Got Carrie-d Away

The Sex and the City movie is definitely a must-see for fans of the television show.

I love this movie. Although it would be nice if they didn't cut some scenes. I mean, what's the point of the title of the movie? Anyway, my fave scenes are probably towards the end when everything is alright with New York. And I love the ones with all the girls walking together to where they're going.


It was nice to see the girls again. I could easily relate to Charlotte. She seemed so positive and hopeful, too hopeful sometimes. But I would like the get some of the traits of Carrie, who always sees the big picture, and a bit of sarcasm in Miranda, who is probably the opposite of Charlotte. And I bow to Samantha, still the epitome of girl power, I mean, woman power.

I also love the supporting cast, particularly the leading men. While I rooted for Carrie and Big at the finale, Miranda and Steve have always been my fave couple.

So go get your girlfriends, drink some cosmos (optional), and relive the lives of Carrie, Samantha, Charlotte and Miranda in this reunion movie.

UPDATE: Sex and the City broke box office sales in opening weekend with $55.7 million, followed by the Indiana Jones movie with $46 million.

UPDATE 2: I'm doing a SATC series marathon starting today.

A late rant

About my grades...

As expected, I didn't meet the normal passing rate. Why? Because I got low grades on the three killer subjects. Grrr... One particular subject is, I think, the silent killer.

Funny that my lowest grade is on Civil Law, the subject that I found the easiest in this whole ordeal called the Bar Exams. AS IF?!? It was one of the subjects I reviewed over and over again, along with Remedial Law, Taxation, and Legal Ethics. And I got passing grades in all three subjects. So, a big DUH. As for the other two subjects, Labor and Criminal Law, I would understand a bit because as I emphasized my review on the others subjects, I only did two readings max on these subjects. Although I think I deserve a higher grade, lol.

What does this leaves me? Nothing, except that I'm glad that this ordeal is so over. And then another one begins...

Oh well. Bring it on!

One more rant. Unlike some of my batchmates, I'm proud to be a 2007 BAR passer, simply because I endured THREE killer subjects, unlike in the previous exams which only have one or two. So to the naysayers, this batch will prove you that we are as deserving to be granted the privilege to use that appellation, ATTY.

To all the 2007 BAR passers, YOU ROCK!

One year to go...

It was Mama's birthday yesterday, a few hours ago, actually. One year before turning six decades. She celebrated her big day attending early mass, getting her face "done", and afterwards, having dinner out with me and bro. But the celebration doesn't end there. Tomorrow, I mean, later, Mama and I along with some family and friends will be heading to Pansol (Laguna) for a much needed R&R.

On my part, I'm glad I finally gave that gift to Mama. Well, besides that Cross pen. Now if only I could find a job that suits me well, but I'm getting there.

Happy Birthday Mama. From your forever little helper.

The End.

I'm officially out of the job. Which brings me to the end of my non-legal career. Lovely. My leaving was voluntary, though. Earlier than expected. I have to say that I'm quite sad that I left without "things" being settled or my task being accomplished. In those aspects, I felt that I "failed". But definitely at least one good thing came out from my work experience in that company: I got my self-confidence back. I came to the job pretty sad and so much aloof and quiet, I'm coming out of it still quiet and aloof. But not sad anymore. If I didn't pass the bar I would have left without even informing the boss. But I did, and over the last few weeks I was faced with the dilemma on whether I should stay at my current job while looking for work or start job hunting full time at the risk of losing funds again. I chose the latter.

I really thought it was time to leave. As my boss said, I'm bigger than my job. I truly believe that. The only thing that was good about my last day is that I was able to talk with the boss briefly about what's in store for me. And for him I'm truly grateful, and to the associate editor who took a chance of hiring me under the circumstances. I would have loved to stay, but as fate would have allowed it (finally), the job is not for me anymore. Good luck to the new case digest specialist.

Almost Over...

... the sad chapter of my life, that is.

I am finishing some stuff from work and then I'm on a clean slate again. Too bad things didn't work out for me in the workplace, but it was bound to happen sooner or later. I kinda like my job and was planning to stay for a year. But things happened and they do happen for a reason, and I knew I have to leave.

Don't let this monkey deceive you...

This Zoobie Pet is a stuffed toy, pillow, and a blanket in one cute package. Great for kids and kids at heart.

I think I've reverted back to my childhood. Bad. What the heck, I'm adding this little guy to my wish list. If anybody cares.

More Oath Taking Pics

This time, from the "official" photographer

Make Your Own Havaianas '08

Waited in line for about 4 hours just to get this baby...


... but it sure is pretty!

Atty-at-last!!!

Just some significant pics taken earlier to complete everything.

Patting myself on the back

I took the oath last April 29. Can't believe it finally happened.

While I will not dwell anymore on that En Banc session (which lasted for less than an hour), I would like to share some positive thoughts.

Finally I get to be happy for me.

I love my life. I love my family. I love my friends. I love God, most of all.

Despite what had happened, I still have high hopes to make it in the profession.

I just want to post my two favorite pics taken before the oath taking and my party afterwards.


Without the pointed hat


My family!

Tomorrow I will sign the attorney's roll and become a full fledged lawyer. Woo-hoo!

Journey's End... Or Is it?

I have decided to leave the company. The one that gave me a little bit of hope when I had almost none. Been contemplating this for quite some time. Glad the boss understands. Hopefully Mama will too. Anyway, I still have enough time--a month--to get the job done.

Glad that's over and done with.

Officially migrated to my room...

...to surf the net!!!

Last week, Mama bought me a laptop PC and a digicam. On the same day. Woo-hoo! No more sending MMS from my camera phone. And no more using my bro's PC in the basement. And the best of all.. more blogging!!! How did I get the connection? Thru a very long cable that connects to the LAN.

Life is good nowadays.

First project: Make an impressive resume.

P.S.

My heartfelt thanks to my UST profs and to the bar review lecturers for generously imparting your knowledge of the law. So sorry that I have not mentioned you previously.

Busy Girl Lately

That is my status on my Facebook account. I have been doing stuff, however insignificant they were. Last night I partied for the first time without any worries. And it felt good!

I have been going back to places I've been to, perhaps to seek closure to one of the saddest chapters in my life. This weekend I went back to Rockwell, where I spent much of the summer last year studying (and feeling lost) until September. At that time, I didn't know which direction I should take. And at times I was not absorbing what I read anymore. One time I was reading a Tax book and I spent the whole afternoon crying my heart out. And nobody cared. At least not one human being. I spent a lot of sleepless nights contemplating about my life and wondering how did I end up where I was last year.

But out of isolation I found comfort that I can still talk to somebody who cares and loves me unconditionally. He was my last hope. And I prayed. Really prayed. Out of the blue I began to think that everyday is a new adventure. I began to enjoy the commutes, the silence, and even the isolation. I don't have to go far to find myself. I just needed to leave my comfort zone just to find out if I can survive. And I did. Not on my own though, I had a lot of support. But taking the bar, as one of my lecturers said, is an individual journey. And I went so far that I thought I could lose my own sanity.

So as I went back to my old familiar spot in Rockwell, I can't help but feel that I was beaten up so badly that I might not recover fully. I mean, I'm very happy that I made it, but at the same time, I'm not completely happy. Am I crazy? Do I need therapy? How can I channel this experience in a positive way...

Anyway, I'm relieved. I love my life now, finally. And I'm so damn lucky. In a few days, I will be taking the oath and signing the roll of attorneys. I do hope that I get to work in a firm or government agency that will utilize what I've learned for so many years. And I hope I will be a successful lawyer. Finally I had my chance to prove myself worthy of the appellation.

By the way, Rockwell is still very nice. I've always loved the place. I don't know if I'll get the chance to work in one of those high-rise buildings, but I'll hang out at Powerplant sometimes.

It's been one week since...

And I have to make important decisions! Anyway, the plan for this month is to celebrate BIG. And try to work as much as I can. And finish my task. And maybe, rest as much as I could.

Already processed my clearance. Oath-taking is on April 29, signing of rolls on May 2. After that, God knows where I'll go...

Alma Mater

I am feeling positive again.

Which is good. Very good.

I went back to my two alma maters, UST (my law school) and Miriam College, just to see my profs and tell them the good news. Glad that most of them still remember me.

Talked with one of the law profs who asked about my insights about the Bar Exam in Remedial Law. Told him that except with the outrageous ones, much of the questions were covered in the lectures. Of course the degree of difficulty was expected, even those out of this world questions were expected. What was not expected was the "unusually strict" corrections and the eventual lowering of the passing rate in order to raise the passing percentage. In other words, I was just plain lucky.

My college profs wanted me to speak before a general assembly of IS students. I shared with them what happened to me ever since I graduated, including those years when my future seemed to be so uncertain. I can see that they were really proud that I finally made it. Anyway, I think what impressed them was that I was just an ordinary student who just persevered. Told my profs that I was not a speaker nor a debater, but I write, which became my tool when I eventually decided to take up law. Take note that the only school writing/editing experience that I have is the departmental publication, ISsues. Oh, I was text editor of the Chi-Rho Annual. Formal writing experience included news work three years ago, and my present job summarizing Supreme Court cases. Not bad, but not really that impressive either.

Anyway, the important thing is that I made it, and I was given that assurance by my profs.

Those trips really lifted up my spirits. I still have to take a further trip down memory lane... to Stella Maris, where I spent my formative years until high school. Maybe next week.

I can't wait to take that oath!!!

UPDATES:
1. I am now a licensed attorney.
2. I got invited to speak for the IS students.
3. I already went back to Stella Maris.
4. I am presently looking for a lawyer job.

I made it!!!

I just want to thank everyone for the love, support and especially for offering your prayers for the last few years. It's been a LONG and sad journey, but I finally made it. Finally hurdled that BAR.

Blood, sweat and tears talaga. There were better days, but most of the time, it's been a test of faith. And courage.

Thank God. Thank you Our Lady of Perpetual Help, Our Lady of Manaoag, St. Jude, St. Therese of the Child Jesus, and all other saints. Thank you Holy Spirit.

Thank you Lolo, wherever you are. I'm honored to continue your legacy as lawyer.

Thank you Lola. I know that of all the people, you prayed the hardest.

Much love for my family. Sobrang team effort ito. From my mom to my lola to my other relatives in the States and Cebu, they supported me through this.

Special thanks to my friends too. Alam niyo na kung sino kayo. The true ones, ha?

Also special thanks to my multiply friends. :)

I would also like to congratulate my fellow bar passers: Mariel, Adrian, etc.

Hay. I'm so happy. This may be the happiest day of my 29 years of existence.

Again, thank you.


The soon-to-be Atty. Rose

When you press me to your heart...

I'm in a world apart, a world where roses bloom...

La Vie En Rose is a movie about the life and career of French singer Edith Piaf. Apparently, she's a cultural icon, and recorded a lot of songs, which are still heard today.

While I am not so impressed with the movie, I was blown away by its star, Marion Cotillard. She looked so different in real life. Although Marion lip-synched much of the singing scenes, that does not mean she did not give a less than stellar performance. She deserved that Oscar.

To all my friends...

At least to those I have been out of touch for quite some time...

I'm sorry I haven't responded to your calls, texts, PM, YM, etc... I'm so anti-social. Been going through stuff. Hopefully I get my life straighten up. I would love to share with you all what's on my mind lately... but I can't right now... it's been mind-boggling these past few years. Hope you guys understand.

Anyway, just want you to know that I'm ok. Still alive and breathing. Anxious. Waiting. Happy sometimes. Had my bad days too. I do have a few chosen people whenever I need somebody to talk to. But they have their lives too, so I'm mostly on my own. But yes, I'm slowly picking up the pieces of the mess I made. And I'm beginning to see that I may have a place in the sun after all... So there.

I'll get in touch with you soon. Take care, you all...

Some random thoughts...

I suffered a one week affair with food poisoning. And as I'm recovering (slowly), I see my officemates were avoiding me for some reason. Maybe because the real me is beginning to show. Oh well... Hay... Office politics. I don't really hate my officemates, I'm beginning to be quite fond of them. It's just that... mahirap silang sakyan. I don't mind the asaran, I'm not just used to make asar back, maybe except to those people I know well... How do I get out of it without losing my focus to my work... which is beginning to be a problem to me. I'm getting bored... and I haven't even gotten used to the work yet. *Sigh*

On the other hand, I had a wonderful dream last night... I hope it's going to come true in a few weeks' time... It's actually my first dream about... IT... Could it be? Shucks. :)

I hope to see more good signs. Bahala na ang mangyari sa akin sa office. Hmph.

Birthday Greetings

This is a little bit late, but I would like to greet my inaanak Gerard. He celebrated his first day last Feb. 19 (the day after my birthday).

Here's my birthday wish to my inaanak. This was written a few weeks before he was born, on his Mommy's baby shower last year.


Again, happy 1st birthday Gerard!!!

Slumming Book

1. Who knows the real you?
* moi

2. When was the last time you went out?
* kanina

3. If you could kiss anyone, who would it be?
* my inaanak who is super cute

4. Whats the last song u sung?
* so happy together

5. What does it remind you of?
* happier times

6. Last movie you watched?
* 27 Dresses

7. Which of your friends live closest to you?
* Abi, Mariel

8. What CD is in your dvd player?
* wala

9. Do you drive?
* RARELY

10. What did you do yesterday?
* work, went to trinoma afterwards

12. Do you wear contacts or glasses?
* glasses

13. What's your Mom's middle name?
* Menchavez

14. Do you trust your friends?
* only the chosen one

15. Who was the last person to call you?
* Mariel

16. What annoys you?
* ZTE

17. Would you move to another state/country to be with the one you love?
* yes?

18. Next vacation you're going on?
* boracay!

19. Do you play any instruments?
* the piano

20. Do you believe that everything happens for a reason?
* yes, but i also believe that i can create my own destiny

21. Do you want multiple piercing?
* nope

22. Did you ever go to Prom?
* not that i had any choice

23. Last time you went to the mall?
* last night after work

24. What was the last thing you ate?
* Big Red Barn's servings - bitin

25. Which of your friends would make the best roommate?
* probably Lovien, but she's married na

26. Have u found the 1 u wanna spend ur whole life with?
* i wish

27. Are u happy with ur life now?
* happy is just a state of mind, i will be.

28. Do u think there's still a chance 4 past lovers to get back together?
* yes, i'm just a hopeless romantic

29. How did u spend ur Christmas last year?
* family, food, shopping!

30. Do u go for Simbang Gabi?
* yes, my tradition for years

31. Who is ur Valentine's date?
* elderly priests

32. What are u looking forward to next week?
* holiday, then more case digests

33. What song are you listening to right now?
* mishka's space album

34. Closest Sibling?
* little bro na di na little

35. Last person hu texted you?
* mama

36. Last person u texted?
* mama

37. When was the last time u smiled?
* kanina at my inaanak's 1st birthday party

38. Why?
* cute siya... ang inaanak ko

39. What are you going to do tomorrow?
* watch the oscars

Cheers!

I would like to spend my last year as twenty-something with meaning. Like setting new life goals. Starting over. And most of all, being happy. That's what I want more than anything else. Of course I still want to dream BIG. I won't surrender until the last fight. I guess I have to go through some stuff so I could really appreciate all the good things in life. And how great God is.

So today, on my 29th birthday, I just want to be thankful with all the blessings God has given me so far. And I'm hoping that I'll keep the same spirit that I have right now. I can't believe that I'm saying these things. But I still have HOPE in my heart, and believe me, it's the only thing going for me right now.

What's in store for me this year? Hmmm... I would really like to know... Until then, I just have to keep my fingers crossed.

Happy birthday to ME!!!

With Lola:

Love My Birthday Cakes

Mud Pie from Sweet Inspirations - YUM!

Rose Mini-cake necklace from Angeli - cutie!

New Baby

I am so in love with my new pink Top Havaianas with stainless white logo. This is a partial birthday gift from my friend Abi (thanks girl!) and partial treat from my first paycheck.

What a beauty.

18 Forever

Can't believe I will be reaching the end of my 20s in a few. I resolve that I will really celebrate. Not really with a big bang because of budget constraints, but I just want to be truly happy and just be thankful.

This will be my year.

Happy day

Finally! My first salary in a long time. Not much, but I'm happy nonetheless. What I'm going to do with it? SECRET!!! But I'll save up for the rainy days, for sure... :)

Lovin' the beagle

A beagle finally won best in show at the Westminster Kennel Club. I don't usually care about this stuff, except that "Uno" here strongly resembled a favorite of mine.




THIS ONE!!!



Happy Valentines Day! Love, Snoopy



Pictures from Yahoo and Snoopy.com

New month, new adventure

I reported for work on the first day of February. Still in the honeymoon stage. All I have to do is to sit down, look at the PC all day (not easy on the eyes) and try to appear busy. Not that it's an easy job or a really hard one, it just requires a little more commitment on my part. Imagine an opportunity to be treated as an author. That how I look at my new task. I just pray that the work will like me a little bit. For the first time in my employment history (which is not a lot) I felt a little more comfortable on the desk.

I'm actually looking forward to my big day, which is some two weeks away. I feel that something different is going to happen to me this year, and I hope fate's giving me what I've wished for quite some time now.

Spreading the Heigl love

Oh, I just love Izzy Stevens.

I enjoyed watching Katherine Heigl's latest chick-flick, 27 Dresses. In my eyes, she could do no wrong. She is definitely in the running to become America's Next Sweetheart.

A romantic comedy is what I needed on my last day of unemployment.

P.S.: James Marden is such a hottie!

P.S. 2: Second time watching Heigl and Marsden in a movie. Heigl previously starred in "Knocked Up" and Marsden was part of Disney's "Enchanted". I gave both movies a "thumbs-up".

P.S. 3: I am not quite feeling well right now. Maybe it's the work jitters?

Checklist:
Certificate of Employment - Sunday?!?

Blurbs!

First Lecture
Out of the blue (meaning, midnight yesterday), a former classmate and friend texted me, requesting that I will be her resource person for a classroom lecture on government for her adult students. At least 3 thoughts came into mind:

1. My mind is dormant for months.... waaaah!
2. What does a resource person do?
3. WTF!

So I haven't heard from her until she called me up--one hour before her lecture. I understand that she's busy with work and all, but I didn't know what to do. I reluctantly agreed, not knowing what to expect.

The students are about my age but they are, at least, interested in the discussion. I wish I could communicate more, but for the life of me I couldn't figure out how to explain the law, in terms they could understand.

It was a rather funny, but nice experience. But in the back of my mind, I can hear my former professors cringe. LOL.

Banoffee!!!
Afterwards, my friend treated me to Banapple Pies and Cheesecakes and I enjoyed a slice of THE Banoffee Pie... YUM-O!


But the Chocnut Cheesecake ain't so bad...



Hello calories!

Early Morning Blues
Next early morning I went with the driver to pick up my lola from the airport. I was so beat that I chose to take a break from processing my requirements for my pending employment.

Hired!!!

After more than a year (and especially, after that brouhaha last week), I finally got employed. Woo-hoo! Better check on my requirements.

Lolo and other related blurbs

Sad day. I was informed by my mom that her dad, my lolo, died earlier. Actually, we were not really that close. But he is one of my "idols", the first of the aspired three generations of lawyers. Last September, he sent a letter addressed to Mama that he wishes for me to finally pass the bar. It was accompanied by a Novena of St. Jude (and another novena, I can't remember right now). I was touched, really.

I also remember of his visit years ago, when I was just starting out in law school. He advised me to always invoke the Holy Spirit. That kinda stuck. So in honor of my lolo, I will pray to the Holy Spirit as often as I could. Even though it is limited to Glory Be... and hopefully pray the Novena to the Holy Spirit when I get the hang of it.

I'm sad that he won't be able to witness my oath-taking, or even congratulate me by phone, if ever I pass this bar. But wherever he is, I hope he is finally happy and at peace.

A friend relayed this Bible verse to me. I just want to share...

Romans 8:36-39: As it is written: "For your sake we face death all day long; we are considered as sheep to be slaughtered." No, in all these things we are more than conquerors through him who loved us. For I am convinced that neither death nor life, neither angels nor demons, neither the present nor the future, nor any powers, neither height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord.


More reflections on this later...

Just Blurbing

I heard the news not too long ago that two former classmates of mine died in an unfortunate accident. Only now that I got to search one of them on friendster.

What has gotten me into looking them up on the net? I suppose I was so curious to see how they lived. And I truly hope they're happy wherever they are now. It's sad that they won't get old like most of us. I think the news of my classmates' passing has left me more broken. We talk, say hi, though we were not really that close. But I think I was more affected than I should be.

I so wanted to be at their tribute mass. They were my classmates, after all. I also wanted to see the people I have interacted with for so many years at law school. But I can't. Over the last few years I've lived as an invisible person, not knowing what to do and which direction I should take. I wake up, I breathe, and the rest depends on whether I have an interview, or the day that I attend a novena mass, or the day for somebody else to be happy. I've never felt so dependent on others. I've never felt so lonely. It's as if that I've died.

I definitely did not choose to be where I am right now. I would like to think that things will get better for me, I just don't know how considering my status right now. I'm actually scared on what my future holds. I certainly don't want to be invisible anymore.

Blah day

Three consecutive days of going to Makati in hopes of landing a legal assistant job ends with nothing. Nada. Zilch.

Can't believe the five of us applicants--all law graduates and under-bar (including a classmate)--have been misled by a noted law firm (or was it the company that called us?), which just needed a secretary. Not even a legal secretary. Can't believe I told them that I was willing to compromise and give it a shot. Where was my dignity?

Not that I do not want the job (but well, I kinda not want it anymore, considering everything), I just waited too long for an opportunity, a shot, a sign, that I could still make it. I was already desperate, I think. And I got this.

Life is so unfair, sometimes.

Now I have until the end of the week to prepare for next week's job application. Let's hope that one goes well or else I'll bust.

UPDATE: I am calmed down a bit. But I won't delete this entry. Just edited a bit in order to neutralize.

MORE UPDATE: I have a job! Well, it's not really that fancy, but decent enough. Sweet revenge. Mwahahahaha.

FURTHER UPDATE: I PASSED THE BAR!!! Woo-hoo! Should I delete this humbling entry now? No way!

Only in G3

While I was passing by the Greenbelt chapel this morning, I took shots of two of its regular churchgoers from my cameraphone.





What a beauty.

Yummy Treats (part 3)

I love fast-food sundaes. On my fave flavor, of couse!


Another slice of Banoffee pie, anyone?

Work again?!? Hope so...

I was called up for an interview by two companies yesterday.

One from a recruitment firm in Makati, for the position of legal assistant.

The other one from a noted publishing company in QC, for the position of case digest writer.

Not bad at the start of the year.

Hope I get either one, although I definitely know which job I like more and which location I prefer more.

One of those 5 things...

5 THINGS FOUND IN MY BAG:
1. ballpen
2. wallet
3. cellphone
4. lip gloss
5. shuffle

5 THINGS FOUND IN MY WALLET
1. Bills, some coin
2. Driver's License
3. ATM card
4. Credit Card
5. some papers and pics

5 THINGS FOUND IN MY ROOM:
1. bed
2. table
3. TV
4. Books
5. A lot of axes

5 THINGS I’VE ALWAYS WANTED TO DO:
1. Online Surfing
2. Listening to music
3. Watching good cable shows
4. Malling
5. Reading blogs and mindless fictions

5 THINGS I’M CURRENTLY INTO:
1. Mama's little helper
2. Online-shopping
3. Church and mall hopping
4. Waiting. Still waiting.
5. Job-hunting. Waah.

4 PEOPLE TO TAG THIS? whoever reads this entry

Leaving Christmas behind

Before the holiday season ends I would like to post my favorite decor in the house. And no, it's not Mama's homemade parol (although it's also a keeper).


I hope this Santa will grace our home for many Christmases to come.

Starlite!

Remember Rainbow Brite's horse?

Well, this fellow revived those oh, so wonderful childhood memories. The name is Starlite, and I believe this, along with a miniature Rainbow Brite doll (which I couldn't find right now), was purchased in US. I even had Shy Violet!

This one, along with many toys of my past, will go to a young girl who I am sure, would love to play with it all day long. I hope she enjoys this as much as I did in my younger years. Lucky!

My Horoscope

AQUARIUS - THE ONE U CANT TOUCH
(1/20-2/18)
Great talker. Attractive and passionate. Laid back. Knows how to Have fun. Is really good at almost anything. Great kisser. Loves being in long relationships. So much love to give. Their love is one of a kind. Unpredictable. Outgoing. Down to earth. Attractive. Loud. Talkative. Not one to mess with. Rare to find. Good when found. 7 years of bad luck if you do not repost.

New Year's Eve pics

yours truly


Mitch, Auntie Beth, Sonny


everyone


winner shot

Happy 2008!!!

2008 in a few...

It's been generally a SAD year for me. But there are some happy-happy joy-joy and fun, fun, fun moments. Like I've seen my father a few months ago after so many years (almost 2 decades!). Or that I'm having the longest, although "forced" vacation. Or that I'm meeting new, interesting and inspiring people (they don't really know who they are). Life has NOT been kind to me these days. But then, I still have my family (the remains of it), a few chosen friends (i knew who my real friends are), and my sanity (a miracle!) to go by, and at least be thankful for. When there's life, there's hope, right? That's what I am going to do in 2008. To still hope to make it. Because I can.

Yummy Treats (part 2)

Cupcakes by Sonja's Red Velvet


Krispy Kreme!!! Sweetness to the max...

Special Dark Chocolate Donut and Original Frozen Blend


Special Dark Chocolate and New York Cheesecake Donut


Mama's Mango Float

Here's How My Christmas Went

1. My bro Mitch and I went to Auntie's Beth place and feasted on left-over spaghetti, which we already ate yesterday (along with lamb chops and salad).

2. Auntie Beth, my cousin Sonny, Mitch, and I went to Eastwood and watched Enteng Kabisote (haha). While killing time, we took some pics of Santa, etc. on display.


with Auntie Beth


with Mitch and Sonny, after much coaxing

3. Feasted on KFC and filled out Auntie's Starbucks card with the Christmas drinks. Nakalibre kami ng Toffee Nut Frappuccino, which I still have yet to consume.

Have Yourself A Merry Little Christmas...

Merry Christmas!!!

From the bottom of my heart, I wish everyone a blessed and fun-filled Christmas. Forget all your troubles for a while (I will most definitely try) and take time to enjoy this special day with your loved ones.

Happy Birthday Jesus!!!

When it rains, it pours... Hard!!! (part 2)

For the first time in months, I am truly DEBT-FREE!!! Well, except for those which I'm not really obligated to pay but I'd like to but couldn't right now. A big sigh of relief. Now I can sleep more and hope for better things which needs a lot of prayers.

Better come up with a plan in 2008. Which is in a few days away.

When it rains, it pours... Hard!!!

I've been cash-strapped for a couple of months I was already worried how I could survive Christmas. But early blessings abound. I can go shop full-blast now. And leave some for rainy months, as always. Thanks Papa and bro! And Mama too for still giving me whenever I need some.

Next year I am going to look for a real job.

Yummy Treats

I am slowly giving in to temptation this coming holidays.


The Banoffee Pie is now my fave dessert from Red Ribbon. And I want more!


These Belgian chocolates from Marks and Spencer's are too gorgeous to eat. But it didn't stop me from sampling them one by one.


And of course, my fave Christmas Starbucks drink--the Toffee Nut Frappucino. Love, love, love!!!

What happened yesterday?

The DSL connection is soooooo sloooooowwwwwwwww.... It's bad enough that Mama "accidentally" had the lines cut, yesterday I can't check my mails after the PLDT guy had our connection fixed. Multiply is one of the few sites up and running. Did I miss out something? Was there an earthquake somewhere? Oh, well. I'm blogging again now. Which is good, right? Hmmph!

UPDATE: Systems all go!!! Yay!

Still Enchanted

I just watched the movie Enchanted.

Disney's latest offering is a combination of its past films with a twist of the New York life. It had the signature singing, storytelling, and of course, the predictable fairy-tale ending. Only that it's not a typical fairy-tale ending.

I basically watched it for the laughs. I lost it when Giselle (played by Amy Adams) started to sing in a New York park and people simply followed her around. Amy Adams is the one to watch for.

And there's Patrick Dempsey. It's nice to see him not wearing scrubs this time. He's still a dreamboat, even if he plays a divorce/d lawyer.

James Marsden who play Giselle's Prince Edward is simply hilarious. And Susan Sarandon as the stepmother was a class act.

It was a treat to see Idina Menzel, who I expected to sing. She did not. (OT: I also love her "Wicked" partner, Kristin Chenoweth.) Another bonus is that my American Idol Carrie Underwood sang the movie's theme song, "Ever After".

The only thing I didn't like was the climax of the movie, which looked a little G-rated for me. That's when I realize that I'm still watching a kids movie despite all its innovations. Oh well. Happy, happy, joy, joy...

Mineral Makeup Weekend - Part 2

When : Dec. 15- 16, 2007, 9AM-7PM
Where : SANTA’S CHRISTMAS BAZAAR @ La Vista ( Q.C. )

For more info, just follow this link.

More Q and A's

1.What's the best love story you've ever watched? somewhere in time. such a classic

2. Do u think you're ok? yup. really.

3 . Song playing at the moment? no music at this time

4. One song to describe current relationship? na na na na na na na na...

5. Accessories you usually wear? watch, necklace, bangle sometimes

6. Fave color(s)? pink!!! and purple/lavender recently

7. Ever donated blood? nope. too scared

8. Last place you went to? amina bldg in t. sora

8.5 . Saan ka pupunta mamaya? - neighbor's place for block rosary

9. Last person u went out with? mom

10. The most exciting sport? all of them

11 . Ever had a permanent tattoo? nope

12 . Movie u want 2 watch? enchanted

13 . Any piercings? sa ears lang

14. The most romantic gift ever received? flowers

15 . Act on stage before? sort of

16. ??? huh?

17. Danced with your loved one before? secret!

18. Ever wished you could turn back time? yes! but i will probably do the same things

19. One song that's meaningful to you? dami... my life is defined by music

20. Last person you met for the first time? can't remember

21 . What will you be doing tomorrow? church... duty free... then back to church

22. Ever thought of robbing a bank? sometimes

23. One thing you totally regret?? yun na yun

24. Do people like you? sana

25. What was the last game you played? connecting straws with kids and facebook's griddle

26. Someone who means a lot to you at this moment? dami

27. The color of your mobile phone? gold. wish it were pink though

Roseology - about me, well not much

Let others know a little more about yourself, repost "_______OLOGY"

Q: What is your wallpaper on your computer?
A: Christmas tree in the living room

Q: How many televisions are in your house?
A: 4, 1 defective

BIOLOGY
Q: Are you right-handed or left-handed?
A: right

Q: Have you ever had anything removed from your body?
A: nope, at least not yet

Q : What is the last heavy item you lifted?
A : some books

Q: Have you ever been knocked unconscious?
A: No.

CRAPINOPOLOGY
Q: If it were possible, would you want to know the day you were going to die?
A: yes, so i can prepare whatsoever

Q: If you could change your name, what would you change it to?
A: just Rose

Q: What color/s do you think look best on you?
A: red, but i'm taking to neutral colors recently

Q: Have you ever swallowed a non-food item by mistake?
A: not that i can remember

Q: Have you ever saved someone's life?
A: not physically

Q: Has someone ever saved yours?
A: not yet

STUPIDIOLOGY
Q: Would you kiss a member of the same sex for $100?
A: it depends

Q: Would you allow one of your little fingers to be cut off for $200,000
A: no way!

Q: Would you never blog again for $50,000?
A: oh yes

Q: Would you drink an entire bottle of hot sauce for $1000?
A: no

Q: Would you, without fear of punishment, take a humans life for $1,000,000?
A: no

DUMBOLOGY
Q: What is in your left pocket?
A: no left pocket right now

Q : Is Napoleon Dynamite actually a good movie?
A : what?

Q: Do you have hardwood or carpet in your house?
A: hardwood

Q: Do you sit or stand in the shower?
A: stand

Q: Last time you had a run-in with the cops?
A: i hope not in my lifetime

Q: What do you want to be when you grow up?
A: i'm grown up now

Q: Who is number 1 on your top 6?
A: God, abover everything else

LAST...
Q: Friend(s) you talked to?
A: classmate

Q: Last person who called you?
A: fellow lector

Q: Person you hugged?
A: tricia, hehe

Q: Last person you kissed?
A: let's not talk about that

FAVORITOLOGY
Q: Number?
A: 18

Q: Season?
A: summer, not too many choices

CURRENTOLOGY
Q: Missing someone?
A: of course

Q: Mood?
A: crappy

Q: Watching?
A: nope

Q: Worrying about?
A: results

A Filipino Christmas

Note: This article was published in the December 2, 2007 edition of the Our Lady of Consolation Parish newsletter. This is from the original text.

Christmas is just a few weeks away! It has been said time and time again that Filipinos celebrate the longest Christmas, where Christmas songs are played as early as September. The festivities officially start on December 16, with the first day of the Simbang Gabi, and ends on January 6, the Feast of the Epiphany.

Let us look into some local Christmas symbols and traditions that add color to this special holiday.


Simbang Gabi

Christmas celebration in the Philippines will not be complete without the Simbang Gabi (Misa de Gallo). These nine-day novena masses are devoted to the Virgin Mary, which are celebrated either at dawn or in the evening in order to accommodate the country’s predominantly Catholic population. These masses signify one’s devotion to his faith and sacrifice to God. However, it is also believed that God would grant the wishes of the faithful if they complete the novena masses.

The masses end on Christmas Eve, with the celebration of the Misa de Aguinaldo or the Midnight Mass.

Christmas Star

Known as the Star of Bethlehem, the Christmas star announced the birth of Jesus Christ. The Gospel of Matthew narrated that a star guided the three wise men (magi) to Bethlehem where the child Jesus was born.

In line with this, a star is often placed on top of the Christmas tree representing the Star of Bethlehem. Filipino homes and buildings, in particular, are adorned with at least one star-shaped lantern or parol, symbolizing the welcome of the Messiah.

Belen

The belen is considered as the oldest Filipino Christmas symbol, showing the infant Jesus on a manger surrounded by his parents Mary and Joseph, the shepherds and their flock. This symbol was derived from the tradition of real people and animals recreating the nativity scene introduced by St. Francis of Assisi in 1223.

Panuluyan

The Panuluyan (looking for lodging) is a street drama reenacting the journey of Mary and Joseph to Bethlehem. This is performed on Christmas Eve, usually before the Midnight Mass. Derived from the Mexican posada, this tradition was introduced in Mexico by the Spanish missionaries.

Caroling

One of the most cherished Filipino Christmas traditions is the singing of Christmas carols. A group of carolers whether family, friends, or members of an organization, visit several houses and sing familiar Christmas tunes. They usually carol for fund-raising purposes or just for the fun of singing. Homeowners respond by the giving of cash or even by inviting the carolers into their homes for a feast.

Noche Buena and Family Reunions

The Christmas season is also a good opportunity for holding big family reunions. Filipino families, in particular, gather starting on Christmas Eve to partake the Noche Buena or the traditional dinner, usually after attending the midnight mass.

On Christmas day, the families visit the elder members to pay their respect. Children, along with their parents and relatives, also visit their ninongs and ninangs (godparents) to receive their aguinaldo (gifts).

Gift-Giving and Manito Manita

We all know that Christmas is a time for gift-giving for the kids and kids at heart. In fact, the first gifts were those given to the child Jesus by the three wise men—gold, frankincense, and myrrh.

A popular local gift-giving tradition is the Manito Manita, also known as Monito Monita. The rules of this Filipinized Kris Kringle vary from the required value of the gift to the theme of the day. Participants draw lots the names of the recipients (babies), which should not be revealed until the final exchanging of gifts. The fun part of Manito Manita is for these baby-recipients to guess the identity of the giver.

Other Symbols:

Christmas Tree – Adorned with Christmas lights and ornaments with an angel or star on top. The modern practice of decorating trees was said to have originated in Germany, although Protestant reformer Martin Luther King was argued to be first to start the tradition by lighting the tree with candles.

Santa Claus – A character associated with bringing gifts on Christmas Eve or Christmas Day. He is also known as Saint Nicholas, Father Christmas, or Kris Kringle. Many cultures describe the origins of Santa Claus, one of the earliest being that the character is based on St. Nicholas, known for giving gifts to the poor. Today, Santa Claus is more popular as a secular Christmas symbol.

Christmas Lights – For Christians, the Christmas lights symbolized that Jesus Christ is the “Light of the World”.

These Christmas symbols and traditions are very much alive and are practiced in our country and in our respective communities. With all the preparations abound this holiday season, let us remember their significance on our lives, as well as the reason why we celebrate Christmas—to commemorate the birth of our Savior, Jesus Christ. A meaningful Christmas to all of you.