Wednesday, December 31, 2008

end of year blog

Has this year been good? not really. Many sad things things happened to me. frustrations. emotional pain. sickness. stress. but still a lot to be thankful for. For one my father was miraculously saved from stroke. These things happen for a reason. God would always be there in times of trials. and by believing in Him and having faith - it shall all pass and we get a lot stronger!

Lots of mishaps and for that I hafta generate another year's worth of promises. I am ashamed to call resolutions because it never gets actioned after posting 'em here. On top of my list would be regarding my health. Need to stay fit, exercise, eat right. Next would be financial. More mature way of spending money. Invest rather than spend. Love? It will just come around...

Come to think about it. Its not bad at all. It just makes me feel weird that it would be 2009... year after year, we just get older and maturity is something creepy for me. For 2009, all I wish for is to have an informed decisions (how to drive my life). Be more responsible and take a good look at life ahead and where I'm going. Tolja these things make me wet my pants.. :)

Christmas sickness -

and for the second time, I got sick again. the day after christmas, we all went to greenhills and ate lunch .. some shopping .. and overstayed in cheesecake -

end result. I got sick. Saturday. Sunday. Monday and Tuesday. Darn! a lot of plans got mixed up... even my first time to finally go to Baguio and attend my friend's wedding. Shesh... all bcoz of that URTI. and how many times I've quoted Dr. Wong's advice back in Sydney that i should not take antibiotics but mom wouldnt believe me...

good things from this ordeal... i lost 10 pounds. i was able to change mac's look - upgraded to Leopard (well its about time).. reminisced through some old photos back in high school, college and sgv days... and im just lonely that i can already count in one hand the days before i leave and go back to sydney. so many people to meet and things needed to be accomplished in so little time.. its just not possible now. :(

Sunday, December 21, 2008

W2 and the gigabytes / Pasta fever

i know i got sick and stayed in bed for three whole days. its partly my fault and weather is to blame on the other end. but still the W2 should not be so mean. The wickedness is just to apparent and almost everyone is being blamed. i just have so much angst that when it explodes it produces undesirable rage.

the gig went well by the way. all i can recall is that we went to saguijo and realised that urban dub is not playing there but greyhounds is. I saw Borgy with his reggae looks. 750 bucks put into waste. tsk tsk... then we transferred to Libis where Urbandub is playing. Cafe or Club Dreid? something. Bands who played where Kwan, Fastpitch and of course Urbandub. Even Dennis T. was there. T'was nice and now I am officially a fan. They even sang 'Last Christmas'... cool.

- -

Since I came home at around 5am. My optimal sleep of 4 hours should endure the heavy day ahead. We went to Greenbelt for family lunch and to celebrate mass. Pasta fever - ate at Italianni's for lunch and fuzion for afternoon snack (and again ate pasta. My niece have this weird desire for pasta lately... and now i deserve to have my full 8-hour sleep.

Friday, December 19, 2008

absent on day 5 and 6 -

drats. sick for two days and just literally on the bed. my mom helped me recover. high fever. delirium. throwing up...

now i feel a bit better. ready for action? but too afraid to get sick again. my body's fragile. need to take more vitC's now.

missed the wedding of my Sydney friends - Ruby and Lito. Hey I'm so sorry guys. Don't worry I will make it up to you.

tom's another gigabyts nyt. planning to go to makati and watch urban dub, etc.... hey jaidy, wish you were here.. haha

Thursday, December 18, 2008

day 4

day four. pollution. crazy jeepney drivers who don't turn their headlights on - its freaking night time already. but they just don't care!? traffic. it was just crazy and horrendous. 3.5 hours back and forth from makati to greenhills.

well... welcome to manila! haha but it was all good. i managed to buy a new luggage. the well-deserved retirement of concord luggie has finally arrived. it went with me through my asian trips (Cambodia, Korea, Singapore, HK and Thailand). My new one should be with me when i go to Japan this April or Euro tour this Sept. *fingers crossed hopefully i can make it*

greenhills? wtf - i just wanted to have more toys! i-touch and new blackberry. and i promised myself to save this time around... watta dilemma?

g4? traffic was just b***s***. ended up just hanging out in G4 Bux. and I discovered this cherry drink... it was like the signature hot choco back in sydney. it was just soo dark, small hint of cherry but blends well. Jaidy would've loved this for sure.


currently, im just taking some rest. trying to recover from this exhaustion. i reckon i'm sick but i told my mom 'how can i be sick if my appetite is like this?' while getting my second serve. also have this severe colds - they got me hot fresh calamansi juice and it was the best.

so for day 5 - i might just sleep all day. but plan is to accompany my mom to SMB for christmas shopping... if i have the energy i want to bring her to ATC...

Tuesday, December 16, 2008

day 2 and 3

POEA. Shopping. Shakey's. Starbucks. Malate. Friend's place. Home. Glorietta. Burger Machine.

Obviously it was so exhausting. I got tired. Slept all day.

*POEA was quick just because I paid some premium to deliver it to me directly to my home and I don't have to wait for the pointless queue.
*Shopping - nothing much really. So many things I wanna buy but with money constraints. I ended up just buying some mossie items and got myself a new book. fantastic-
*Shakey's... Oh it was so great! I missed this pizza. Nice mGr pizza with mGr (Karla - you know what I mean!!). Laugh-trip.
*Starbucks >nothing new. just wanted to have a new planner - and now it comes with a pen
*Malate? Just for drinks. Music's good just like Oxland but not as spacious as the latter -
*Friend's place. Hangout for the drunken night. Breakfast at Starbucks. Tuna sandwich. Nothing special..
*Glorietta. Was able to buy jeans and shirt at Mossimo. Free flip flops. HiM mag and Woody Allen's book. Twilight. I know its overrated but still ... Twas nice. Then starbucks (its getting closer to ze planner)...
*Burger machine. Yummy for empty tummy. And its cheap hey.

Now its Day 4 - still hafta know what happens....

Sunday, December 14, 2008

day 1

been home every christmas. actually i've been home 2x this year. i still cant help but feel overwhelmed each time i hear "Welcome to Ninoy Aquino International Airport!". though i haven't slept and was dead tired from full day's worth of flying, some moments remain priceless. the look on my family's face when they saw me. i just really missed them... esp my nephew and niece seeing me back - it takes away all weariness.

today we went all day shopping @ duty free. chocolates. perfume. grocery stuff. eating my old time faves-Chowking. Jollibee. some things can make you happy no matter what the cost is. the cons of course would be the all time humidity. keep me sweating like my forehead's faucet was broken. another would be the mozzies. had heaps of mozzie bites all the time. and i just cudnt sleep last night.

holiday is here. balikbayan's everywhere you go. duty free is jam-packed. the dollar was reasonable at Php 47 per $1. But prices aren't that cheap. but hey, people would still buy heaps and heaps of chocolate. filling their carts like there's no tomorrow. i guess it comes with the usual notion of giving giveaways.

now i'm just taking some rest. and i hear the weird weird voice of a basketball commentator. people cheering. balls bouncing. clapping. ahh.. the familiar basketball league. and again, it didn't surprise me to see a poster of pacquiao in duty free. so many things on my mind that kept me mesmerized with how we filo's enjoy the zest for life. christmas carols. christmas lights. simple laughter. family reunions. indeed i would never miss christmas back home.

hey, i missed polosport parfums! got it again and shared the twin pack with my brother. yipee.

Saturday, December 13, 2008

Chillin' at Changi

This is it. Few more hours and I'm home. It's funny how I used to love shopping at changi. But with the weakining of aussie dollars, sing dollar is almost equal to AUD. Only thing I spent was a well-deserved "the ultimate" from coffee bean.



Then I watched heroes, rearranged files and finally achieved a sense of relief (doing number 2 *haha).



I feel exhausted. Half a day travelling really drained my energy. I desereved a nice jollibee treat when I reach home.

Sent from my BlackBerry® smartphone on 3

Pressure is on...

[ This message was typed earlier on but I was too stupid to have pressed something on my BB and the whole message was erased. The sound may not be as realistic as what I had typed before. ]



This never happened to me. It was my first time that I'm literally running and catchinh for my flight. Remember home alone? Yeah I was like the family running with all my baggage. Weird enough (maybe through the surge of adrenalin) it didn't feel heavy at all.



its all because of that verdello white wine! I took a sip at 3am and told myself that it wouldn't hurt to lay down a little. Unexpectedly my eyes began to close. The nap took about 2hrs. Good thing, PJ called me up! I was in such a rush that I don't know where to start!



- my carry on bag wasn't pack yet

- house is a total mess (niko forgive me but I wasn't able to even commence cleaning)

- haven't eaten, showered. (Haven't done number two for crying out loud)



I managed to storm out of my flat before 6am. My flight is at 8am.



Charge it to bad luck but I was trying so may times to check in via internet but it remained futile.



... Good news! I was able to make it. Bought some souvenirs and still have 5mins to type away my thoughts.

Sent from my BlackBerry® smartphone on 3

Friday, December 12, 2008

Overload

Its thursday! One last day to go prior to my holiday leave. Got so much on my hands. Backed with frustrations - it just can't be done. I became much aggressive now at work. I guess this originated from my training on 5A. Learning to say NO! Haha...



I just don't want to exceed my capacity. Burnt is not an option. So I decided to shop with friends. Already bought the last few that I need to bring home. Jeff de Brughes. Oakley. Clinique. Damn, they're so damn lucky...



Tomorrow's going to be really hectic. I just wish it'll all be finished. And I wake up and I'm finally home with my family.

Sent from my BlackBerry® smartphone on 3

Sunday, December 7, 2008

Sporky I-dog!

Got myself an early present.
Meet Sporky, my dancing music partner!

Friday, December 5, 2008

rants and rave

its quite awhile since i blogged. i missed it.
here are couple of ups and downs happening to me lately:

- was able to buy two tickets to coldplay's concert. wohoo!
- was way beyond my budget! its indeed a credit crisis...
- was able to finish my pies (internal meetings)
- was not promoted to manager
- was able to buy reese and more reese!
- was put on another week's appointment for property inspection
- was able to clean my flat
- and worst of all my gotenks' head from my keychain was completely destroyed... :c

two of my friends lost their job
my other friend was finally accepted on a good job
my other friend will resign from her job
and i now feel that i suck at my job

its not always rainbows and butterflies
but come to think of it
there are more things in life than work -
and now im realising that there's still much to learn...

Saturday, November 29, 2008

Shitty Times

Been hell of a week and its almost summer. Can't feel it though - it's been raining and its just a shame cos I wanna go to the beach before christmas holidays back home.



Its tough this time. Two of my friends were made redundant. Its scary. Like there's no security with jobs here. And what I've heard this might continue and even to audit division. I've known how hard it is to get a job. Two of my mates really had a hard time landing a job. But on of 'em has just been accepted yesterday after few months unemployed.



Again, these 2-3 weeks have been a disaster for me. And now I just feel that I deserve to eat at Pancakes on the Rocks this morning. Offset life's misery with good treats for the soul. Haha...



Sent from my BlackBerry® smartphone on 3

Friday, November 21, 2008

friends' therapy

i seem to come back to my ol' usual self of watching reruns
friends (the reel and real one) are equally significant at this point
i found it to be a good therapy for stressful times
i'm reading humour books as well... david sedaris cracks me up!

finally i was able to get these things that i've longed for as well:
- cleaning my house (dishes, laundry, killing all bloody fucking bugs)
- submitting my leave form (8 days unpaid ~ can it be any worse?)
- sending new house keys to my agent (i lost my keys ages ago)
- physical checkup for immigration (and i can breathe again!)
- submitting my expenses (amex repayments finally!)
- grocery shopping for sweets and chips (diet no more!)

its all about creating a clearer pathway in yer mind
decongesting the stuffy cobwebs of intricate problems
gaining a better perspective and adjusting lil by lil
and feeling light and keep smiling takes away all zepin*

*i guess no one here would know what it means...
hint: think french!

the accused

i was trying to search for my name in google and here's what happened:
- i realised that "rondz" is not that uncommon at all;
- i found one in pampanga but turned out to be weird and totally unlike me; and
- I also realised that there is a company in Miami called 'Le Penguin Rondz, Inc.' (unfortunately I never realised what their main operation was as it is now inactive...

- i realised that "Ronald Mercado" is not uncommon as well;
- i found one living in PH who's kinda cool person (i guess)
- and the most shocking thing of all:

... my name is now stained! People of the Philippines vs. Ronald Mercado! Yeah... and guess what's the crime? Estafa.

Apparently my namesake pretended to be an agent to assist the travel documents of this someone for Php 92.4k and for that my namesake was sent to jail to serve 8-14 years imprisonment. He is still in jail as we speak. No wonder it was a bit hard getting my police clearance before.

Darn. I feel so bad and I wanted to change my name to Ronald... Macintosh!

here's the link -> http://ca.supremecourt.gov.ph/cardis/CR27627.pdf

Tuesday, November 18, 2008

[ deleted ]


...now all i ask of you is to give me a space i well deserve
let time heal the wounds of letting go
and one day I will come back and tell you
that i am ready to move on...

Sunday, November 16, 2008

Dying inside 'cause I can't stand it
Make or break up
Can't take this madness
We don't even really know why
All I know is baby
I try and try so hard
To keep our love alive

If you don't know me at this point
Then I highly doubt you ever will
I really need you to give me
That unconditional love I used to feel
It's a mistake if we just erase it
From our hearts and minds and I know

We said let go
But I kept on hanging on
Inside I know it's over
You're really gone
It's killing me
'cause there ain't nothing
That I can do
Baby, I stay in love with you
And I keep on telling myself
That you'll come back around
And I try to front like "Oh well"
Each time you let me down
See I can't get over you now
No matter what I do
But baby, baby
I stay in love with you

It cuts so deep
It hurts down to my soul
My friends tell me
I ain't the same no more
We still need each other
When we stumble and fall
How we gonna act
Like what we had
Ain't nothin' at all now

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_21AIVTZLXE
new single from mc. the best time to launch the best single in e=mc2. i appreciate it mc!

Saturday, November 15, 2008

Somebody told me you were leavin’
I didn’t know
Somebody told me you’re unhappy
But it doesn’t show
Somebody told me that you don’t want me no more
So you’re walkin’ out the door
Nobody told me you’ve been cryin’
Every night
Nobody told me you’d been dyin’
But didn’t want to fight
Nobody told me that you fell out of love from me
So I’m settin’ you free

Let me be the one to break it up
So you won’t have to make excuses
We don’t need to find a set up where
Someone wins and someone loses
We just have to say our love was true
But has now become a lie
So I’m tellin’ you I love you one last time
And goodbye
Somebody told me you still loved me
Don’t know why
Nobody told me that you only
Needed time to fly
Somebody told me that you want to come back when
Our love is real again

Just turn around and walk away
You don’t have to live like this
But if you love me still then stay
Don’t keep me waiting for that final kiss
We can work together through this test
Or we can work through it apart
I just need to get this off my chest
That you will always have my heart

Wednesday, November 5, 2008

my caramel slice...

Presenting my caramel slice:



I baked it awhile ago and its soo yummy! One of the joys of baking is that you enjoy the residual chocolate filling. I recall Joey's Peanut Fingers... My version of Chocolate Fingers to celebrate the success.

*forgive my pointless blog today - just flat out with the work and all*

... but still - its phenomenal.

Tuesday, November 4, 2008

melbourne cup sweep

for the first time in my 3rd melbourne cup here in Australia - I missed the race. just because i was too busy with meetings for my clients - I missed it. but on the brighter side i joined the sweep for the first time. I randomly chose my bet - Bauer. This was based on my fave number which is 012 - simply stated Horse 12. He ended up on 2nd place while Viewer won the race - and I got $10 richer.

I recall 2 years ago, someone from our client approached me
Client: 'Do you want to join the sweep?'
Rondz: 'No thanks, I'm good'

Simply because i don't understand what he meant. I thought he wanted to get some charity from me - LOL. And I remember doing this on my first client - Thales. I also watched the sweep last year for the 2nd time - again on Thales. but this time I was just in the office and i failed to witness it - Good thing there's youtube to see it. now I'm satisfied. But still... :c

Saturday, November 1, 2008

melbourne experience

first night was a horrific event mainly because of
- turbulent qantas fly
- smelly curry for dinner
- delayed baggage claim
- major change of temperature (36C at Syd; 13C at Mel)

to offset this dreadful experience, the halloween party was not bad at all. i was able to see September perform live and singing the famous' oxland song - Cry for you.

food's fantastic by the way, i reckon the two pears (roi's term for niko and me cos we're pear shaped) are getting bigger! friday's, sambal (malay cuisine), pizza haven (oxland of melbie) and many more fattening experience.

crowd here is much better than syd. or maybe because of the melbourne cup weekend where everyone's wearing their fancy dresses and lavish hats...

to end the day - just because we got sooo tired from walking, i removed my shoes and walked barefoot in South Yarra. fantastic experience. twas rejuvinating. finally i realised why those aussies with stelletos would love to walk barefoot even when dressed perfectly.

Friday, October 31, 2008

the monsters within

i dont know what to say really -
but i feel like posting an entry today
work sucks! but its friday (long awaited day)
melbourne big halloween party! and imma meet jaidy.

haha ~ still hasn't decided what to wear though
someone told me that its fine to be myself
then i realised that he meant that i don't need a costume
thats harsh! im officially offended. do i look like a monster?

i'm flying off in awhile and cant believe this mess.
feel's like my flat is being inhabited by a horrific monster!
no vacuum... haven't washed dishes... ipis everywhere!
i feel aweful! clothes scattered everywhere... ref's full of junk!

i need super daday to help me fix everything.
i might have some time after getting some sleep...
looking forward to this stress-free weekend (i reckon deserve it)
rejuvenate and celebrate - the theme this weekend

be not afraid of the monster in you
it lies from your own inner creation
willingness to submit yourself from fear
be strong or else it will consume you.

Wednesday, October 29, 2008

all about... The Women

If you're a guy I highly recommend you not to watch this movie! For one the title suggests you to... More than an hour of rambling about divorce, mother-daughter issues, shopping, art of seduction, fashion, pregnancy, girly friendship. Absolutely no men on the movie... Oh. My mistake - there was one when whaziznem gave birth to a baby boy.



I was ashamed to get out of the cinema. Only because it was saturated with women! Feels like I'm in another planet. LOL!

Sent from my BlackBerry® smartphone on 3

Sunday, October 26, 2008

DBZ all sunday long

watched Dragon Ball Z all Sunday.
just because there's nothing to watch lately.
and I met PJ's litol brother who had so much info that i dont know...
anyway, i'm just halfway through finishing the Imperfect Cell saga.

Saturday, October 25, 2008

World domination plan

My title reminds me of Jessica Zafra's ultimate master plan...
But what I really intend to say is that I plan to go around the world in September 2009 [ edited due to economic crisis :c ].

Here's my itinerary so far.
  • Sydney
  • Singapore
  • Frankfurt
  • Dublin
  • London
  • Venice
  • Munich
  • Los Angeles
  • Sydney

    I just hope that there would be 1-2 stopovers for each destination and I can still go to other cities which I haven't included. The fare I've enquired is really reasonable. But I bombarded them with multiple questions just because this would take substantial amount of time and I have to make my trip as worthwhile as much as I can.

    If my other plans will work out. This will also be like career assessment for me or looking for a good niche for my Plan C. At this point, I finished 6 years of working for Ernst & Young. I reckon its a celebration!

    Whoever wants to join me - feel free to contact me! Just bring at least $5k and your visas ready.
  • Thursday, October 23, 2008

    Cold Hamlet

    Its freezing cold this past few days. With added drizzles and blowing wind gives the wintery chill effect.



    With the coldness surrounding my room, I snoozed endlessly. And it's 8am! Haven't even ironed my clothes for crying out loud. I thought that should be alright cos I've been staying back in the office cos of the DST thingey (imagine still seeing the sun at 7pm).

    Sent from my BlackBerry® smartphone on 3

    Monday, October 20, 2008

    the weekender

    hey -
    been awhile since i made an update
    just to let you know that this week didn't suck at all
    friday's nice at russel lea
    finally i've seen my friends' apartment
    thai food to put some spice
    boring movie to put you to sleep
    and booze to keep you sober!

    saturday's a drag
    telling yourself that its nice and sunny
    but the other you wouldn't get outta bed
    ended losing half a day's worth
    watched 'Priscilla' musical
    two words - 'fabulously fantastic!'

    sunday's sweaty..
    badminton @ cook philip's
    shed off some fat/
    and went to church
    shed off some time for my unappreciated work/
    well - that's how it goes
    keep runnin' in circles
    its keeps us dizzy, crazy and fun!

    the great depression

    dark clouds rolled by, storm's here
    hard times has plummeted its way
    making it emotionally tormented
    i dread the irrational mischief in me

    the thought of going through all this
    it makes it harder than it seems
    there is a trace of bitterness
    sadness in everywhere i look

    perplexed.

    dark ages had begun
    been weeks and i can't let go
    memories of glorious times
    will it still be possible?

    illusions of a better way
    peaceful, serene and nostalgic
    angst, shame and agony
    irony of misty waves splashes on me

    the labyrinth of my intricate paradox.

    Wednesday, October 15, 2008

    2 years and counting the half more

    Can't believe that it had been this long. Normally I would compare the growth, prosperity and the great change that I should have by now. The once envisioned glory that I'm yearning when I was a just sydney idealistic froshie. What the hell? Nothing has changed.



    Funny how I ended my first day at work with a KFC dinner with Jazel - her treat. Now, I ended the last day of my 2 year contract with her again at KFC - my treat.



    Now I have another half year to think about what I really want in my life... maybe its better this way (no longer staying in EY, i mean). It's crashing PR time! goodbye laugh-ha! I have to take a cheaper route this time.

    Sent from my BlackBerry® smartphone on 3

    Monday, October 6, 2008

    untitled

    today i will just be sitting for quite a long time.
    4 hours for the first part... then waiting time of 3 hours...
    then 8pm, i will arrive by 7am..
    then i have to go straight to work..

    good things must come to an end
    but its not too bad cos its just a 4-day week
    my wounded wallet needs to take a rest
    there's too much outflows that i can bear

    Friday, October 3, 2008

    mickey and me!

    Untitled

    I met mickey awhile ago

    Had so much fun though it started drizzling

    Now its time to give salute to the great BB!

    Hoping to get something nice

    Sent from my BlackBerry® smartphone on 3

    Thursday, October 2, 2008

    Wide awake

    I did not sleep at all.

    My OC disorder has taken over

    At 2am, I washed all dishes and pans.

    At 2.30am, I cleared all rubbish that was thrown everywhere.

    At 3am, I began folding and hanging clothes.

    Then decided to arrange my files and folders.

    That includes music and photos.

    At 5am, I took a long bath..



    Now I'm just waiting to get off.

    At least I've achieved something.

    And finally, I can have a nice long sleep!

    Sent from my BlackBerry® smartphone on 3

    one of us, one of them

    finally been able to watch ep3 of heroes.
    twas so great. sylar to the rescue!
    just confused with the whole feeding thing
    for sylar's hunger, i mean...

    anyway, this is just the greatest sense of relief
    finished two flash report for paris
    and off we go to meet mickey!
    how great is that?

    Tuesday, September 30, 2008

    Alms for the poor??!

    Had a weird experience this morning as this guy approached me.



    1. He is wearing a suit.

    2. He is demanding $20.

    3. He told me he is not asking for all my money.

    4. He is crazy! And his damned lousy reason is that his atm got eaten by the machine.



    What the hell? Good thing the weather's great or else I could've responded adversely.



    I just told him I don't use cash and charge everything on my card and left...

    Sent from my BlackBerry® smartphone on 3

    Friday, September 26, 2008

    Tgif

    Finally its Friday! Though this week's really quick I imagine a fun-filled weekend. People here usually ask your activities on the weekend. Hopefully its nice and sunny. Can't believe that busy season still isn't over. It's almost October and its still at its busiest.



    Just waiting for my train and I'm soo hungry. Wonder what I'm going to have for brekkie.. Client's food is cheap. And this is my first client in oz two years ago. Can't believe that it has been that long...

    Sent from my BlackBerry® smartphone on 3

    Thursday, September 25, 2008

    Happy thoughts

    Walking back home I have decided to throw away the crappy disposition and focus on happy thoughts. Enough to keep dementors off. After this massive pressure from the office. i just have to ignore this bad vibes.. I'm off to dinner though still have to work afterwards - only because I'm happy to cover the review and french reporting which I so like. Not because I'm obliged to do it... Plus I reward myself with 50 gift voucher to JB Hifi. Cool!!



    ******

    omg! i'm so excited to finish downloading heroes s03e01 and s03e02. this should be a treat over the weekend for me. my mac is working so hard in downloading, prison break and heroes. yay...


    Sent from my BlackBerry® smartphone on 3

    Wednesday, September 24, 2008

    my enlightened path

    just to share with you guys how i felt when i received an update on my upward feedback
    my first instinct was that with my touching speech i would receive so many responses from my staff
    and i was right... i never felt that so much people really cares for me... i dont care if its positive or negative
    the important thing is that i received 6 reviews and i really appreciate it
    at this dark era, there's seems to be a beam of light
    my career is not that pathetic as it previously seems
    there's a reason to stay and i hope i touched their lives on way or another
    i hope i inculcated in their hearts that audit is the career that gives a substantial return in terms of experience

    i'll be on leave starting the 2nd and i can't wait to have this vacation simply because im burnt from work
    it will give me a breather and realise that its another 2 years of auditing
    another set of rollercoaster bumpy ride
    demanding clients and superiors plus pasaway staff
    i can handle this. i just have to recharge my senses
    and it should be a piece of cake
    but seriously, im getting tired of audit and in dire need of another profession...

    Sunday, September 21, 2008

    Untitled

    Day-in day-out we realise that there's so much demands in life that we can ever handle. We aren't supernaturals possessing power to fix this thing called life. Every problem gets solved by tiny solutions that if we stick to it can be the simple solution to repair an overhaul.



    Patience works in wonders and its just hanging on for a brighter tomorrow. Now I'm wearing my rheb shirt hoping to fix ME.

    Sent from my BlackBerry® smartphone on 3

    Saturday, September 20, 2008

    Feels like summer

    Its 30¤C and what's best to do but to go to Bondi and feel the heat. It was crazy jampacked in the trains and everyone have their towels with them. All Sydneysiders are heading to the beach anyways..



    Jaidy's last day today in Sydney so we hafta go to the beach and stare at ppl's what we do best. Unfortunately we were waiting for the bus forever. We got a little desparate and so we ended up in front of the bus. Humiliatingly fun.



    Got my Mr. Rehab shirt and my purple shirt for the price of one. So happy that I'm gonna wear it tomorrow in the office. I hafta make up for the sickie days so I really should work tom..

    Sent from my BlackBerry® smartphone on 3

    Thursday, September 18, 2008

    Untitled

    I'm still inside the train to Wollongong. 2 hour train ride is not that bad. I made some thinking:

    - I felt cleansed. All the bad aura now its time to begin anew.

    - Extremely no Ybies. I've been to extreme difficulty and I don't want go back to that road again.

    - I will try to join the gym this sat. Hopefully its not the initial phase but I can continue to be healthy and fit.

    - I will love fruits, veggies and my vitamin c. I need to boost my immune system in times of sickness so I'll eat good food.



    Really don't know if this is acheivable but everything's starts with a good intentions.

    Sent from my BlackBerry® smartphone on 3

    Wednesday, September 17, 2008

    pitfalls and delirium

    just when you realised you're at your lowest point
    there's always someone who'll smudge your face to the mud
    i dunno what satisfaction they get but hell yeah.
    there are people who enjoy seeing other people's grief.
    i'm just glad that this is the last time cos now i'm free

    +*+*+*+*+*+*+*+*+*+*+*+*+*+*+*+*+*+*+*+

    i felt i was stoned last night
    imagine my ears are popping
    my eyes all wide open
    i can't breathe from this stuffy nose
    and i am imagining little creatures by my side
    i was talking to them; asking them to put the life vest in order
    the arrangement should be the most important clients to the least.
    and then for a happy 5-minute i was able to doze-off...
    *tick tack* *tick tack*

    but what the hell? i dreamt i was in the City and there's a guy carrying a gun
    started shooting people and when he turned to me
    i went over a pile of sheets to cover myself.
    and never realised if he got me cos the little creatures have awaken me. saved me.
    *tick tack* *tick tack*

    3.30am and still wide awake. i decided to have an early early breakfast.
    i had froot loops and apple-mango juice...
    i dont have the energy to go to work obviously, hence i took the whole day off again
    my body is aching, i'm still dizzy and i just hope and pray that I'll be back on my feet in no time.

    *i have made some realisations whilst staring at the ceiling for hours. i don't want to give you so much information in one blog but i promise i will post it again. it has something to do with my long term career. my life. my vision. I need to validate this when I'm overseas this October...

    Tuesday, September 16, 2008

    Diagnosis: URTI

    For the past few days i've been terribly sick
    I was on the verge of total blackout on Monday morning
    I insisted on going to the client but who am I kidding?
    I ended up much worse - delirium...

    Now that I'm half-way through recovery
    I realised that I have to go back again to the client
    I just wish what I've told Stephen to do make sense to him
    Otherwise it all boils down to a Moo point!

    Realised some key things during this ordeal.
    Live a well balanced lifestyle. Work isn't everything.
    Kick the vices off and start eating right
    I hope Gym should be more appealing now.
    Thanks Niko for being there during this dark ages.
    You brought me some food when I can't go out.
    Got me a company when I know I couldn't get out of my unit
    cos I dont have keys. Thanks. I owe you big one!

    Sunday, September 14, 2008

    locked out again!

    omg. for the nth time. it happened to me again.
    i just cant believe the stupidity. far out.
    but this time i know for sure that i've entrusted the keys to my friend
    unknowingly he apparently gave the key to me and now we both don't know how it got lost along the way...
    but its nobody's fault cos we're both uncertain what really happened
    all we know is that we enjoyed Ox land and have forgotten this teeny-tiny matter that would cause so much discomfort.

    we waited for an hour outside the apartment and my pockets got wounded by 295 bucks
    but finally i am here at home and i'll worry about how to get a new key tomorrow.
    i'll sleep my worries away - g'nyt!

    Saturday, September 13, 2008

    Tagged by Jaidy...

    1. Pass this award on to 7 people.
    2. Answer the following questions using only one word.


    1. Where is your cell phone? Bed
    2. Where is your significant other? Unknown
    3. Your hair color? Black
    4. Your mother? Home
    5. Your favorite thing? BB
    6. Your dream last night? None
    7. Your dream/goal? Success
    8. The room you're in. Mess
    9. Your hobby? Clubbing
    10. Your fear? Ghosts
    11. Where do you want to be in 6 years? Europe
    12. Where were you last night? City
    13. What you're not? Fit
    14. One of your wish-list items? Timemachine
    15. Where you grew up? Paranaque
    16. The last thing you did? Lollies
    17. What are you wearing? Boxers
    18. Your TV? LCD
    19. Your pet? None
    20. Your computer? Mac
    21. Your mood? Sleepy
    22. Missing someone? Nope
    23. Your car? None
    24. Something you're not wearing? Shirt
    25. Favorite store? Myer
    26. Your summer? Cold
    27. Love someone? Eternally
    28. Your favorite color? Blue
    29. When is the last time you laughed? AM
    30. Last time you cried? Forgotten
    31. Are you a bitch? Nope
    32. Favorite Position? Duh.
    33. Favorite Past Time? Reruns
    34. Are you a hater or a Lover? Lover
    35. Are you genuine or fake? Genuine
    36. Any Vices? Many
    37. Pro Life or Wire Hanger? Life
    38. McCAIN or OBAMA? Obama
    39. Pro Plastic or Natural? Natural
    40. Dream Job? Trial Lawyer

    im tagging everyone on my link! except for Jaidy...

    Wednesday, September 10, 2008

    BB's back

    now its the second one. (this acronym has a lot of meanings)
    i lost it and don't know what to do.
    maybe it was stolen, i dropped it or had forgotten it in the office and someone took it.
    got stressed this morning cos i cant find it.
    i thought its gone. i thought i have to buy a new one.
    everything's there .. including my atm, ccard, ffc, notes.

    then i realised i was looking at it last night realising that my amex is not there
    losing my amex but i realised it was on my other jeans' pocket
    then i had an idea that if it was lost - it should then be at my house
    still searching but i couldn't find it.
    on the verge of giving up, i looked at the most obvious place i could have placed it.
    it was there, on the right pocket of my coat last night
    foolish and stupid me.
    first thing i did - to put business card
    in the future, if it was lost *knock on the wood* - at least there's a chance to contact me.


    happy to see my BB again. :)

    Monday, September 8, 2008

    Chalk Festival

    Hey just a quick one I wanted to share. Last Sunday Niko.Jaidy.Me all went to chalk festival... It was great cos they have unique ideas. My favorite one is the monster wall. Just check the pics below:





    My BB^ event debrief...

    I sent the invite a bit late (Wednesday - just 3 days prior) and never really planned anything just yet. Niko saved the day! Thanks for organising the food and drinks. I know that couple of things happened before the party... like it rained so hard, cabbie made a 180-degrees but still thankful we're safe! I owe you one.. this Sat we should finally conquer the Ox world...

    Food was great c/o Tita and Dang. We had the following food:
    - Kare kare (still good even after the splash on the cabbie!)
    - Pinoy BBQ (This is essential cos here in Oz they love to Barbie!)
    - Chopseuy (haha of course, I'm a vegetarian)
    - Pancit (Long life!)
    - Biko (Good to have this cos my rice cooker's a bit crazy and doesn't know how to cook rice!!)
    - Buko Pandan (Accdg to Dang it was not perfect but it tasted so goooood!)
    - Pavlova (Aussie cake made from meringue.. i usually call this Pullover/Pullovah)

    Drinks:
    - Rose' wine (after I tasted this at my COP - i really liked it)
    - Corona beer!! (my official sponsor)
    - Coke (of course this could be free if Niko is still working for Coke :p)

    Thanks for all those who attended and witnessed my drunken phase and face.. haha Sorry you have to endure a talkative and twice annoying me during this state. Too bad we didn't have Magic Sing or else, my neighbours would have been so annoyed as well...

    Ruby and Lito - thanks for the beer!! Infairness, we consumed everything. Jaidy, super thanks for your super strength. I appreciate you carrying a heavy bag of ice amidst the freezing temp whilst raining so hard... Jazel, thanks for coke zero!! and Doritos (which im currently eating now, hehe)... Five dock friends, thanks for the idea of the buns *ze zmile on moir fez iz prizlez*... ghie for the os bear. ruby and dith for my new mDVD and David Sedaris book - its flaming hot!! Ronald - tukayo - thanks for the 'world fiss'.. Dang and Niko for the amazing food and support!

    Emie - thanks for NY stuff and Reese. Sheila and JT - CR shirt is great! I used it when I celebrated mass. Even though you guys weren't able to come, at least i had a chance to see you last Fri for Emie's farewell. I hope she's enjoying the weather at Melb! haha

    Click the pullover cake below for linked pix at my E$<@P3 site... Cheers mates!



    ^ - BB is not BlackBerry nor Burberry... its my BirthdayBash...

    Saturday, September 6, 2008

    hb wishlist

    wishlist? well, you can see my facebook for books i wanna read. or any DVD's will do cos I don't get to see much movies lately. CD's also appreciated (anything alternative)...

    but among all I wish for more sense of maturity as I venture this 2nd quartile of my life. i guess i've been a bit childish lately. to sensitive...

    i couldn't ask for more. i have the best family in the world. friends just on your back when you need them.

    but if you really must know my wishlist here it goes...




    or for cds... Staind's illusion of progress; The Verve or John Mayer's latest Cd..

    Friday, September 5, 2008

    Guilty pleasures and THE celebration

    Have u ever experienced this? Its like haunting me down but I know I liked it. Its definitely wrong but good thing is that we have a sense of right and wrong. We think of the implications of our actions. Hence we are guided with the correct decision. Saved me. Saved something important that I truly treasure.



    ---------------------------

    Stress is eating me alive again. Good thing its a birthday week celebration. Coupla activities in stored for me. Waitara get-together, midnight drinks countdown, birthday bash, chalk urban art festival and of course go to mass to celebrate my first day of the 26th year of my earthly existence.

    Sent from my BlackBerry® smartphone on 3

    Tuesday, September 2, 2008

    who kissed who

    Who kissed who on the Friends? It turns out everybody almost kissed everybody. This is interesting. Click this to find out more

    Monday, September 1, 2008

    What Ronald Mercado Means

    You are wild, crazy, and a huge rebel. You're always up to something.
    You have a ton of energy, and most people can't handle you. You're very intense.
    You definitely are a handful, and you're likely to get in trouble. But your kind of trouble is a lot of fun.

    You are well rounded, with a complete perspective on life.
    You are solid and dependable. You are loyal, and people can count on you.
    At times, you can be a bit too serious. You tend to put too much pressure on yourself.

    You are very intuitive and wise. You understand the world better than most people.
    You also have a very active imagination. You often get carried away with your thoughts.
    You are prone to a little paranoia and jealousy. You sometimes go overboard in interpreting signals.

    You are usually the best at everything ... you strive for perfection.
    You are confident, authoritative, and aggressive.
    You have the classic "Type A" personality.

    You are relaxed, chill, and very likely to go with the flow.
    You are light hearted and accepting. You don't get worked up easily.
    Well adjusted and incredibly happy, many people wonder what your secret to life is.

    You are balanced, orderly, and organized. You like your ducks in a row.
    You are powerful and competent, especially in the workplace.
    People can see you as stubborn and headstrong. You definitely have a dominant personality.

    You are confident, self assured, and capable. You are not easily intimidated.
    You master any and all skills easily. You don't have to work hard for what you want.
    You make your life out to be exactly how you want it. And you'll knock down anyone who gets in your way!

    You are friendly, charming, and warm. You get along with almost everyone,
    You work hard not to rock the boat. Your easy going attitude brings people together.
    At times, you can be a little flaky and irresponsible. But for the important things, you pull it together.

    You are very open. You communicate well, and you connect with other people easily.
    You are a naturally creative person. Ideas just flow from your mind.
    A true chameleon, you are many things at different points in your life. You are very adaptable.

    the ironic start of spring

    totally perplexed with monday's rush. still thinking how i got it wrong. how i overlooked and let her down. for unknown reason i keep my spirits up but it has died down. this morning upon walking my usual route i was in a happy disposition. i saw branches of tree that i usually probe. few leaves have sprung. i surmise its the beginning of spring, which for me connotes a new hope. call me weird but upon seeing the fresh new leaves, it gave me a burst of hope to start the week. but as i come home - i feel uneasy, hungry and stressed. i open the door and it feels like hell (literally) *i realised i forgot to turnoff the heater and the dryer*

    reruns gave me a slight uplift of my spirit. a wounded ego is the worse thing that can happen to me on a monday. but then again, its all my fault. i just wish i was able to fix what needs to be fixed. call me sensitive but its just the way i am. case closed.

    Sunday, August 31, 2008

    Extermination failed

    This doesn't sound good at all. The initial plan to phase out all crawling monsters outta my flat failed. Baygon doesn't do good. Maybe they've used a protective mask or they have supernatural powers sort of forcefield that makes them immune from the spray. I reckon I need professional help. The other morning I almost swallowed them while drinking water I never realised that they've conquered my glass of water on my bedside table. I felt different texture and omg! It was a tiny insect.



    I will go home tomorrow from work a bit early to find a stronger solution. They should totally vanish before my big birthday bash this saturday!

    Sent from my BlackBerry® smartphone on 3

    Saturday, August 30, 2008

    untitled

    currently RM is being bombarded with unlimited thoughts and too lazy to put them in writing so for laziness sake i'll just enumerate them...

    - for bevs - am so much thankful for you have always been an amazing friend. and i hope you have enjoyed being with us as much as i did. you're one of the closest friend i have here in sydney and thanks for being a confidante. we shall meet again!
    - speaking of confidante. COP membership has greatly increased this year. i'm proud of that but i will keep it as it is for now
    - amazing trip guys though we did not make it to port stephens, i reckon the lookout is worth that arvo getaway
    - i'm looking forward to tonight's pub - celebrate good music and drinks
    - tomorrow's plan is to exterminate all crawling insects on my flat!! it shall happen and i shall have my great baygon as a weapon

    *there comes a time that you feel you're not as creative as before. cant think of any title... so going forward rather than putting pointless titles that doesn't stand out.. ill just say "untitled"*

    Tuesday, August 26, 2008

    Prison break

    Literally I was kept prison on my own home. Since Thursday, whenever I'm at my room I can't stop watching this show. That's the problem with me, once I started something I like, I can't seem to stop it. I've watched the first and second season in five days. I can't blame myself if sometimes at night, I feel a bit paranoid that Haywire might be hiding in my closet. Or the secret service might one time capture me and I will cease existence. The other day I was startled to see group of men walking towards my way. And I realised that they were just cleaning services. Anyway the good side is at least it gave me something to keep me entertained as I finally conclude this June busy season.

    On another note, I just want to share this email from my mom that made me smile...

    "... Alam mo si Francis he collects my coins whenever he come to our room because he is saving for his fare to Australia."

    such a sweet kid. I can't wait to go home this December. Good thing I was reminded, have to book my flight before the end of the month. Hence, I have to submit my tax soon *hoping to get higher tax refund*

    Saturday, August 16, 2008

    Worry Free Weekend

    Clock ticks and finally its 5.15pm. System shutdown. Call me lazy but if its Friday at this point you can't expect me to further work. Promised though to put my best effort on the weekday but not this weekend. With that notion it somehow feels great to have this worry-free weekend.

    We met with Jaidy last night and we have so much planned for today and tonight! I know its really coild but we're going to Manly and Bondi today. And Darling Harbour and night's out. She got drunk but I didn't which was great - my threshold seems to be increasing.

    So today, I'll be a tourist guide and I'll try on my new dissy shoes.

    Friday, August 8, 2008

    888 - a lucky day?

    Today's 8th day of the 8th month in year 08. Is it a lucky day? I don't know cos I just stayed too busy at work. I've decided to just stay home, rest. Had a pizza and as I am waiting for the televised opening ceremony of Beijing Olympics, I've been browsing to my good ol' pictures stored at tripod.com...

    Here's a treat! 8 albums - which still is up and running for coupla years now...

    1. College Friends
    2. Christmas Pictures - 1st year at SGV
    3. First Busy Season Getaway at EK
    4. Boracay Cluster Outing
    5. Batangas Cluster Outing
    6. Phnom Penh, Cambodia
    7. Diego Garcia, British Indian Ocean Territory
    8. Siem Reap, Cambodia

    Saturday, August 2, 2008

    road trip pics


    click for more...


    Friday, August 1, 2008

    weekend work!

    omg! i have to work this weekend. blame it all to tax!! i've been waiting for it since Monday! and they just gave it to me this morning. and and...

    the senior manager wouldn't extend my deadline. far out. now i have no choice but to work this weekend.

    i deserve a nice dinner.

    Saturday, July 26, 2008

    journey for snow cravings

    Wish come true! We actually just left Snowy mountains. Though it was just half-answered wish (no skiing) am really happy to play with snow.



    Currently going to Canberra. Still 2 1/2 hours to go. There's heaps of kangaroo crossing the road and I missed it cos I'm using my ipod while blogging. Oh well...



    Perisher Blue is simple copmpared to Thredbo, which is vast and more exciting. But I couldn't ask for more cos its night time anyway. This roadtrip is really amazing. Coupled with Coldplay tunes. Just fantastic considering I'm in audit's busy season.

    Sent from my BlackBerry® smartphone on 3

    Roadtrip

    Sit back and relax. That's all I need to do. For once, not having a license here finally paid off. 2 hours to Wollongong. Stopover for Mackers for breakfast and enjoying the fine weather at the beach. Now its another 3 hours to spend on the road. Not much to see in here so just decided to blog.



    Hmmm.. Just saw Batman's Dark Knight last night. It was fairly okay but I have to give it to Heath's performance which was superb.



    Going back to our roadtrip. Everything's random. We actually decided to spend the evening at canberra. Good thing I have my BB to search for cheap and convenient accommodation. Hopefully, we could see some snow. Still praying my friends would be in the mood to ski.

    Sent from my BlackBerry® smartphone on 3

    Sunday, July 20, 2008

    SYD WYD 2008 - Receive the Power

    World Youth Day 2008 concludes today as the final mass was celebrated by Pope Benedict XVI. Pilgrims slept peacefully to ensure that they would be able to fully participate on the peak event of WYD. Temp dropped to 8 degrees last night.

    Morning adoration started at 8am. I woke up at 7 and was able to be fully prepared when Pope Benedict finally arrived via helicopter. I was able to finally see him for the first time in the pope mobile. Upon sighting his holiness, I felt certain that I am really here at this memorable point in my life. Celebrated mass was really solemn and I really appreciate it. The team of WYD is about the Holy Spirit and 7 gifts.

    On an overall, even though I was really tired from the walk and the freezing temp I appreciate what WYD is all about. Its simply affirming our faith in God centered at the Holy Spirit, which brings us closer to the Father and the Son. Enabling us to be inspired on how Jesus lived His life and sacrificed His life for us. This is a call for salvation and a way to influence others through the power made by the gifts of the Holy Spirit.

    It is surreal how you can definitely feel how Catholics are passionate in rekindling this message. Just by walking alongside with them. Hearing their praises through prayers and songs. I feel the world is united through the future flock - the Youth. Different languages, one meaning. United.

    Pics from WYD 2008. More to come from Five Dock's camera.


    Pilgrim walk at Harbour Bridge

    Pilgrim Walk with Pibedoka Friends

    WYD  - on my face!


    Anyonghaseo! The Korean Group.


    Pilgrim vigil with Pope Benedict XVI

    WYD '08 finishes...

    Saturday, July 19, 2008

    Pilgrim vigil at Randwick

    World youth day has commenced for several days already but the culminating event has just begun. Now as I lay back and listen to the night concert I realised how lucky I really am for being part of this milestone event in my life. Long pilgrim walk from North Sydney to Randwick took 3.5 hours but I was overwhelmed rather than feeling tired. Tonight the pope addressed the youth regarding the gifts of the holy spirit. I tried so hard to listen to him and realised how solemn this event really is. Rather than accumulating there are far more concerns to deepen the faith and inspire others.

    Sent from my BlackBerry® smartphone on 3

    Early bird is out of the flock

    I was the first one to arrive at All Hallows parish and surprised to see the flock of pilgrims walking towards me. I felt isolated. Then a guy came towards me and greeted "buongiorno". And all I can say is the usual "hi how are you!". Its really freakin cold and all I do now is wait for my friends to arrive with full hopes that at least another fella will come along on my journey to world youth day at Randwick.

    Sent from my BlackBerry® smartphone on 3

    Thursday, July 17, 2008

    randoims

    house coilding was fun. i was able to wear my baboi jacket (refer to pic below). it was too coild staying in the southern part of NSW. i wonder how bevs could've survived. it coincides with my mintoi audit. and i was happy to help her move her stuff yesterday. imagine i was wearing three layers of clothing but it still chills me to the bones!



    to survive my visy season, i have to cook my food. and im really proud of my embutidoi. it has sultana, relish, bacon bits, cheese, spam and chorizo. speech class presentation suddenly rushed back to me.

    lets digress a bit.

    there's heaps of people in the city that you wouldnt really enjoi hanging out on a thursday night. just want to get out of the city. but come to think of it, saturday will have more pilgrims for world youth day so its better to get used to it. really excited though. already bought my thermal and sleeping bag to use for the overnight vigil at randwick. its once in a lifetime event. wasnt able to participate when it was held in manila cos i was still young then...

    Friday, July 11, 2008

    dream?!#»@!!

    Had the longest and weirdest dream. I really can't understand but there's something bizzare about dreams and most of the time we can't remember them.



    It was about climbing the steepest stone stairway and almost fell 100 feet just to take a bath. Cos I can't take shower at home cos the pilgrims have just arrived. Then upon reaching the pick of the hill, I took a bath and saw pilgrims playing naked racing with multiple hops. It was really weird cos I saw my audit partner talking about my mom and telling me he doesn't like her and she's not a partner material.



    There's more details to that especially before I reached the peak of the hill. Just couldn't recall. Anyway, I'm back to reality and my train stop is the next one.

    Sent from my BlackBerry® smartphone on 3

    Thursday, July 10, 2008

    Boyce Avenue

    Just searching through the official vid of Viva La Vida and I came across Boyce Avenue cover songs... Alejandro Manzano's vocals is really amazing. I just want to share this with you guys...

    Wednesday, July 9, 2008

    Early Arvo and Colding Party Proposal

    Contrary to yesterday, I reckon I should be home before 6pm. I'm at the rail again and no stupidty of sorts. I'm getting smarter, hey.



    I called it a day just because the client walked out on us without even having the courtesy of saying it to me. Hence, I've decided to let the team pack up and just meet very early tomorrow.



    And to note, its too damn cold. Forecasted at 6 degrees, I think throughout the following weeks it will get even worse. Indeed, a great time to hold Bevs' house colding party (cos she's leaving for "elay" soon). What do you think of my proposal? This Friday would be perfect...

    Sent from my BlackBerry® smartphone on 3

    Tuesday, July 8, 2008

    Sheer stupidity

    I hate it!!!

    The worst day ever. Stupid stupid stupid me.

    First - I already drafted my long blog about this stupidity then bevs called and the entry i thumbed on my bb was all gone.

    Second - I didn't wait for my staff and decided to walk from client to the train station. Thinking its not that far. But it is! 20 mins walking under hi-speed motion to save my face from shame when my staff sees me walking and not waiting for him. I realised I'm better off going with him for a lift. Its cold, my feet's throbbing and I have to suppress my urge to pee.

    Third - As I am in such a hurry to go home, I got on the first train I saw... thinking that all trains will lead eventually to Strathfield but I'm dead wrong. I realised half way through that its directly going to the city via different route. So I have to step out and go back to square one.

    I realised I'm better off heading to the city and back to another train via strathfield is much quicker cos of the express trains.

    Oh well, sometimes we're stupid and I just learned to be more patient.
    Sent from my BlackBerry® smartphone on 3

    Sunday, June 29, 2008

    ripped off!

    not that it means i bought a lot of things today ang got ripped off! but literally my pants got ripped off and im so conscious! its within the crotch area. :C now i have to walk like a fashion model.

    anyway, i bought a lot of things today as today would be the last day of the clearance for most of the shops. not really felt ripped off cos i got it for a great value. my first ck and 2xist undies. scarf from esprit. my first boots. bb shirt that i really really like.

    here's the pic na of bb's...

    Saturday, June 28, 2008

    re: im torn

    inspired by bevs' blog... I shall make similar thought process as well.

    a) Apple's Time capsule

    Price - $350.

    Justification - It's wireless! Even without discount this will be a great addition to my apple resources. 500GB worth of space and I just could put all my movies and TV series there without rummaging through my CD cases anymore. 1TB is too much though and too expensive ($700). Plus, I would be able to go and buy my first product at 2nd largest Apple store in the world!



    Decision - Buy it! buy it!

    b) Oakley's Spike

    Price - $250.

    Justification - My Ducati Gascan has already been badly bruised but still works fine. The moment I tried it I look like I could be the new Neo of Matrix! haha! But still, its something not urgent and it is really an impulse if I buy it.



    Decision - Have to get second opinion!

    c) LV's Damier Canvas Ludlow

    Price - $300.

    Justification - Its really really nice. Once in a lifetime one should buy an LV and i think this is it! Though, it's not on sale. And I have recently bought a new wallet. I reckon this once is extremely impulsive.



    Decision - Not this time! On second though, ghie might offer this as a bequest? similar to bevs' situation... then I would gladly accept it :D

    Disclaimer: I did not win lottery or have stack of cash in me. Just got my new credit card and I just need to use it, that's all... But still, I'm heavily indebted but I reckon if any of these shall make me happy, at the end of the day I shall have any of the above. :)

    Friday, June 27, 2008

    parfums and a bento

    its another cold friday night. dinner with bevs. had a bento box. and as i suspected i wouldn't be able to finish it. sakura's a real treat!

    bit happy now that i finally finished fieldwork for LVMH. got presents for my friends. lots of parfums that would make them happy. i just realised that i got Kenzo's L'EAUPARKENZO pour femme rather than pour homme. it means i would be giving it up. :c to my friends in sydney, just grab your parfums at my desk and consider it as my gift for last christmas. its been long delayed but its worth the wait!

    Wednesday, June 25, 2008

    Self-serve counters

    I just have to blog this cos i was really fascinated yesterday. Imagine woolies have this counters which u will be the one scanning your grocery items. Even weigh the vegetables and fruits. Then pay by card and sign electronically. T'was amazing!

    Sent from my BlackBerry® smartphone on 3

    Monday, June 23, 2008

    the consequence of pushing one button

    aaaaarggh... 

    all my post from blogger got posted to my multiply as a consequence of clicking a button.

    anyway, the other site's intended to be my day-to-day blog. and this one is just for something weird happening to me. but what the hell, might as well link the two together.

    twas a tiring day at office. all exhausted. its cold. i'm hungry. its monday. and to top it all. tomorrow, i have a meeting at 8am. how great is that?

    just finished three seasons of entourage. now i've got nothing to watch. if i were in manila. i could have bought tons of tv series or dvd collection. or on second thought, tomorrow's tuesday and its movie day. tickets are always cheap on a tuesday...

    Saturday, June 21, 2008

    randomness


    From topmost left (clockwise)...
    a) That's the must-have "beany pillow" but its too expensive to have 'em. I shall buy it when I come back to Manila.
    b) My nephew and niece... While we're waiting for swimming time! The chair's really nice. It resembles a colorful easter egg and you just keep it rolling!
    c) Luciano's dessert. Its really really amazing! Esp for chocoholic like me.
    d) Just now, its me (and Bevs is on the background) in the office (working?) while waiting for our dinner with pau pau.
    e) Kitty. taken yesterday when we had dinner at a Spanish resto. She's really happy about resigning I guess (look at her gigantic smile).
    f) Me and its winter. The only weapon is my new found love for Signature hot choco from Starbucks.
    g) Nice view of the city. Taken from Singapore.
    h) Ruby while talking to her sweetheart. We're waiting for the screening of Sex and the City.

    emptiness

    last night we had spanish dinner (i.e., tapas, paela, sangria...) 
    got a lil bored and decided to go home
    normally i would join the guys for after dinner
    but then there's something that's bothering me
    is it cos my house's a total mess or is there another reason i don't know

    now its saturday noon
    i realised half a day passed by
    so much else to do
    but i feel empty
    and i don't have the urge

    its almost two years living here
    but everything's pointless
    just couldn't think about a single thing to keep me inspired
    now i'm going to the city and find something that would make me happy
    at this point, i couldn't think of anything that satisfies me

    arrggghh... this is killing me!

    Tuesday, June 17, 2008

    re: High school days

    I've just attended WYD preparation at All Hallows in Five Dock and realised how old we were... I thought of my high school days and I guess I need to answer the following questions (from bevs) just to reminisce a decade that has been...


    1) ano section mo nung 1st yr high ka?

    Conrad. Til now I dunno what it meant or who's this saint... But from what I can remember this was the first time I got embarrassed cos I was confronted by my teacher for being so noisy. I stood outside the classroom and was standing the whole duration of the class. And take note that this is a double unit subject. 


    2)eh nung 2nd yr?

    Veronica. I remember the class sang "Because you loved me" for our beloved adviser who then turned out to be such a bitch.


    3)3rd year?

    Jerome. First time I got an honor and started joining interschool competitions for math and science.


    4)4th year?

    Simpliciano. This time I got first honorable mention and was asked to take the pledge of loyalty during graduation.


    5)anong best year for u?

    I'm so academically inclined during high school so I guess it was Fourth Year. 


    6)marami ka bang friends nun?

    Not much. I have friends who love to study and hangout in the library. And you can count them in your fingers. Cos not many of 'em loves to study as much as I do.


    7)san kau kumakain kapag lunch?

    Canteen. And nuns used to serve spaghetti with ketchup as the sauce. Ewww...


    8)san tumatambay after skul?

    Library. Air-conditioned and has lots of reading materials.


    9) lagi ka ba late pagmorning?

    Nope. Cos late comers will have to clean the whole Gymnasium.


    10) nasuspend ka na ba?

    Nope. I'm a good boy.


    11)Bakit?

    Cos I'm a good boy. Teacher's pet :)


    12)masaya ba pag foundation day?

    Yeah cos you'll use chits to buy stuff. I remember I was a member of Peer Counselors and our booth was the most profitable - it was a horror room. and I acted as a monster!


    13)have u ever danced on stage?

    Yeah during foundation day. And it sucks cos I'm the shortest so I became the center of attraction.


    14)nagka bf/gf ka ba nong highschool days mo?

    Nope.


    15)sinong all time crush mo nun?

    ZB.


    16)would u go back?

    Yeah. I wanted to be more active and cool. 


    17)ano lagi mong binibili sa canteen?

    Nerds and Yema.


    18)overpricing ba ang canteen nyo?

    Yes. As far as I can remember.


    19)nakakita ka n ba ng multo s skul?

    Nope. But there was a lot of white lady stories.


    20) u ever sang on stage pag may program?

    Nope. But given the chance I guess I would. My voice is much better now. Got 84 for pete's sake.


    21)fave subj?

    Math and Statistics


    22) nabagsak k n ba?

    Nope.


    23)have u ever been sent out?

    Yeah see no. 1 response.


    24)feel mo ba malau ang HS bldg till canteen?

    Yeah. When you reach the canteen you're oh so hungry already.


    25)have u ever ran in the court?

    Yeah for Basketball.


    26)varsity??

    I tried for volleyball but I ended up prioritising my academics.


    27) nagcutting class k b?

    Nope.


    28)san k nagpunta nun?

    N/A.


    29)favorite happenings nung highshool?

    Eraserheads concert... Prom... Contests... 


    30)do u miss ur school?

    Yeah. I wanna go back and teach someday.

    Friday, June 13, 2008

    Karaoke nights

    Splendid! My first 84. Its like passing the board exams. Haha!



    Same song.. I will struggle til i get 100.

    Sent from my BlackBerry® smartphone on 3

    Wednesday, June 11, 2008

    delayed flight

    I'm so annoyed. The flight back to Sydney was delayed for 3 hours. Good thing I was able to sleep well while waiting for takeoff. Seats were not fully occupied, which is the only consolation. I have the whole 3 seats just for myself.

    Immediately upon our return to Sydney, we ate at our favorite Korean BBQ (Doo Ri) - which i really really missed. The only task left to do is to adjust my watch and my mood. Back to bitter reality.

    Tuesday, June 10, 2008

    Singapore Flyer

    Arrived in Singapore yesterday. Plunged to the great Singapore sale. Boarded Singapore Flyer. And ended the day at Esplanade.

    From Wikepedia:
    The Singapore Flyer is a giant observation wheel in Singapore. Reaching 42 stories high, the Flyer comprises a 150 m (492 ft) diameter wheel, built over a three-story terminal building, giving it a total height of 165 m (541 ft). This exceeds The Star of Nanchang by 5 m (16 ft) and the London Eye by 30 m (98 ft). Each of the 28 air-conditioned capsules are capable of holding 28 passengers each, and a complete rotation of the wheel takes approximately 30 minutes.



    Singapore Skyline view 


    the capsule!

    creepy view directly below the capsule


    Singapore Flyer by nite

    Monday, June 9, 2008

    Immigration check!

    Got a sense of relief when i finally passed immigration. Just because i was back in manila for 10 days and got no time to spend on POEA. Good thing i was travelling to singapore and staying there overnight.



    Vacation was pretty quick but got couple of things done. Thanks to my brother who helped me get student license and i was able to drive around our neighbourhood.



    I was happy as well cos i have already attained silver status on singapore air. Now the hardest part is adjusting back to reality. I have to live alone once again. But knowing my dad is in good condition can give me comfort of renewing my contract and staying in sydney for another year or so.

    Sent from my BlackBerry® smartphone on 3

    Saturday, May 31, 2008

    sleeplessly waiting...

    finally.. the moment i was waiting for.. sense of relief after doing the final touch of the minutes of the interim closing meeting.. i looked at my watch and its quarter passed midnight. finally clicked the send button and it was like i was escaping stress in an instant. it feels so great!

    if you get the idea of living alone, you would definitely understand that under the current circumstance i am experiencing you wont think twice to sleep... tasks like:
    - rushing off to finish work and submit deliverables
    - cleaning the house cos you don't have the time to do it for the whole week
    - sorting laundry and tiding up the massive clothes chaotic world of rondz
    - cleaning the dishes after how many days of eating instant noodles and fried foods
    - packing up at the last hour, charging all that can be charged and quick check that you haven't forgotten anything else...

    then if you can imagine that it means i dont have time to sleep... or if i do, i would end up not waking up on time. no one else would be able to wake me up. i decided to just blog my time away.

    now's everything in order. i would start putting on my shoes check the locks - the lasting i want is phantom of strata in my house and start stealing my coins (yeah that's the only savings i have for now. lol.)

    im coming home. yipee doo ^_^

    Saturday, May 24, 2008

    my stress reliever

    today's nice and sunny. but it seems I've been sleeping a bit longer and been eating lotsa chocolate lately. just last night, i bought chocolate from Alps which is really gigantic. the other day, i bought nothing but Darell lea's rocky road muncher. and the day before that, i fell asleep while nibbling on Tim-tams. waaah...

    and my friend told me that I'm getting bigger! i guess that's something i succumb to during stressful times. besides singing.

    hey, I've beaten my topnotch song last night. its 71! a song from the jets called 'you got it all'. its good to know I'm improving. just in case, i wanted to shift careers. at least there's something to consider if i ever get tired of audit!

    Saturday, May 17, 2008

    rainy bm in katoomba

    literally exhausted, hungry and its raining. we're here at echo point had one last picture at 3 sisters and just waiting for our nice warm steak and red wine. this is going to be the best steak. after the long bush walk, we deserve something nice!

    Saturday, May 10, 2008

    saturday bummer

    imagine sleeping for more than 8 hours last night and still sleeping another 3 hours this afternoon for siesta. and I realised at this point the only thing i had accomplished was to cook fried rice.

    my head is aching. im broke. my friends flew to melbourne. and im all alone on a saturday night. i haven't even took a shower for crying out loud. damn this cold season!!

    come to think of it, i still have plastic money. why don't i come with a friend and have a late dinner at Hurricane. reckon's thats the best medicine. through in coupla beers and i'm good to go!

    Wednesday, May 7, 2008

    missed concert!

    So I just realised yesterday that I missed the concert of Foo Fighters. I bought the ticket way back, got a copy of their CD... It never entered my mind that last 3 May was their concert in Sydney. Aaarrghhh.. And it hurt me by about 200 bucks! Far out!

    Perth Pics

    Finally, here's some pictures from Perth vacation. Just click the link.

    Tuesday, May 6, 2008

    Unstress me

    Considering that its no longer the busiest. I want to let myself be free from any type of stress. So I am finding ways to unstress myself.

    Lying back and reading through random blogs, I always learn something new. Topic is about learning unhappiness. We seldom experience this with the stereotypes that society has placed on us. We begin to be self-conscious of little things that might ruin our day. Small things really (i.e., not looking good, gaining bit of a weight, too conscious of what you wear, working hard but not getting enough of what you expected, etc.)

    Focusing on what makes you happy is simply forgetting what other people think but how you really feel and what is happiness for you. A lot of times I keep on dragging myself to do this or to be that. Giving myself deadlines but then I keep on procrastinating things. At the end of the day, it all boils down to what makes yourself happy.

    I realised that these are just simple things like going home early and not working too late. Then cook a nice dinner, watch reruns and treating myself with a nice dessert - perfect way to keep me satisfied. Not worrying about work or how I keep my ego. Those are just rubbish thoughts that shatters my sanity.

    I also learned that there are couple of things that can make your day much better. I read through 12 points raised by a random blogger but I realised that this 3 main points below are something that can ultimately renew your spirit and make you happy both inside and out.

    1. give something that you love (in short, make sacrifices) - it maybe in the form of money to charity in lieu of shopping, time spent on working (assuming your a workaholic) to meet with long lost friends or just to make company to sad sad people, or simply being in touch with reality and what you can offer in return;

    2. walk along a park and appreciate nature more -connect more with mother nature and this time you will be able to appreciate things that you have taken for granted most of the time; and

    3. give yourself 5-10 minutes inner peace. Close your eyes and relax. - i guess there's nothing greater than having a moment with silence. you will think more clearly and let all stress release by itself.

    I reckon those things once done can really help in finding happiness within. i might do those things tomorrow. So if I'm not on my desk, you might see me on Hyde Park walking with closed eyes and giving money to everyone.