For the last two years, this blog has been a witness to my journey back to sanity.
That journey changed me forever.
I almost did not make it.
But I did.
I am...
Grateful that I was able to appreciate the simple things in life, the ones that make me happy.
Blessed that I still have my family and friends who stood by me in my actions and decisions.
Loved, because I have Him even if I felt so alone in my difficult and at times, painful journey.
Whoever read this nonsense, I hope and pray that he/she will be inspired...
To follow a dream...
To learn from mistakes...
And more importantly, to believe.
As I close this blog, a new chapter in my life begins.
I can't wait!
- Atty. Rose
just search me
Custom Search
Sunday, November 09, 2008
Monday, October 27, 2008
Saturday, October 25, 2008
Lola's Day
It's Lola's birthday today. Unfortunately, she's in the hospital because she had seizures. Thank God it's not stroke.
She will be in the hospital for a few more days, but she's stable now.
Happy birthday, Lola!
She will be in the hospital for a few more days, but she's stable now.
Happy birthday, Lola!
Saturday, October 18, 2008
Don't mind me
Why did I suddenly feel like 12 again?
I know older people wanted to relive their youth, but for me, NOT the time--
when I had bad breakouts (acne)...
when I had a few friends in high school (except 4th year)...
when I had my first taste of reality...
when a lot of my childhood dreams went bust...
In essence, when I had a lot of insecurities.
I was painfully shy when I was younger. Even now when I have my crappy days, I couldn't help but go back to those pre-teen days. And I thought, I was supposed to overcome my insecurities years ago. Up to this time, I would still encounter some kind of a deja vu and take me back in time.
If I were to turn back the clock, however, I would like to go back to my college years. Somehow, my course/professors brought me the confidence to aspire for greater things. Which helped me decide to take up law.
Initially, my reasons for taking up law are as follows:
1. I want to be like my mother, despite all her quirks.
2. I wanted retaliation from my insecurities of my failed childhood and miserable youth. (Now this is only an exaggeration, but you get the idea.)
These, I know are the wrong reasons.
I think Mama was surprised with my decision. She tried so hard to discourage me. She only permitted me to take the UP and Ateneo Entrance Exam. I did not pass. I took them again the year after. I did not pass. Only this time I took exams in other law schools. I picked UST. Thankfully, I graduated there.
There is however a valid reason why I took up law, or else, I wouldn't have survived--I wanted to challenge myself.
Five years of getting through every semester in law school and three years of uncertainty has taught me well. I had to dig deep on why I really wanted to join the law profession. And it's because I wanted to achieve something unexpected of me. For me, the shy and timid girl who longs for a place to shine. Who chose to take risks and have courage to overcome life's trials. This, I think would be the legacy of my 20s.
I'm 29 now. Been through a lot, really. Oh, I would like to go back and relive some of my happiest moments of my youth. But I'm happy where I am now because this is where I'm supposed to be.
As I approach my 30's soon (well, next year), I would like to have a family, for the right reasons. But for now, I just wanted to concentrate on becoming a good lawyer.
I know older people wanted to relive their youth, but for me, NOT the time--
when I had bad breakouts (acne)...
when I had a few friends in high school (except 4th year)...
when I had my first taste of reality...
when a lot of my childhood dreams went bust...
In essence, when I had a lot of insecurities.
I was painfully shy when I was younger. Even now when I have my crappy days, I couldn't help but go back to those pre-teen days. And I thought, I was supposed to overcome my insecurities years ago. Up to this time, I would still encounter some kind of a deja vu and take me back in time.
If I were to turn back the clock, however, I would like to go back to my college years. Somehow, my course/professors brought me the confidence to aspire for greater things. Which helped me decide to take up law.
Initially, my reasons for taking up law are as follows:
1. I want to be like my mother, despite all her quirks.
2. I wanted retaliation from my insecurities of my failed childhood and miserable youth. (Now this is only an exaggeration, but you get the idea.)
These, I know are the wrong reasons.
I think Mama was surprised with my decision. She tried so hard to discourage me. She only permitted me to take the UP and Ateneo Entrance Exam. I did not pass. I took them again the year after. I did not pass. Only this time I took exams in other law schools. I picked UST. Thankfully, I graduated there.
There is however a valid reason why I took up law, or else, I wouldn't have survived--I wanted to challenge myself.
Five years of getting through every semester in law school and three years of uncertainty has taught me well. I had to dig deep on why I really wanted to join the law profession. And it's because I wanted to achieve something unexpected of me. For me, the shy and timid girl who longs for a place to shine. Who chose to take risks and have courage to overcome life's trials. This, I think would be the legacy of my 20s.
I'm 29 now. Been through a lot, really. Oh, I would like to go back and relive some of my happiest moments of my youth. But I'm happy where I am now because this is where I'm supposed to be.
As I approach my 30's soon (well, next year), I would like to have a family, for the right reasons. But for now, I just wanted to concentrate on becoming a good lawyer.
Sunday, October 12, 2008
Tuesday, October 07, 2008
Last Bum Week
So anyway, I'm reporting to work on the 15th.
Things to do 'till then:
1. Make an inventory on the wardrobe
Shoes - Recently bought a new gold pair on a steal. And there's the brown loafers I bought after the results were released. And there's the black boots that I have not even worn formally yet. So there are three. If I can't stand the heels, I'd have to buy a pair of casual ballet flats. The satin rose pair is too pretty and formal.
Slacks/Pants - Last time I checked, I had about five decent ones: brown, a couple of black ones, navy blue (which is hard to pair with), and cream (for informal days). Maybe I should buy another one in dark or further raid Mama's closet.
Blazers - Definitely a must-have for lawyers. I am retiring my old black one I wore as law student. So that leaves the new black blazer I bought in August when I got the job, the pink one I "arbored" from Mama, and the navy blue. I think I still have another one recently bought in the Rustan's sale. Looks like I need to further raid Mama's closet.
Skirts - I have a couple of good black and brown ones. I have no plans on wearing these to work soon.
Blouses - I think I'm going to retire the ones I often wore in my last employment. But I still have a few good ones, including the white blouse I wore when I was vacationing in Cebu.
Accessories - Sadly, I have to say goodbye to my beloved clay food accessories. I still don't know how to dispose some of them. But I have a new pendant made, which I could definitely wear to work. I need to stock up again with more grown-up jewelry since most of my wardrobe are just plain and yes, boring.
Overall, I think I'm still good in the wardrobe department. But I think I might buy a few stuff for safety. Probably a new blouse or ballet flats.
2. Clean Up
This I have yet to do. I will start by cleaning up my desk or even the other side of my bed.
3. Organize Mama's notarial book
This one I sort of promised but have not really gotten into doing it. And it's already October. Shucks.
4. Get out of the house
One last gimmick or getaway. Sadly, due to limited funds, I'd have to do this myself and not go out with my friends 'till... maybe December.
I think this may be my last week as a person on welfare (read: unemployed). From then on, I will be caught up with the life in law and maybe, have an actual life.
Things to do 'till then:
1. Make an inventory on the wardrobe
Shoes - Recently bought a new gold pair on a steal. And there's the brown loafers I bought after the results were released. And there's the black boots that I have not even worn formally yet. So there are three. If I can't stand the heels, I'd have to buy a pair of casual ballet flats. The satin rose pair is too pretty and formal.
Slacks/Pants - Last time I checked, I had about five decent ones: brown, a couple of black ones, navy blue (which is hard to pair with), and cream (for informal days). Maybe I should buy another one in dark or further raid Mama's closet.
Blazers - Definitely a must-have for lawyers. I am retiring my old black one I wore as law student. So that leaves the new black blazer I bought in August when I got the job, the pink one I "arbored" from Mama, and the navy blue. I think I still have another one recently bought in the Rustan's sale. Looks like I need to further raid Mama's closet.
Skirts - I have a couple of good black and brown ones. I have no plans on wearing these to work soon.
Blouses - I think I'm going to retire the ones I often wore in my last employment. But I still have a few good ones, including the white blouse I wore when I was vacationing in Cebu.
Accessories - Sadly, I have to say goodbye to my beloved clay food accessories. I still don't know how to dispose some of them. But I have a new pendant made, which I could definitely wear to work. I need to stock up again with more grown-up jewelry since most of my wardrobe are just plain and yes, boring.
Overall, I think I'm still good in the wardrobe department. But I think I might buy a few stuff for safety. Probably a new blouse or ballet flats.
2. Clean Up
This I have yet to do. I will start by cleaning up my desk or even the other side of my bed.
3. Organize Mama's notarial book
This one I sort of promised but have not really gotten into doing it. And it's already October. Shucks.
4. Get out of the house
One last gimmick or getaway. Sadly, due to limited funds, I'd have to do this myself and not go out with my friends 'till... maybe December.
I think this may be my last week as a person on welfare (read: unemployed). From then on, I will be caught up with the life in law and maybe, have an actual life.
Saturday, October 04, 2008
Loving Lavender
So I'm loving things all lavender lately. The shade that I like is a mixture of violet and white, sort of light purple.
For three years now, my room is painted with the color:
Recently, I have a liking of clothes and stuff of this shade.
I found out in Wikipedia that lavender comes in many shades, like periwinkle (another popular shade), mauve, amethyst (my birthstone) and even halaya ube!
While I'm still a pink baby, I think lavender is a pretty good grown-up color.
Tuesday, September 30, 2008
Last Sunday...
Saturday, September 20, 2008
West Side Story
I have seen Stages' production of West Side Story earlier. Think Romeo and Juliet storyline. Christian Bautista essayed the role of Tony, while West End's Joanna Ampil is Maria.
Why did I have to sit in far away balcony? Waaah.
Overall, it was okay. Joanna Ampil, as expected, gave a stellar performance, everything a West End star should be. So good that her powerful soprano sometimes overshadows Christian in the duets.
I wish I could watch Karylle's performance too, I hear she's quite a revelation.
UPDATE: Bought these personalized chocolates instead of the souvenir program.
Why did I have to sit in far away balcony? Waaah.
Overall, it was okay. Joanna Ampil, as expected, gave a stellar performance, everything a West End star should be. So good that her powerful soprano sometimes overshadows Christian in the duets.
I wish I could watch Karylle's performance too, I hear she's quite a revelation.
UPDATE: Bought these personalized chocolates instead of the souvenir program.
Sunday, September 14, 2008
Sunday, September 07, 2008
Bar Ops '08
My first Bar Operations as a bar passer/lawyer. I was so happy to see my former classmates again. (Nobody from I-B? Boo.)
Enjoyed each and every minute of the sendoff (Go USTE!).
Didn't do any academic stuff, I just showed up in support of my friend who is battling it out in La Salle. (God Bless!)
Manila Hotel, baby!
Good luck to all 2008 barristers!
Enjoyed each and every minute of the sendoff (Go USTE!).
Didn't do any academic stuff, I just showed up in support of my friend who is battling it out in La Salle. (God Bless!)
Manila Hotel, baby!
Good luck to all 2008 barristers!
Monday, September 01, 2008
BAR
It's that time of the year again...
When I was a law student, I dread the month of September because it's usually the time when I'll know whether I have the potential to pass or fail a certain law subject. And when I became a barrister, September is a hell month because of the elusive Bar Exams. Last time I would not even dare to write about my experience in La Salle or my preparations for the bar. I would not even talk about it. It's always about the waiting period.
This time around, I will become a spectator again to the most crucial time of an aspiring lawyer. And I'm actually excited to go to La Salle to see my friends and former classmates, if they're still around. Of course they already have their legal careers while mine is just starting. Or about to start.
Anyway, I just want to relive the experience once more.
I have a relative and some former classmates and acquaintances who will be taking the bar exams in a week's time. If I could describe the four Sundays of September in one word, that would be intense. Four years of law school training (or more) and six months of review will be culminated in a matter of seven hours for each Sunday, a total of 28 hours. And intense comes hand in hand with pressure.
I haven't had the slightest idea how I survived last year's bar exam. It was difficult for me physically, emotionally, and maybe, psychologically. Of course any barrister would claim that their bar was difficult from the other years. One thing I would say though. It gets harder and harder every year. And more unpredictable. Not to discourage this year's and future barristers, I'm just relating from experience.
I do hope that no one I know will suffer the same trauma that I carried for the past few years. It's difficult to recover and repeat the process. However, if the worst case scenario happens, I'll just be there for them.
For now, I am crossing my fingers for my friends and colleagues who will be battling it out in La Salle. Godspeed!
When I was a law student, I dread the month of September because it's usually the time when I'll know whether I have the potential to pass or fail a certain law subject. And when I became a barrister, September is a hell month because of the elusive Bar Exams. Last time I would not even dare to write about my experience in La Salle or my preparations for the bar. I would not even talk about it. It's always about the waiting period.
This time around, I will become a spectator again to the most crucial time of an aspiring lawyer. And I'm actually excited to go to La Salle to see my friends and former classmates, if they're still around. Of course they already have their legal careers while mine is just starting. Or about to start.
Anyway, I just want to relive the experience once more.
I have a relative and some former classmates and acquaintances who will be taking the bar exams in a week's time. If I could describe the four Sundays of September in one word, that would be intense. Four years of law school training (or more) and six months of review will be culminated in a matter of seven hours for each Sunday, a total of 28 hours. And intense comes hand in hand with pressure.
I haven't had the slightest idea how I survived last year's bar exam. It was difficult for me physically, emotionally, and maybe, psychologically. Of course any barrister would claim that their bar was difficult from the other years. One thing I would say though. It gets harder and harder every year. And more unpredictable. Not to discourage this year's and future barristers, I'm just relating from experience.
I do hope that no one I know will suffer the same trauma that I carried for the past few years. It's difficult to recover and repeat the process. However, if the worst case scenario happens, I'll just be there for them.
For now, I am crossing my fingers for my friends and colleagues who will be battling it out in La Salle. Godspeed!
Friday, August 29, 2008
Cupcake Heaven
From L to R: Baby Strawberry Cream, Little Goldie, Purple Bloom, Cookies and Cream and Surprise Party
Can't wait to wear 'em!
http://beadlady.multiply.com/
Monday, August 25, 2008
Undomestic Goddess
Sophie Kinsella is my new best friend.
I've just read her book: Undomestic Goddess. It's about Samantha Sweeting, a young lawyer who was forced to work as housekeeper after a major screw-up in a top law firm where she was employed, therefore denying her the most coveted partnership. She therefore went where no career woman has gone before--living in domesticity. In the process, Samantha gained a new perspective about life... and love.
I plan to read more of Kinsella's novels before I head out to work again... hopefully soon.
I've just read her book: Undomestic Goddess. It's about Samantha Sweeting, a young lawyer who was forced to work as housekeeper after a major screw-up in a top law firm where she was employed, therefore denying her the most coveted partnership. She therefore went where no career woman has gone before--living in domesticity. In the process, Samantha gained a new perspective about life... and love.
I plan to read more of Kinsella's novels before I head out to work again... hopefully soon.
Hello again
So I'm keeping this blog... for now.
I will post my pa-cute and kikay entries here, while I'll post the more serious and personal stuff in the new blog.
Good deal? I thought so. However, when I get settled in my new home (or when I get really really busy), that's when I'm going to move. It will be a while, I guess.
I will post my pa-cute and kikay entries here, while I'll post the more serious and personal stuff in the new blog.
Good deal? I thought so. However, when I get settled in my new home (or when I get really really busy), that's when I'm going to move. It will be a while, I guess.
Friday, August 22, 2008
Multiply Shopping: Favorite Sellers
Ever since we had DSL last year, I surfed the net for more hours, I blogged more often than I should.
And I discovered the joys of Multiply shopping.
It was not my first online transaction. A few years ago, I was always on the lookout for rare Lucy Maud Montgomery books and affordable collectible items on Ebay. But it became a little bit costly, and I didn't really want to use my credit card so often.
My first Multiply transaction was for the Emillie bangle (bottom left) from Baubles, Bangles and Beads.
Since then, I gave the Emillie to my aunt on her birthday last year. It was sort of my "thank you" token for letting me stay at her place when I was reviewing for the Bar Exams last year. (And I passed!) As you can see, I acquired some more bangles and even got my sneakers handpainted.
Now I want their handpainted shoes!
And yes, I bought that cherry bangle too!
My transaction with BBB got me introduced to other noted Multiply sellers. One of them is Stellar by Chynna Ortaleza, and yes, she is the Kapuso talent. I chanced upon the Stellar site because I was then looking for Hello Kitty items. I'm very impressed about the way she sells her items, giving her items a theme and name. I still love the authentic Hello Kitty earings I bought from her. I have met her before, and she's really nice!
And then there's Angeli's Art Beads. I was introduced to her and her polymer clay creations through a "trunkshow". I immediately went gaga over her cupcakes, and purchased her Chocolate Frost (first from left, and yes, I named it.)
Since then, I acquired a lot more cupcakes and sweets than necessary. And I love them all!
And then I became interested in strawberry necklaces (I blame this on Mischa Barton). The search led me to What To Wear by Julie. The site sells the most stylish clothes! Too bad I could not fit in them right now. But I did get the strawberry necklace, as well as her chain link headbands and the cheery cherry necklace that I saw at Serendra before.
When Ms. Julie opened her Havaianas pre-order, I immediately filled out the order form, because I know she's one of the most professional sellers here in Multiply. Here's me going gaga over the Laura Mercier Havaianas:
And then came the search for the Big Owl Necklace. I found it in the Closet Queen. Ms. Malou sells the most affordable finds straight from Bangkok. I got two, for me and Mama. Here's Mama looking fab with her owl:
I have not ordered from Ms. Malou recently, but I plan to get one of her hoodies soon!
I'm really fond of Victoria's Secret and Bath and Body lotions and body splash and I usually ask my relatives from the States to bring some when they come to Manila. I found the alternative in Bath and Body Desserts. My skin feels smoother (and even shinier!) when I apply Ms. Cathy's scrubs and souffles (body butter). Her chocolate scrub and vanilla souffle are simply divine!
Other noted Multiply sellers:
Silly Me Clothing - Wearing Lara's fabric belts does NOT make anyone look silly.
Ichigo Shoes - Comfort is not sacrificed when wearing Charm's whimsical and stylish shoes.
Of course, there are a lot of online sellers in Multiply worth recommending. But I have to say however, that the phrase caveat emptor still applies in buying items online. Not to mention the Civil Law on Sales, however dated that law is, for a lack of a special law in online transactions.
And I discovered the joys of Multiply shopping.
It was not my first online transaction. A few years ago, I was always on the lookout for rare Lucy Maud Montgomery books and affordable collectible items on Ebay. But it became a little bit costly, and I didn't really want to use my credit card so often.
My first Multiply transaction was for the Emillie bangle (bottom left) from Baubles, Bangles and Beads.
Since then, I gave the Emillie to my aunt on her birthday last year. It was sort of my "thank you" token for letting me stay at her place when I was reviewing for the Bar Exams last year. (And I passed!) As you can see, I acquired some more bangles and even got my sneakers handpainted.
Now I want their handpainted shoes!
And yes, I bought that cherry bangle too!
My transaction with BBB got me introduced to other noted Multiply sellers. One of them is Stellar by Chynna Ortaleza, and yes, she is the Kapuso talent. I chanced upon the Stellar site because I was then looking for Hello Kitty items. I'm very impressed about the way she sells her items, giving her items a theme and name. I still love the authentic Hello Kitty earings I bought from her. I have met her before, and she's really nice!
And then there's Angeli's Art Beads. I was introduced to her and her polymer clay creations through a "trunkshow". I immediately went gaga over her cupcakes, and purchased her Chocolate Frost (first from left, and yes, I named it.)
Since then, I acquired a lot more cupcakes and sweets than necessary. And I love them all!
And then I became interested in strawberry necklaces (I blame this on Mischa Barton). The search led me to What To Wear by Julie. The site sells the most stylish clothes! Too bad I could not fit in them right now. But I did get the strawberry necklace, as well as her chain link headbands and the cheery cherry necklace that I saw at Serendra before.
When Ms. Julie opened her Havaianas pre-order, I immediately filled out the order form, because I know she's one of the most professional sellers here in Multiply. Here's me going gaga over the Laura Mercier Havaianas:
And then came the search for the Big Owl Necklace. I found it in the Closet Queen. Ms. Malou sells the most affordable finds straight from Bangkok. I got two, for me and Mama. Here's Mama looking fab with her owl:
I have not ordered from Ms. Malou recently, but I plan to get one of her hoodies soon!
I'm really fond of Victoria's Secret and Bath and Body lotions and body splash and I usually ask my relatives from the States to bring some when they come to Manila. I found the alternative in Bath and Body Desserts. My skin feels smoother (and even shinier!) when I apply Ms. Cathy's scrubs and souffles (body butter). Her chocolate scrub and vanilla souffle are simply divine!
Other noted Multiply sellers:
Silly Me Clothing - Wearing Lara's fabric belts does NOT make anyone look silly.
Ichigo Shoes - Comfort is not sacrificed when wearing Charm's whimsical and stylish shoes.
Of course, there are a lot of online sellers in Multiply worth recommending. But I have to say however, that the phrase caveat emptor still applies in buying items online. Not to mention the Civil Law on Sales, however dated that law is, for a lack of a special law in online transactions.
Thursday, August 21, 2008
This is... Today!
The Today Show has been my guilty pleasure for quite some time now. (Yes, I know I should watch the local news more. But I do read the papers.) It used to be my escape when I was going through a difficult time, but now, it's something to look forward to when I wake up in the morning.
I do love the show's feature stories, from the inspiring to just plain silly. And right now, I'm enjoying their coverage on the Beijing Olympics. And Michael Phelps, Shawn Johnson, Nastia Luikin and all the USA athletes.
I love the camaraderie between the anchors. Matt Lauer is easy on the eyes. Meredith Vieira is always amusing. Ann Curry looks really smart and relaxed, and Al Roker is so funny. I'm so hooked with the show that I even miss Natalie Morales when she's not around.
Yes, I come from the other side of the globe and I watch the show's delayed telecast. No, I do not wish to go to see the show live in NY (It would be nice though).
I need a life, or specifically, a job. On the other hand, this may be a good motivation to wake up a bit earlier than usual.
I do love the show's feature stories, from the inspiring to just plain silly. And right now, I'm enjoying their coverage on the Beijing Olympics. And Michael Phelps, Shawn Johnson, Nastia Luikin and all the USA athletes.
I love the camaraderie between the anchors. Matt Lauer is easy on the eyes. Meredith Vieira is always amusing. Ann Curry looks really smart and relaxed, and Al Roker is so funny. I'm so hooked with the show that I even miss Natalie Morales when she's not around.
Yes, I come from the other side of the globe and I watch the show's delayed telecast. No, I do not wish to go to see the show live in NY (It would be nice though).
I need a life, or specifically, a job. On the other hand, this may be a good motivation to wake up a bit earlier than usual.
My Sweet Tooth Bracelet
I made some of my polymer clay finds from Angeli into a bracelet.
I can't wait for my new cupcakes!
Friday, August 15, 2008
Multiply Friends / Bazaar Finds
So I went to the latest bazaar at the Rockwell Tent.
Finally I had my digicam to take shots of my Multiply friends.
With Joyce and Pao of Baubles, Bangles and Beads
With Charm of Ichigo Shoes (center). This pic can be an ad for BBB and Ichigo's collaboration, the handpainted shoes!!!
I love my new Bugs shirt! :)
In my supposed search for new office gear, I bought these instead!
Cuff by Angeli's Art Beads
http://beadlady.multiply.com/
Bangle by Baubles, Bangles and Beads
http://baublesbanglesnbeads.multiply.com/
Shoes by BBB and Ichigo
http://ichigoshoes.multiply.com/
Finally I had my digicam to take shots of my Multiply friends.
With Joyce and Pao of Baubles, Bangles and Beads
With Charm of Ichigo Shoes (center). This pic can be an ad for BBB and Ichigo's collaboration, the handpainted shoes!!!
I love my new Bugs shirt! :)
In my supposed search for new office gear, I bought these instead!
Cuff by Angeli's Art Beads
http://beadlady.multiply.com/
Bangle by Baubles, Bangles and Beads
http://baublesbanglesnbeads.multiply.com/
Shoes by BBB and Ichigo
http://ichigoshoes.multiply.com/
Thursday, August 14, 2008
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
