Year end

2006 is about to end in a few hours and as I look back, many significant things happened to me mostly at work though. I didn’t have much time to deal with my personal life and I feel so guilty. I wake up for work, go home and sleep. Not much of mingling with friends and love ones. I was always exhausted after work.

I sense that the clock is ticking so loud!

Finally, I’ve resigned from work. What a relief! Many friends say that maybe Bongwan was sent by heaven to test my patience. To make me leave work so I can take care of my personal life. Well they’re right it’s about time.

Opportunities will endlessly come and go. It’s like a rubber ball that will keep on bouncing back on us. If we keep on juggling all the balls we can handle, we’ll be surprised and we are in our 50s and left with a short time to live.

For the people who know me very well, I’m a person who doesn’t want to remorse on things. I want to live my life to the fullest with the people I love the most. Memories are very valuable for me. When I get old and grey, I want to go back on these memoirs and share with my grandchildren. I’m very schmaltzy. I keep a blog and online albums. I want to have something to look back…

Leaving one’s comfort zone is difficult for many. It has always been tough for me but once I decide on it, I really go for it. Take note: Decision must come straight from you. Not to be dictated by anyone.

Quitting work is not easy as it entails a lot of “adjustments”. I’m a believer of “embracing change”. Why should I compromise my happiness for money? We need money of course, to live the way we want and buy the things we want. But if it’s the only thing that makes one hold on to their jobs, nah! If you are satisfied with what you have, life will be easy. I don’t want to work with a heavy heart. I want to be paid by being happy and love the things I’m ask to do.

All these heartaches and painful experiences must be left behind.

Tomorrow is a new year, a new beginning. Stay focus and reach your dreams. Touch people’s life and pay it forward.


Carpe Diem! ☺

Combat Zone

Getting up for work in the morning is such a big effort for me. I'm *again* dragging myself to the office almost everyday. Argh!

I feel I am in a battlefield trying my best to survive. I couldn't sense anybody’s existence except for BWKim. This is such a humongous trial and I every minute I’ve been wanting to give up.

I couldn’t believe this kind of creature exists! It’s like a nightmare in my deepest slumber!

When can I ever be awakened?

Bongwan

This is my new Korean boss and he is such a @#$%%&^$$#! He is so sarcastic and harsh. We are all in rebellion. 530pm on the dot, everyone is gone! *hahaha* It’s like nobody wants to be left with him in the office. He’s been asking for a lot of things from us and we feel we are in the R&D division for weeks! He’s been here for like a month now and I’m on the verge of giving up. Should I?

After much thought, I decided to have a heart to heart talk with him which happened last Friday at 5pm. (so 530pm I can go…) I tend to be straight forward when I’m upset and I felt it was too much. His jaw almost dropped when I started to talk. He was speechless! *hihihi*

The next day he was like a total stranger. He was polite and very careful on what may come out of his mouth. Cool! Today, he gave me two Starbucks receipts which I appreciate a lot. I can’t wait to get hold of the most coveted planner. One more to go…

Hmm…I’m giving myself until March to decide though...

Milestone

November 25 marks the day Robert and Maita exchanged vows. It was the most impressive wedding that I have attended to as of to date. I find a great significance on this event as I’ve been friends with Robert for more than 10 years now. I have witnessed many girls in his life and I am delighted that finally he found his queen. He is so lucky to have her in his life. I have high praises for Maita.

This wedding made me exultant. I was almost near to tears during the wedding march. Such a happy feeling! ☺ I saw some old friends and this made me reminisce the good ol’ days. Oh, I missed them so much and I wish Kuya Bombit was here. It should have been more memorable…

Here’s the funny part --- Xave and I did the garter and “orange” rose thingy!!! *bwahaha* I can’t wait to see the pictures *teehee* How embarrassing!!!

More pictures at http://mytam28.multiply.com


xoxo

cool!

This is sooooo cool! I can now connect to the internet anytime, anywhere. I was able to pair by Moto V3x with my iBook and viola!!! I'm surfing and surfing and surfing! =)



This is so amazing!

Getting What You Want

I want to share this with you...


By Steve Brown, Overcoming Setbacks


"I saw another senseless thing under the sun: a man alone, without
son or brother, working endlessly, his greed never satisfied with
wealth ' For whom do I work and deprive myself of pleasure?' This,
too, is nonsense and mistaken investment." (Ecclesiastes 4:7-8)

GETTING WHAT YOU WANT

I was in a bookstore the other day and a clerk came up to me and
said, "Can I help you?"

"I don't know what I want," I answered. "But when I find it, I'll let
you know."

Most of us are like that. We're really not sure what we want. And
even if we stumbled onto what we thought it was, we would probably
find out that it wasn't what we wanted anyway.

The most unhappy person in the world is not someone who didn't get
what he or she wanted. The most unhappy person is the one who got
what he or she wanted and then found out that it wasn't as wonderful
as expected. The secret of a happy life is not to get what you want
but to live with what you've got. Most of us spend our lives
concentrating on what we don't have instead of thanking God for what
we do have . Then we wake up, our life is over, and we missed the
beauty of the present. You think about that.

What do you really want out of life? In your pursuit of it, are you
missing anything along the way? Could you even be missing greater
joys? Don' treat these questions flippantly. Your answers will reveal
a lot about what you hold most dear, and what your answers don't
include may tell you what you're missing in the process.

Is this pursuit really worth the process?


Shared by Joe Gatuslao
Bacolod City, Philippines

Shanghai Day 4 + Changi Shopping

Rolled up the bed before 5am and took a shower, I can't skip it I will have a long day today. I feel sooo drowsy and my head is in pain again. They say I look pale, maybe due to lack of sleep.

845am left Shanghai for Singapore. It was a 5hr. flight and I slept all the way! *hahaha*

It's 30mins before boarding. I thought I would be bored here waiting 3hrs for my flight to Manila but Changi never fails me. =)

I love their Charles and Keith shoes (local/Singaporean brand)! We have this also in Manila but have limited stocks and sizes only. That's why I always look forward on hoarding when I'm here in Changi. You're right, I got 5 pairs and sizes are just right for me. *wipee* They're very stylish and feet friendly no matter how high the heels are. To top that, they are very affordable! Some of the styles they have here never arrive Manila. I got a bonus---discount card! That suprises me. =)

Trivia: Nothing fits me in Ninewest and other brands =( I'm a frustrated shoe addict. That explains my being Bagaholic. (either you're a shoe or a bag addict and can even be both.)

Now, I'm in Transfer E for waiting to board and having this dilemma--- how can I hand carry all these stuffs??? (shoes + other stuffs I got from China airport) I'm by myself now, everyone left to go to their own countries.

I miss Manila and Xave, of course! I'm so excited to see him and pig out. *yummy* For the many times I've travelled, this is the first time I felt so home sick...I don't know why.

Gotta go...

Shanghai Day 3

I got out of bed a bit early, I don't want to rush. Had my breakfast at 730am and had some dumplings again. It was so good! =)

It was a rainy day today. I heard from CNN that Michael Schumacher retired and won't join this season. The news was just right in time because our itinerary for today is to go to Shanghai F1 International Race Circuit. I've been wanting to ride this F1 car. Unfornately, the Chinese government had this announcement that the Circuit will close starting today to start the construction for the event this month. Oh...too bad! =( We ended up karting instead.

Karting is not new to me. I've been karting with Xave many times --- Subic, Podium, the Fort. So, I'm used to it but still I had the ride twice! It was an indoor karting so it was a different experience for me. The first one was with the gals but it was like we were parading so I had my second turn with the guys and you won't believe this...I was better than them. *bwahahaha* They were all afraid of speed and they were all impressed.*ahem-ahem*

Lunch at Wang Pau He Restaurant, which has a more than 200 years of history in China. This resto was famous for its crab and well, i think up to now.

Then we immediately went to Athlene Massage Centre for a spa. It was a 3hr massage (whole body, face and reflexology) and it was the best I ever had! I dozed off while they were doing my back. It was awesome! =)

Huang Pu River was our next stop. We had a cruise and dinner. Our last was at the Plaza 66. They have the LV, Chanel, Fendi and Hermes to name a few. I checked out some bags I've been liking.

Fendi - the famous Spy bag! Whoooo! I looooove it and I almost gave in. It was so tempting and will definitely haunt me 'till I get it. *when, when, when...?*

Chanel- the quilted bag in whitish beige caught my attention. It was a small one maybe 3 or 4 times of my Jumbo 2.55 and sooo pricey for that size. I wouldn't think of buying it. Now, I realized that mine was a steal!!! *yipee, much justified!*

LV- i was surprised that it is extremely expensive here in Shanghai compared to Manila. They find it as a luxury and it is a most sought after brand here. That was how they explained it to me (the locals). We are lucky, it is much cheaper in Greenbelt 4.

Didn't had the chance to peak at Hermes and other shops. I need to pack for tomorrow's departure. We are leaving for Singapore again and our call time is 5am!

I better get going now and pack. I don't know how to make my things fit in my trunk. I better master the "art of packing light and tight". *wink*

Shanghai Day 2

Wake up call at 730am, had my morning shower and quick breakfast at the 3rd floor. Nothing extraordinary except for that dumpling with a very special sauce! *yummy*

The weather is quite nice. It was sunny but cool, what a nice day to start.

We all headed to Qi Pu Lu wholesale market for some shopping. Well, not that impressive. Stuffs I saw can be found in Manila as well. It's like our very own Greenhills tiange and Dongdaemon in Korea.

Fake bags are everywhere and very very cheap compared to Manila and Korea. A bag costs around 120RMB and that's around P875 to P1000 only! They also have some LV bags that were never released by LV. *hahaha* I wonder almost all locals carry one and I didn't see anybody carrying a geniune one.

I saw this Spy bag and it was so nicely done and indeed a knock off. Price was not available. They only sell on wholesale. Left the place with nothing on hand.

Lunch at Quan Ji De Restaurant. So-so for me but they say it is one of the nicest resto here. Chinese cruisine is very diverse!

We looked around some shops in Huaihai. Went to Mango (more expensive here), Sephora (a few brands only and no BENEFIT and LORAC but was able to grab some stuffs), Marc Jacobs (OMG!!! I saw the Veruka bags but the price is two times higher and I'm still thinking twice. This is hard to find now...hmmm...Goyard or Veruka?

Went to this "Little Venice in China" and I forgot the name of the place. It was an almost 2hrs of travel and a historical place (I think). I saw the former house of Mr. Shen. He was the richest man during Ming Dynasty and even richer than the emperor. I better get his complete name tomorrow. It's so difficult to remember. Anyways, he has a very big house and I took pictures of it (see my multiply account soon...) very...shall I say, exotic? *wink*

From time to time it is healthy to travel. You get to learn a lot of things and I'm beginning to love it! Culture of each country is very interesting. Now, I regret taking my History classes for granted. *hihihi*

Dinner at Yunhai Restaurant . This is the same resto where the APEC delegates were hosted for meals. It was an unforgettable dinner for me. Totally opposite of last night's dinner. They served us exotic foods --- duck's heart, feet, wings, intestines, goose's liver, eel, the whole duck with the head sticking out *yuck* and the reason why I lost my apetite and almost puked...TURTLE!!! I was a whole turtle and the head was so proud. It was really kadiri!!! I got sick and my head ached. I wanna walk out the table but of course "table manners" was shouting loud so I stayed. I just had water and orange juice for dinner. =(

Back to the hotel and now I'm blogging! Can't wait to upload all my photos in my multiply account. I want you guys to see the TURTLE *bwahahaha* you have to see it to believe it!

I need a shut eye.

Shanghai Day 1

Landed China via SIA at around 7am today and I skipped the meal at the plane for sleep. I was so hard to sleep sitting down. Badger saved my day!

We catched the Maglev Train for a speedy ride to Shanghai and it was 430km/hr! Whoooo! It took us less that 7mins to arrived Shanghai compared to almost an hour if we take the coaster.

We went to Chenghuang Temple for a warm breakfast. I'm not so much of a Chinese food fanatic and I feel I will be losing some of my weight which is an advantage for me *diet?*. Yeah, I need to. After gaining much weight while taking the pill to correct my hormonal imbalance and after I quit smoking unnecessary pounds must be gone---FAST!*hahaha*

We spent the rest of the morning in Yuyuan and walked around Chenghuang Temple for some shopping of local produce. I bought some stuffs for my friends--- cutie purses for the gals and nothing yet for the guys. I still have to search some more...

Around 1030am my legs were in pain maybe because of too much walking. It was drizzling and I happen to bumped on Michael, an Aussie and decided to take a cup of coffee in Starbucks. It was 25RMB for a tall Cafe Mocha and that makes 175 pesos (more than USD3). A bit pricey compared to Manila. Not bad at all + a seat! =) I was tired and sleepy, a good seat will make me stretch my patience because I had to wait for almost 2 hrs. for others.

Lunch at the Lu Bo Lang Restaurant again, Chinese food. Hmm...I don't find it special, really! I've been wanting to see my room and sleep. That is my goal today.

Finally, after hours of waiting...We checked in in Hotel Salvo and I dozed off!

530pm, my room phone rang and it was a wake up call! OMG!!! I had no time to freshen up, immediately checked the mirror and went down for dinner at Ba Guo Bu Yi Restaurant. I loooooooove it! =) Proceeded to ERA for the Acrobatic show and it is a must-see, very impressive!

Now I'm back to the hotel and I'm happy I have my own computer in my room with unlimited broadband for FREE! That's what you call LUCK. *wink*

Got to go, I need a quick hot shower and a very sound sleep. Good night!

P.S. Pictures to follow in my Multiply account.

P.P.S. I forgot my camera charger! What a @#$%%! =(

Touched Singapore and Off to Shanghai

Arrived Changi Airport Singapore at almost 12noon today, had lunch at Crystal Jade Resto and the guide toured us around Little India, Chinatown and Sultan St. Then, we proceeded to St. Pierre Restaurant for a very exquisite dinner and awarding. Finished at around 10pm.

Now, it's 12:20am and I'm here in Changi Airport again (for the 2nd time today). This time leaving for Shanghai.

It was a long day. Had my shower at the lounge. Checked some shops and got this very nice Neutrogena Hand Lotion (not available in Phils.)and saw this free internet in a corner and thought of blogging.

I'm now heading to gate F41 and leaving for Shanghai, China. Never been there and I'm looking forward to this experience. First time to have this "pleasure trip"! Woo-hoo! Wish I'm with Xave though...

I wished I had my ibook with me...

06.26.06

“I work to live and NOT live to work”. This is my mantra. If I feel stressed, I slow down a bit. I want things to be at my own pacing and to take things easy.

Working for this company, means I have to embrace all the pressure that comes with it. Yes, I can do that! I can even give my more than 100% at work. Provided…(and let me repeat that) provided they give what is due for me. Everything should be 2-way.

I’m no hero. Maybe 5 years ago, I was. I was working to get experience. But now, (come on let’s get REAL!) I’m working to earn and prepare for my future. Not only for me but also for my future family.

I feel we are almost there…nobody wants to talk about details because of surety issues or maybe some “fears of the unknown”. Well, personally that is my feeling! Sheeesh! I don’t know how to overcome this. Can someone help me? (I wish...)

Marrying the Right Person

EVERY relationship has a cycle. In the beginning, you fell in love with your spouse. You anticipated their call, wanted their touch, and liked their idiosyncrasies. Falling in love with your spouse wasn’t hard. In fact, it was a completely natural and spontaneous experience. You didn’t have to DO anything. That’s why it’s called “falling” in love…because it’s happening TO YOU.

People in love sometimes say, “I was swept of my feet.” Think about the imagery of that expression. It implies that you were just standing there; doing nothing, and then something came along and happened TO YOU.

Falling in love is easy. It’s a passive and spontaneous experience.

But after a few years of marriage, the euphoria of love fades. It’s the natural cycle of EVERY relationship. Slowly but surely, phone calls become a bother (if they come at all), touch is not always welcome (when it happens), and your spouse’s idiosyncrasies, instead of being cute, drive you nuts.

The symptoms of this stage vary with every relationship, but if you think about your marriage, you will notice a dramatic difference between the initial stage when you were in love and a much duller or even angry subsequent stage.

At this point, you and/or your spouse might start asking, “Did I marry the right person?” And as you and your spouse reflect on the euphoria of the love you once had, you may begin to desire that experience with someone else. This is when marriages breakdown. People blame their spouse for their unhappiness and look outside their marriage for fulfillment. Extramarital fulfillment comes in all shapes and sizes. Infidelity is the most obvious. But sometimes people turn to work, church, a hobby, a friendship, excessive TV, or abusive substances.

But the answer to this dilemma does NOT lie outside your marriage. It lies within it.

I’m not saying that you couldn’t fall in love with someone else. You could. And TEMPORARILY you’d feel better. But you’d be in the same situation a few years later. Because (listen carefully to this):

THE KEY TO SUCCEEDING IN MARRIAGE IS NOT FINDING THE RIGHT PERSON; IT’S LEARNING TO LOVE THE PERSON YOU FOUND.

SUSTAINING love is not a passive or spontaneous experience. It’ll NEVER just happen to you. You can’t “find” LASTING love. You have to “make” it day in and day out. That’s why we have the expression “the labor of love”. Because it takes time, effort, and energy. And most importantly, it takes WISDOM. You have to know WHAT TO DO to make your marriage work.

Make no mistake about it. Love is NOT a mystery. There are specific things you can do (with or without your spouse) to succeed with your marriage. Just as there are physical laws of the universe (such as gravity), there are also laws for relationships. Just as the right diet and exercise program makes you physically stronger, certain habits in your relationship WILL make your marriage stronger. It’s a direct cause and effect. If you know and apply the laws, the results are predictable…you can “make” love.

LOVE IN MARRIAGE IS INDEED A “DECISION”…NOT JUST A FEELING.

The NEW me...errr...The BETTER me

It’s been long since my last blah-blah here. Well, there’s much updating we need to do. Let’s start.


1. I’m back to reading

I’m currently reading this “The 10 Women You’ll be Before You’re 35”. It’s hilarious and yet inspirational. It’s a good book for me and for you guys as well. Must-read!


2. I’ve quit smoking!

Yes, you’ve read it right and clear. It’s about time to remove all the toxins in my body. This time, it’s for REAL. Stress is part of my everyday life. SPICE, that’s what I want to call it but still, I can do away with cigs. I’m so proud of myself. *applause* I admire my self-control and I’m also surprised I’m not tempted at all. I don’t miss and look for it anymore. I’m happy I was able to kick the habit. FINALLY!

Had my business trip in Kuala Lumpur and stayed in Hotel Hilton. I was startled when I asked for a NON-SMOKING room! Muwahaha! This is my first trip without any cigs in my trunk.

3. I’m into Bikram Yoga

Hahaha! Some of you might think what’s with me…Am I insane? I’m completely NORMAL! After quitting smoking, now here comes yoga. I can see those smiles on your faces and big round eyes with mouth-opened reactions. I’m serious; I want to be fit and healthy. Not just for me, but for my future family.

It’s about time to think for long-term plans, dear!

4. Party Girl NO MORE

Coffee or a couple of drinks after dinner is better to keep in touch with friends. I find it very relaxing.

5. SPA

I’m a relaxation (read: in any form) addict! I feel I deserve it. With a very fast-paced life I have now, I ought to slow down a bit and breathe. Time flies so fast and I don’t wanna miss life.

6. Save, Save, Save

I’m trying! It’s hard but there’s an effort.

7. All Positive

As much as possible, I want to fill my mind with nicer and finer things in life. Incase life turns not as expected, I stop a bit to breathe, pray, go on and fight. Life is a never-ending battle. Success is not measured on how long you are on top but on how determined you are to get up from failures or mistakes in life. Bottomline, you learn then, share your experiences to others whether good or bad.

If things work out more than you expected, learn how to pay it forward.

CHANGE cannot be dictated or forced by anybody. Be it your dad, mom, BF, friends, doctor, etc. it will never work. Errr…maybe it will, but only temporary because you are just trying to please someone.

CHANGE should start from within. If you embrace change, everything will fall into place more than you expect. To change for the better is a personal decision.

I always want to be a better person. I don’t want to be afraid of change. I don’t want to be anxious of leaving my comfort zone. Because I want to better improve my personality and grow more.

The main title of this blog says it all: Carpe Diem! I want to experience life as much as I can. I don’t want to miss life. I want to share my life to people. I want to touch people’s life in the simplest way I can.

I guess that’ s life all about. Touching people’s lives.

Upset!

For those you know me and currently in touched with me, you know this already...

The purpose of this is to relief myself. I want to realease my disapointments at work. So, here’s my letter to our HR manager:

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Hi Ms. M.

Thank you for the call. You have answered my question however brought me to raise more concerns.

I appreciate Mr. S’ effort in trying to meet what we have previously agreed. I have to give credits to you as well. However, the outcome made me upset.

Facts:
1. PxxK was not something I asked from him. It was an opportunity that came to me 8 months ago, which I missed upon offering the same package by Mr. S. That made me stay (even without any document to support the agreement). The risk I took was big enough for me to reconsider many times. (Here is company A waiting for me to sign with a very clear offer vs. Company S with nothing to hold on to.)

However, our CEO himself guaranteed me that it will happen. I have high respect and trust in him. So, I hold on to his words. I stayed and waited patiently.

2. Retro will be from November 2005.

Concerns:
1. Outcome was not what we have discussed. In TOTAL, maybe yes but if I have known earlier, (I’m sorry to say) I should have grabbed that opportunity.
2. Out of 100%, more or less 30% was put into my base pay and 70% to the productivity incentive. Weight for the incentive is higher than the base pay?
3. There is no surety on the 70%.
4. Incentive is on top of the base pay and is a different story…
5. Retro was only for this year (January to May 2006)
6. Bottomline, it was NOT given to me.

Going back 8 months ago, I was already decided to leave. Thinking that I will not let go of this very good offer. Now, I feel I have lost too much. It’s hard to say “it’s worth the wait”…But of course I don’t want to dwell much on those thoughts anymore…This is an experience for me.

If company S was only transparent that this will not be feasible, then maybe we should not have gone this far and things would have came out differently. We should have moved on separately…

I feel there is no need for me to go back to step one and lobby these things again with the management. I’ve said my piece many times. Implementation took months but I waited and tried to understand. Still at the end of the day, what is important is the bottomline: (1) my obligation and contribution to Company S being my employer and (2) what is due for me as an employee. I feel it should be two-way.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

I'm not afraid to lose my job. Work is much easier to give up than anything else. I know something better is in store for me. I just wanna prove something...

Oh by the way, I was on leave for a week! And it feels GREAT! =)

From Employees to RICH Entrepreneurs

This is the cover page of the May 2006 Entrepreneur magazine. Very inspiring! Let me share some of the excerpts:


“It usually starts with an idea, which develops into a nagging thought, and then morphs into an opportunity that excites, tantalizes, and in the end becomes an obsession. Being bitten by the entrepreneurial bug is how many would describe this symptom, and the usual ‘victims’ are employees who, at one time or another, have had an epiphany: That they could own a business and be their own bosses.”

“They are usually never the same after this realization. Yes, they would still try to give their best at work, but deep inside they’d rather do it for themselves.”

I really feel that sooner or later I would venture on another business. But this time, I want it to be related to my interests… When? That is what I want to find out!

not at my best

As much as possible I don’t wanna sound like complaining…please excuse me. I just need to let this out, ok? Inhale…exhale…

Ugh! I’m so exhausted! I feel I’m so used up and worn-out! I’m totally drained --- physically and mentally.

I feel I cannot be productive and effective anymore…It’s like I’m a jack-of-all-trade, master of nothing. Nobody seems to cooperate. It’s me, myself and I. Oh…I need a good vacation.

I have so many things to do:

1. Cebu Training May 23 DONE!
2. Davao Training May 26 DONE!
3. Boot Camp in Tagaytay June 8-9
4. Bundling Promo Target: June 15
5. Switch Trade In, Trade Up Target: June 30-July 2
6. IT Roadshow June 23
7. Malaysia Product Managers’ Meeting July 7

Where am I now? Where should I begin? Damn, I’m still in the planning stage…OMG! This is not my work. I hate to cram but what can I do? Everything is beyond my control already, approval takes forever! These expats are making me sick...really sick!

*Poof!* That’s what I wanna do….disappear in the thin air and be invisible for a time. Just like Harry Potter, with his magic cloak he can be invisible when desired.

Headache, nausea…I need to slow down a bit and unwind. Spa, that’s where I wanna go. Beach, where I want to stay for a week or two. I need a break, and much concrete signs.

a. Stay?
b. Leave?
c. Leave and Move elsewhere?
d. Leave and start a new biz?
e. Leave, move and start?
f. Relax and be worry-free (hmmm...I'm not used to this! Hahaha)

I need an Olive shower. It calms me down. My Badger, puts me in deep, serene sleep!

HELP, is this a SIGN???

As the dictionary defines it:

Sign |sin|
noun

1 an object, quality or event whose presence or occurrence indicates the probable presence or occurrence of something else

2 something regarded as an indication or evidence of what is happening or going to happen

3 an action or gesture used to convey an idea, information, a wish, or a command

4 something interpreted as being an omen


6 months ago, I missed an opportunity BY CHOICE and believed that I made a good decision (I’m still convincing myself). Promises were specified and I accepted based on TRUST. No written agreement or whatsoever, all verbal. Who wouldn’t believe to a company President/CEO, anyone???

Up to now, these things remained “as is”. Nothing was implemented YET. I heard, still in process…but still it was not what we have agreed months ago.

March was supposedly the make or break month. It’s already May. OMG! Do I have to wait forever? Do you think this is fair? I’ve waited long enough WITHOUT a single whine. I’ve lost a lot, right? Imagine, 6 months! I should have paid my bills already, helped my mom, invested more on our business or started a new one. I should have bought my 3rd LV and a Goyard already *wink*, the list can go on…)

Many times I’ve mentioned that “regret” will never be a part of my vocabulary. Every time I make a decision, as much as possible I want it to be final otherwise, I’d rather stick to it.

They say, “Opportunity knocks only once”. Yes, I very much agree! But why o why o why…that OPPORTUNITY is thumping again. Not the “exact one” but a “better one”!

I refuse to notice or pay attention to it twice but the third time it was like under my nose….slapping my face…falling into my lap! Do you guys think I have to give it a second attempt?

Keep your comments coming, I need ‘em!.

Me, the Virgo

I came across XZ's blog and tried browsing this website - www.astrologyzone.com. Here are some of the excerpts that caught my attention:

YOUR APRIL HOROSCOPE BY SUSAN MILLER

#1 “It’s clear your career has been going great guns, and you seem to be forging into exciting new territory. You have a very high profile these days, and the buzz about you is excellent. In the first half of April (prior to April 13) interview for a top job, ask for a promotion, or see about getting excellent publicity. Whatever your professional aims, the sky's the limit!”

#2 “If you're still with your number one partner, you have passed the test of the eclipses - you can take comfort in knowing that your relationship is likely to go the distance. In your case, you both apparently value what you have together and are willing to make the effort to keep your alliance fresh. Even so, this month you may still need to work out one or two issues that surfaced last month. With Venus nicely spicing things up in your close relationship sector, you should be able to do so easily. You seem to both agree on the direction that needs to be taken. A trip taken now would be plenty of fun and could re-energize your relationship.”

ON HANDLING STRESS

#3 “Your biggest talents are masterminding organizations that would overwhelm anyone else and concentrating no matter what distractions come your way. Highly goal-oriented, few things will deter you from finishing what you've started--you are no quitter. Still, be sure the things you devote yourself to are worthy of your hard work. You may get so involved in detail that you miss the long view of things. Step back now and then and reassess your assumptions. See if you can delegate some of your work. This is often hard for Virgo to do, but you will free up lots of time, as well as off-load some daily pressure! Simply because you are able to stand a great deal of tension doesn't mean you ought to live with it!”

#4 While your nerves are on edge, you may want to stay indoors more, working on projects that need attending. Your very best course of action is to clean out the closets, files, and rid yourself of niggling old paperwork. It could be a beautiful day outside, and your friends and family will scream for you to leave the house, but you know better. Get the physical environment under control and you'll feel enormously better. Organizing is therapy of the highest order to you. Your environment (and the contents of your handbag too) is always an accurate reflection of your inner state of mind. Toss out old junk, outdated records and clothing, reorganize your possessions, get new boxes to store things. You need to feel productive, and you like being physical (lifting boxes, filing, reaching, and so forth) as you think. Just the picture of your organized living and working space makes you breathe easier!

#5 “Keep a journal, write your thoughts down on paper. Like Gemini, which is co-ruled by Mercury, you can use your distress to create a moving literary effort, whether it be a short story, novel, hard-hitting documentary, or a poem. Virgo is very precise and your sign produces excellent writers.”

#6 “Crossword or jigsaw puzzles might appeal to you too, since Virgo is a sign that enjoys mental challenges. Try board games such as Monopoly, Scruples (moral or ethical battles fascinate you), Scrabble or complex card games like bridge, poker, or pinochle, to distract you--never an easy task for diligent, conscientious Virgo!”

#7 “As a Virgo, luckily you are the sole mutable sign of the four earth signs, and therefore the most adaptable, versatile and best able to weather change. Throw away your worry beads Virgo! Ditch that work-first attitude for now, and relax. Better days are in store!”

TRAVEL BLOG: Boracay II

Day 2, April 13: Was up at 10am for breakfast and immediately went to the beach! Woo-hoo! ☺

White Sand of Bora
The Pyramid
Sun & Smiles

Night life in Bora
Yummy!
Club Paraw
We are like twins!

TRAVEL BLOG: Boracay

Day 1, April 12: Spent the whole evening packing my things for our 530am flight. I always travel heavy to make sure I have enough clothes to sustain for a week.

Caticlan to Bora
Stayed in Blue Water Beach Resort Station 1, between Fridays and Sur. The room was not as I expected but was compensated by the view from our sliding door --- beachfront, 10 steps away and I’m at the beach already! ☺ Hmm…good enough deal.

Blue Water
Beach Front
Spent the whole afternoon sleeping. Really tired and I was shaking! (Translation: NO sleep at all!)

Power nap

Gimmick time! Are we wasted? *hahaha* Longaburger time!

"What Kind Of GF Are You?"

Hiyee! ☺ I just arrived from a vacation in Baguio and I missed by iBook very much! It was the 1st thing that I grabbed upon stepping the house and immediately connected to the internet! *what an aficionado!*

Lesson learned: Bring it wherever I go.

On Wednesday I am scheduled to go to Bora. Definitely, I will bring my babe with me! ☺

Just wanna share this test from Lui:

What Kind of Girlfriend Are You?

Whether you've met the love of your life or are waiting to be swept off your feet, you make a great girlfriend. But what's your strength when it comes to relationships? Are you more passionate, supportive, or sentimental? Take our test and find out!

Here is the result!

Tammy, you're a Romantic Realist

When it comes to relationships, you're looking for a fairy tale — or something pretty close to it. While you don't really expect to be whisked away by a prince on a white horse, you probably like the idea of being rescued — as long as you're allowed to rescue back. You expect great things out of people, especially those you love, and you don't mind putting in the extra effort to make sure everyone (including yourself) is happy.

Tradition is usually important to you, as long as it's mixed with your own personality. Sure, flowers and candy are great, but when it comes to showing affection, you simply want something that is unique and special to your relationship. For you, it's always the thought that counts.

Somehow there is a truth to this… I’m bushed! I need a shut-eye. Tomorrow is a long day for me and Xave.

Good night!

Showbiz Wedding!

I’m not into showbiz but I can’t help it but blog about this…


R and C’s wedding was not my dream one. I was not astonished by the jewelry of the bride nor the gown she was wearing. It was their love story that I fell in love with…

I was moved when R shed tears while C was walking on the aisle. It was like a dream come true for both of them. They made it through the rain! Awww…

It seems like R was on top of the wedding preparations. C was like a PRINCESS. I guess, that’s why I envy her because she has R to take care of everything including the very little details like the basil with flower. Gee…very rare can you see a man like him!

The exchanged of vows was perfect! I guess they were the ones who did it by themselves. It was so special and intimate. Oh, I have a high regard for R so much after watching the celebration. Can he be cloned? *hahaha* ☺

Aviator Shades

It’s summer time and the sun is so high! I feel there is a need for
me to get a new pair of shades!

My picks:
1. Oakley Warden (in silver/grey, in pink camo/violet and gold)




2. Kate Spade (Adie and Mattie)




3. Oakley Crosshair

Cast your votes! :) Send me a SMS at +63917.8516291.

I need a shuteye! Zzz...zzz...

my MAC and ME

What a blissful FRIDAY! ☺

I got new softwares for my much-loved iBook. Yipee! *very mababaw of me!*

See my new desktop?


Cool! This laptop is very me…really! I have to import some more pics.

Had dinner with Xave. We were supposed to play poker in Ferrule but I chose to be brought home. Can you guess why? Ahem…ahem…iBook. My apologies if I keep on talking about my MAC. Well, my blog title says it all. *wink*

Raison d'être

Competition. This was never in my vocabulary.

In school, I was just a simple girl who wants to have fun and experience life as much as I can. I find quiz bee as a game rather than a contest. Maybe that was the rationale behind why I was enjoying it.

Student council. I was always part of it but never was my choice. From MUSE, P.R.O., AUDITOR, TREASURER to VP. *hehehe* I never took it seriously though. Everything was just for fun.

I don’t like any form of pressure. I want things to be “just cool and easy”.

I work to learn, enjoy and be happy. I like to love what I’m doing. I have the passion for anything that interests me. I learn for myself and not to please or compete with anybody nor get credits for it.

DRIVING.I started early because I like it. My Daddy was my guru.
SWIMMING. I got lessons because I love water and not for any race at all.
TYPING. I become skilled at it because of my interest since I was a kid. I often see my Mommy type real fast! I adore her.
COOKING. I had the effort to be good in making pastries because of my sweet tooth.
GADGETS. I’m a true geek!
SKINCARE, COSMETICS AND FASHION. I just love pampering myself to make me feel good.
READING. The book should arouse my interest.
WRITING. Most of the time, my stress-reliever, otherwise, my energy booster.

This list can go on and on...

Bottom line, I do things for myself to make me content and not to please anybody.

I do not like much attention and praises. I do not want to be highlighted by people whenever I made a good job. That makes me very uncomfortable and coy! I am a silent worker and I do my work for myself and not for anybody. I want to experience the ‘sense of achievement’ feeling. I can say that if ever there is this LITTLE ‘competition’ in me it is NEVER against anyone but MYSELF. I always want to improve for the better. I often want to be challenged (but not too much, I don’t want stress!) I guess my left-brain is more active than my right. I’m an analytical person. I love logic and strategies.

Now, I’m starting to feel uncomfortable because of the attention I am getting and somehow (Ok, I know this is wrong…) I feel not working anymore. I want them to see me NOT doing my best. So, the attention can be diverted to others. I don’t want management to believe in me TOO MUCH. I want my life to be simple and uncomplicated. I don’t want to be in the limelight. I know I need to overcome this. Soon…

HAPPINESS.

Hmmm…on a lighter side, that made me think that I can never join showbiz! *Bwahahaha* Crazy me! ☺

Badger…badger I need you. Zzz…zzz…

03.28.98 errr...03.28.06

Today marks our 8th year anniversary! Gee…how time really flies! ☺

8 years is no joke. We’ve been through a lot of UPs and DOWNs. We’ve seen the BEST and the WORST of each other. The relationship was put to countless of tests. There were many times we almost gave up.

CYCLE, as what other people may say. I’m in a very NORMAL relationship. We get to experience the typical problems other people encounter. I can relate to a few individual people I meet. Nobody is exempted to any single problem. Life is no perfect. There is no ideal relationship. Whatever trial one bumps into, at first will be reluctant to face it because it entails emotional involvement. But after you outdo it, it would be a learning experience later on.

Life is too short. Experience life. Carpe Diem!

I believe difficulties are not to be sized. It is a matter of attitude. On how you react on whatever problem you come across. As we mature, we can somehow master the ART OF FACING TRIALS. ☺

Looking back…

8 years ago, I was so naïve, a party girl, no direction, and no plans. As if I was born just to have FUN!

8 years after, this is ME (deeper and more sensitive) and still with my BEE. ☺


Two parties do not share a relationship. GOD should be the center of it. Then, we will never go wrong…

Wonder how did we spend this day?

Celebration was simple yet meaningful. No fancy restaurant, no expensive gifts. We went to church and offered a thanks giving mass. That made this day complete. ☺

Dead Beat

I was in the office on time. I want to start my week RIGHT. Had a cup of coffee and a cig, turned on my Samsung laptop, launched my YM, mySingle and Outlook. Woo-hoo…53 emails in my inbox! This would definitely be a long day for me…and it was!

Two weeks ago, I kept on asking Joscel if Regional Headquarter (RHQ) guests will push through with their visit here in Philippines. I cannot get the answers.

Answers came too late…

It was a dreadful day! I was asked to present a powerpoint of someone else. It was hard! I was shaking and terrified that I might get embarrassed in front of these VIPs. (RHQ guest, President/CEO and VP) Oh well, I guess I was born to face “unexpected situations” from time to time. Things I always avoid happen. People I stay away from get closer and get into my nerves! *heart pounding fast, real fast!*

*convincing myself* Things happen for a reason. Things that are bound to happen will happen no matter what. *blah-blah-blah*

I feel drained and sick. I realized I was talking to my SPONGE, Xave. I missed him! I miss the times he makes me laugh my heart out. ☺ Now that he is not here, I have to speak with my new CONFIDANTE.

I need a good warm shower. Ciao!

Me, Myself and I

Time for MYSELF, one thing I can hardly do these days.

On weekdays, I’m extremely busy and working for Samsung would really demand much of my time. On weekends, I usually spend it at the farm (Bataan) or gimmick/poker nights with friends at the bar or in any friends’ house.

I want something different. I want to pamper myself. I highly deserve it! ☺

This is my day.

March 25, 930am: Stopped by Starbucks Libis for a cup of Café Mocha and ensaymada to go to start my day.

10am to 12 noon: Derma. Had my usual facial cleaning/treatment. I felt good all impurities on my face were removed.

Whole afternoon: Enormous bonding with my iBook! ☺ Break time was just during lunch and dinner. *hooked*

10pm to 12 midnight: SPA. While driving home and listening to songs from my iPod it felt so relaxed and delighted I achieved my goal. I’m ready to face the week to come. I felt so unexplainably rejuvenated.

Well, what a very clean Saturday! ☺

Known Identity

Now, my cutie flip-flops finally got its identity by the name of Gladiator-Inspired Flats.

As seen in Marie Clare magazine March ish:

cute printed ties

designer flats!

I've been PMS-ing since the other day. I think I deserve a good doze. Zzzzzzz...

Bag-a-book

TGIF!

It was a looong week for me. I’m dragging myself to work just to BE THERE and I hurry home to touch my iBook. ☺

I know that I am still a neophyte and yet I’m so hooked already. What more if I had explored all the programs already and maximize this fully? Oh no, I do not want to be a nerd! *hihihi*

How to avoid looking like a geek?

I spent my whole day in the office checking out some iBook bags and here are my choices:

1. CRUMPLER, an Australian brand: a option between Breakfast Buffer or Wee Bee (www.crumpler.com.au)

2. STM, an Aussie brand: preference between Small Alley or Small Loft (www.stmbags.com)

Hmm…friends, you have until April 1 to cast your votes! ☺

Wachamacalit?

What’s with me? I don’t know why I’m getting hooked with flats--- Havaianas (I’ve lost count already) and these very cool flats! Which is very timely for summer.


This comes with 5 interchangeable ankle ties/straps of different colors and I got it at P550 only! (the flats with 5 ties) What a great deal! =) I just don’t know what it’s called.

I didn’t go to work today to spend some “quality” time with my iBook *hehehe* and besides, I deserve a break! I just want to be at home.

Time for ice cream! GTG…

Summer thoughts

10 words to live by for summer
Sun. Beach. Tan. Cool drinks. Fun. Friends. Poker. Ice cream. Shades. Blog.

9 is the most number of
glasses of water one should drink during a hot summer.

8 things to pack in your summer tote
Swimsuit. Board shorts. Sun block. Tanning oil. Lip balm with SFP. Aviator Shades. iPod. Cellphone.

7 things to do before summer ends
Confession. Buy iBook (done). Out of town. Vacation. Take pictures. Tanning. Blog.

6 is the least number of…
swimsuits I currently have.

5 swimsuit brands that should take up your closet
Billabong. Roxy. Ripcurl. Pink belter. Roxy (again).

4 beauty essentials to beat the summer heat
Evian. Kiehl’s lip balm. Pantene hair conditioner. Body shop Olive body wash.

3 vacation spots to hit this summer
Boracay. Boracay. Boracay!

2 best brands for naughty frocks to frolic under the sun
Roxy. Quiksilver.

1 ultimate summer must-have
A great tan!

Apple of my Eyes ^^

Ta-daaaaaa!

I’m happy to be back and this time, I will TRY to be here as often as I can. Well, I need to. This Blogger has been my companion for sometime now and I want this to be a regular thing for me.

I had sleepless nights for a week now thinking about “this stuff” that I’ve been dreaming for the longest time but to no avail. I felt that there is no URGENT need for me to do so. Not until Samsung seriously implemented the security thing for our “tools”. Suddenly, I feel paralyzed!

God is so good!

I got my very brand new Apple iBook G4. Whoohooo! *big applause*

wow! excited!!! =D


mega pic talaga...dyahe pero funny! =)


Meet my new iBook fun club friends, a.k.a. “My MAREs”: Aileen, Lizette and Amby, who experienced the same intensity of restless nights and iBook High Fever like mine. *hahaha*

Mga Mare, enjoy your new babies ok? *wink*

P.S. My post looks kinda weird...some buttons are missing...hmm...will do better next time.

Miss Marc Faridah Bag

An addition to my wish list:


Tadaaaaa! Little Miss Marc by Marc Jacobs. So cutie!!!

Someone please tell me you have this and let me know where to get it here and how much.

Planner, anyone?

I was moved by this email I got from a friend…READ ON.

“The best gift anyone can give me this New Year is a planner. I like planners because I am a planner. I like thinking ahead. I like being prepared. I get a high from being on top of things. But some things are beyond planning. And life doesn’t always turn out as planned.

You don’t plan for a broken heart. You don’t plan for a failed business venture. You don’t plan for an adulterous husband. Or a wife who wants you out of her life. You don’t plan for an autistic child. You don’t plan for spinsterhood. You don’t plan for a lump in your breast.

You plan to be young forever. You plan to climb the corporate ladder. You plan to be rich and powerful. You plan to be acclaimed and successful. You plan to conquer the universe. You plan to fall in love --- and be loved forever.

You don’t plan to be sad. You don’t plan to be hurt. You don’t plan to be broke. You don’t plan to be betrayed. You don’t plan to be alone in this world.

You plan to be happy. You don’t plan to be shattered. Sometimes if you work hard enough, you can get what you want. But most times, what you want and what you get are two different things.

We, mortals, plan. But so does God in the heavens.

Sometimes, it is difficult to understand God’s plans especially when His plans are not in consonance with ours. Often, when God sends us crisis, we turn to Him in anger. True, we cannot choose the cross that God wishes us to carry, but we can carry that cross with courage knowing that God will never abandon us nor send something we cannot cope with.

Sometimes, God breaks our spirit to save our soul. Sometimes, He breaks our heard to make us whole. Sometimes, God sends us pain so we can be stronger. Sometimes, God sends us failure so we can be humble. Sometimes God sends us illness so we can take better care of ourselves. Sometimes, God takes everything away from us so we can learn the value of everything He gave us.

Make plans but understand that we live by God’s grace.”

FAKER!!!

Today marks the death of G. & T’s friendship (if I can really call it that way…) After receiving a message that I am UNREAL and BULL S**T, what does he expect? Of course, I got mad! **fuming mad!**

He didn’t know me that much. I can be his best friend but I can also be his worst enemy. I speak my mind. He started it, I MUST end it.

As much as possible, I do not want any regrets at all. I just can’t accept that all this time, he is still bitter; making “sumbat” of all the things he did for me. If he really finds me special, he doesn’t need to brag all his efforts and sacrifices to me. This shows his crystal clear insincerity!

I pity him. It will still take him years to be content and happy. Such a loser and faker!

Whew! Erase...erase...erase...I wish him well though…

Bag Hag

Ever slept miserable through the night, thinking about that bag you saw on the store window or magazine a couple of weeks ago? Well, I have.

When I was a kid, I’ve been addicted to purses: Hello Kitty, My Melody and other Sanrio stuffs, all in PINK! I started small and never thought I would grow up to be such a um, bag-a-holic!

Among my collections, meet my new babies:

LV Monogram Speedy 25
LV Monogram Pochette Wallet

I feel kinda guilty because these cost a fortune (for a bag) but hey, these are LIFETIME BAGS! Aside from being waterproof and scratch proof, the value appreciates. Much better than wasting my money on mobile phones that depreciates at a blink of an eye.

My Wish list:

Damier Papillon
Monogram Montsouris Medium
Epi Leather Petit Noe

Like friends, I go for QUALITY over quantity.

28th Feb. 2006

Looking back, I can say that I have no regrets in my life or in any decision I made in the past. Not even a single thing that I would want to erase. I’m content with the things are going now.

Don’t get me wrong, my relationship is no bed of roses. Thorns are everywhere which makes me a better and stronger person.

There’s this very strong force that makes me feel that Xave is God’s gift to me. I admit there are still questions and somehow until now I’m seeking for some of the answers. But then again, whatever distractions that keep on coming back to me from time to time I still want to have that FAITH and let God do things in His ways. He knows what is best for me, and for “US”.

There were times that we have lost trust with each other, and it is so difficult to love someone you don’t trust. It was a struggle and it took time for us to regain it. Believe me, it took us Y-E-A-R-S!

With all the things that has been said and done, LOVE and FRIENDSHIP keeps us going and going, a good foundation that saved us (next to GOD).