Be Carol

3rd year Blogniversary!

2011-07-28T22:46:00.001+08:00

whew! It's been three years of erratic blogging.. Honestly, I wanted a space for my thoughts on the web, but while reading and being inspired of the so many blogs I follow, it seems this blog had been a lost soul.. Forgive me dearest blog for I have neglected to write and make updates..

To my dearest blog, Happy 3rd Blogniversary!

For now, I'm still on hiatus mode (till I dont know when)..

(Aside from twitter and facebook keeping me busy, I made a tumblr account for random thoughts and musing..)

For 2011...

2011-01-09T11:46:00.001+08:00

I'll be taking a break from blogging on blogger. I'm trying out Tumblr's interace.
I'll be posting more on my new tumblr. I'm on hiatus for now while I'm still figuring out what to do.

I'll miss blogging, but I need to set my priorities straight first.

I Miss my BLOG!..

2010-10-17T11:43:00.000+08:00

I've been dying to make new posts on my blog, for there are a few things I'd like to share. But I've been trying to restrict my internet time so I could allot more time and try to focus more on studying .

Now, the Final exam week is over, and I'm still waiting for the results. I've been having a positive perspective the last week of exams. My extra time studying has been paying off since I'm pretty sure I got decent grades.

So, I'm still waiting and hoping and praying everything I did worked. I will find out next week..

I really missed writing and making posts. Sorry if I've been AWOL for a long time.

Hopefully I'll be back to regular blogging next week..

I'll keep you posted..

Wish me luck!!.. ;)

UPDATE: Working hard to secure a spot..

2010-10-02T16:27:00.001+08:00

I've MIA lately and haven't been doing posts (which I promised I'd regularly do). I've been enjoying the blogosphere scene much that time passed quickly. It's October and it IS the busiest month for me.

I've been busy finishing requirements, catching up on my reading and reviewing for my special topics class (the ONLY class that had been a roadblock for me on being an engineer). It's my only frustration, and let me tell you, I've felt like I've been on a rollercoaster ride while taking it.

I almost went rockbottom on depression last semester when I failed that subject. (Good thing I don't need to see a psychiatrist to survive). I haven't got the slightest idea what I did wrong (I thought I was doing well, I guessed not). It had been making my life hell, juggling part time work and erratic lecture and exams schedules. My mom and dad was worried about my health because I haven't been sleeping much since last year.

It's hard to do good in my chemical engineering course these past year. I do like my course because of its perks in the near future, but it's just not that fulfilling anymore as oppose to how I pictured it to be. Learning had hit a pause button on me, and it felt like crap forcing yourself to study something which was not fun anymore. Yes, Learning could be fun if you really like what your doing, but if not, then learning becomes a chore.

Its just saddening that it took me 5 years in engineering with only 1 remaining subject left to know what I really wanted to do in life. I know I cannot throw those five years and start again from scratch. Now, I just wanted to finish my degree (since it will be a waste not to) for my family, especially my dad who wanted this for me. That's why I'm trying hard to find something enjoyable with studying to motivate me.

But now, I'm feeling kind of positive. I've been doing well as compared to last semester but still I wanted to clearly secure my seat at PICC. So, I have to bury myself deep down on math and chemisty books, my calculator and coffee as my companion. I know my health is taking a toll on this crazy life of mine, but I need to make sure this sacrifice must bear good news.

So for now, I'd just take a break from writing on this blog. I do have plenty of drafts waiting to be published, but I'll just get back to them as soon as this is over. Wish me luck, and hopefully I'm back with good news.

(This was the longest rant I think I wrote. I hope this did not bore you to death..)
Peace out..

Taste the NEW Chicken Bourbon Sandwich from Delifrance

2010-09-23T20:23:00.000+08:00

Delifrance's NEW Chicken Bourbon Sandwich

Delifrance has introduced a new addition to their line of Gourmet sandwiches, the Chicken Bourbon Sandwich. With that, Delifrance is giving away coupons for everyone to try their sampler of the chicken bourbon sandwich. For more details on how to get the coupon, visit this link and click the banner at the upper portion of the page..

Got mine already, wondering when I'll be using it..

COSMO Bash 2010 at the World Trade Center

2010-09-21T18:15:00.000+08:00

The Cosmo Bachelor Bash 2010 was held at the World Trade Center last September 9, 2010. Luckily, I got my friend another ticket, so I didn't came alone at the bash.

We arrived around 8PM(as suppose to the 7PM schedule stated at the ticket) and we noticed a long queue of lines outside. I was surprised with the volume of invited people(way too many compared last year) and the show hasn't started yet(even the VIP and PRESS pips are still in line outside).

As we enter, we were greeted by male models on cages. The theme for this year was Wild DoMENation, as in picture yourself in the jungle surrounded by these men and exotic animals kind of WILD. We were so excited that we took pictures immediately along the Cosmo backdrop and with the caged models.

The venue was a lot bigger and there were more booths scattered in the area with designated male models in them waiting for the ladies. (San Miguel, Caronia, Jergens, Baicapture, AloYouth, Lick, Nike, and I forgot the name of the catering service and one pharmaceutical booth I think.) There were also long lines at the booth, eager ladies waiting to have their kodak moments with the male models.

The booth we enjoyed most were at the Caronia, Jergens and AloYouth. The guys at those booths were super friendly and game. (I know I got their names, but with plently of half-naked male species, their names rambled and got lost on my brain.)

The event was hosted by no other than Joey Mead (she hosted last year's bash also). The party started with some games. The games were too hot to handle, (not to mention the hunks that was used as props at the games).

The spread was kicked off by no other than Aljur Abrenica! He grazed his way on to the stage in a cage with a mask.

Along came many half-naked men which made the girl (and even male) audience scream to the top of their lungs. I think there were plenty of men this year because I recognized some of the models from last year's bash together with the newly introduced 69 bachelors. The show was really sizzling hot because male models tried their best to capture the audience in way unimaginable (inert censor here) ;)

And last, but not the least, the 10 Centerfold models strut their thing on the stage which made some chaos of screams vibrating through the whole venue.

Here are the Centerfolds that made the stage sizzle that night:

Joross Gamboa

Fabio Ide

Marco Mañalac

Bryan Foronda

Tom Rodriguez

Rocco Nacino

Matteo Guidicelli

Carlo Guevarra

Christian Bautista

Sam Milby

Aren't these models hot or what? Unluckily, since we arrived late, We weren't able to secure a place near the stage. If so, then we could have been in heaven.. ahahaha..

We weren't able to capture much pictures of the models, but we sure had some video caps of the show. The sad thing is that my digicam's battery went low just in time for the 10 Centerfolds (boohoo!!).

We had fun that night. The models are really nice (aside from the fact that they are such an adonis in nature). Till next year, and the years more on celebrating MEN, MEN, MEN!! They surely know how to make us women blush.

I still do hope my ever loving boyfriend would allow me to go next year without having tantrums.

Oh, I remembered, I noticed some of the women in the bash came with their boyfriends (I noticed a few). I wonder how their night turned out.. ahahaha.. I do hope they enjoyed the bash. ;p

On the side note:

This is what I wore on the bash:

on me: Blazer from Landmark, Dress made by me, Shoes from thrift store, Corset from YRYS

**proper photo credits linked at cosmo.ph

Please help me win an IPAD from AloYouth..

2010-09-16T19:48:00.002+08:00

When we went to the AloYouth booth at the Cosmo bash, the usherettes have mentioned that they have an ongoing promo, inline with their new FB page. Our photos taken at the booth will be posted on their page, and the picture with the most number of likes get to win an IPAD.

This is my photo entry with the Lychee Model

How to help me:

1. Like the AloYouth Fanpage...
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Alo-Youth/123633847686712?ref=ts

2. Like my pic on this link..
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Alo-Youth/123633847686712?v=wall#!/photo.php?pid=183949&id=123633847686712&ref=fbx_album

Your help would pretty much appreciated. I'm taking a chance on this one. I do hope I snagged the IPAD..

Cine Europa at The Shang

2010-09-14T21:30:00.000+08:00

For movie buffs who wanted to appreciate movies from Europe, European Commission in partnership with Shangri-La Cineplex is hosting a free movie viewing of 20 selected movies all across Europe. For more details and film schedules, please refer on boykuripot's post or the European Commision's site.

Meet and Greet COSMO Centerfolds

2010-09-14T20:30:00.001+08:00

If you missed these guys on the Cosmo Bachelor Bash, you can still meet them (in the flesh) at selected GUESS store locations.

Here are the Schedules and which Hunk you'll be expecting (taken from the Cosmo site):

September 11 (Saturday)
4:00 - 6:00 PM
Trinoma branch
Bryann Foronda

September 18 (Saturday)
4:00 - 6:00 PM
SM Megamall branch
Fabio Ide AND Bryann Foronda

September 25 (Saturday)
2:00 - 4:00 PM
SM Mall of Asia branch
Daniel Matsunaga and Bryann Foronda

*I would love to see these guys again up close. Hopefully I could drop by to see them (if my schedule permits).

BIRTHDAY POST!!

2010-09-07T22:12:00.000+08:00

My birthday has passed and another year had been added to my age. I'm so happy that this year, I get to celebrate my birthday with everyone I loved. I'd like to thank my father for hosting and arranging the gathering. It was a blast!.

We had a videoke party at my dad's videoke bar. Food was overflowing and I sung my lungs out that night. We had a few drinks. They may say I was drunk, but actually, I was just buzzed with overwhelming happiness that day.

Cheers to life! I am looking forward to another year of love and hapiness. Certainly, I WILL live my life to the fullest.

On the side note:
My dad's Videoke Bar is located at Alabang. It is a decent but spacious open area videoke bar. So if anyone is interested to chill within Alabang area at a reasonable budget, do visit the bar.

Diamond Era Bar and Restaurant
2nd flr. (beside STI-Alabang and right across SOGO Hotel)
Alabang Triangle, Alabang, Metro Manila

August Haul

2010-09-07T21:54:00.002+08:00

*I know it's kinda late, but i was having a hard time rummaging all of my photos. I had many photos that needed to be organized. BTW, this is my first haul post.

With me being so frugal, it was a shock that I've ordered and bought several things this month. (Good thing, the other things I wanted to buy out of whim was out of stock.. hehehe..)

Here's what I got: (though it's not much)
(More info on the products after the jump)

5 piece brush set
Avon Simply Pretty Face Powder with Refill
Avon Simply Pretty Lipstick in Cool Coral
Maybelline Volume Express Hypercurl Mascara

5 piece Brush Set

I found these dainty brushes at a tiangge at Tutuban Center when we were looking for induction-friendly but cheap pots (We bought an electric induction stove to replace our gas stove). I personally do not know how to use make-up brushes for I tend to use my fingers when applying make-up.

They are synthetic brushes from China. Eversince I got to test the very soft bristles of the brushes from Ellana, I told myself that soft brushes would be friendly with my uber-sensitive skin when I apply make-up.

This set is the only set that has soft bristles. I dunno why, but the other packs have stiff bristles. It was so cheap and soft that I decided to buy it.

Avon Simply Pretty Face Powder with Refill

My Maybelline pressed powder had been used up, and I was in need of a new powder. I saw these on sale at a catalog that I decided to buy and use it for the meantime.

I also purchased a refill in a different shade just to try which shade fits me best.

Avon Lipstick in Cool Coral

I am not a lipstick fan. I have uneven lips, so applying lipstick that makes my lips look even was challenging. But I have noticed that I look too pale everytime I go on a no-makeup (lazy day) look. Everyone was always asking me if I look alright because I really look pale.

I loved red and pink shades, so I'm not a fan of corals and nudes. But from all the beauty blogs I've been reading, they all the same thing. Corals and nude are great for everyday look. It would really rock if you've found a shade that is near the real shade of your lips. And it is true, they look lovely (and pretty much healthy) in those shades, so I might as well give corals a try.

So far, this shade has a pink shade (I was expecting a slight orangey-pink shade). It really look great on me. I looked healthy (no more pale face). I've been using this eversince.

Maybelline Volume Express Hypercurl Mascara

I love what this mascara did to my lashes. It really volumized it, making my peepers more pretty. I first used it when I went to my sisters debut party. A really good mascara works wonders on my eyes.

The only downside (and upside too) that it is waterproof. The downside for me is that I really need a make-up remover to completely remove the fibers from the mascara. I tried just using cleanser and toner (which I usually do), but no luck. I must include a make-up remover in my stash if I want to use this regularly.

** I'll update this post when I found my pic using all these products.

Music Playlist

2010-09-06T18:28:00.001+08:00

Here's the songs on my Playlist:

Teenage dream- Kate Perry
Just the Way you Are - Bruno Mars
Birthday Sex - Jeremih
Love the Way you Lie - Eminem feat. Rihanna
Send it On - Disney Stars
Mine - Taylor Swift
Airplanes - B.O.B feat Hayley
Nothin' on You - B.O.B feat Bruno Mars
Billionare - Travie McCoy feat Bruno Mars
Somewhere in Brooklyn - Bruno Mars

**Notice that almost half of it are from Bruno Mars. I'm so digging his music now. :)
Here are the videos (courtesy of Youtube)
Teenage Dream - Kate Perry

Just the Way You Are - Bruno Mars

Birthday Sex - Jeremih

Love the Way you Lie - Eminem feat Rihannna

Send it On - Disney Stars (Miley, Selena, Demi and the Jonas Bros.)

Mine - Taylor Swift

Airplanes - B.O.B feat Hayley

Nothin' on You - B.O.B feat Bruno Mars

Billionare -Travie McCoy feat Bruno Mars

Somewhere in Brooklyn - Bruno Mars

Free UCC Coffee

2010-09-06T17:26:00.000+08:00

I've bumped into this great offer by UCC at boykuripot's post and I immediately registered myself in Hubert Young's site to get my free coffee. You can also invite friends to experience UCC'c coffee by adding their email for them to get free coffee also.

Enjoy UCC's coffee on their shop near you

Note:
It was fast, as soon as I have registered, I got my coupon already in the mail.

HOT: Cosmo's Centerfolds 2010

2010-09-03T23:42:00.001+08:00

Here are the Cosmo Centerfolds 2010 (in no particular order.. and with their shirt on..)

Carl Guevarra

Rocco Nacino

Joross Gamboa

Bryan Foronda

Tom Rodriguez

Marco Mañalac

Matteo Guidicelli

Fabio Ide

Christian Bautista

Sam Milby

Drool on their Half-naked Bods on CosmoMen supplement zine on Cosmo's September issue. It is already out in the market. To see their hot bods live at the ramp, go to the Cosmo's Bachelor Bash at the World Trade Center on September 9.

On the side note:
I bought my Cosmo September issue last Saturday (August 28) as soon as I've seen it at Booksale. I've noticed that they carry the freshest issues in SM Malls compared to National Book Store.

Disclaimer:
Proper citations was made to the pictures used in this post. I've retained the link where I got them, so when the picture is clicked, it will direct it to the source. So proud of myself, I am now learning the proper ways and ethics of blogging bit by bit.

Incoming: Cosmo Bachelor Bash 2010!

2010-08-25T21:00:00.001+08:00

September is just around the corner. Aside from my birthday and the cool -ber months coming soon, there's been something that is keeping me excited to celebrate in this month.

Every year, I've been anticipating Cosmo's Bachelor Bash. It is the time where male species are deeply appreciated and being adorned by women. Cosmo selects new and fresh faces for us women to drool on. Luckily, I was able to go to the bash last year (refer to this post).

This year, The Cosmo Bachelor Bash is scheduled on September 9, at the World Trade Center. (I wonder who made to the hottest 10 this year)

Now that August is about to end, Cosmopolitan Magazine is again giving away invites to the Cosmo Bachelor Bash this year. (YAY!) I hastily purchased the August issue to find out more about some details to score some invites.

I was so excited that I already got my invite! (wahahaha) I had vowed to myself that this would be my birthday gift every year since it is always scheduled near my birthday (September 6). I'm just wondering who will come with me to the bash, because I only got to score 1 ticket for myself (last year, I got two tickets). I hope my friends would be able to score tickets also so that it would be a lot of fun.

See you at the Bash!
(Wondering who will be the hot men featured on the September issue, can't wait!)

*pardon my crappy photos, my hands are really not stable..

Nestle Fruit Selection Yogurt + JELLY!

2010-08-19T18:20:00.001+08:00

I happened to bump on the newest addition to the Nestle Fruit Selection Yogurt line, The Nestle Yogurt plus Jelly! Unfortunately, they didn't have the taste testing at SM Supermarket (like what they do often), but I gladly bought all varieties since I love Yogurt!

The Nestle Yogurt plus Jelly has two variety at to this moment, Buco Pandan with Nata and Strawberry. You'll first see the jelly and have to actually dig in to get the yogurt part. I have tasted both flavors and it is really yummy! The jelly complements the flavor of the yogurt. And for the added surprise was tidbits of Nata or Strawberry which makes up the full flavor.

Unfortunately, since it is made up of fruits and sweeteners, it will surely ruin one's diet. But for someone, who has a sweet tooth (like me!!) this is surely a much healthier alternative than munching on chocolates or pastries.

* I'll be posting the nutritional facts and more pictures since I actually gobbled both before I even though of taking more pictures. Takawness.. ;p *

Garnier Skin Naturals Light Cream: a change in my Skin Care.

2010-08-17T18:57:00.001+08:00

This month, my favorite moisturizer had been consumed to the very last drop. I was feeling risky to try other type of moisturizer. I have a very dry and sensitive skin, so I've been having a hard time choosing a new moisturizer to suit my skin time (taking consideration also the price over the actual need or usage)

Old Moisturizer:
Nivea Visage Sparkling White Day Care Moisturize

I've been using my Nivea moisturizer and it had became my instant favorite. It doesn't have a strong scent and it quickly absorbs on my skin, having a moisturized feel on my face. It is practically cheaper for the value I got from the product (considering the price over the length I've been using it). I have consumed about two bottles already and my skin had adapted to it already.

New Moisturizer:
Garnier Skin Naturals Light with SPF 15 (in sachet)

There had been really good reviews on the Garnier Lightening System according to other people. But when I found out that Garnier is the mass market brand of L'Oreal, I decided to give their moisturizer a try. (L'Oreal is my trusted brand, though their moisturizer had a quite heavy and an oily feel on my face, also it is quite pricey). I decided to test their moisturizer line first (good thing they have it in sachets now). I wanted to try their lightness test, expecting that my current shade will lighten.

This is my initial shade. After 1 month of use, I should be on the 4 or 3 shade (according to the label)

Initial Run:

I placed the contents of the sachet on my empty and cleaned Nivea bottle (for easier application). The cream was quite heavy, and the initial application was quite stingy, especially in the eye area (maybe my sensitive skin acting up on the new product). It got me thinking that maybe all their product have the light peeling action for the lightening effect (I noticed the carry an overnight mild peeling cream also).

Daily Usage:

My skin was irritated resulting to some dry patched areas on my skin. (But I ignored it and decided to give it a few days more). I notice that my skin is visibly lighter (I haven't checked how many tones). Powder application on my face tends to be cakey, ending having a geisha face (There are days that I only use baby powder if I don't plan wearing makeup). Application of make-up was hard (for skin's a bit rough and had dry patch areas). I am having a rough skin after I started using the cream.

Feeling positive that this will work out well with my skin. I'm just waiting till I finish the whole sachet. But if the dry patches did not ease up, or worsen, I'll switch to try their newly launched moisturizer, the upgraded version of this one, the Garnier Skin Naturals Light Complete.

*UPDATE*
8/24/2010
On my 22nd day, my tone lighten one shade. From a 6, I went to a 5 shade. (Though was expecting it to be 4 already since it IS already day 22). I finished the whole sachet, and I bought another one just to finish the 28 day test. After I finished this 2nd sachet, I'll give the Garnier Skin Naturals Light Complete a try also. But still not positive enough to buy the whole bottle as a permanent moisturizer.

Coffee Bean Tea and Leaf for Sunday Brunch

2010-08-17T18:25:00.000+08:00

Date: August 1, 2010
Place: CBTL Greenbelt 3

Since I went directly to the Frozen Swirl Open house after my shift from work, I decided to eat brunch at Coffee Bean Tea and Leaf. I decided to use the coupon I got from my Belle de Jour Planner (I've been meaning to use them anyway). The planner has around 10 coupons from Coffee Bean. And I can't decided which one to use..

Since it is a Sunday, the place is packed with people hanging out on a lazy Sunday noon. I was waiting in line when I found this cute mug. I instantly fell in love. (I wish I could afford it, it is quite expensive for a mug). I'm guessing it costs around 500 because it's made from ceramic with a silicon cap. It will be included in my wishlist (since my birthday is near na.. >wink<).

Since the sour taste of the frozen swirl had made my stomach upset, I decided to go for a heavy brunch and order their tomato and herb linguine. The pasta tasted yummy, not too sour, just right for a. tomato based pasta. The coupon I used entitles me to a free regular iced tea blends. They gave me their Southern Tea variety which I enjoyed and complimented everything I ate. While ordering, I mustered the strength to ask for another serving of the frozen swirl, this time in Lemoncello flavor (and that's how I got another serving).

Tomato and Herb Linguine

I wasn't in a hurry to finish all the food since my stomach was aching from all the frozen swirls I've eaten (but I can't seem to get enough.. coz it's free!!) I decided to do some review on my upcoming engineering mathematics diagnostics test next week to buy some time.

Notice that the table was so dainty that I particularly need to move my things around more often.

Overall, I enjoyed my brunch and left the store happily full (though my wallet was not happy at all).

My Top 10 Emerging Influential Blogs for 2010

2010-08-07T00:46:00.003+08:00

I happened to had a keen love on blogging two years ago, and now, it seems like I had a peek in the wonderful world blogging. I bumped on this writing project (courtesy of fjordz) which can help new bloggers, not only on their viewership, but also to share their passion on something to the world. So I'm submitting my post not only to help out my friends but also fellow bloggers who had been starting out to make their way in the blogosphere. I wish my blog could join, but it had been up for two years, so i wouldn't qualify. :(

The Top 10 Emerging Influential Blogs for 2010 writing project was headed by Janette Toral and had been ongoing for four years. They are introducing some new bloggers in the light of promoting each others passion through the blogosphere.

Here's my Top 8 Emerging Influential Blogs for 2010. I haven't got to complete the 10 because most of the blogs I read on had been up earlier than March 2009. I'm still in search of great bloggers who have the passion like mine

General Blogs

These are some of the blogs which tackles general information and views on different things.

Coffee for Geeks

-This is my hubby's site. I hope he can be included also for he has awesome tips and tricks for people who had been struggling on the technical stuff we have these days. He's also a web developer-in-the-making, so you'll notice that he frequently changes his layout more than he makes his posts. :)

ATBP

- This is my friend's blog, and it caters everything about the latest news in the showbiz industry here in the Philippines. We know that we, Filipinos love these kind of stuff, so this site would be a good read to have something to talk about (or gossip on) with your friends to update them with the who's and what's in the glimmery light of showbiz industry.

Mapanghingi Ka Ba

-I'm such a sucker for free stuff. I ultimately love free stuff, and the site was very helpful for frugal people like me (specially the ones who loves free stuff). I am happy every time I read some of the posts.

Asian Poses

- The site is fairly new but oh so cute. There is too much cute Asians doing cute poses. I recommend you check it out to see for yourself to see what I mean.

Food Blogs

I am such a food junkie. I love eating. These sites had been very helpful,(and mouthwatering too) for updating me of which foods or restaurants I need to try.

NomNom Club

-They have the most amazing reviews and news on FOOD stuff. How great is that?? FOOD.. FOOD. and lots of good FOOD..

Thirsty Blogger

-This had been a unique blog for it mainly his reviews caters more on beverages. New stuff to drink and try, I so love the reviews.. simple yet attractively mouthwatering..

Fashion and Beauty Blogs

I've been hooked on reading fashion and beauty blogs to catch on some tips and tricks on fashion (and some confidence too). Their blogs are not only informative, but you'll enjoy reading their posts because they are such lovely individuals (really an eye candy). I had plenty more to recommend to you, but these ladies are some that fall on the qualifications of the writing project.

Holly Ann Aeree

-If you happened to be subscribed on youtube, you will know that she's quite famous there for her tutorial videos on beauty and stuff. You'll instantly love her channel because she's so refreshing and absolutely pretty. Also, her videos are very helpful with people struggling to look good everyday (like the nerd in me!).

Nicola-x

- I was amazed when I found out that she was younger than me, but had so much passion on beauty. I loved reading her blog. She have great reviews on makeup and stuff.

I'm still discovering great things in the blogosphere, and I hope to meet some of the great bloggers in the country so we could exchange ideas regarding our every passion. Kudos to Janette! I hope this will be another successful project. Good luck to the nominees!

This writing project will not be possible without the support of sponsors such as Events and Corporate Video, Budget hotel in Makati, Pinoy Party Food, Copyediting Services, PR Agency Philippines, Budget Travel Philippines, Send Gifts to the Philippines, Black Friday Deals, Roomrent - units for rent, Search Profile Index, and Corporate Events Organizer.

**will be updating the remaining two if I found another before the project ends..

Hell Week..

2010-08-04T20:38:00.000+08:00

I've been itching to finish all my pending posts for this blog. But my work and class schedule has been clashing (again!) and I've been juggling my time.. Hopefully the tide will subside and both schedules will be okay..

I'm so happy because Joel had been showing me some uber cute layouts for my revamped blog (wait for it!!)..

Coffee Bean Tea and Leaf: Frozen Swirl Openhouse

2010-08-02T18:35:00.002+08:00

Coffee Bean Tea and Leaf is not your ordinary coffee shop. They also serve freshly brewed tea that will surely suit your taste. The company originated on 1963 in California. I've been a fan of Coffee Bean Tea and Leaf eversince I tasted their Iced Tea Blends (courtesy of Belle de Jour coupons from their planner). Though I'm not a fan of expensive coffee, but I most certainly liked their variety of teas. I am the type that liked my tea brewed whether hot or cold. I've been a fan of their Facebook Page, and I happened to bump on the promotion of their latest product recently.

(photos from CBTL Fanpage)

Since frozen yogurt had been on the mainstream, introducing them into their line was a good move. It provides more options and variety of unique flavors to try on their shop. And as for me, I wouldn't miss their Open house for their Frozen Swirl.

July 25, 2010

First off, to Robinson's Place Ermita. After my graveyard shift from work, I slept for a few hours and went straight to CBTL's Open House at Robinson's. Their Open House was only good from 10AM till 12NN. It was too early, but I mustered to go early to taste their frozen swirls for FREE! (I'm such a sucker for freebies). I met-up with Joel at CBTL. I wanted him to go so I could taste at least two variands of the frozen swirl (I was too shy to ask for more, not to be pegged as a glutton).

Affogato (left) and Original Flavor

I tried their Original Flavor and I had Joel try their Affogato. It is a must for me to try the original one first, so I could savor the true taste of soft served yogurt. I was not dissappointed. The yogurty flavor was evident, that I liked it much. The texture was icey popsicle like, but still smooth and a bit creamy. (remembering my first taste of froyo at California berry).

I eagerly tasted the Affogato, and was stunned on how weird (but in a good way) it tasted. Joel seemed to like the taste because the sour taste of the yogurt was balanced with the coffee.

I hate stolen shots, especially when I'm eating. Good thing I didn't laugh while eating a spoonful..

CBTL was fullhouse when we got there, so we settled at the al freso area (though I didn't like staying there because of the cigarette smell) since there are no seats available inside.

I so loved their cute cups with matching spoons

August 1, 2010

Next stop, CBTL Frozen Swirl Open House at Greenbelt 3. Good thing it was quite near Glorietta 5 (it is where our office is located, convenient huh?). Joel didn't tag along that time for he was too lazy to wake up early on a Sunday (or any day in particular).

Here's the Price Panel of the Frozen Swirl

I first tried the Berry'D Treasure variant. I so loved it! I especially loved berries on my yogurt (though for some, the sourness was a bit overload). I tried to finish them slowly because I know my stomach will act up on the acidity. But no luck, I down the whole serving in a few minutes resulting to a hyperacidity attack.

I was a bit sad for a while coz I thought I'll just be able to taste one flavor (for I've been dying to try all to see which one will be my favorite). But the barista at the counter, including the manager (I forgot their names, sorry!) was very warm and friendly, they were proactive in promoting the Open House, asking everyone to try any flavor they want. (That is the reason I got to try another one!)

I got to try the Lemoncello after I ate something to ease my stomach. I was expecting an artificial lemon flavored syrup topped on the yogurt, but I was wrong (am I?, not sure). The lemon flavor was on the quite sweet syrupy side which was okay considering the sour taste of the yogurt.I wanted to try everything, but I was afraid that I could not go home if ever my stomach acidity piked up.

Overall, I had fun with the Open House. I am such a food junkie that Open Houses (translation : free food) never fails to excite me.

Rating:
CBTL Frozen Swirl:
Original : 5/5
Affogato: 5/5
Berry'd Tressure: 5/5
Lemoncello: 4.5/5

Cocktales

2010-07-31T11:35:00.002+08:00

Date of Visit: July 25, 2010

Rain was pouring hard last Sunday after we ate lunch at Kim N' Chi. To kill time while waiting for the rain to stop, we browsed through the coffee shops available in Robinson's Ermita.

There are plenty of shops that offered good coffee at Robinson's Ermita. From posh and expensive Coffee shops down to the simple and cheap. We are having a hard time to choose where to hang out and warm up with coffee. Joel's criteria of a good cafe to hang out was comfy couches plus good coffee at a reasonable price. Mine was just reasonable price. We seem not to get enough of the Kape Barako offered at Breadtalk (just available in some selected stores), but since there was a wide range, we opt to try others.

We tried Cocktales located at Midtown's 4th floor. It is a small stall-like store with several colorful seats. We tried their Vietnamese Coffee (Coffee with sweet milk).

Vietnamese Coffee (Php50)

We got to see them prepare the coffee because we were seated near their prep area. The coffee was already granulated and brewed in hot water for a few minutes (the traditional way). I noticed their cute glasses and bowls stacked at the cabinets together with some fruits. Their menu list was quite appealing, but I was not in the mood for sweets that time.

(Pardon for the haggard look because I just got off from my graveyard shift, no sleep at all)

I was too excited to try the coffee that I forgot to take a picture of the coffee before I stirred the milk in. Their coffee is appealing because you can see the coffee not mixing with the milk underneath. I find the coffee too sweet maybe because there was too much sweet milk. The Vietnamese Coffee had a herby taste (kinda like a tea) and there are some dusty-like particles that settles at the bottom of the glass (maybe it was not strained well).

Rating:

4/5 Stars

Kim N' Chi

2010-07-30T23:58:00.004+08:00

Date of Visit: July 25, 2010

After the Frozen Swirl Openhouse at Coffee Bean Tea and Leaf Robinson's Ermita, Joel and I decided to have lunch elsewhere (he was looking for a place that serves soups and stews as viands). Since our budget is limited, we decided to check out Robinson's Foodcourt for more options.

I was drawn by the cute booth of "Kim N' Chi". They serve Asian Cuisines (mainly Korean), and their servings are quite big. Their Beef Bulgogi dish was quite tempting, too bad I wasn't into eating an enormous rice meal. I tried their Chap Chae and their dumpling set.

It was my first time trying Chap Chae. It is a Korean Noodle dish made of cellophane noodles and a mix of veggies and meat. I had fun eating cellophane noodles for the first time because of its slimy feel (not your usual noodle). The dish had a sweet tangy taste, and the beef was quite tasty. The downside is that it became too sweet for my taste as I was finishing the dish. Good thing I ordered some dumplings to ease the "umay" factor.

Chap Chae (Php75)

Dumplings (Set of 3+1 at Php50)

It was my first time tasting such dumpling. I enjoyed eating it because egg was the main ingredient (I so love egg!!). The first one (from left to right, refer to the pic at the top) is a typical fried meat dumpling, the second was like luncheon meat (with some veggies) fritters, the third was some sort of egg sushi (nori and crabstick rolled in scrambled egg) and the last one was like an veggie-meat-crabkstick skewers. At first I didn't noticed that it had a stick inside to hold the crabstick, meat and veggie before the egg mixture, until I took a bite.

I enjoyed eating them and I was so full before I even finished the Chap Chae. Kim N' Chi would be a good choice if you wanted another food option besides from the usual fast food at Robinson's Ermita. I'll definitely go back and try their other dishes.

Rating:
4.5/5 Stars

2ND YEAR BLOGNIVERSARY!!

2010-07-28T21:42:00.002+08:00

I especially had taken not of the date when my blog started, and little did I know, it was my blog's 2nd year already!!

I started blogging mainly for the purpose of an online personal journal where I can pour my hearts content and share it to others. I was a noob back then, but I had a good command on words. I was always on hiatus mode mainly because I'm still struggling with coping on the technological advancements available. Most of my posts in the past two years was kind of mushy and too emotional. I was getting gooey while reading my old posts. :)

I just felt like inserting my favorite pics this 2010

This is me with my precious long hair..

This is me sporting a short hair this summer..

(and that was me, stealing the spotlight.. ahahaha.. )

Going back to my blog..

I can say my blog had improved A LOT. This year, I'm seriously considering taking blogging seriously (since I am officially a bum). Watch out for my blog re-inventions.. ahahaha..

Here's to more years on the blogosphere!!

Hope I could get more followers and readers to appreciate my work.. That would really be nice.. :)

New Nail Color

2010-07-26T20:00:00.001+08:00

I just want to share the new nail color I sported.

I never had my nails long because my skin is so sensitive that a scratch from my nails can cause me rashes. But since I was so hooked with the pretty nail colors available during the summer, I decided to have my nails a bit longer than the usual.

Before I applied the nail color, I cleaned my nails and applied two coats of Caronia Nail Hardener/Base Coat two days before. And I addedanother coat before applying the nail color.

I used Caronia in Little Miss Piggy. The color is quite sheer, so to achieve the solid color I wanted, I applied three coats before topping it with two coats of Caronia's Fast Dry/Top Coat.

I really need more practice on the application part since my hands are "pasmado" all the time. After applyig the top coat, I went to bed already coz I was too sleepy that time. I woke up doubfounded to find that I made hairline scratches on it. I was too lazy to redo it again so I let it be, though it looked horrible.

Update:

The color lasted for a week before it started chipping off. My remedy would be to cut my nails about 2 cm, then apply another coat of top coat..

Nuffnang and HEAVEN Ice Cream invite you to a special screening of ‘SALT’

2010-07-23T19:47:00.000+08:00

Divine ice cream pleasure is HEAVEN Ice Cream.

Give in to the richest, smoothest, and creamiest by NESTLÉ Ice Cream. Revel in the exquisite goodness of its four sophisticated flavors---Belgian Chocolate Bliss, Strawberry Dream, Vanilla Almond Secret and Butter Pecan Obsession. HEAVEN Ice Cream is made with only the finest ingredients and contains no artificial food colors. Available in 800mL(Php 175) & 450mL(Php 115) tubs across supermarkets, groceries, and convenience stores nationwide.

Max's Chicken-All-You-Can, Last Hirit!!

2010-07-22T20:58:00.003+08:00

Date of Visit: July 17, 2010

In celebration with Max's 65years in the food industry, They launched the Chicken-All-You-Can promo that runned from June 17-July 17 specially for the loyal patrons of their original fried chicken. The promo was good only from 6:00PM-10:00PM, and it can easily be noticed by long queue of lines outside any Max's restaurant. At P165 per plate, you can fill it with as many quartered fried chicken as your stomach can take. And also at P39, you can avail have the bottomless Pepsi or any Pepsi products to go along with the Chicken-All-You-Can.

Our team decided to try out the Chicken-All-You-Want on its last day. It was somewhat paved way to another bonding experience with the team. It was the last day of the promo and a weekend, so the Max's at Glorietta 3 was packed already (it was already packed even before 6PM!). I arrived at exactly six, in time to see the performance of Max's staff dancing to "Do you Remember" by Jay Sean"to signal that it was the start of the unlimited chicken promo.

Good thing, Marge had tipped us that there is also a Max's branch in Greenbelt and she had the hunch that the queue at that branch is quite shorter than in Glorietta. So while waiting for others to arrive, Marge and I checked the Greenbelt branch. There was a queue, but we noticed that it has more seating capacity so the turnover was quite fast. We were seated by 7PM and was enjoying the chicken already.

It was so much fun bonding with the team that we left around 10PM (so I was late from my graveyard shift.) We took pictures of the plate of bones left from the chicken we have consumed. We were tracking on how many quartered chicken each one consumed, and we even teased Francis because he kept subtracting the amount of chicken he had consumed everytime we ask him.

We left the restaurant with our stomach overfilled with fried chicken. I was having a hard time walking that time, because I was worried my appendix would hurt from all that chicken I ate. By the way, here's the tally of all the chicken consumed:

TL Nadine - 4
Mai (TL's sister) - 3
Daddy Mon - 5
Rachelle (former Titans)- 3
Roxanne - 3
Carol - 3
Marge -3
Czai -3
Stan - 4
Sean (Ate Shiela's hubby)- 5
Dave - 7
Francis - 9
Shiela - 6

Looking forward to another team bonding.. We still have our Team Off to look forward to.

Tutti Frutti Frozen Yogurt

2010-07-20T21:05:00.002+08:00

Date of Visit: July 17, 2010

Tutti Frutti is a store that sells soft served frozen yogurt that is based in the US which now has several stores here in the Philippines. They currently have four stores in the country (SM Manila, SM San Lazaro, Glorietta 4 and Sm Megamall), but has more stores to open soon.

It was my first time to try Tutti Frutti's Frozen Yogurt, and it was on impulse (I wanted to have my thousand bills changed). I was overwhelemed by the many flavored varieties, and it will be my first time tasting a flavored one. There are around 8 varieties available at Glorietta, and I wanted to try every flavor but I managed to squeeze the 5 flavors on my mini-cup. I got a bit of the original tart, blueberry, peach, vanilla and death by chocolate. (Imagine I managed to squeeze the 5 flavors without the froyo actually mixing)

Among all the flavors I ordered, I kinda liked the taste of blueberry because it had the distinct sour taste that I was looking for. The death by chocolate flavor reminded me of fudgsicles, a chocolate popsicle.

Tutti Frutti's Frozen Yogurt will appeal to people who doesn't like the strong taste of yogurt in their froyo because it has a more distinct sugary flavor. But for me, I liked my froyo to have a distinct creamy yogurt flavor.

Rating:

3/5 Stars

A whole week of MEEEE!!!!!

2010-07-13T17:07:00.001+08:00

With all the fashion blogs I've been reading and following, I got hyped up to do a fashion blog. But there are several reasons why I couldn't do it, reasons are:

With the frugality in me, I couldn't bear splurging all of my moolahs on clothes and other things aside from food.
I know I'll be too lazy to think of witty things to day on how my day went.
I have a very limited wardrobe and there are some days that I look sloppy and unattractive (or I was too lazy to get my hair fixed, put on make-up and my contacts, mix match my clothes, etc...)

But this week, I managed to go the extra mile of dressing up. Personally, I don't look good on pictures, but with a someone with a good eye, I could also look good pala. Joel take good pictures me, so here's the compilation of my artsy-bitsy side this week in a slideshow..

A Week of MEEE!!! - photo slideshow

Hope you enjoyed the slide as I have enjoyed making it..

Eiga Sai, here I come..

2010-07-08T23:27:00.001+08:00

Joel and I decided to give it a go to catch the Eiga Sai festival in Shangrila. After our schedules, we decided to meet at Shang. I arrived early, at around 12NN. The schedule for today was 'Fourteen' at 2PM and 'TOKYO TOWER Mom & Me, and Sometimes Dad ' at 4:30PM. Joel came at around quarter to 2, so we decided to catch the 2PM film.

'Fourteen'

The cinema was packed, so I was excited. As the film progresses, I grew impatient for there are plenty of dead air and blurry shots. I observed some people already left, thinking it bore them to death. I also seen Joel sleeping, seeing him asleep had also tempted me to nap a bit (since I was really a sleepyhead), but I managed not to. After the film ended, it seemed like everyone was eager to go out, and I heard some of the college students saying that they really did not understood the film. Others were like making guesses and explaining to their company the bottom line of the story. I felt bad that time, because the film failed my expectations. I had a hunch that the story was good and there were some values that we must have seen, because otherwise, they would have just shown any sappy romantic Japanese film.

I did some research afterward to verify my hunch, and it was indeed a deep drama film. It won an award in a prestigious award giving body worldwide.

Here is the synopsis courtesy of imdb:

"Sensitive and refined drama in which experiences from the puberty of a female teacher and a piano student reflected in the world of the younger generation they have contact with. Ryo is a young teacher who, unlike her colleagues, does not adopt an authoritarian attitude to the adolescents she has in her care. She does not realise at first that, by doing this, she is putting herself at risk. The 14-year-olds feel misunderstood by the adults who insensitively snuff out their young ambitions. When their frustration grows, the adolescents turn into secretive and hard-bitten kids. As a result, Ryo is thrown back in time and confronted with her own dark past, in which she resisted the insensitive world of her superiors. Then she meets Koichi, a man she knows from her studies. He was a talented pianist in his youth, but his ambitions were also made impotence by an adult. Now he works for the local electricity company and he has allowed himself to be persuaded to give piano lessons to the son of a colleague. It becomes clear that Ryo and Koichi have shared experiences that they can only now relive and then come to terms with. Fourteen is an atmospheric and subtle drama in which two different generations mirror each other in the most vulnerable period of their lives."

The story was good, basing on the synopsis I found. I am guessing that the cinematography was the catch. There were plenty of dead air during the film, there were also blurry, shaky and annoying shots. There were characters that were given much emphasis that was unnecessary and just led to more confusion. The story of the main characters did not progress until the latter part of the film. The story was not portrayed properly by the arranged cinematography.

I hope there were no representatives from the Japanese embassy that time, because it would have been such a shame on our part as Filipinos (with the whining and sarcasm that I heard, URGH,unforgivable). The film festival was made to make us Filipinos appreciate their culture through their films and strengthen the friendship ties between countries.But unfortunately, that film was too complex for us to comprehend.

Eiga Sai is only till this week, maybe I'll catch another film and hopefully, the experience would be good.

Black Titans Team Outing at Batangas!!

2010-07-07T21:31:00.002+08:00

The team had been planning the Summer team outing and all had been very much excited. We initially planned a beach outing somewhere near like Batangas. The date was set, but the location had been variable for we were thinking of a location that was within the budget.

Ate Shiela know some resort in Lemery Batangas. So off we went to Batangas, excited about our overnight beach outing. If you had seen us, you would obviously had seen the excitement on our faces. Though there had been some ups and down during the trip, overall, it was the best team outing ever..

I'll let the pictures do the talking..

Black Titans Summer Team Outing 2010 - photo slideshow

I'm looking forward to more team outing activities..

Film Festivals: Eiga Sai and Cinemalaya

2010-07-06T03:19:00.001+08:00

Eiga Sai

The Film Festival will run for the whole month of July at different locations like Shangri-La Plaza Mall, UP Film Institute, Gaisano South City Mall Davao, and Ayala Cinema Center Cebu. Around 2-4 Japanese films are played everyday for the whole month spread throughout the different locations. Admission is Free but just a reminder, you have to arrive at least two hours before the film showing to get the tickets. I'll definitely check out their movie lineup and try to fit it in my schedule.

For the Film List and Schedule, click here.

Cinemalaya

The 6th Cinemalya Independent Film Festival will run from July 9-18 at the Cultural Center of the Philippines (CCP). Though I'm not sure how you can score some invites or tickets, but no worries, there will be other screenings set to be scheduled at the University of the Philippines-Diliman and Robinson’s Galleria.

For the list of films, click here.

*photos are taken in their main sites.

LONG WEEKEND..

2010-07-02T17:13:00.001+08:00

It's gonna be a long weekend because of the 4th of July holiday.. The CIS Makati Research Center is closed till the 5th, so I must think of ways of using the vacation.

Most probably, We'll just chill at the unit and watch some TV Series and Movies we had finished downloading. Our lineup woud probably be DEXTER both season 1 & 2, and some movies like Kick Ass, Losers, It's Complicated and some other more..

I need to catch on some reviewing school stuff, such as Algebra, Trigo, Geometry and Calculus.I really need to refresh my mind with the concept for the upcoming diagnostics exam by the end of the month.

Most especially, I need to finish some of the backlogged items I still have for my blog. I was thinking of not posting them here nalang, but i'm still thinking about it. I hope I had the will to do everything this weekend.

Splashing Fun at Mananap River

2010-07-02T15:21:00.000+08:00

Next stop for my summer vacation at Camarines Norte would be getting to see the Mananap Falls. The falls had been the talk of the town here in San Vicente. You shouldn't leave without taking a peak of the Mananap Falls.

I was really looking forward to a trekking experience and seeing the Mananap Falls for the first time. I have read some blogs telling stories about the breathtaking view of the falls. So I was really grumpy when I found out that we weren't going to the falls, and we were just going Mananap River. Joel tried to talked me out that we'll still see the Falls, but not this time because no one was available to help us with the trail, and it had been years before Joel got to see the falls. I pacified my grumpiness and agreed, thinking that Tatay (Joel's grandfather) wouldn't be able to do the trekking and we wouldn't want to leave him there with our things.

The Mananap River is not as bad as I have expected. The view is naturally nice. You can smell nature all over the place. The water is crystal clear, that you can even drink it. (But with precautions necessary.) I certainly enjoyed swimming in the river than on the beach. The water was soo cold that it complements the summer heat

We set up our things at the top of a cliff near the river because Tatay opt not to get a cottage. We eventually got tired of going around and crossing the hanging bridge before taking a dip to the river, that we decided to just jump off the cliff directly to the river. It was scary because there are plenty of hidden stones (that may cause our sudden death) and the water on that part is quite deep (and I dunno how to swim!).

Eventually, I managed to ask Joel to rescue me when I jump (just in case I drowned myself). with Joel waiting down the river with the floatables, I eased up and JUMPED! It was so much fun jumping the cliff that I tried it THRICE!! This has been one of my favorite experience in this vacation. I will surely be proud of myself (and this will be on my wackiest things I did during my youth).

There is a nice view of the forest that I can't help posing for some nice pictures.

I'll definitely go back to finally see the falls, and I'll definitely try to jump off the cliff again. Hopefully, I won't chicken out this time.

Monstrous Waves at Bagasbas Beach

2010-06-29T22:17:00.001+08:00

My vacation at Camarines Norte this summer would not be complete if we didn't visit the well known Bagasbas Public Beach. The beach is known not only because it is one of remaining undeveloped and public beaches but also because of it's monstrous waves which makes it a nice spot for water sport activities, especially surfing.

We woke up early in order to enjoy the beach without the scorching summer sun at our backs. Bagasbas beach is an open and public beach, so the are only a few nipa huts available to shed under. We arrived the beach at around 6:30AM, and the beach is already packed with people enjoying the morning sun.

After getting tired playing with the waves, We decided to build a nice sand castle, despite the color of the sand.

Even Joel enjoyed having taken his shadow with us in the picture. :)

There are just a few catch before you decide going there.

The catches are:

There are no hotels/inns and cottage along the beach line or around the area. You have to ask for the nearby house owners to let you in their house and shower after swimming in the beach.
The sand is gray. I have no qualms about gray sand, it's just that if you've been to a white sand beach, you'll find the gray sand, um how do I say this, dirty. (no offense on that one)
The waves are huge. Meaning, you need to swim with caution if you want to go to the deeper part of the sea, or else you'll drown if the wild waves catch you.
Since there are no cottages, you have to look out for your personal belongings. It is an open beach, so anyone can accidentally grab your things if you let it lay on the sand unattended.
There are no rules when swimming at the beach. It means you can wear anything you like (I've seen people who swam there in their long jeans for that matter) and anyone can swim on the beach (even dogs or other animals! I definitely seen a dog swimming with his owner)

The ONLY reason enough to sent you packing to go to Camarines Norte is that Bagasbas beach has the nicest waves I have seen so far (though I've seen the waves of Siargao on the television). If you really dig surfing, i guess you don't wanna miss the waves of Bagasbas to show off your surf tricks. The waves are comparable with the waves in California (as i have seen on some shows on TV).

I think if the area had been developed a bit, like put up some nice cottages and shower areas along the beach. With proper maintenance and some ground rules for using the beach, Bagasbas beach will be another must-see tourist spot here in our country. There's no need to go to California to catch some really nice waves or even fly to Siargao to experience nice waves for surfing. With just an 8 hour drive, you can experience surfing and showing off some moves (without the jellyfish sting) at Bagasbas Beach.

Here are my some other pics along the beach.

I've enjoyed myself making gray sand castles, oh BTW, gray sand castles that I did not finish because the water kept ruining it..

Here are more of my pictures laying on the sand..

and more random pictures..

Special thanks for my beloved Joel for taking all of these nice pictures. (Though some of my best pictures are ruined by the camera, overexposure.)

I will definitely return to Bagasbas beach with a surfboard in hand to learn how to surf. :p

Summer at the Juance's Humble home..

2010-06-27T18:00:00.002+08:00

I was very excited to finally set foot to Joel's hometown. He practically grew up in San Vicente, Camarines Norte and I've been dying to experience the place he considered home.

We arrived at the Superlines Daet terminal around 6AM of April 28, It was a long and tiring 8 hour ride. (Good thing we bought some pillows and fabrics to make us a bit comfortable on the ride.) We are fetched by Joel's grandparents and we drove home in their multicab (the cab they are using for delivering puto seko). The weather was fine there, moisty and not too hot. I noticed that the place was much greener, coz there were plenty of trees around. I finally got a breathe of the freshest air I could ever imagine.

The Juance's house was a massive land full of trees and plants, you wouldn't even see their house amongst the trees along the road. It was a refreshing sight because my eyes got used to tall buildings and smog of the metro. I'll be enjoying my one whole week in the arms of nature living.

The hard part of this vacation is what to eat during my stay because all the food served are rice meals and I vowed never to eat rice (except for sushis). But even so, I tasted every viand that was served (good thing fruits are very abundant, I could enjoy fruits anytime my stomach grumbles). I got to taste the typical ginataang dishes that is so very Bicolano. Though I am not very fond of ginataan dishes, the food there was delectable. The taste of the food is so native, refreshingly good in comparison to the overly processed foods in the city. I couldhave enjoyed the ginataang pagi because the pagi was nice, but I had a hard time eating the meat because of the small bones on every part.

I got to see different fruit trees and actually harvest them. It was fun harvesting cacao (chocolate), pomelo, chesa, guyabano, pineapple and kangos (kamoteng kahoy). It's like farmville on facebook, only I didn't get to plant them, and it is not easy waiting for them to grow. It actually takes months and even years before you can harvest a crop, as to oppose to farmville which only takes a few hours to harvest.

I also got to see how they do the Juance's puto seko. I even helped in repacking the finished puto seko. It was fun doing the packing, because we got to eat the damaged ones.. yum yum..

I look terrible on these stolen shots..

By my stay there, it got me thinking of owning a farm. I know it takes a lot of hard work and patience before I can fully enjoy the perks of having a farm, but a farm would be a best stress buster if the city living is too much to take...

And more picutres...

This is Kirai, she sure looks like a cross of schnauzer and mongrel, and she's very malambing. She's the keeper for the chicken coop.

Looking forward going back there again.. ;]

My much loved Summer Vacation 2010..

2010-06-26T18:47:00.004+08:00

**This had been posted late due to my laziness to update my blog last summer. I know there a lot to update on my blog, but I'll start posting some now to demount the pile of backlogged pictures in the desktop.

Though I've decided I'll try to work more harder this summer to make my attendance stats good, I also wanted to have a nice summer vacation. Who wouldn't want to go somewhere and spend all day in the sun and enjoying some nice sceneries?

I was very lucky because due to my persistent tardiness at work, I've been granted a 3-day suspension which I can use for my much awaited summer vacation at Joel's hometown, Camarines Norte. Another good thing was that the fiesta in their town is dated at the end of April, which was the same time we scheduled our vacation.

I decided to make use of this vacation to explore the things and stories that Joel had been telling me everytime he went home at Camnorte. I definitely made an itinerary on what thing I must not miss during the vacation. Here is my itinerary list:

Must visit the Bagasbas beach
Must be able to hike to finally see the Mananap Falls
Must see the first statue of Rizal ever made
Must be able to see how the Juance's Puto Seko was made in their mini-factory.
Must taste some of the delicacies here.

It is just a week of vacation and I had so many things planned..

UPDATE!

2010-06-25T17:57:00.002+08:00

After the rollercoaster ride of disappointment in my life, I've taken a step back at the real world and tried to live my own little world this summer.

I've pulled myself together and concentrated all my energy on making my attendance stats at work look good. I aimed for a perfect attendance the whole summer, and I did manage to do it for the month of May! (It costs me all my allowance for taxi fare, but it was worth it, I get to keep my job.Yey!)

I've managed to make my vacation at Bicol possible. I managed to appreciate the beauty of Joel's hometown.

I enjoyed having lunch and team outing with the Black Titans, I got to bond with them the whole summer. And it was soo much fun!!

This whole summer had been so much fun that I had forgotten the depression of failure. I certainly made the most out of this summer vacation and I hope, by the time school starts, I am able to start anew, and this time, do great things that I had planned in my mind.

I'll definitely post some pics here. Been pretty lazy the whole summer that I got a stack of photos waiting to be uploaded here..

on the side note..

I've been really mulling over on how to update the layout of my blog. I feel that there are some components missing, or maybe it's just that I'm still an amateur blogger fishing for some great ideas to suit my taste.

Novena to the Sacred Heart of Jesus

2010-03-12T17:53:00.001+08:00

I badly need some divine intervention right now. My life is kind of at crisis and its driving me crazy.

This Novena Prayer had been pretty famous for its commonly prayed by people who are in despair and in desperate need of help from the Lord Almighty (just like me!).

Divine Jesus You have said, “Ask, and you shall receive; seek, and you shall find; knock, and it shall be opened unto you.” Behold me kneeling at Your feet, filled with a lively faith and confidence in the promises dictated by Your Sacred Heart and pronounced by Your adorable lips, I come to ask this favor: (Here silently mention your petitions)

To whom can I turn, if not to You whose Heart is the source of all graces and merits? Where should I seek, if not in the treasure which contains all the riches of Your kindness and mercy? Where must I knock if not at the door through which God gives himself to us and through which we go to God? I have recourse to You, Heart of Jesus. In you I find consolation when afflicted, protection when persecuted, strength when burdened with trials, and light in doubt and darkness.

Dear Jesus, I firmly believe that You can grant me the grace I implore, even though it should require a miracle. You have only to will it, and my prayer will be granted. I admit that I am most unworthy of Your favors, but this is not a reason for me to be discouraged. You are the God of mercy and You will not refuse a contrite heart Cast upon me a look of mercy, I beg of You, and Your kind heart will find in my miseries and weakness a reason for granting my prayer.

O Sacred Heart of Jesus, whatever maybe Your decision with regard to my request, I will never stop adoring, loving, praising, and serving You. My Jesus, be pleased to accept this my act of perfect resignation to the decrees of Your adorable Heart which I sincerely desire may be fulfilled in and by me and all Your creatures forever.

Sacred heart of Jesus, I know that there is but one thing impossible to You: to be without pity for those who are suffering or in distress. Look upon me, I beg of You, dear Jesus, and grant me the grace for which I humbly implore You, through the Immaculate Heart of Your most sorrowful Mother. You have entrusted me to her as her child, and her prayers are all-powerful with You. Amen.

O Lord, I pray that in my home, peace, quiet and well being may prevail under the shadows of Your Holy mantle. Bless and protect, O Lord, my endeavors, my enterprises, and all those who depend on me and everything that I long for and desire. Banish from my mind and my heart false ideas and evil sentiments. Infuse in me a love of my neighbor and grant me the means to help him. Give me resignation and fortitude of spirit in time of adversity, so that I may rise above the contradictions of life. Guide and protect, O Lord, my own who are exposed to the dangers and contingencies of the world. Do not forget, O my Jesus, our loved ones with whom we are united in life and whose departure from this earth caused us sorrow, at the same time consoled by the thought that, because they remained faithful to You, You did not abandon them at the hour of death. Have pity on them, O Lord, and bring them their eternal glory in heaven. Amen.

This is another version of the Novena:

Efficacious Novena to the Sacred Heart of Jesus

I. O my Jesus, you have said: "Truly I say to you, ask and you will receive, seek and you will find, knock and it will be opened to you." Behold I knock, I seek and ask for the grace of...... (here name your request)
Our Father....Hail Mary....Glory Be to the Father....Sacred Heart of Jesus, I place all my trust in you.

II. O my Jesus, you have said: "Truly I say to you, if you ask anything of the Father in my name, he will give it to you." Behold, in your name, I ask the Father for the grace of.......(here name your request) Our Father...Hail Mary....Glory Be To the Father....Sacred Heart of Jesus, I place all my trust in you.

III. O my Jesus, you have said: "Truly I say to you, heaven and earth will pass away but my words will not pass away." Encouraged by your infallible words I now ask for the grace of.....(here name your request) Our Father....Hail Mary....Glory Be to the Father...Sacred Heart of Jesus, I place all my trust in you.

O Sacred Heart of Jesus, for whom it is impossible not to have compassion on the afflicted, have pity on us miserable sinners and grant us the grace which we ask of you, through the Sorrowful and Immaculate Heart of Mary, your tender Mother and ours.
Say the Hail, Holy Queen and add: St. Joseph, foster father of Jesus, pray for us.

O most holy Heart of Jesus, fountain of every blessing, I adore Thee, I love Thee and with a lively sorrow for my sins, I offer Thee this poor heart of mine. Make me humble, patient, pure and wholly obedient to Thy will.

Grant, good Jesus, that I may live in Thee and for Thee. Protect me in the midst of danger; comfort me in my afflictions; give me health of body, assistance in my temporal needs, Thy blessing on all that I do, and the grace of a holy death. Within Thy Heart I place my every care. In every need let me come to Thee with humble trust saying, Heart of Jesus help me.

Ejaculations

Merciful Jesus, I consecrate myself today and always to Thy Most Sacred Heart.

Most Sacred Heart of Jesus I implore, that I may ever love Thee more and more.

Most Sacred Heart of Jesus, I trust in Thee.

Most Sacred Heart of Jesus, have mercy on us!

Sacred Heart of Jesus, I believe in Thy love for me.

Jesus, meek and humble of heart, make my heart like unto Thine.

Sacred Heart of Jesus Thy Kingdom Come.

Most Sacred Heart of Jesus, convert sinners, save the dying, deliver the Holy Souls in Purgatory.

on an ending note:

I truly wanted to move on in this phase of my life, to fully discover the things that needs most of attention. I firmly believe there is a purpose with my existence. With that, I assume I have done my part on this phase and believe that there are many things outside this phase that I need to give attention.

Credits:

-www.ewtn.com/devotionals/heart/sh_novena.htm

- www.rcam.org/novena/sacredheart.htm

-www.theworkofgod.org/novenash.htm

FINALS..

2010-03-10T09:56:00.000+08:00

I only got one subject left before actually completing my degree. And boy, it is sure a tough one. It is the pre-board subject wherein you have to review everything you tackled within the five years of studying in five months (not to mention there are assessment tests after for each subject). This subject will surely test your study habits.

I failed miserably the first time I took it because my study habits are not effective. I have been pretty occupied with many things and I lost my appetite in studying (metaphor). Now that it is the only subject left, I have mustered myself to improve.

Now, I have finished all the exams needed and I am just waiting for the verdict whether I made it or not. I was really praying I made it (though my scores are just hanging by the passing mark..:( but that's life). I am pretty confident that I did my best this time and I hope God had seen it and help me. I learned my lesson the first time and I hope I'll make it to PICC. (My parents have been bugging me if I would graduate this time. The pressure is not that good and my feelings have been like a rollercoaster ride.

To my friends and relatives and
To anyone reading my blog (if there is any):
Please pray for me that I make it to graduation. Pretty please... :)

Easing out the Master Cleanse..

2010-02-04T17:33:00.003+08:00

I'll just sum up what I did for the whole 3 days of easing out the Master Cleanse..

Day 2:
I had an examination in the morning, so I prepared and bought with me a jug of orange juice. After the exams, I went grocery shopping for greens that will go to my tamarind-based soup. I bought some kangkong, sitaw, green peppers and some spring onions. I have some left over uncooked cabbage and tomatoes at home. Luckily, I found a mushroon bouillion which serves as vegetable seasoning for the veggies. I bought it together with some tasty looking melons. I was really taking my time browsing every food aisle in SM. I have developed this habit of drooling over pictures (and smell) of food.

Here's my recipe for the tamarind-base soup (it somehow resembles the Sinigang but without the meat.)

green vegetables (kangkong, cabbage, sitaw, carrots and tomatoes)
tamarind broth
green pepper
salt, pepper and mushroom bouillion to taste

(measurements are not used for I'm just trying out this recipe)

To make the tamarind broth, I boiled the tamarind with water until it became soft and mushy.
I strained the mixture to separate the brown part of the tamarind and the seeds.

I heated water until bubbles form in the bottom, placed the onions, carrots and sitaw. after that, I placed a generous amount of the tamarind broth (I liked the soup a bit sour). I placed the remaining vegetables (except the peppers). I let all the vegetables cook. When the vegetables are done, I sliced the green peppers and placed in in the pot. I let it simmer for a few minutes till it boils.

The soup was really good, especially when hot because the sourness and spicy flavor tastes nice. If the soup cools down, you will notice the bland taste. As for me, I always reheat the soup before eating it. I guess the cabbage and carrots did not jive the combination because I did not liked it's taste with the soup. I end up munching the kangkong, sitaw and tomatoes. That was my food all day.

Day 3:
I forgot to bring my orange juice to work, so I end up sloppy the whole morning. I was particularly hungry as the day progresses. There are still leftover soup, so I decided to reheat the soup and finished the entire remaining soup (except for the vegetables). I sauteed the remaining cabbage with a bit of oyster sauce, soy sauce and vinegar. Guess I liked my cabbage crisp because it was good. My stomach has been complaining every time I eat. It aches whenever I eat plenty. I was starting to worry that I might get constipated because of this too much veggies. I noticed that I seem to get full easily. Comparing on how I eat before, I noticed that it really decreased. I was already full when I was still enjoying the food. I only stopped eating because my stomach hurts already. This is really sounding good. I must kick the habit of over-eating beyond my limits.

Day 4:
Last night, I boiled some eggs as my breakfast tomorrow morning. I packed the eggs along with the melons (I totally forgot I bought them). I had the yummiest breakfast! One egg and about 6 small slices of melons together with my orange juice was wonderful. While eating, I was having second thoughts whether I should finish it all or not because my stomach was already full and I was just halfway the food portion.

There was a food sampling at our office for Nestle Fitness cereal and I tried to taste it. I end up not eating the cereal because my egg breakfast tasted much better than the cereal. The cereal was too sweet (it was the Honey and Almonds variety) and the cup ended up at the trash. It was unfortunate because I feel guilty and sad wasting food (I was raised to always finish my food because there are other children who are too hungry for food to be wasted).

My shift ended late noon already and I was getting hungry. I decided to browse through Landmark's Supermarket hoping to find something nice to eat. My stomach gave up and I decided to eat the foodcourt nearby before going home(my budget was tight then). The foodcourt was packed with meat-inspired dishes and fastfood. There may be some healthy choices but the price was way out of my budget (I only have 150 in my wallet, with no LRT or MRT card).

I just ate a small serving of Pancit Malabon with Turon na Togue. I end up finishing the togue (because the veggies tasted nice with the vinegar dip) and barely touching the pancit. It's not that as though the Pancit Malabon was not palatable, it's just everytime I eat it, it makes me want to puke. I don't know why, it was my fave back then but now, I can't hardly finish a small plate. I tried to force myslef to eat half of it until my stomach gave up and hurt again. That's the time I stopped. I just washed the flavor off my mouth with water until I can't barely taste it between my tongue. I regretted that I have left over food (again).

It was around 3PM when I got home, and I was dehydrated to death because I walked through the blaring sun of noontime. I think I was having a cold that time due to the drastic change of temperature from the environment (it was cool at home and too cold at the office then it was too hot outdoors.) I felt constipated because I've been wanting to have some bowel movement but nothing. I decided to drink a laxative tea to help ease my stomach from the clog. While doing this post, I reached inside the ref to taste the foods I made but did not have the guts to taste (because of the cleanse). Sadly, the Delmonte Fit and Right (mixed fruits with L-carnitine) tasted bad and got wasted. I had no choice but to taste the Graham Cake I made two weeks ago.

I just got a small portion of the cake and was excited to taste it. However, I got disappointed because it was too sweet. A small bite was too sweet that I have to wash my mouth down with water. I end up having my dog eat the cake. . I finished a glass of water for just three bites of the cake. I was really happy with the results of the cleanse at the same time bit frustrated. My favorite foods (such as sweets) tasted worse that I only get to eat a tiny bite and gave up. Somehow, I am always craving for something hot (like soup or something spicy). I am still not eating meat.

While I was going home, I've been thinking, I felt guilty eating those not so good stuff. I decided I will try to jog off the calories that I have accumulated eating those unhealthy choices. Hope I would be successful making this jogging a habit because not only it will benefit my health but the compound at our unit has the nicest environment. (we are inside the Malacanang premises so there are trees around)

Update:
2/15/2010
I developed some skin rashes after going off the cleanse. It started on my face and had spread out all over my skin. The rashes on my face subsided but the rashes on my body are worsening. I know I have a dry and flaky skin (especially during the cold months when I always have skin breakouts) but this one was worse than I could imagine. I can ease the itchiness, what I am afraid off is the spots it leaves after. This is going to be hard.

2/27/2010
My rashes have subsided. (Thanks to the petroleum jelly application every night) Not on a specific diet but have not been eating rice since 2010 started. I always eat a cup of leafy veggies and some fruits. I had this liking of spicy things (I dunno if its any good). Been feasting on instant kimchi ramen noodles every now and then. I am trying to minimize processed foods. (but for some lazy nights, it can't be helped)

I have recently taken into liking a Vegetarian Food Booth in a mall food court (Bodhi). Their food looks nice and appetizing and it doesn't serve meat. Though the food deceives many patrons, the one that looks like meat is a veggie meat! (I was fooled by their beef steak) But I liked the taste of the veggie meat. Their small serving surprisingly got me full. The sad thing is that I went back on sugar and coffee. Coffee seems fine but what I'm cautious is the amount of sugar intake per day. I try to minimize sugar intake by eating fresh fruits. I've been drowning myself with water every time I ate a quarter of chocolate brownies.

Surprisingly also, I have been meeting the required amount of water that I need to drink per day (8-12 glasses) Though I sometimes drink those bottled juice drinks, I constantly make an effort of drinking water everytime I ate something sweet.

I've tried jogging around our compound and had done the HipHop Abs workout for a while. I haven't arranged my schedule to fit the workout. But I will very soon.

Master Cleanse Ease-Out Day 1

2010-02-02T19:43:00.000+08:00

At last, Ease out finally commenced. First thing before I went to work was to drink the orange juice which was squeezed and refrigerated yesteday night. I took a sip on the pure concentrated orange juice and I find it too sweet. So I placed half of the concentrate in a glass and filled it with water, I drank it and it suited my taste. I brought the orange juice mixture to work so I could sip some in between dials.

I liked the orange juice, I often find myself gulping it down in a flash (though it us not recommended). I hope I wont get an upset stomach. So far, so good. I can't wait for the soups for tomorrow. I need to concentrate for my exams tomorrow morning..

Master Cleanse Day 10..

2010-02-02T19:34:00.000+08:00

Alas, the last day I've been waiting for, the last day of the cleanse. Finally I'm about to have something other than the lemon juice with cayenne. I was really looking forward to the ease out process. There had been precautions on what to do days after coming off the cleanse.

Easing out the Master Cleanse:
After doing the minimum 10 days on the cleanse, one must not jump on resuming their normal eating patterns. While the digestive system had been used to having just the lemon juice, there had been tendencies that the lining on the stomach thins out. If one resumes normal eating habits right after the cleanse, there are tendencies for an upset stomach and other complications. It is important to undergo the easeing out process in order to prepare the newly cleansed organs for normal eating.

Day 1 (Ease-Out)
Drink a glass of freshly squeezed orange juice in the morning while on an empty stomach. Though some may be horrified with this idea because of the acidity of the orange juice. But for me, (I had been hyperacidic before doing the cleanse) it went out just fine. But be careful to drink the juice slowly to avoid an upset stomach. Drink orange juice for the whole day. The orange juice will prepare the digestive system for the food intake.

Day 2 (Ease Out):
Continue drinking the orange juice for the whole day. One may also continue drinking the lemon juice concentrate. For lunch or evening, vegetable soups may be added. The vegetables can be eaten but in fewer concentrations.

Day 3 (Ease Out):
Same as Day 2, but vegetable salads may be eaten for dinner.

Day 4 (Ease Out):
Normal and healthy eating habits may be resumed.

After the ease out process, one can employ other diets to maintain the healthy lifestyle. Some had observed gaining some weight after the ease out. For me, after the ease out, I'll definitely do South Beach again. I have loved the results, though there are some certain restrictions. I would also try to do some cardio-vascular activities. Now that my metablism had been a bit active, I'll make sure to burn off those stubborn fats on my hip and thigh area.

Master Cleanse Day 8 and 9...

2010-01-30T19:26:00.000+08:00

Day 8:
I was busy the whole day at school, I haven't got time to drink the tea so as soon as I got home, I took the tea and it was around 7PM already. I regretted drinking the tea that late because around 12 midnight, while I was about to go into sleep, my stomach began to ache that I knew the tea was working its magic. But it wasn't until 2AM before the movement commenced.I was pissed off because I wanted to catch more sleep for I will be at school the whole day tomorrow. Darn.

Day 9:
Still busy at school. We had lectures the whole day. During lunch break, I took a nap at the classroom while all my classmates are having lunch (gosh, I really miss eating). All of them asked if I would join them for lunch, I refused saying I just wanted to sleep. Poor me, I had to sit through a 6 hours lecture feeling sleepy and a bit hungry. I was hungry in the sense that I could smell distinctively what my seatmate was munching. But the juice had eased up my hunger. Everytime I drank the juice, I wouldn't feel hungry anymore.
BTW, I have known the best recipe for the lemon juice that suits my taste. I followed the recipe diligently (without adding more cane sugar) and I always make sure to finish off the whole liter before the day eds. Also I make sure that the cayenne doesn't sit for hours on the juice for it will taste bad. I estimate always the amount I would be consuming for the day. And it turned out quite well, I did not have the feeling of gagging whenever I drank the juice.
Tomorrow will be my last day, I am looking forward to the orange juice and soup (I even researched some tasty recipes). After the ease-out, I'll start doing the South Beach Phase 1 to shed off the stubborn fats. I'll also start doing the Hip Hop Abs Exercise to tone my tummy and legs.

Master Cleanse ay 6 & 7

2010-01-28T20:51:00.000+08:00

Day 6 and 7 of the cleanse went well for me. My cravings for foods are diminished. Seeing food is much bearable now (though aromatic foods are hard to resist). I just cannot kick this habit of drinking less liquid. At the middle of the day, I felt dehydrated. I was supposed to finish 6 glasses of the juice but I just managed to finish 4 glasses a day. I have read in a forum that if you wanted to lose more, I have to increase the juice intake. My sugar cane juice tasted bad because it was spoiled already (that was the reason for the gaging taste of the juice). I bought a fresh supply and the guy in the stall told me that the juice should be placed in the freezer to ensure it's freshness. The sugar cane juice lasts for two weeks if placed in the freezer. (oh, my mistake, I just placed it in the refridgerator)
I bought a sea salt with the shaker and will try the salt water flush tomorrow. (I hope I could gulp down the whole 1 liter). Feeling abit sluggish (maybe because of dehydration). Tomorrow, I will try to drink more juice in order to lose more weight. There is still a sag skin on my tummy that I wanted to remove (maybe some excercise will do the trick).

Master Cleanse Day 5..

2010-01-26T20:50:00.000+08:00

I woke up feeling abit groggy (maybe because it was lack of sleep). I only slept for 4 hours (I must try to sleep early now). I manage to drag my body off to work. Everthing was fine when I was taking calls, it's just that I feel really sleepy but not too sleepy that my lids are falling off. We did another training for about an hour and clocked out. I did not roam around Glorietta anymore for I was feeling kind of exhausted. I went directly home, finding Joel and his group working Robo-SVP.(They still are not sleeping!!) I did my usual routine, I drank my tea and went off to take a nap before the movement comes. I manage to finish 1L of the juice mixture (it's minimum but still I have to drink about 6-12 glasses). I increased the sugar cane juice concentration because I needed more calories to work out my activities for the day (I tend to lick off the spoon and sip a bit of the sugar cane juice). I'm happy because I'm halfway through the cleanse. Yay! I managed to last this long. 5 more days and I'm off the cleanse. I'm feeling a bit confident about my body because my stomach is soooo flat I'm liking it.

Not much activities this day, I must start studying for my exams on Friday. I hope the cleanse will help me focus more on studying..

Goals this 2010..

2010-01-25T21:00:00.000+08:00

I have been setting my mind every now and then to some goals that I need to achieve. Some may be long term and had been drifting into dreamland, there are also some short term ones that needs more attention. I don't have difficulty setting goals, what had been harder from my past observation is following up with some of my activities in order to fully accomplish the goal. I am always good in getting down to business when it comes to accomplishing goals, I am just having a hard time, following up in order to actually finish the goal. I end up with pile of things to do, and had been rushing to get the goal done. That is one thing that really pisses me off, and left me having full of regrets. I know that I am capable, it's just that the motivational part has been always scarce. Beside from lacking motivation, there had been many small things that are more fun to do rather than getting it done. So now, I'm now starting taking the first steps, and hopefully I could follow up and accomplish these short term goals of mine.

AFTER JANUARY:

I must finish my lecture notes in Algebra, Trigonometry, Solid Geometry, Analytic Geometry, Differential Calculus, Integral Calculus and Physics.
I must be able to provide some study guides or formula cards on these same subjects. (It would be helpful for my review towards the licensure exam)
I must be able to save up (at least one third) my remaining thirteenth month pay. I must be able to save up also a third of my monthly salary (for the rainy days..)
I must finalize my Diet and Exercise Regimen. I have been preparing my body for this by eating less now. Also, i need to start on it before the month ends.

AFTER FEBRUARY:

Changes must be noticeable on my health (specially on weight). I must be able to stick to my Diet and Exercise Regimen.
I must be able to save up (at least one third) my remaining thirteenth month pay. I must be able to save up also a third of my monthly salary (for the rainy days..)
I must finish my lecture notes in Analytical Chemistry, Thermodynamics, Mechanics, Organic Chemistry and Stoichiometry.

AFTER MARCH:

I must be able to save up (at least one third) my remaining thirteenth month pay. I must be able to save up also a third of my monthly salary (for the rainy days..)
I must be able to pass my remaining units and be at PICC for the GRADUATION!!!
I must be able to fully accomplish our Plant Design, complete with book bind and grade. (Though I could accomplish the latter goal, this one can still be a hindrance for me on moving on from the college phase..)
I must achieve the body I really want ( a beach-worthy body!!). I always have this trouble sticking to a certain food habit. All the skimpy clothes that I have back when I was starting college must fit me this time (although some of them may we worn out or have stretched already because of my erratic weight

Master Cleanse Day 4..

2010-01-25T20:54:00.000+08:00

After having just four hours of sleep, I was amazed because I managed to woke up with much energy. I was dreading to go to work thinking I wouldn't have enough energy to take calls. I went to work feeling happier because I can flaunt my flat stomach. I bought a tea with me to drink at work, I was worrying not drinking anything hot on an empty stomach. My juice was better now, I added 2 tbsp of the sugar cane juice for added taste and also energy. And it tasted good, I managed to drink everything without having the urge to gag (although there is a sour afertaste, but it was bearable).

I went training for four hours with a breeze. I did felt sleepy at times (maybe because we are not doing anything, just listening). My day went fine until I clocked out of work. Before leaving work, I went to the clinic to check my weight, and I was amazed! From 119LBS, I am now 113LBS!! I was so happy, I lost 6LBS in four days! (I was hoping that after the 10th day, I lost a total of 20-30LBS!!) I went to Landmark to buy my lemons, and I was shocked that the prices of lemons have dropped (from Php12.75 to Php9.50). I bought 10 lemons for the remaining days and decided to continue doing the 10 days cleanse because I seem to have more energy now to do normal things. I will manage to go through the remaining 6 days.

When i was going home, I was exhausted. (maybe because I was lacking some sleep and my heavy bag was an added reason). I asked Joel to meet me at SM to assist me (He was really worried that I might collapse because of hunger). I napped for a while. I made graham cake for Joel and Iris, it was hard resisting licking off the cream and chocolate off my hands. I managed to make Chloe (my cute dog) to lick it off for me.

Dinnertime came, and I can smell Joel cooking eggs. I miss eating eggs!!. I was salivating while he ate beside me. I was teasing him, asking if i could watch him eat. Dinnertime was always a torture. I miss cooking, and also eating.. Just a bit more and I'll be eating soon... I'll just sleep early tonight..

Master Cleanse Day 3..

2010-01-24T13:13:00.011+08:00

12:00NN
I was getting lazy to get out of bed because of the hunger pangs. But I managed to get out at 11am. I'm feeling weak and a bit dizzy. I need to take my herbal tea for added energy. As the day progresses, the things I'm drinking is tasting ikky. I don't know why. Some of the people that did the Master Cleanse claims that the juice tasted nice. How come it tastes worse for me??.. Maybe I need to add some sort of natural sugar. My body is repelling the lemon and cayenne powder mixture. I found a store in SM that sells freshly squeezed sugarcane juice. I think I'll buy that one and add it in my juice for added calories.

We are planning to go to Shopwise for our weekly grocery shopping this afternoon. I'm just waiting for the bowel movement before we go..

3:00PM
While waiting for my bowel movement, I was keeping myself busy surfing the net and Facebook. I'm feeling weird, I'm feeling hot, like having a fever. Whenever I drink the juice, I'm having this feeling of puking. The tea was taking a long time to effect, I'm really leaning towards quiting because of what I am feeling, no perhaps I was thinking of cheating. My body is really a drag, I can't do anything else but just sit or lie on the bed. I finished the 1L I prepared yesterday, I will prepare another later. I asked Joel to go to SM to buy me the fresh sugarcane juice so I can add it in the juice. (I read on one site that I can use fresh sugarcane juice as substitute for maple syrup, its much cheaper here for Php35/16oz) Still waiting for the move before going to Shopwise. (I hope it will not take long its kind of getting late already).
hard doing the
11:00PM
I was so tired from the grocery shopping earlier. My energy was depleted because of the walking aisle by aisle.It was torture especially seeing those yummy foods on the isle. On the back of my mind, I was secretly planning which food to eat after the cleanse. But I managed to control myself to buy some food for myself. I wanted to quit when Joel decided to eat dinner at the foodcourt, as we are passing through the stalls, I can clearly smell all those yummy foods which was making my stomach growl. The worse part was when I had to sit beside Joel and watch him eat his Chicken Hotdog and egg for dinner. Arghh. I am literally salivating that I had to turn away in order to control my urge to taste his food. Joel was hiding his laughter when he saw my expression. I don't know why, but my sense of smell is getting distinct. I can smell anything even the unnoticeable ones. It's weird and hard because I can smell what everyone was eating and it's killing my self-control. That time, I decided I will just go for 5 days of cleanse so I can eat something already.

After arriving home, I went to bed already to rest my tired feet. I prepared the last lemons I had for tomorrow. I must buy lemons tomorrow after work.

Starting the Master Cleanse, Day 1 & 2.

2010-01-23T17:15:00.001+08:00

As I am typing this down, I am on my Day 2 of the cleanse. I'd like to share my experience on trying the Master Cleanse. I know these journals are helpful for people who will be trying the cleanse for the first time. (Believe me, I've read a lot of them before I started the cleanse). I'll just give a quick narration on how I started..

I always have sweet tooth, and I always crave for something sweet. That into consideration is the reason on my enormous weight gain. I was a size 6 in high school through my first year of college. I gone size 8 when I started staying at Manila and rented a room. 2 summers ago, I became size 10 because I was getting loco over cheese when I had my OJT as an analyst at Kraft. After the realization, I tried doing South Beach, it was effective because I became size 7and I had been doing SB for 5 months, just sticking on SB Phase 2. When I eased in through SB Phase 3, I was doing well, until I lost track during the holidays. After a year of mindless eating, I became size 12. For 5 years, I have been struggling on my weight.

After the holidays, I made a decision to lose some weight and try to achieve the body I really wanted. My self-esteem have hibernated and I became unhappy of myself. Especially when all of my clothes did not fit me anymore and I actually have to buy for much larger ones. That had been the turning point when I decided I will lose all this excessive baggage.

When 2010 came, I started renovating some of my habits. To prepare myself of this losing weight thing, I cut down rice and ate a lot of vegetables. It was easy for me to eat vegetables because I did SB and I got used to eating it. The hardest thing for me was to cut back on my sweets. The first thing I did was to stop the sodas and stick to water and more healthy drinks. It was easy because there's iced tea. But now, I choose the type of iced tea to drink. I prefer the Lipton Iced Tea and C2 Green Leaf for the sugary taste is less. It was easy for me to not miss rice because stir-fried vegetables as substitute is very appealing. I cut down my pastry intake. I eat less bread and just sticked to more vegetables.

After two weeks on these kind of eating, I decided to try the master cleanse. The cleanse is a good way to lose weight but still feel healthy. The hard part was there are no solid food for 10 days, only the lemon juice. To prepare for the cleanse, I canvassed and looked for shop where the ingredients are available. I found cheaper lemons at Landmark Supermarket for Php12.75/piece (compared to SM @ Php15/piece and Rustans @ Php20/piece). The sea salt, organic maple syrup and organic laxative tea are all available at Healthy Options. Cayenne powder was easy because all supermarkets have cayenne at an okay price (Php18.00/50g). I was undecided on the Maple Syrup because it was too expensive (the cheapest one are @ Php800 for a small bottle). The Sea salt at Healthy Options mostly are iodized ones. The rock type of sea salt was a bit expensive (Php 100++ for a tiny shaker). The tea was a bit pricey too. The Organic Smooth Move tea was priced @ Php250 for 16 bags.I was really have a hard time looking for organic stuff around because there a limited stores that sells that stuff (and my budget was a bit constricted.)

I bought 6 lemons for starters and cayenne. I decided to skip on the maple syrup while I'm still finding for a natural sugar substitute like agave syrup of fructose (Healthy Options claims to have these out of stock ). I bought a chinese laxative tea (Kankunis) which was cheaper (Php35/4 bags). I'm just not sure if it's organic or not, but oh well, as long as it has the laxative effect, it should be fine.

Day 1 (January 21)
I took the tea late afternoon on Jan 21(I have classes in the morning and it will not be a good thing if I took it before bedtime) and waited for the bowel movement until midnight. The bowel movement occurred when it was a few minutes before my class. (Good thing I woke up late so I was still at home when the movement came.) After the movement, I decided to drink my first glass of juice and brought the rest to school.

During classes, my mind was telling me I am hungry. So I drank the juice everytime I felt I was hungry or when my stomach grumbles. The juice was not that good, just bearable (maybe if it has something sweet on it,like the maple syrup it will be good.) It tasted like medicine because it have a bitter aftertaste. I included the pulp on the juice, so there were some pulp and the cayenne floating on my drink.

Luchtime came, Joel and I were arguing because it seems he lost his appetite when he knew I was on the cleanse. I encouraged him to eat while I just downed my juice and water. The smell on the cafeteria of the school was tempting and it is making my stomach growl even louder. I mustered enough strength to avoid food even if Joel was eating beside me on the table. I gulped on the juice and washed the aftertaste with water. I managed to go through the day. I drank the tea mid-afternoon.

Dinnertime, Joel and his group decided to pull an all-nighter to finish Robo-SVP (their design project). Joel cooked ground meat with tomato sauce. The smell was unbearable and I was fighting my urge to taste his food. It looked tasty and I was loosing my mind. Good thing I managed to finish my whole 500ml bottle of juice and pre-occupied my mind on juicing my next set of juice. I made a 1L of juice and refrigerated it.

Nearing midnight, Joel and I decided to talk Chloe (our dog) for a walk outside.(It is much safer to let her go that time for there are less cars and people). As I was chasing Chloe, I felt my stomach hurt. I began to worry that I might be getting hyperacidic again because of the juice. And it worsen when Joel told me that it may be ulcer because I haven't eaten anything the whole day. When the pain was unbearable, I rushed home and went to the bathroom. I remembered that I had the tea ,in the afternoon so maybe this was just the bowel movement. My bowel is disgusting but I was happy because I can see some visible fats in it (yuck! this is gross..) After the bowel movement, my motivation to continue soared. I can do this 10 day cleanse, my mind kept saying.

1AM and I'm still not sleeping, my stomach is growling. I retreated for the night but I can't sleep. I read New Moon on my phone so I will get sleepy and it worked. at 2AM, I was sleeping.

Day 2 (January 23)
I woke up at 9AM, and Joel's group was already sleeping on the floor. I went back to sleep because I was worried that my stomach will grumble. I cannot drink the juice on my empty stomach because of my hyperacidity. I manage to go out of bed at 12NN. I decided to take the tea first before drinking the juice. I noticed that my stomach was so flat!. Joel told me that in the wee hours of morning, My stomach was growling too loud that they heard. I am beginning to doubt if this cleanse really works. I'm craving for my morning coffee and cereal.

After taking the tea, I just surfed the net all day while drinking water and the juice.
I happened to bumped on one site that had Beyonce's interview regarding the cleanse. Beyonce ate vegetables while on the cleanse. I was like "Was that cheating??" but then she did lost some weight even for the cheating part. So I searched of there were safe food to eat while on the cleanse, I found out that it was safe to eat organically grown fruits and vegetables. But the article was a bit doubtful because the article was stating the ways on how to cheat the diet. My mind suddenly went for the apple that was sitting in the fridge. It had been 3 hours that I'm battling whether or not I eat the apple.

I mustered enough willpower not to eat the apple. But feeling a bit grogy today, zero calories for 2 days?? I'm amazed I made it. Will sleep early to take my mind of this hunger pangs..

Master Cleanse

2010-01-23T15:55:00.000+08:00

Are you feeling sluggish everyday? Do you any pain in your body? Is your blood cholesterol high? Do you have difficulty breathing? Do you want to get rid of your allergies and diseases? or mainly, Do you want to lose weight fast? There is a natural remedy for all these dated back during the 1900's. I might recommend you try the Master Cleanse.

Master Cleanse is a program made by Stanley Burroughs in 1941. Master Cleanse is considered as a detoxifying diet because it claims to removes the toxins from our body and at the same time cleanse all the organs of our body, giving our body a fresh new start. Usually, the cleanse lasts for 10 days but some people preferred extending the number of days to make sure that their body is fully cleansed. The Master Cleanse is also called as the Lemonade Diet because for the full 10 days, you will just be drinking the lemon concoction, no solid foods or whatsoever.

The cleanse may sound appealing especially if you wanted to lose weight fast. The cleanse can eliminate the toxins and excessive wastes that had been building up in our body. This means that all those unwanted fat will also come off. Some people who had tried the cleanse had testimonies to confirm that they lost enormous weight just by doing the cleanse. Even celebrities are doing the cleanse to prepare them for roles that they have to partake.

Before starting the cleanse, one may want to prepare themselves for the cleanse. It had been advised to do a conditioning plan 3 days before starting the cleanse. This includes cutting down the intake on processed food and stick to eating fruits and vegetables. This phase would help some to adjust to the cravings that they usually have. But this phase can be skipped out of you feel you are prepared to start the cleanse (meaning you have started eating healthy).

To start the cleanse, it is advised to drink one laxative herbal tea the night before. This would aid removing some of the wastes in our body. After the bowel movement caused by the tea, you can start drinking the lemon concoction.

For 10 days, you will just be drinking the lemon juice and doing the laxative tea. One may wonder how the body can go through 10 day without food. Experts have claimed that the ingredients of the juice have the enough nutrients that can get you through the day.

Lemon Concoction Recipe:

This is for the lemon concoction that one will drink for 10 days. This measurements are good for 1 serving (glass). It's up to you how to make the proportions if you plan on preparing for the whole day consumption. It is best to prepare onhand the amount that you will be needing for the whole day. Though freshly sqeezed lemons are preferred, you can prepare and stock the juice but no longer than 3 days for the enzyme on the lemons tend to die.

2 tbsp freshly squeezed lemon juice
2 tbsp organic grade B maple syrup
water
1/10th tbsp cayenne powder

There is another way to induce bowel movement to cleanse the digestive tract, and that is the Seasalt Water Flush. This process would be drinking a 1 liter of water with 2tbsp sea salt (take note: do not use the iodized one). This will be hard because you have to gulp down the 1 liter mixture to induce the laxative effect of the sea salt.

For more information regarding the Master Cleanse, I recommend browsing through these helpful sites:

- Master Cleanse Secrets
- Master Cleanse
- My Master Cleanse Journal
- Master Cleanse Recipe

Note: I am on my Day 2 of the cleanse while I am doing this post.. I'll post my own experience while I'm on the cleanse.

WishList since last year..

2010-01-21T19:31:00.000+08:00

After work, I usually wander off to malls hoping to spot something nice, but everytime I see something nice, I had this urge to buy it but then I am not financially stable to avail those items I want. What I do, I place them on my wishlist and hopefully, I could tick some of it (meaning I finally have it). Here are the list I have been wanting since last year:

Braces (worth Php35,000)
Lasik Treatment (worth Php100,000)
Mac Laptop (Macbook or Macbook Pro)
Ipod Touch (worth Php15,000+)
Iphone or a cellphone with WiFi (Iphone-Php30,000+, WiFi Phone-Php7,000-15,000)
Hair Rebonding (worth Php2,000++)

I know most of these are considered luxury, but then I recently learned something interesting from Joel. He mentioned that if you are wanting something, be sure that the whole package is worth the things you really want to do with it, meaning be sure to maximize the worth of an item (be it cheap or expensive). This mantra would help me which ones for me are considered disposable(trash) and a great find. My old self would really dig those cheap finds not minding their quality and other aspects. Now, I realized that I must assess an item before purchasing. It must pass the standards that I had set in mind:

What is this worth after six months? Is the price proportional to the number of months I'll be using it?
What else can I do with this (besides the usual)? How can I maximize it's capabilities to fully make use of it?
Do fancy-ing this still makes me happy after a few months after buying it? or do it leaves me regretting after a few days or months of using it?
Do I really need to buy this NOW? or I will just return a few days to see if I really like it the way I liked it the first time I saw it?

I am setting these standards for myself whenever I see something that urges me to spend my hard-earned money on. I have this habit of liking something just because it's cool or just because it's an eye candy. These are shallow reasons but enough to make me happy for a while. But this leaves me with wanting more and that is the thing I am avoiding: Wanting something more than I could chew. this is one of the habits I am considering to change or perhaps revert.

My New Year's Resolution for 2010..

2010-01-16T18:50:00.000+08:00

I know these New Year's resolutions are growing a bit old because almost all of us are having a hard time sticking to it and worse, remembering them all. Last year, I saved my new year resolution on my mobile phone, but the worse part is that my phone got lost so I was not able to check if I did try to adhere to my resolutions. Now, I am now jotting this down here at my blog, so I could check again next year if I did keep most part of it.

New Year's Resolution for 2010:

I am determined to keep a healthy lifestyle.
I am determined to save more and spend less.
I am determined to study more to achieve my ultimate goal: To top the licensure exam for Chemical Engineers.
I will worry less and be more optimistic.
I will try to organize my files and make sure to throw the things that I really don't need anymore.

My Horoscope Insight for 2010..

2010-01-13T20:04:00.004+08:00

VIRGO (August 23 - September 22)

VIRGO PERSONALITY HOROSCOPE:

Virgoan energy is paradoxical. It is an earth sign which is materialist and full of stability, yet it is also it is mutable. Governed by Mercury people born under this sign have a unique ability to be equally at home with both change and order.

The Virgoan influence is calm, rational. Virgo has a perceptive energy that is highly discriminating

PERSONALITY TRAITS OF A VIRGO:

Analyst, Worrier, Demands respect, Fair judgment, Pessimistic, Purist, Plays safe, Frequently depressed, Destructive at times, Has mood swings, Perfectionist, Easily learns mastery.

Virgo Horoscope Ruler:
Mercury - symbol of communication In ancient times Mercury was believed to be the messenger of the gods. This planet governs intellect, communication, wit, writing and diplomacy. In a horoscope it shows the way you think and express yourself.

KEYNOTES FOR VIRGO HOROSCOPE FORECAST FOR 2010:

"A busy year with good progress at work and for career prospects. Love and romance are also well starred this year." -psychics.co.uk-

"A rare alignment this year among Jupiter, Saturn, Uranus and Pluto occurs in the houses of your chart associated with values, challenging you to question your core principles in the key areas of finances, self-expression and intimacy. Saturn spends most of the year in your 2nd House of Resources, focusing your attention on your income. Keeping a steady cash flow would be comforting, yet when confident Jupiter enters fast-moving Aries and your 8th House of Shared Resources on June 6, opportunities to earn even more can tempt you to sacrifice safety in pursuit of a bigger payoff. Even if you're normally risk-averse -- as Virgos often are -- the call for movement is so great this year that it will be nearly impossible to resist.

The ways you express yourself in person and through creative activities are due for adjustment now, too. Exacting Pluto's long-term transit through your demonstrative 5th House of Self-Expression can force tough choices about how you spend your time and money on January 31 and August 21, when Saturn forms demanding squares. These are uncompromising reminders that you must either work harder for attention or fall back into the shadows of non-recognition.

A solar eclipse in your 5th house on January 15 is another sign that it's time to put more effort into presenting yourself and your ideas to others. Training in public speaking or classes in a creative art can help you overcome any shyness or insecurity. Uranus the Awakener forms a supportive sextile to the eclipse that can stimulate unexpected interest in a totally new field; suddenly you're more excited about your life -- and more exciting to others. On June 26, a lunar eclipse in your 5th house is closely conjunct Pluto and square Jupiter, Saturn and Uranus. This might provoke a crisis or produce a breakthrough in romantic matters, with children or in the ways you enjoy yourself. Still, in this transformational year, it's better to push the envelope and be the agent for change rather than futilely trying to resist it." -tarot.com-

BEDSIDE ASTROLOGER:

Your Year At A Glance:
With restless Uranus in your scope, Virgo girls are looking for unusual digs. This year, consider adding underground art shows and indie jam sessions to your must-attend list. Getting off the mainstream sets you up for the new experiences that you crave.

Your Goal:
Have off-the-hook fun. Let your hair down with your rowdiest friends (or an incredibly sexy guy) this year.

Your Luck:
Make the rounds of the social scene in March. Venus ensures that you’ll catch the eye of someone who can help you turn a dream into reality.

Astral Advice:
Peace-loving Jupiter makes it the ideal year to fix a flagging relationship, but you’ll have to keep up your resolve. When you hit a rough patch sometime before your birthday, turn to family and friends to bolster your confidence. Have your support system ready by then—it’s a good thing you’re organized!

2010 MONTHLY FORECAST FOR VIRGO:

*VIRGO JANUARY HOROSCOPE
Put your efforts into succeeding at work. Focus your energy and you can achieve success.
VIRGO LOVE STARS ZODIAC FORECAST
Your increased feelings of self-worth give you confidence in your relationships.

*VIRGO FEBRUARY HOROSCOPE
Work continues to go well but also seek a varied and distracting social life. All work and no play will get you down so also take some time out for you.
VIRGO LOVE STARS ZODIAC FORECAST
You are close to your partner now. The stars favour twosomes.

*VIRGO MARCH HOROSCOPE
You cannot please everyone - beware of conflicts of interest in your social life. You now have a full social calendar!
VIRGO LOVE STARS ZODIAC FORECAST
In matters of love try to keep things as simple as possible. You have so much going on that it's nice to have something uncomplicated in your life.

*VIRGO APRIL HOROSCOPE
Your intuition and ability to see the heart of a matter gives you the edge. You may also like to help your friends and family who may not be able to see the woods for the trees..
VIRGO LOVE STARS ZODIAC FORECAST
A good time for travel with a loved one. A week end break perhaps?

*VIRGO MAY HOROSCOPE
Your career is progressing well and it seems that you plans cannot fail. Do not get carried away with your ambition. Keep your feet steady..
VIRGO LOVE STARS ZODIAC FORECAST
You have so much energy of late that your loved ones just cannot keep up with you!

*VIRGO JUNE HOROSCOPE
More opportunities at work make you over keen to act. Make considered judgments and move forward at just the right time.
VIRGO LOVE STARS ZODIAC FORECAST
In matters of the heart long term goals are starred as fortunate. Maybe book a holiday - of for some singles weddings are in the air.

*VIRGO JULY HOROSCOPE
You've been getting your own way for a long time so don't fret if sometimes it does not always go your way. To are still nonetheless on a fortunate trend.
VIRGO LOVE STARS ZODIAC FORECAST
Listening to what your loved ones have to say will set you straight. Sometimes the heart knows best.

*VIRGO AUGUST HOROSCOPE
Money is stable so why not take rest and a break from the challenges of work and career. Don't let people talk you out of things you have your heart set on.
VIRGO LOVE STARS ZODIAC FORECAST
Do some entertaining things with loved ones. take in a show go to the cinema, a restaurant - the stars say enjoy yourself.

*VIRGO SEPTEMBER HOROSCOPE
Caution is advised as regards risky ventures and hair brained schemes. Consolidate rather than take unnecessary risks. Fortune is nonetheless on your side with ventures if you are circumspect.
VIRGO LOVE STARS ZODIAC FORECAST
You should be feeling secure in your relationship. Singles too are more likely now to meet someone who does not give them the run-around.

*VIRGO OCTOBER HOROSCOPE
Do not over state your opinions or you may loose the trust of those who are here to help you.
VIRGO LOVE STARS ZODIAC FORECAST
Your domestic world and home are shown as being harmonious. Enjoy this secure time.

*VIRGO NOVEMBER HOROSCOPE
You are the centre of attention but do not sit on the fence when it comes to career matters. .
VIRGO LOVE STARS ZODIAC FORECAST
Be careful how you try to influence the ones you love. You may encounter some resistance.

*VIRGO DECEMBER HOROSCOPE
An influential figure helps you with your plans. There are good opportunities with work and career right now. .
VIRGO LOVE STARS ZODIAC FORECAST
The areas of love and romance continue to show a steady progress towards lasting happiness.

--Credits to tarot.com, psychics.co.uk and Cosmo Philippines for the horoscope readings.. Click on the headings to link back to their site--

2010, at last.. (My very first post this year)

2010-01-13T19:24:00.003+08:00

After 13 days, I mustered some time to write my very first post for 2010. It's been a few days when thoughts have been mulling inside my head, and I couldn't find the time to pour them all out here. I was hoping I could frequently write here all the thoughts jumbling through my head (which by the way works well when I'm in the bathroom or doing something else.. ;) hahaha.. )

Now I am going to do a recap of everything that had been going inside this head of mine this past few days of 2010..

I have been busy surfing the net doing some searches while I was still unsure of what my first post will be like. This 2010, I've been meaning to re-vamp my blog and make it more personal. The search had been time consuming and it made my aim more scattered ( The name, Miss Scattered Brain suits me really well..)

I've been looking for horoscopes, insights, health tips, dresses, new phones, etc... until I was lost. Usually, aside from Facebook, this tedious search had consumed most of my time before I even get to decide which one I will first post here. So, when I am away from the net, I tried to jot down the things in my mind through Joel's phone (his phone is better than mine, it allowed me to read e-books and had my to-do list flash every time I check the phone..)

Anyway, enough with the blabber, Here are the things I've been meaning to have on my new re-vamped blog:

A 2010 Virgo Horoscope insight for the whole year..
A list of New Years Resolution (And hopefully I could adhere the whole year)
Insight on my goals in life this 2010
A long list of Wishlist (Hopefully I could tick some of it..)
I am meaning to have a daily entry her, but I bumped on something amazing on cher cabula's mindbox.. A PHOTOBLOG!! If I ever run out of word to say here, especially on a long boring day when all I did was be glued on Facebook, I could just snap some photos of something interesting going on my environment.
Some news on what's happening around the globe that interests my ever curious mind..

This had been a broad and long list and I am not that confident that I can manage to write all of them on my blog. I also don't know how I can beg Joel to find time to re-vamp my blog, He's been always busy, especially with his graduation coming up.

The Biggest Tech Flops of the Decade

2009-12-27T15:12:00.000+08:00

The Biggest Tech Flops of the Decade
by David Lagesse

This is from his article I happened to bump from the US News site. It was interesting because some of these, I fully agree had became a flop. But for some, I dunno.. What do you think?

Vista.

Ultra-Mobile PC.

DVD-Audio.

Rokr E1.

N-Gage.

MSN Direct.

HD DVD.

CueCat.

Audrey.

Aibo.

To read the whole article, follow this link.

Holiday Horoscopes

2009-12-27T14:50:00.000+08:00

Since I'm just sitting here at home doing nothing, I might as well update my blog with something interesting.. What more nice to keep busy on, would be reading horoscopes!!..

HOLIDAY HOROSCOPES:
Aries (Mar. 21st-Apr. 20th)
If there's a piece of mistletoe in the room, chances are you're standing under it this week with your eyes closed, your lips pursed and some really strong Velcro on your gloves to snare passersby.And believe it or not, it might
actually work. Have fun, but remember that a holiday party fling doesn't always lead to a serious long-term relationship. Shocking, we know.

Taurus (Apr. 21st-May 20th)
This horoscope goes out to all you single Tauruses. (Or those who are taken but looking.) Apologies to the Tauruses in secure, loving relationships. (Why don't you guys cook dinner for each other or something? And don't you have any mistletoe to make out under?) Anyway, back to the singles. Someone may try to set you up on a blind date this week. Don't do it! Especially if someone in your family is behind the set-up. Usually, we're all for this kind of thing, but right now we think you'll have more luck using all five senses to seek out a potential mate. Besides, would you really trust someone in your family to set you up? Remember what they got you for Christmas last year?

Gemini (May 21st-June 21st)
You'll be in a really sensual mood this week. Unfortunately, it's kinda freaking out your grandmother. You might want to tone it down a bit around the family--they're starting to wonder what you're doing in the bubble bath for so long, and the way you moaned over the turkey dinner made everyone blush. Once you're out on the town, go nuts--we have a feeling even Santa's celibate elves won't have a chance around you.

Cancer (June 22nd-July 22nd)Others will find you difficult to keep up with this week. Maybe it's because you got a snowmobile for Christmas and they just got a new scarf. Slow down and give the cute ones a chance to catch up: the wait may be worth your while.

Leo (July 23rd-Aug. 22nd)
Remember how when you were a kid and your mom told you to make a list for Santa and you really thought you could ask for anything? Remember wishing for world peace, a new kidney for your sick neighbor and a better hair day for your math teacher? (What? That was just us? You asked for a pony? Greedy brat.) Anyway, we got older and we started to ask for things we knew we'd get. Sometimes we even stuck Post-It notes on certain pages of our favorite catalog to make sure our parents got it right. Or even more shamelessly, created an Amazon.com wishlist. We sure do miss the magic, but at least we get great presents now. Anyway, where were we? Oh, your sex life, right. You should temper your expectations if you want to relate romantically. In other words, don't ask for the equivalent of a DVD player when it comes to sex, or you're sure to be disappointed. We should know.

Virgo (Aug. 23rd-Sept. 22nd)
Don't accept a ride on any old reindeer. Wait until you meet the one who really makes your bells jingle.

Libra (Sept. 23rd-Oct. 23rd)
This is our favorite time of the year, when the only decision we have to make is whether or not to have seconds. Okay, scratch that: the only decision we have to make is whether or not to change into our stretchy pants before eating seconds. You, on the other hand, have a big decision to make. Yeah, you know what we're talking about, the massive decision that's been hanging around like an elephant in a Santa suit. Go ahead and make up your mind, you won't regret it.

Scorpio (Oct. 24th-Nov. 22nd)
Have you ever wished that you were a bimbo or himbo for a night? That you could just stand in the corner looking all cute and that would be enough? Well do we have a holiday gift for you! It's a one-week, all access bimbo-himbo pass. This holiday season, your animal magnetism is all it will take to literally charm the pants off the object of your desire. Nothing you say will change their mind either way. Except for maybe your joke about the seal and the cappuccino. Yeah, we'd retire that one for good.

Sagittarius (Nov. 23rd-Dec. 21st)
You'll be hard to resist if you attend social functions this week, and you won't have to say much in order to attract attention. Your body language will speak for itself. Of course, if instead you spend the week stuffing your face and getting drunk on eggnog while playing board games with your family, then all that charisma will just float up the chimney. But hey, we're sure there'll be other weeks like this.

Capricorn (Dec. 22nd-Jan. 20th)
Some people really know how to put the "sex" into "quality time with your loved ones this holiday season." Like Mariah Carey, for instance, singing "All I Want for Christmas" clad in a red and white fluffy boob tube. Or another for instance -- you! All you want for Christmas is to get your freak on. According to the stars, "You will have no trouble getting exactly what you want, as long as you are attentive and caring." And as long as you're not sharing a bedroom with your eight-year-old twin cousins, one would presume.

Aquarius (Jan. 21st-Feb. 18th)
Tis the season to be jolly, to overeat, to go deeper into debt and to get drunk and embarrass yourself at your office holiday party. Isn't it just easier to admit that to yourself right now? Don't fight the feeling--we know you've been waiting all year to proposition the occupant of cubicle #247.

Pisces (Feb. 19th-Mar. 20th)
You'll be a joiner this week, eager to partake of all the festivities going on around you. You will be charming and free-spirited and all your family and friends will be glad you came home for the holidays. And you'll make your partner dress up like Santa for sex and say ho ho ho when s/he comes.

DISCLAIMER:

These Holiday Horoscope are taken from Shine at Yahoo..

2009 Metro Manila Film Festival Entries

2009-12-27T11:45:00.003+08:00

Here are the official entries for the 2009 Metro Manila Film Festival:

Ang Darling Kong Asawa
I love You Goodbye
Mano Po 6
Nobody Nobody but Juan
Ang Panday
Shake Rattle and Roll 11
WapakMan

Here are the official entries for the 2009 Metro Manila Film Festival:

Ang Darling kong Aswang by M-Zet Productions.

*SYNOPSIS.
There are two kinds of aswangs: the white and black aswangs. The white ones are merely mischievous while their black counterparts eat human flesh.
The black aswangs in Isla Negra are led by the wicked Barang (Jean Garcia) and in her group are nieces Alfa (Jackie Rice), Beta (Denise Laurel) and Keka (Empress Schuck), nephew Joaquin (Rafael Rosell) and the cruel warlock Gino (Gian Sotto). Ida (Agot Isidro) and her lovely daughter Eliza (Cristine Reyes) are part of them too but they are reluctant to eat human flesh and without Barang’s knowledge, they feed upon animals.
When Joaquin pressures Eliza to marry him, Ida decides to escape and goes to the city. They sought shelter and protection in Ida’s cousin Banong. It is in Banong’s community where Eliza meets Victor (Vic Sotto) and there was instant attraction between the two of them.
Victor is a call center manager who is already a widower. He has two adorable daughters, Darlene (Barbie Forteza) and Angel (Mika dela Cruz). They live with Victor’s father Tata Do (Dante Rivero) who is the barangay captain of the place, Nana Simang (Luz Fernandez), the housekeeper and Tom (Richie D’ Horsie), Victor’s cousin who also works in the call center as a janitor. Gerry (Wally Bayola), the barangay aide is a fixture in the house as well.
Many girls in the workplace are attracted to Victor but he keeps distance from them. He says his loves are his two daughters. But when he accidentally met Eliza, things are bound to change.
Though they belong to different “races,” Ida tells Eliza that it’s not bad to fall in love with Victor for it might free her from the curse of being an aswang because there’s a legend that only the purest of love can turn a “creature of the night” into a normal human being.
Through the prodding of Tom and Gerry, Victor eventually courts Eliza and they became sweethearts. His daughters also came to like her in the long run. But at one point, Eliza reveals to Victor her true identity: that she’s an aswang. She asks him if he will still love her despite her dark secret.

I love you Goodbye by Star Cinema

*SYNOPSIS.

This Star Cinema film is about Adrian (Gabby Concepcion) and his turbulent relationship with Liezl (Angelica Panganiban). However, Liezl is still confused because her past lover Gary (Derek Ramsay) comes back to win her back. Complicating matters even further is the fact that Adrian’s daughter (Kim Chiu) is also attracted to Gary.

Mano Po 6: A Mother's Love by Regal Entertainment

*SYNOPSIS.

In this story written by Roy Iglesias, Sharon Cuneta plays a Fil-Chinese matriarch named Melinda Uy whose desire is to be reunited with her rebellious daughter Stephanie (Heart Evangelista). The compelling family drama delves on rebuilding relationships and the bond formed within a Chinese clan. It espouses family values and the rich culture and tradition of the Chinese.
Zsa Zsa Padilla is cast as Olive, the scheming sister-in-law of Melinda. Because of Olive’s evil plans, Stephanie will rebel against her own mother. Unlike her siblings (played by Ciara Sotto, Nicole Uysiuseng and John Manalo), she refuses to listen to Melinda. Heart’s character is engaged to be married to the character of Dennis Trillo but she is unaware of the fact that her fiance is actually involved with illegal activities. Melinda tried to convince Stephanie not to push through with her wedding but the young woman already hardened her heart against her mother whom she believes abandoned her in the past.
Mano Po 6 also stars Christopher de Leon as the husband of Sharon and Ryan Eigenmann as the boyfriend of Ciara’s character. JC de Vera and Glaiza de Castro play the younger versions of Christopher and Sharon, respectively. Niña Jose, Zoren Legaspi, and veteran actress Boots Anson Roa are also part of this ensemble film. Kris Aquino has a guest role in the movie as the best friend of Melinda.

Nobody, Nobody but Juan by RVQ Productions and Kaizz Ventures, Inc.

*SYNOPSIS

Juan (played by Dolphy) is a senior citizen who lives in a nursing home in the United States. In his younger days, he was a vaudeville performer who was part of a comedy duo called Wan and Tu. The younger version of Wan (Dolphy) is portrayed by his son Epy Quizon while Tu is portrayed by his other son, Vandolph.

To entertain himself and ease the loneliness, Juan watches Wowowee on The Filipino Channel (TFC). His enthusiasm for the show rubs on his friends in the nursing home, and they too, turn into “Wowowee” converts – much to the chargin of the strict son of Juan who runs the nursing home.
The elderly Juan misses the Philippines, especially his first love Aida whom he lost touch with during the Japanese occupation of Manila. He finds a way to come back to the Philippines and along the way, he is reunited with his good friend Tu (portrayed by Eddie Garcia). He also finds out the whereabouts of his lady love Aida (portrayed by Gloria Romero).
G Toengi is cast as the wife of Eric Quizon, who is also cast as a son of Juan in the movie.

Ang Panday by GMA Films and Imus Productions

*SYNOPSIS.
Ang Panday revolves around the peace-loving but brave Flavio (Bong Revilla Jr.). His arch-enemy Lizardo (Phillip Salvador) attempts to ruin the peace and harmony of their dwelling place, affecting the inhabitants.
Moreover, the evil warlord challenges Flavio by capturing his beautiful lady love Maria (Iza Calzado). A series of events take place, bringing the blacksmith (panday) at the forefront of a full-blown war against Lizardo’s troops.

Shake Rattle and Roll 11 by Regal Entertainment MultiMedia Inc.

+SYNOPSIS

LAMANG LUPA
The episode "Lamang Lupa" features young stars Jennica Garcia, Rayver Cruz, Iya Villania, Mart Escudero, Bangs Garcia and twin brothers Dominic and Felix Roco.

The story focuses on the lamang lupa of Philippine mythology. A group of friends go camping only to find themselves relentlessly pursued by ferocious creatures who are not dwarves but lamang lupa. Unknown to the barkada, they "disturbed" the creatures' sacred area and they will pay the price for their mistake. The director for this episode is Jessel Monteverde.

DIABLO
"Diablo" stars Maja Salvador and Mark Anthony Fernandez, two of the finest performers of their generation. Directed by Rico Gutierrez, the episode revolves around Claire, a young doctor-intern at a provincial hospital who is haunted by demonic visions after she encounters a female patient suspected of carrying a deadly flu virus. Claire's aunt brings her to Fr. Ronnie who turns out be Claire's ex-boyfriend. Old flames are rekindled as Fr. Ronnie and Claire battle the demons.

UKAY-UKAY
Completing this "horror-fest" is the "Ukay-Ukay" story with Ruffa Gutierrez and Zoren Legaspi as a would-be couple Kayla and Harold whose wedding plans are deterred by a possessed vintage gown. When it falls into their hands, heavy breathing, nightmares, dragging footsteps and an apparition of a headless bride start happening. Instead of planning a wedding, Kayla must now fight against the evil spirits. Megan Young is also cast in this episode. Writer-turned-director Don Michael Perez is at the helm.

WapakMan by Solar Entertainment Films

*SYNOPSIS.

Magno (Manny Pacquiao) is an ordinary man whose world revolves around his five kids while his wife, Magda (Rufa Mae Quinto), works as a nurse in Italy.

One night Magno meets an accident. A car crashes into his truck, and upon impact, a big explosion takes place. Miraculously, Magno survives unscathed. The blowup was caused by Walo-walo, an organic substance, which stores energy that is almost as powerful as a nuclear energy. Soon, he wakes up and feels like a new man. Lighter, Faster, Stronger. Interestingly, his new found powers start helping him to become a better dad. His wish of being faster, smarter, and stronger for his family is coming true. He assumes the identity of their favorite superhero: Wapakman!
Soon, Magno learns that Magda has come back to take the kids with her in Italy. Magno wants his family to be together–happy and whole. He doesn’t want to let go of the kids. But, can he be a good dad in the eyes of his kids and still be a superhero? Magno knows that with Wapakman around, the world will be a much safer place for his kids. This is a responsibility he just can not turn away from, but if it means losing his kids… Can he give up being a superhero if it means saving the world? It is the hardest choice he has ever had to face, and he must make a decision–fast!

*from blogs.pep.ph

+from showbiznest.com

Ferry Mishap at Batangas Port

2009-12-27T11:33:00.004+08:00

Just last week, my friends and I are in Mindoro for a wedding. Our ferry experience was not that great because the waves were wild that time. Now, right after Christmas, another ferry accident had occurred.

Just last week, we visited Mindoro for our Professor's wedding. We had a great time, and it was my first time to ride a ferry boat. The experience was a bit frightening and rocky because of the fierce waves that time. Good thing we landed Mindoro safely. The most frightening part of the ride was when we were going back to Manila. It was Mid-afternoon, and the waves were terrible. The boat was really rocking hard. We are all alarmed but then we are assured that everything was fine. I was agitated that time because a thought jumped to my mind, the whole year, many sea accident had happened, especially with ferry boats. Good thing we arrived safely and unscathed in Manila.

Now, just right after Christmas, another mishap had happened. A RORO boat named M/V Baleno had crashed and sinked. Out of the 88 passengers, 63 were already rescued and 22 are still missing. Up till now, the coast guard has been busy searching for the remaining survivors. 4 dead bodies had been recovered. To read the full update, Click here for the link

I am really sensing that nearing 2012, many more mishaps is bound to happen. I guess it's just the way nature revives it's balance. But then, it is a frightful thought.

100 Most Read PEP Breaking News in 2009

2009-12-24T23:05:00.004+08:00

100 Most Read PEP Breaking News in 2009

1. Manny Pacquiao and wife Jinkee reportedly had a big fight over Krista Ranillo (page 1)

2. YouTube video shows Manny Pacquiao inside his car with a mysterious woman

3. Another paparazzo photo of Ruffa Gutierrez and John Lloyd Cruz surfaces

4. (UPDATED) Judy Ann Santos and Ryan Agoncillo tie the knot in Batangas

5. Claudine Barretto cuts her ties with ABS CBN, moves to GMA-7

6. Richard Gutierrez involved in airport incident

7. Lorna Tolentino refuses to work with Chin Chin Gutierrez again

8. 3rd Star Magic Ball celebrates 17 years of developing ABS-CBN talents

9. Lolit Solis clarifies report that she has seen alleged video of Hayden Kho and KC Concepcion

10. Marian Rivera and Dingdong Dantes: Public display of affection!

11. Joey de Leon writes satiric ballad against Willie Revillame

12. Singer-actor Jay-R survives tragic accident in U.S.

13. More sources confirm Richard Gutierrez airport incident

14. Angel Locsin confirms breakup with Luis Manzano

15. Gerald Anderson braves deep-flood waters to check on neighbors

16. Manny Pacquiao and wife Jinkee reportedly had a big fight over Krista Ranillo (Page 2)

17. Marian Rivera finally meets fellow Darna Angel Locsin

18. John Lloyd Cruz and Ruffa Gutierrez "spotted" in a swanky hotel in Beverly Hills

19. FIRST READ ON PEP: Marian Rivera is the new Darna!

20. SPOTTED: Marian Rivera and Dingdong Dantes shopping in Singapore

21. Dingdong Dantes shows his tattoo bearing the letters MGD

22. PEP EXCLUSIVE: Johnny Manahan speaks up for Willie Revillame

23. Jomari Yllana confirms breakup with Pops Fernandez

24. Aubrey Miles finally admits having son with former boyfriend JP Obligacion

25. Luis Manzano admits ongoing relationship problem with Angel Locsin

26. Piolo Pascual admits he and KC Concepcion have already dated

27. (Updated) Master Rapper Francis M succumbs to cancer

28. (UPDATED) Richard Gutierrez caught in car accident

29. Photos of Senator Noynoy Aquino's rumored girlfriend spread on the Net

30. Ruffa Gutierrez confirms paparazzi photos of her and John Lloyd Cruz in L.A. are authentic

31. Judy Ann Santos and Ryan Agoncillo admit nothing happened on first night

32. Gladys Reyes talks about how Ryan Agoncillo and Judy Ann Santos rescued her family

33. Annabelle Rama to John Lloyd Cruz: "Kung in love ka sa anak ko, umamin ka in public!"

34. Showbiz industry bets fail to claim crowns at the Binibining Pilipinas 2009 pageant

35. Boy Abunda gives his take on Manny-Krista rumored affair

36. Star-sighting in Boracay!

37. FIRST READ ON PEP: Why did Cristine Reyes leave Banana Split?

38. (7TH-UPDATE) Broadcaster Ted Failon faces arrest for possible obstruction of justice

39. Jinkee Pacquiao admits that some women want to get close to Manny because of his success

40. Manny Pacquiao on rumored affair with Krista Ranillo: No comment.

41. Angel Locsin reveals birthday gift to boyfriend Luis Manzano

42. Rufa Mae Quinto lashes out at Showbiz Central co-host Mo Twister in The Buzz

43. Angel Locsin joins Luis Manzano and his family in Macau

44. Best Bets for 2009

45. Daddy Jun Magdangal confirms breakup of Jolina and Bebong Muñoz

46. Veteran actor Johnny Delgado succumbs to cancer at 61

47. Kris Aquino stays away from Ai-Ai delas Alas

48. Sen. Mar Roxas and Korina Sanchez finally tie the knot

49. Mocha comments on rumored affair of kissing-partner Krista Ranillo with boxer Manny Pacquiao

50. Lorna Tolentino refuses to work with Chin Chin Gutierrez again (part 2)

51. Ruffa Gutierrez defends Richard Gutierrez against PEP article

52. Marian Rivera and Carla Abellana cross paths at GMA-7 anniversary

53. Maricar Reyes appears on ASAP 09 today weeks after Haydens controversial videos came out

54. Startalk: Ruffa Gutierrez left parents home this morning after intense fight over-rumored liaison

55. Cristine Reyes out, Katrina Halili in as Fedra in Rosalinda

56. Kris Aquino will not force reconciliation with Korina Sanchez

57. Karylle admits inviting ex-boyfriend Dingdong Dantes to her birthday party

58. Geoff Eigenmann tells main reason for returning to Kapuso network

59. Dra. Vicki Belo reveals what's in the controversial video of Hayden Kho and Katrina Halili

60. Family of Ruby Rose Barrameda-Jimenez identifies her remains

61. Marian Rivera reveals real reason of her breakup with Ervic Vijandre

62. John Lloyd Cruz tired of explaining real score between him and Ruffa Gutierrez

63. John Lloyd Cruz complains he is on the losing end on issue with Ruffa and Annabelle

64. Francis Magalona finally laid to rest

65. Katrina Halili and Hayden Kho face each other at the Senate hearing

66. Joey Marquez denies tweet about mall rendezvous with Joanne Quintas

67. FIRST READ ON PEP: Parents of Heart Evangelista meet with GMA-7 top honcho Atty. Felipe Gozon

68. JC de Vera reportedly transferring to ABS-CBN

69. Criticisms mount against Wowowee host Willie Revillame

70. Katrina Halili finally speaks up about sexy dancing video with Hayden Kho

71. One Kapamilya and two Kapuso artists among the 24 candidates of Bb. Pilipinas 2009

72. Katrina Halili is fast losing jobs left and right

73. PEP EXCLUSIVE: Kris Aquino will sell her house for Noynoy's campaign

74. RR Enriquez on Cristine Reyes: Tantanan niya na ako. Galit na ako!

75. Cristine Reyes admits sending hate text message about Heart Evangelista

76. Dennis Trillo's first vacation in Boracay turns into tragedy

77. FIRST READ ON PEP: The grand battle between Ms. Wilma Galvante and Annabelle Rama continues

78. Angel Locsin and Luis Manzano did not break up

79. PEP EXCLUSIVE: Johnny Manahan speaks up for Willie Revillame

80. Bea Alonzo vehemently denies video of any kind with Hayden Kho

81. Pops Fernandez shocked by her breakup with Jomari Yllana

82. Short-haired Lucy Torres sizzles on the cover of Preview

83. Richard Gutierrez files P25 million libel case against PEP

84. Lolit Solis gives detailed commentary on Hayden Kho video scandal

85. Ted Failon's wife, Trinidad Etong, passes away

86. Boyet Fajardo to face probable legal action by Duty Free Philippines employees

87. RR Enriquez on Cristine Reyes: "Tantanan niya na ako. Galit na ako!" (part 2)

88. Sock it to me, says Dingdong Dantes on recent flak hurled at Marian Rivera

89. Kris Aquino explains declaration that Kim Chiu is the No. 1 Young Actress today

90. Richard Gomez explains his surprise appearance in Wowowee

91. Former employee of Belo Clinic is the missing piece in Hayden-Vicki breakup

93. Angel Locsin and Luis Manzano finally meet four months after they broke up

94. Yilmaz Bektas keeps in touch with ex-wife Ruffa Gutierrez

95. Marian Rivera finally meets fellow Darna Angel Locsin (part 2)

96. 13 year-old girl accuses Aljur Abrenica of committing lascivious acts

97. Dingdong Dantes says trip with Marian Rivera in Singapore and Malaysia strengthened their relationship

98. James Yap surprises Kris Aquino on their fourth wedding anniversary

99. Gina Alajar reveals she used to be in Jinkee Pacquiao's shoes

100. Krista Ranillo's camp planning when and how to answer rumor on affair with Manny Pacquiao

I did not remove the link, so if you want to read the whole article, you may click the link to redirect to pep.ph..

Merry CHRISTmas bloggers!!

2009-12-24T22:36:00.006+08:00

Just wishing everyone in the blogosphere a

MERRY

CHRISTmas

and

HAPPY

NEW YEAR

Let us npt fprget the true celebration this day, and that is the birth of our Lord, Jesus Christ..

Everyone, keep safe while celebrating the holiday!!..

2009 Year in Review

2009-12-04T17:17:00.007+08:00

Let's reminisce and look back at what happened through this year 2009 as Yahoo Philippines had compiled the things that Filipinos had been busy searching throughout the year.

Here is the Top 10 searches in Yahoo Philippines:

Manny Pacquiao - everyone in the whole world knows Manny Pacquiao. Not only the pride and glory of the Philippines, He is the best pound for pound boxer in the world. I beleive he had put the Philippines back on the map with all the glory he had achieved..
Cory Aquino - Mrs. Aquino is the beloved wife of the late martyr Ninoy Aquino. She had been in the news when she was diagnozed of colon cancer and as she fight against it. But then, on August 1, she succumbed to cancer. Almost all Filipinos grieved because of the loss. She will always be remembered as one of the great presidents that our country had.
Francis Magalona - He is the King of Pinoy Rap that had inspired many independent artist to dream big and pursue their dreams. His disease was known when his fighting against leukemia had reached the news. But on March 6, while his suffering ended, a lot of Filipinos grieved because of his loss. He had been an icon in the entertainment industry for touching many artist's lives.
Ondoy - Ondoy was the typhoon that many Filipinos never expected to have such a huge impact. Everybody knows that Philippines as an archipelago is prone to floods and rains, but Ondoy so far had been the worst that we had. Nobody expected Ondoy to be worse. It had literally almost submerged the Metro by its endless rains. While everybody is still recovering from Ondoy, along came his pal, Peping which made it hard to recover. Peping did not help in the recovery of the Metro, but worse it had the Central Luzon and some parts of the Southern Luzon also submerged in floodwater. I beleive it took a weeks up to a month before the water subsided.
Dionisia Pacquiao - Who doesn't know Aling Dionisia. She is the beloved mother of our champ, Manny Pacquiao. She rode the fame of his son and eventually entered the entertainment business. Everybody loved her and at the same time hated her.
Shalani Soledad - She became famous when Kris Aquino made a big deal with her brother's lovelife. She is the girlfriend of Senator Noynoy Aquino.
Eraserheads - they had been on the headlines when the band decided to reunite after their disband on 2002. E-heads revived their magic to their die hard fans through their 2 last concerts together as a band.
UAAP - Every season, college students have been very supportive with theri schools as they showcase their talents through sports. Though Basketball had been the mainstream in every season, it had never failed to show an important trait which everyone must have, and that is sportmanship and confidence.
Mar and Korina - their love affair had been highly publicized when Mar proposed to Korina along with his proposition to run as President this coming election.
PBA - Basketball had been the ultimate favorite sports and hobby of Filipinos. That's why PBA has been really famous. Every game from every team had been the talk in every streets of the Philippines.

What I am Thankful for this 2009

2009-12-03T20:47:00.004+08:00

Time goes so fast and I didn't notice that it's already the last month of the year. Many good and bad things had happened this year. I felt like this year was the luckiest year for me. Before the year ends, it's time to look back on the things I am thankful for.

I am thankful for these things this year 2009:

I am thankful that this year, my birthday wish was finally granted.
I am thankful for the support of all my friends and family as I go through tough choices this year.
I am thankful that I am still alive, my family's safe, and every Filipinos are coping just well after every disaster that has dawned upon us.

and I would be very thankful if I get to win the Moleskine Colour a Month Daily Planner 2010. Avalon.ph please cap of my year with this great blessing..

So much for being good...

2009-11-09T12:57:00.009+08:00

Earlier while I was riding the LRT with my stomach grumbling from hunger, a not so old lady came in and sat beside me eating nuts. Unconsciously I looked at the train to find the sign of " No Eating and Drinking", and it was just at the nearest right wall of the train. I looked at the surroundings and some people noticed too. At first I ignored the lady eating because it came to my mind that maybe she was just too hungry and could not take it. After the first pack of nuts, I noticed her scrambling for another pack in her bag. (OMG, she had quite a few on her bag, is she planning on eating everything while on the train like a picnic or something??) She opened another pack and ate. I was disturbed and had the urge to tell her that it is prohibited to eat inside the train. (I let it pass again because I thought she was just too hungry so she ate another pack, but if she opens another I'll surely tell her that it is forbidden to eat so that she'll stop) But then she did continue eating and opened her third pack. Good thing, I will get off soon, so I mustered my guts and whispered to her "Miss, Bawal po kumain dito" while pointing the sign. I saw her nodding so I thought she'll stop, but then while nodding she popped another nut in her mouth!! In my mind, I thought WTF?? So much for trying to be a good citizen.. And to think there is a child in front of us watching.. (I never ate inside the train so I think I have the guts to tell her that) Filipinos.. hayy.. Is there really no hope for improvement???

Some may think that my experience was just nothing, its no big deal. WRONG!! I'm making a big deal out of it!! I mustered my guts to help a person change for better but it went to waste. I got so irritated when it came to my mind this: Every Filipino is crying for change and throwing stones at the government blaming them for the country's current deep shit situation. I just thought that the only person that can cry their lungs out for change are the very few law abiding citizens that is trying to change the country even with little steps.

I remembered the saying from the Bible:

"He without sin cast the first stone"

I mean if everyone really wants change, then it should start within thyselves. Whoever becames our president, change will never happen if we never start within ourselves. We can always complain that our country was rotten, but if we don't change our ways, our country may decompose on the soils of the world. The leader of the country can only help us and motivate us to start changing, but still in our own hands if all our dreams and hopes can come true.

And the Philippines shall rise above the ashes.. Yay!! (Just to lighten the mood..ok na ko, wala na badtrip ko.. )

Cosmo Bachelor Bash 2009

2009-09-25T18:11:00.019+08:00

Cosmopolitan magazine annually announces their biggest event, the Cosmo Bachelor Bash wherein they feature 69 gorgeous and fresh hunks together with the 10 celebrity centerfolds. The event was on September 10, 2009 at the NBC Tent. Honestly, ever since I got my hands on Cosmo last 2002, I had been anticipating their September issue and most specially the Cosmo Bachelor Bash. Every September, Cosmo gives away 150 passes to girls that would join their contest, and one of them can invite one friend to join them.

Luckily, I got to win tickets to the Cosmo Bachelor Bash this year! Wooohooo!! I decided to ask Juhn to come with me, since we both had this longing to go to the Bachelor Bash.

We arrived a few minutes before 8pm. We decided to roam around the booths since I know that there would be some freebies available (and maybe I could chance to see some of the hunks). And boy, ws I not wrong, there are a few hunks in some booths and they were friendly enough to have their pictures taken with us.. YEEESSS!!

The show started a bit late, around quarter to 9. I noticed that their theme for this year is a prison breakout (same as PrisonBreak). I think Joey Mead was the host for the night. (I am not sure, sorry if I was wrong) The show started with some titillating games. I wish I could have joined the games because it was so much fun (specially if you get to kiss and hold some of the models... heheheh)

After the games, batch by batch the gorgeous 69 hunks graced the ramp looking oh so good. The crowd was screaming so hard everytime a hunk walks down the ramp. It was hard to take pictures because the crowd was really hyped up so I decided to just take some videos while they ramp.

Here are the 10 celebrity centerfolds for this year:

Joem Basco
Phil Younghusband
Sid Lucero
Ejay Falcon
Xian Lim
JC Tuisenco
Daniel Matsunaga
Akihiro Sato
Aljur Abrenica
Gerald Anderson

Joem and Sid was not present during the event. And I had a hard time recognizing the guys I took pictures with from the 69 Bachelors on the mag. I hope I get to know their names. (If anyone recognizes them, just leave their name below ;) )

It was a very fun experience for me. Definitely, I'll join again next year.. (I hope my hubby will still allow me.. ;) )

Forbes Asia 40 Richest People in The Philippines

2009-08-30T19:29:00.015+08:00

Forbes Asia now released on August 25 the list of the 40 present richest people in the country. Here's the top 10 from the list:

Henry Sy - owns SM Holdings Corp, Banco de Oro Universal Bank, Equitable PCI bank, and China Banking Corp. He also has 12% share on San Miguel Corp.
Lucio Tan -Tobacco tycoon owns Fortune tobacco, Tanduay Holdings, Asia Brewery and Phil. Air Lines. He also has shares of Phil. National Bank and Allied Bank.
Jaime Zobel de Ayala - owns the Ayala Corporation which comprises of BPI, Ayala Land, Globe Telecom, Manila Waters Company, Integrated Microelectronics Inc, Azalea Technology Investments, Ayala Automotive Holdings Corp, AG Holdings Ltd, and Ayala Foundation Inc.
Andrew Tan - owns the MegaWorld Corporation, which made Eastwood City a sucess by building residential and commercial areas. He also has the most shares in the BPO industry.
John Gokongwei - owns JG Summit Holdings which comprises of Cebu Pacific Air, Digitel Communications (Sun Cellular), Universal Robina Corporations, Robinsons Land and Robinsons Malls.
Tony Tan Caktiong -the man behind the huge success of Jollibee
Eduardo "Danding" Cojuangco Jr. -The owner of San Miguel Corporation.
Enrique Razon Jr.- president of International Container Terminal Services (ICTSI), owner of Razon's Industries Inc., and Sureste Realty Corp.
Manuel Villar - has several stocks on some realty corps like C&P homes, Palmera homes, Brittany Corp, Fine properties, Macy's and MV Villar Company.
George Ty - the owner of Metropolitan Bank and Trust (MetroBank)

And the list continues...

Emilio Yap
Inigo Zobel
Beatrice Campos
Vivian Que Azcona
Oscar Lopez
Andrew Gotianun
David Consunji
Robert Coyiuto Jr. -
Alfonso Yuchengco -
Mariano Tan
Menardo Jimenez
Gilberto M. Duavit
Felipe Gozon
Jon Ramon Aboitiz
Betty Ang
Alfredo Ramos
Manuel Zamora Jr.
Bienvenido R. Tantoco Sr.
Tomas Alcantara
Benjamin Romualdez
Wilfred Uytengsu Sr.
Lourdes Montinola
Luis Virata
Eugenio Lopez III
Enrique Aboitiz
Philip Ang
Jesus Tambunting
Frederick Dy
Rolando & Rosalinda Hortaleza
Marian Rosario Fong

********
I was planning on putting some info on all the 40, due to a busy sched, I haven't got time to finish it.. That's why I'm posting this now..

Be Carol

3rd year Blogniversary!

For 2011...

I Miss my BLOG!..

UPDATE: Working hard to secure a spot..

Taste the NEW Chicken Bourbon Sandwich from Delifrance

COSMO Bash 2010 at the World Trade Center

Please help me win an IPAD from AloYouth..

When we went to the AloYouth booth at the Cosmo bash, the usherettes have mentioned that they have an ongoing promo, inline with their new FB page. Our photos taken at the booth will be posted on their page, and the picture with the most number of likes get to win an IPAD.

How to help me:

1. Like the AloYouth Fanpage...http://www.facebook.com/pages/Alo-Youth/123633847686712?ref=ts

2. Like my pic on this link..http://www.facebook.com/pages/Alo-Youth/123633847686712?v=wall#!/photo.php?pid=183949&id=123633847686712&ref=fbx_album

Your help would pretty much appreciated. I'm taking a chance on this one. I do hope I snagged the IPAD..

Cine Europa at The Shang

Meet and Greet COSMO Centerfolds

BIRTHDAY POST!!

August Haul

Music Playlist

Free UCC Coffee

HOT: Cosmo's Centerfolds 2010

Incoming: Cosmo Bachelor Bash 2010!

Nestle Fruit Selection Yogurt + JELLY!

Garnier Skin Naturals Light Cream: a change in my Skin Care.

Coffee Bean Tea and Leaf for Sunday Brunch

My Top 10 Emerging Influential Blogs for 2010

Hell Week..

Coffee Bean Tea and Leaf: Frozen Swirl Openhouse

Cocktales

Kim N' Chi

2ND YEAR BLOGNIVERSARY!!

New Nail Color

Nuffnang and HEAVEN Ice Cream invite you to a special screening of ‘SALT’

Max's Chicken-All-You-Can, Last Hirit!!

Tutti Frutti Frozen Yogurt

A whole week of MEEEE!!!!!

Eiga Sai, here I come..

Black Titans Team Outing at Batangas!!

Film Festivals: Eiga Sai and Cinemalaya

LONG WEEKEND..

Splashing Fun at Mananap River

Monstrous Waves at Bagasbas Beach

Summer at the Juance's Humble home..

My much loved Summer Vacation 2010..

UPDATE!

Novena to the Sacred Heart of Jesus

Ejaculations

FINALS..

Easing out the Master Cleanse..

Master Cleanse Ease-Out Day 1

Master Cleanse Day 10..

Master Cleanse Day 8 and 9...

Master Cleanse ay 6 & 7

Master Cleanse Day 5..

Goals this 2010..

Master Cleanse Day 4..

Master Cleanse Day 3..

Starting the Master Cleanse, Day 1 & 2.

Master Cleanse

WishList since last year..

My New Year's Resolution for 2010..

My Horoscope Insight for 2010..

2010, at last.. (My very first post this year)

The Biggest Tech Flops of the Decade

Holiday Horoscopes

2009 Metro Manila Film Festival Entries

Ferry Mishap at Batangas Port

100 Most Read PEP Breaking News in 2009

Merry CHRISTmas bloggers!!

2009 Year in Review

What I am Thankful for this 2009

So much for being good...

Cosmo Bachelor Bash 2009

Forbes Asia 40 Richest People in The Philippines

1. Like the AloYouth Fanpage...
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Alo-Youth/123633847686712?ref=ts

2. Like my pic on this link..
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Alo-Youth/123633847686712?v=wall#!/photo.php?pid=183949&id=123633847686712&ref=fbx_album