek? could you please bring the charger (laptop charger) to my apartment so I could work?

Carlos: WoRkKKK?? We're not fools you know. Do you think you're talking to your children?

Situation #2: Izzet invited the SPL team to the Hilton Hotel Bar to have a drink of the bottle of wine that Hilton Hotel gave her. Izzet came down with the bottle of red wine. Carlos called the waitress and asked for a bottle opener.

Waitress: Oh sorry, but it's forbidden to drink wine that's not ordered.
Carlos: But this wine came from you guys!! This is a free wine provided by the hotel!
Waitress: You could drink it at your room (smiling).
Carlos: Oh come on, just slip the bottle opener at my back and we'll act as if nothing happened.
Waitress: Really sorry but it's a rule here and I could get fired if I let you open that bottle...
Carlos (turning to Izzet): So Izzet, you invited us for nothing??

....
Carlos: You know guys I collect Hard Rock Cafe t-shirts. And I think I'm the only one person in America that has a Hard Rock Cafe (a place in Germany that I forgot) t-shirt. Because Hard Rock doesn't exist in that place. I was walking at the beach in Germany and a guy asked me if I wanted to buy a t-shirt and then I saw it was a Hard Rock t-shirt! Imagine, he thought of making a t-shirt out of a place that does not exist!! How cool is that?! So I bought the shirt and I told him, 'I salute you man! I really appreciate art! And this is the art of cheating!'

to be continued...

Trip to Virginia Part 1

2007-02-05T20:40:00.000-08:00

January 5, 2007

V can't find his passport. I can't find my sanity... (I can already picture myself lost at the airport with a big laptop bag and desperately trying to contact anyone from SPL.)

January 6, 2007

Last minute shopping. My roommate and I went to Glorietta to buy some not-so-important but for-me-it's-important stuffs that I'll bring with me. JM insisted that I should buy a winter coat, so I did. The reminders of Jinna and Ma'am Cez are still streaming through my mind. Waw's magic To Do list is still with me (thanks Francis!). So I think I'm gonna be fine.

Gabi na pero sabog-sabog pa rin ang gamit ko. I found out that packing is not one of my strong points. My things just wouldn't fit in my luggage. Then JM stepped in, flipped his magic wand and taddaaaa, my luggage is all set.

January 7, 2007

First stop - Narita Japan Airport. NW20 ang connecting flight namin papuntang Detroit. Since sumakit ang tiyan ni V, he told me to proceed to Gate 24 and he'll meet me there. Sige lakad ako, confident na makikita ko agad ang Gate 24 dahil may signs naman. Nakita ko ang signs, nakaturo pakaliwa ang papunta sa gate namin. Pero pag tumingin ka sa kaliwa, hala! Pader! Kulang ang kapangyarihan ko para lumusot sa pader, pano ako makakarating sa flight namin?? WTF!

Ok, relak lang. Relak. Kaya ko toh. Ipikit ang mata at basahin ulit ang sign papuntang Gate 24, baka sakaling magbago. Balik ako dun sa sign. Pigil ang hiningang tumingala ako at nagbasa ng dahan-dahan. Sheeeetttt!! Nakaturo talaga sa kaliwa! Hanung gagawin ko???

Divine intervention. That's what I really need. Hindi ako pwedeng maabutan dito ni V sa gitna ng kawalan at baka tuktukan lang ako nun. Para akong batang nawawala, napapaligiran ng mga Hapon. Nakita ko dun sa waiting area sa kaliwa ko, may nakaupong Kano. Lapit ako. Naks, mapapalaban ako ng english. 'Hi, do you happen to know where Gate 24 is?' Nakkkksssss!!!!! Yavang! Tayo agad siya at sinamahan nya akong hanapin ang Gate 24. Aba, epektibo ang kariktan ko dito. Tinanong ko siya 'Am I not bothering you?' Sagot naman siya 'Not at all! I'm just killing time! I've been to this airport before so I know where this is coming from.' (*nosebleed)

To be continued...

The Big News

2007-01-18T16:57:00.000-08:00

It was November 22, 2006 when Reych sent me an email instructing me to fill-up the Online Visa Application Form of the United States Embassy. Hmmm, is this true? Baka isa na naman tong joke katulad nung email sakin ni Melvin na job application daw tapos pagbukas mo, application pala sa Pinoy Big Brother 2nd Season. But this MUST be what I think it is!!!!

Suddenly, eto na si Jinna (my project manager) at ang bungad sakin ay 'Julie, kausapin kita sandali..' Uyyy, ambigat nun, may pag-uusapan daw kami. I wonder what it is nyehehe. So off I went to the pantry. Sinabi lang sakin na ipapatapon na nga ako sa America for 3 months. Fine with me. No biggie...(*smirk)

Binuksan ko ang Visa Application Form at tinitigan. At kinulit ko ng kinulit sina Norman at Reych dahil di ko malaman kung anong ipaglalalagay sa mga input fields (*panic attack). Nalaman ko din kay Ma'am Cez na dati na pala nilang alam ni Jinna na may balak na na ipadala ako onsite pero quiet lang sila dahil di pa finalized ang lahat. Wala akong pinagsabihan sa mga batchmates, housemates at sa family ko dahil baka di matuloy, dyahe naman pag ganun.

To be continued...

Guess who's back!!

2006-11-16T23:14:00.000-08:00

Aym bak! Tagal ko na ring di nakapag-post, dami na nangyari tsk tsk..

ANG NAKARAAN.....

1. September 28, 2006 - Bagyong Milenyo. Tinatamad akong pumasok kasi umuulan, sarap matulog. Naabutan ko nakaharap sa tv sina Chloue, sabi wala daw pasok. Talaga lang ha, sabi ko. Nang in-announce sa tv na walang pasok, di pa rin ako naniwala. Yes, mahirap talaga akong makumbinsi sa mga seryosong bagay na ganyan. So tinext ko ang team lead ko (hi Ma'am Cez) at siya tinanong ko, sabi nya wala daw kasi may bagyo. Ayun, I believe I beliieeevvee!

Kailangan pa din ni Chloue na pumasok kasi sa hotel siya so walang kala-kalamidad sa kanila. Maaga pa naman nun so tulog ulit ako. Kaso kinakabog na ng bagyo ang apartment namin. Umaanggi na yung bintana sa bandang ulunan ko. At nawalan na ng kuryente. This is not good. So tumayo na ako at nanood sa pagsalanta ng bagyo. Kasama ko si Fiona at pareho kaming naa-amaze pag may nakikita kaming anything na tangay tangay ng hangin. Mas malaki, mas exciting. Nakakita kami ng mga basurang tinatangay ng hangin, natuwa kami at pumalakpak. Nakakita kami ng sanga ng puno na tangay ng hangin, natuwa ulit kami at pumalakpak. Humampas ang sanga ng puno sa bintana namin, nag-freak out si Fiona.

Nakakaawa ung mga tao sa squatters na tanaw mula samin. Tinatangay na ung bahay nila. Nung sinisilip namin habang hawak-hawak ang mga poste nila, nakita nila kami. Ngumiti ba naman at tumuro samin na parang nagsasabing 'kayo ha!'...Ngee. Mga pinoy talaga, kahit may delubyo ansasaya pa din.

Hapon na at di pa rin kami naliligo ni Fiona kasi walang tubig sa banyo. Tuyo na din labi namin dahil di kami prepared kaya walang tubig sa ref. Mukha na kaming mga evacuees. Buti na lang dumating sina JM at ang officemate nyang si Love. At least apat na kaming evacuees.

Kampante naman ako na di kami babahain sa loob ng apartment kasi nga nasa third floor kami. Although medyo tumatagas ang tubig galing sa veranda, kaya namang harangin ng basahan yun divah? But no! Pinasok pa din ng tubig ang major door namin, di kinaya ng basahan. Tapos pagpasok ko sa kwarto, wtf! Lumalangoy na ang computer ko sa baha! Anak ng tokwa, third floor! Binaha! For REaL! Tumagas ang tubig dun sa pinto ng dwende (yup, maliit na pinto na dwende lang ang kasya) na nasa kwarto namin. Basa ang mattress ko, pati ang computer ko na nasa sahig lang. Binuhat ko agad ang mga gamit ko at pinagtatambak sa kung saan-saang parte ng apartment. Shocking.

10:30 pm na at wala pa rin kaming ligo ni Fiona. Amoy karpintero na kami. Tulog si Love sa kwarto namin at si JM sa kabilang kwarto. Dahil walang magawa, kumanta kami ng kumanta ni Fiona ng kung anu-ano lang. Example: Shaider song - shigi shigi saga shigi shuwwwaaaahhhh, shigi shigi! AT.. biglang nagka-power. Salamat sa pulis pangkalawakan.

2. Naipit ako sa LRT. Kagagaling ko lang sa province namin. Pagud na pagod pa ako sa byahe nung umaakyat ako ng LRT station. Tapos nakita ko andun na ang LRT. Petiks pa din akong maglakad kasi alam ko di ko na maaabutan yun. Pero ipapasok ko na ang card eh andun pa rin sya so iniisip ko aabot pa ako pag tinakbo ko. Ako namang si tanga, tinakbo ko nga. Saktong sakto ako sa pagsara. Naipit ako sa pinto. Gitnang-gitna. Swak. Kalahati ng katawan ko nasa loob, kalahati nasa labas. Alam nyo yung scene sa 'The Incredibles' na naipit sa pinto si Elastigirl dun sa headquarters ng kalaban? Ganun. Yung lalaki na nakatayo sa pinto ng LRT hindi malaman kung hihilahin ako oh itutulak so ang ginawa na lang nya, pinilit na buksan ulit ang pinto. Nakatingin lang sakin ang mga ibang tao sa loob habang nagpupumiglas ako. At last nakalabas din ako at nahila ko ang bag ko, sumara na ng tuluyan ang pinto. Sa sobrang inis, sumigaw ako ng malakas at malutong na 'FU****KKKKK'. Tapos biglang bumukas ulit ang pinto ng LRT. I dashed inside and screamed 'YEsssSSS'. Thus begin my long and embarrassing journey.

Reminiscing Old School Wrestling

2006-09-17T21:15:00.000-07:00

WWE (World Wrestling Entertainment) na pala ngayon?!! Dati di ba WWF (World Wrestling Federation)? Hay, tumatanda na ako. I'm not familiar na with the WWE wrestlers. I do know Batista coz he's half-Filipino (?? guys help me out here) and I watched his interview in Balitang K while he flaunts his Philippine flag tattoo. Aside from him, wala na akong kilala.

But I was actually a big fan of wrestling before, noong WWF pa siya. My brother influenced me in watching it and during those times, we were actually convinced that the fights were real. I remember us cheering for Hulk Hogan (hihihihi, ang weird i-mention ng name ni Hulk Hogan. super old school :p ). And there was also a rumor that Undertaker died after lifting Andre the Giant (thanks eric for correcting me.akala ko Big Boy ang name ni Andre the Giant. hahaha, san ko ba nakuha ang pangalang un, maryosep). We were really pissed off with Yokozuna and his bald manager kasi andaya nila! Hahawakan ni Yokozuna ang kalaban tapos aakyat ng ring ung manager niya, then sasabuyan ng manager ng white powder yung eyes nung kalaban. Daya!

It's fun to reminisce the good old days. So, here they are ladies and gents. The WWF Hall of Fame :D

Hulk Hogan

Hulk Hogan famous move

Undertaker

Ultimate Warrior

Ultimate Warrior face paint

Jake the Snake

Yokozuna and his Manager

British Bulldog

Andre the Giant

Sino pa ba ang nakalimutan ko?

Funny Signs! Asteeegg!

2006-09-17T07:44:00.000-07:00

Joehanna, thanks for forwarding this email. I hope I'll be able to see one of these hahahaha! Rules/signs with a touch of humor ain't hard to follow.

Apartment Trouble (3A vs. 3B)

2006-09-13T22:00:00.000-07:00

These events happened last night...

I thought yesterday would be just another boring day - going through my usual routine and the like. When I arrived home last night I was so drained and sleepy, I just want to lie down and rest. My three apartmentmates are all there - Fiona, Chloue and JM. Fiona the Lesbian, JM the Queer Guy, and Chloue the Girlfriend (of Fiona). JM is already sleeping, Chloue is watching tv and Fiona is washing their undies.

So ayun nga. We have nothing to do but to watch tv. Normal na kwentuhan, tawanan. Fiona was teasing me coz I find Victor Basa cute while she can't get over his funny nerd role in Your Song (tama ba?) so she keeps on imitating him. Then, nung nagsasampay na si Fiona ng laundry niya, biglang lumabas si Chloue at sumugod sa Apartment 3A (I forgot to mention we're from Apartment 3B)!!!

Apartment 3A residents include Isabel (former Japayuki, current status: pregnant), her brother Che (student) and her sister (current status: unknown). Wowo, Isabel's boyfriend, often stays in their apartment. A week ago, Isabel mentioned to Fiona that Wowo and her are fighting coz the guy thinks that Isabel has a thing with Fiona (or vice versa). Since our room is adjacent to their room, we can clearly hear their fights. Wasak lahat gamit nila.

Going back...Fiona mentioned this incident to Chloue. And the hardheaded Claudia cannot let this pass. So sumugod na ang alagad ni Gabriela Silang sa Apartment 3A. The conversation went like this:

Chloue knocks on their door and Isabel was the one who opened it. Wowo is just sitting at the dining area.

Chloue: Anong problema nyang boyfriend mo?

Isabel: Wala. Bakit?

Chloue: Wala pala e bakit niya dinadawit pangalan ni Fiona? Wag nyo kaming pakialaman dahil wala kaming pakialam sa inyo!

Hala! Kaytapang! I was applying moisturizer when Chloue entered and announced what she did. I really don't know how to react so I just said "Langya ka Chloue, pag sumugod yan dito takpan mo ako, di pa nga magaling mga sugat-sugat ko!". We made fun of the whole incident, eventually reprimanding Chloue who still believes that what she did is right. Then...Wowo knocks on the door. I almost run inside our room. He just asked if they could talk to Chloue. Ok sige, labas agad tong gaga.

I just stayed inside our apartment. Ayokong masugatan (hehehe). Anywayz, a couple of minutes passed and we heard someone shouting. Shetness!!! Sugod kami ni Fiona sa labas. Yun pala, nakaupo si Chloue sa labas and she was talking to Isabel's siblings while Isabel and her boyfriend are fighting inside the apartment. So pasok ulit ako sa apartment, wala naman palang duguan e, di na kelangan ng tulong ko. Fiona, on the other hand, stayed with Chloue.

JM woke up and told me the noise is so unbearable. So I informed him of the current situation. A series of shouting started again. Nagwawala na talaga si Isabel at minimura ang dalawa. "P#%$ina mo Chloue!! Bakit mo kami ginugulo!!" (with matching paos factor pa). Pinagbabato niya ng kahoy si Chloue. Tsk, tsk. Pasalamat talaga siya hindi natamaan si Claudia, kundi baka hinataw ni Chloue ng kahoy ang tiyan niya. Fiona instructed Chloue to go inside our apartment.

As we huddled up in our little living room, nag-eevaluate kami ng buong pangyayari. Fiona was worried that the 3A villains will throw their laundry to the sewer. JM was also worried that

something bad might happen to his undies hanging outside and said "Wag nilang gagalawin ang briefs ko, bilang ko yun!". They were waiting for me to make a remark dahil alam nilang may sinampay din ako. "Well well well, sorry. Matalino ang labada ko. Pag nakaramdam ng away, nagtatago na sila sa likod ng mga sinampay nyo."

And we talked about it all over again..while watching Super Inggo.

My Life as I Know It

2006-09-09T07:57:00.000-07:00

I wake up everyday around 6:00 am in the morning, drink water, prepare my coffee, have a couple of cigarettes and drag my ass to the bathroom. I do all that for about an hour. The next 30 minutes is spent deciding what to wear that will classify as an "office attire" (which for me meant something that will allow you to enter the office building without being asked by the security guard if you work there or not) and sitting at the living room pondering for the great things that lie ahead (ahem, ahem). This happens every damn day, same set of actions - different set of clothes.

Our new office is located at the farrrrrrraway land of The Fort. If you grew up in the province, the sight of the vicinity will probably bring back your childhood memories (dyok lang!). As my friend from the ninth floor have said, "Kung may saranggola lang ako pinalipad ko na yun dito." Heniwayzzz....

At about 8:30 am, I've settled all my things to my drawer, turned my computer on and the phrase that marks the beginning of another long day at work pops up at the monitor (Log on to Windows NT). I wish there's another option/button that I can click besides "OK"... like "Go Home, Teyk Ker !! ". Throughout the day, I send and read emails or YM messages, finish my program, drink coffee, test the program, drink coffee, finish the UTP, and drink coffee again. If I get wounded, coffee might ooze out instead of blood.

After office, I still have to take 3 rides to get home - bus, jeepney, and an fx (if I'm lucky) or a bus (if I'm not). The trip to and from the office takes a lot of time which allows your mind to wander and observe a bunch of bizarre things like the vandals at the bus - just by looking at the messy writings on almost every corner makes you sooo proud to be Pinoy. I've read a couple of interesting vandals such as:

"MOVIE TITLES:

1. Anak, Gising Na. Matutulog pa Tayo.

2. Takbo, Babaeng Lumpo!

3. Pusod Pababa, Walang Kawala"

Upon arrival at home, I just watch tv for a couple of minutes, eat dinner, brush my teeth and get ready to sleep and repeat the cycle all over again the next day with slight alterations. That's just about it. Life definitely sucks. Ironically, I like it just the way it is.