2006 Christmas Wishlist
Now this is a selfish wish list... something I made up for myself. What I think I need..
1. New headset at work
2. Flash drive 1gb
3. DVD writer
4. Swimming googles
5. Cellular phone Nokia 6630?
After the Via Astris 2006 X-Mas Party
Attended the VA yultide party last night. The party was at Brash, but this time we had everything catered. We ate pasta, potato salad, liempo, chicken chopsuey, beef, and fruit salad -- all for P150.00! The food was great, and so were the games. Thanks to Benny, Dek and Myna for making the 2006 party a success.
Too bad we had to leave early. We got a few nice gifts from the games and the exchange gifts. Now my throat is sore from all the shouting and laughing. I wonder if it will recover for our company party on Friday.
Click here to look at the other pictures I took.
Attended the VA yultide party last night. The party was at Brash, but this time we had everything catered. We ate pasta, potato salad, liempo, chicken chopsuey, beef, and fruit salad -- all for P150.00! The food was great, and so were the games. Thanks to Benny, Dek and Myna for making the 2006 party a success.
Too bad we had to leave early. We got a few nice gifts from the games and the exchange gifts. Now my throat is sore from all the shouting and laughing. I wonder if it will recover for our company party on Friday.
Click here to look at the other pictures I took.
Christmas Gifts
Some of my officemates agreed not to give each other gifts this coming Christmas (at least to save on one's expenses). But there are those who do want to practice the age-old ritual of gift giving. I always get at least one mug from these corporate Christmases, I guess mugs are pretty much generic or typical gifts one could give for their officemates. And like one of my ex-officemates, I have an extensive collection of mugs at home.
While I still haven't decided whether to buy gifts for my co-workers. I do have ideas on what to give them. Visiting Divisoria Mall and 168 every week does have its perks. I saw some interesting "trinkets" that can qualify as "office gifts", at a reasonably cheap price. I just hope they are as durable as they are cheap.
聖誕禮物
有幾位同事已經決定在這個聖誕節不要互相送禮物了(為了省一點錢)。
可是也有幾位還想繼續送禮物。
在公司的聖誕節﹐我常常拿到杯子。我想杯子是在辦公室普通送的禮物。
像以前的同事﹐我也收集了好多杯子。
我還沒決定要不要送禮物。但是我已經想到什麼禮物可以給他們。
每個星期到Divisoria Mall和一路發百貨公司﹐我看過好多便宜的產品可以送給同事們。
While I still haven't decided whether to buy gifts for my co-workers. I do have ideas on what to give them. Visiting Divisoria Mall and 168 every week does have its perks. I saw some interesting "trinkets" that can qualify as "office gifts", at a reasonably cheap price. I just hope they are as durable as they are cheap.
聖誕禮物
有幾位同事已經決定在這個聖誕節不要互相送禮物了(為了省一點錢)。
可是也有幾位還想繼續送禮物。
在公司的聖誕節﹐我常常拿到杯子。我想杯子是在辦公室普通送的禮物。
像以前的同事﹐我也收集了好多杯子。
我還沒決定要不要送禮物。但是我已經想到什麼禮物可以給他們。
每個星期到Divisoria Mall和一路發百貨公司﹐我看過好多便宜的產品可以送給同事們。
It's the season for firecrackers
I was driving the other night along Paco Singalong when all of a sudden, a huge explosion rattled my car. I thought one of the car tires ran into something and popped. But the car was still going forward smoothly. From the rear view mirror, I saw several men along the sidewalk trying to light a firecracker.
I grew up hating firecrackers. Most of my New Year memories involve loud explosions all around the house. Our neighbors love to light firecrackers, they seem to be competing with one another. Each household would spend tons of money, buying all sorts of explosives. And when the New Year arrive, they try to outdo one another, making sure that they have the loudest and brightest firework display.
By the time the clock strikes twelve, I am almost deaf. the air grows thick with smoke and I get teary eyed. When people are doing their new year countdown, I am momentarily blind and deaf.
But I do appreciate a good firework display and explosions that are controlled. It's one thing to enjoy these explosions from a safe distance. It is another thing to experience these explosions a few meters (or even a few feet) away from you.
People don't seem to know how to properly manage their pyrotechnic activities. Nor do they have the courtesy to light their crackers on a safe area. Some people would light up firecrackers on a crowded street. Others would aim their explosives near flammable materials. Thus we have legions of firecracker victims lining up at the hospital ER on New Year's Eve.
I doubt if people would really change their pryotechnic complusions. The only thing I can do is stay in a sound proof place and try to enjoy the New Year in peace and quiet.
Got this picture here.
I was driving the other night along Paco Singalong when all of a sudden, a huge explosion rattled my car. I thought one of the car tires ran into something and popped. But the car was still going forward smoothly. From the rear view mirror, I saw several men along the sidewalk trying to light a firecracker.
I grew up hating firecrackers. Most of my New Year memories involve loud explosions all around the house. Our neighbors love to light firecrackers, they seem to be competing with one another. Each household would spend tons of money, buying all sorts of explosives. And when the New Year arrive, they try to outdo one another, making sure that they have the loudest and brightest firework display.
By the time the clock strikes twelve, I am almost deaf. the air grows thick with smoke and I get teary eyed. When people are doing their new year countdown, I am momentarily blind and deaf.
But I do appreciate a good firework display and explosions that are controlled. It's one thing to enjoy these explosions from a safe distance. It is another thing to experience these explosions a few meters (or even a few feet) away from you.
People don't seem to know how to properly manage their pyrotechnic activities. Nor do they have the courtesy to light their crackers on a safe area. Some people would light up firecrackers on a crowded street. Others would aim their explosives near flammable materials. Thus we have legions of firecracker victims lining up at the hospital ER on New Year's Eve.
I doubt if people would really change their pryotechnic complusions. The only thing I can do is stay in a sound proof place and try to enjoy the New Year in peace and quiet.
Got this picture here.
A Visit to Chunky Far Flung
After dropping by Min's exhibit, Jen and I visited "Chunky Far Flung" -- an exotic shop that sells Japanese action figures, anime plushies, and other stuff influenced by Japanese culture.
Click here to see the other stuffs we saw in the shop.
Click here to see the other stuffs we saw in the shop.
Min's "Dog" Exhibits
Went to Yasmin's art exhibit called "Balancing Act" at Future Prospects Gallery, inside the Marikina Shoe Exchange (at Cubao).
Click here to view her other works.
Went to Yasmin's art exhibit called "Balancing Act" at Future Prospects Gallery, inside the Marikina Shoe Exchange (at Cubao).
Click here to view her other works.
Calvin and the Snowmen
Since the Christmas Season is fast approaching, I decided to repost these strips in my blog. Got these Calvin strips from my officemate and you can view all of them here.
Since the Christmas Season is fast approaching, I decided to repost these strips in my blog. Got these Calvin strips from my officemate and you can view all of them here.
Weekend Pilgrimage to Greenhills
It was Saturday, ten o'clock in the morning. Jen and I made plans to pick up some Mango Bravo cakes at Conti's. We drove the car to Wilsons and found ourselves stuck in traffic. Apparently everyone was headed to Greenhills to do their Christmas shopping there. We had to crawl through the traffic, starting from Clark Hatch to Unimart.
What makes people so driven to shop in Greenhills? I remembered a news article I read at yahoo news the other day. People at a local mall in Ohio continued to shop at a department store, even though the shop was on fire. I bet pinoys would also flock Greenhills, even if a natural or man-made calamity struck the shopping center.
This would be the last time I drive through Greenhills... at least until the holiday season is over.
It was Saturday, ten o'clock in the morning. Jen and I made plans to pick up some Mango Bravo cakes at Conti's. We drove the car to Wilsons and found ourselves stuck in traffic. Apparently everyone was headed to Greenhills to do their Christmas shopping there. We had to crawl through the traffic, starting from Clark Hatch to Unimart.
What makes people so driven to shop in Greenhills? I remembered a news article I read at yahoo news the other day. People at a local mall in Ohio continued to shop at a department store, even though the shop was on fire. I bet pinoys would also flock Greenhills, even if a natural or man-made calamity struck the shopping center.
This would be the last time I drive through Greenhills... at least until the holiday season is over.
Book Review: Alice Hoffman's Practical Magic
Years before the arrival of the Halliwell sisters and their trademark "Power of Three", writer Alice Hoffman came up with a novel about two witches tyring to live ordinary lives, dealing with family, and looking for love.
Practical Magic is the story of two orphaned sisters, Gillian and Sally, raised by their eccentric aunts. The sisters grew up in a household filled with magic. Their aunts acquired a reputation for being witches, selling love potions and hexes to their neighbors. The novel (and the movie) talks about their lives - from their everyday struggles to their romantic (mis)adventures.
People who watched the movie might try reading the book, since there are a lot of differences between the two. Personally I'd consider the book to be a drama story while the movie is more of a fantastic story.
In the novel, the sisters do not live with aunts and magic becomes more subtle and figurative as compared to the movie. The book focuses more on the relationships of the two sisters, it examines their struggles with one another, their families and their lovers.
I would understand why the magic took a more dominant role in the movie version. Adding more special effects - like spirits and curses would pull in more viewers. But the magical effects also succeeded in showing the sisters' relationship and struggles,
Despite their different approach, the novel and movie succeeded in portraying the characters and narrating their stories. Some people might prefer either the movie or the book, but I loved both the film adaptation and the novel.
Years before the arrival of the Halliwell sisters and their trademark "Power of Three", writer Alice Hoffman came up with a novel about two witches tyring to live ordinary lives, dealing with family, and looking for love.
Practical Magic is the story of two orphaned sisters, Gillian and Sally, raised by their eccentric aunts. The sisters grew up in a household filled with magic. Their aunts acquired a reputation for being witches, selling love potions and hexes to their neighbors. The novel (and the movie) talks about their lives - from their everyday struggles to their romantic (mis)adventures.
People who watched the movie might try reading the book, since there are a lot of differences between the two. Personally I'd consider the book to be a drama story while the movie is more of a fantastic story.
In the novel, the sisters do not live with aunts and magic becomes more subtle and figurative as compared to the movie. The book focuses more on the relationships of the two sisters, it examines their struggles with one another, their families and their lovers.
I would understand why the magic took a more dominant role in the movie version. Adding more special effects - like spirits and curses would pull in more viewers. But the magical effects also succeeded in showing the sisters' relationship and struggles,
Despite their different approach, the novel and movie succeeded in portraying the characters and narrating their stories. Some people might prefer either the movie or the book, but I loved both the film adaptation and the novel.
Does it feel like Christmas?
We just got our 13th month pay and I'm sure my officemates are already planning on how they should spend their hard earned cash. I know most of my money would go to paying off insurance bills (it's my feeble attempt to invest for a secure future...) At least I'm 80% complete with my Christmas list. I've bought gifts for most of friends and relatives already (at a reasonable/affordable cost).
Despite all these things, I don't feel the Christmas spirit in me. It seems that my more preoccupied with all the events and activities of the season (like the parties and gift giving). Deep down, I feel that this month is just like any other month in the calendar. Perhaps this is what it feels like to grow old and feel banal towards things.
I hope my inner Scrooge would lighten up soon.
We just got our 13th month pay and I'm sure my officemates are already planning on how they should spend their hard earned cash. I know most of my money would go to paying off insurance bills (it's my feeble attempt to invest for a secure future...) At least I'm 80% complete with my Christmas list. I've bought gifts for most of friends and relatives already (at a reasonable/affordable cost).
Despite all these things, I don't feel the Christmas spirit in me. It seems that my more preoccupied with all the events and activities of the season (like the parties and gift giving). Deep down, I feel that this month is just like any other month in the calendar. Perhaps this is what it feels like to grow old and feel banal towards things.
I hope my inner Scrooge would lighten up soon.
Visiting the Funeral Parlor
I went to a wake today. The dad of my friend died last week (cancer grew inside his abdomen and chest, displacing all his internal organs). We held a mass in memory of the deceased and his family.
My friend and his entire family are devout Catholics, yet despite their faith, they still retain some of the Chinese funeral traditions - from burning hell money, incense, paper lanterns, and hanging white strips of calligraphy on the funeral parlor's ceiling. I guess they wanted to follow some of the old Chinese traditions as well. But I think they are merely practicing them out of respect for the dead and for the living (particularly those elderly relatives who want to see these customs enacted).
It was a nice and simple ceremony - with a mass held in honor for the dead patriarch. At least his death was remembered and honored by those who loved him. It made me imagine my own funeral and how I wanted to be remembered by my family and friends.
I would want to keep it simple. No incense burning, no hell money, no Buddhist chants, no food offerings, or bizarre Taoist ceremonies. I'd want a mass to would be held for me every night of the wake.
It might be kind of morbid to think of my own death, but dying is what makes us human - much like birth. If people devote time and money to celebrate their birthdays, I think people should also put some thought on how they want to be honored and remembered when they die.
My friend and his entire family are devout Catholics, yet despite their faith, they still retain some of the Chinese funeral traditions - from burning hell money, incense, paper lanterns, and hanging white strips of calligraphy on the funeral parlor's ceiling. I guess they wanted to follow some of the old Chinese traditions as well. But I think they are merely practicing them out of respect for the dead and for the living (particularly those elderly relatives who want to see these customs enacted).
It was a nice and simple ceremony - with a mass held in honor for the dead patriarch. At least his death was remembered and honored by those who loved him. It made me imagine my own funeral and how I wanted to be remembered by my family and friends.
I would want to keep it simple. No incense burning, no hell money, no Buddhist chants, no food offerings, or bizarre Taoist ceremonies. I'd want a mass to would be held for me every night of the wake.
It might be kind of morbid to think of my own death, but dying is what makes us human - much like birth. If people devote time and money to celebrate their birthdays, I think people should also put some thought on how they want to be honored and remembered when they die.
Forbidden Goods in Divisoria
Jen and I went gift hunting at Divisoria today. Despite the passing of typhoon "Reming", there were a lot of people shopping at "168" and Divisoria Mall. I met up with Jen in that nameless toy mall (with the big escalator) between Divisoria Mall and Juan Luna.
There were a lot of cheap toys inside the building. Jen spent a couple of hours scouting the place, and she finally bought a toy machine gun for one of her relatives. I discovered a fake Monopoly set (obviously made in China) selling for just 150 pesos. It's a pretty cheap boardgame set, and I was tempted to buy one. But then again, I wasn't sure if the imitators got the community cards, tokens, and property cards printed correctly.
When we got out of the building, we stumbled upon a stall selling fake Legos. These fake Legos were being sold for 35, 65 and a hundred pesos. It featured sets from various Lego themes - from the Castle sets, Paradiso sets, and Lego Town.
Out of curiosity, Jen and I bought one set and examined the contents. These fake Legos were obviously patterned after the original - even the swords and horses looked like the original Lego pieces.
There were a lot of cheap toys inside the building. Jen spent a couple of hours scouting the place, and she finally bought a toy machine gun for one of her relatives. I discovered a fake Monopoly set (obviously made in China) selling for just 150 pesos. It's a pretty cheap boardgame set, and I was tempted to buy one. But then again, I wasn't sure if the imitators got the community cards, tokens, and property cards printed correctly.
When we got out of the building, we stumbled upon a stall selling fake Legos. These fake Legos were being sold for 35, 65 and a hundred pesos. It featured sets from various Lego themes - from the Castle sets, Paradiso sets, and Lego Town.
Out of curiosity, Jen and I bought one set and examined the contents. These fake Legos were obviously patterned after the original - even the swords and horses looked like the original Lego pieces.
Coffee Craze
We recently acquired a brand new coffee maker at the office. It's one of those Nescafe instant coffee machines that spews out various hot coffee concoctions at the touch of a button. The coffee maker offers drinks like black coffee, coffee with cream, Cappucino and coffee Latte.
People here are pretty much excited over this new machine. Some of my co-workers are now developing a coffee fixation after trying out the various drinks. Personally I have tried the Cappucino and Latte, and it tasted okay (though I would have added a bit more sugar).
We recently acquired a brand new coffee maker at the office. It's one of those Nescafe instant coffee machines that spews out various hot coffee concoctions at the touch of a button. The coffee maker offers drinks like black coffee, coffee with cream, Cappucino and coffee Latte.
People here are pretty much excited over this new machine. Some of my co-workers are now developing a coffee fixation after trying out the various drinks. Personally I have tried the Cappucino and Latte, and it tasted okay (though I would have added a bit more sugar).
Calm Before the Storm
Still waiting for "Reming" to hit Manila. The sun is still up, though it's partly covered by the clouds. Everyone at the office seems to be in vacation mode.
I was listening to the radio while going to work. The announcer said that the typhoon would probably arrive tomorrow morning in Manila. And this typhoon is even stronger than "Milenyo". People are supposed to be using this time to prepare for the worse storm yet.
We passed by several giant billboards at the intersection of Quirino and South Super Highway. Despite the local government's ordiance to ban the operation of these billboards, some of the structures are still up (although the ads have been lowered down in preparation for the storm). I wonder if there would be anymore billboard accidents with Reming.
The last thing I heard (from the radio announcer) is that they are hoping that the strom make a detour somewhere, so it would not strike Manila or any part of Luzon.
Still waiting for "Reming" to hit Manila. The sun is still up, though it's partly covered by the clouds. Everyone at the office seems to be in vacation mode.
I was listening to the radio while going to work. The announcer said that the typhoon would probably arrive tomorrow morning in Manila. And this typhoon is even stronger than "Milenyo". People are supposed to be using this time to prepare for the worse storm yet.
We passed by several giant billboards at the intersection of Quirino and South Super Highway. Despite the local government's ordiance to ban the operation of these billboards, some of the structures are still up (although the ads have been lowered down in preparation for the storm). I wonder if there would be anymore billboard accidents with Reming.
The last thing I heard (from the radio announcer) is that they are hoping that the strom make a detour somewhere, so it would not strike Manila or any part of Luzon.
Mano Po, Again
Jen told me that the "Mano Po" production crew will visit the kindergarden grounds of their school this weekend. They'll be filming parts of the Tsinoy movie in the campus, with some of the high school Chinese cultural dancers acting as extras in the set.
This will be the fifth "Mano Po" movie, that is if your counting "Ako Legal Wife" as part of the whole franchise. Personally I'm getting sick of having a Mano Po movie every year but appearently the producers are still trying to milk their Tsinoy Movie franchise. Its seems they are still making good money out of it, even though they are not giving a fair and accurate portrayal of the Filipino Chinese.
I just pray that the whole franchise would die out soon. Creating such horrible sequels only proves that the movie industry really lacks creativity, forcing them to recycle concepts and ideas over and over again.
This will be the fifth "Mano Po" movie, that is if your counting "Ako Legal Wife" as part of the whole franchise. Personally I'm getting sick of having a Mano Po movie every year but appearently the producers are still trying to milk their Tsinoy Movie franchise. Its seems they are still making good money out of it, even though they are not giving a fair and accurate portrayal of the Filipino Chinese.
I just pray that the whole franchise would die out soon. Creating such horrible sequels only proves that the movie industry really lacks creativity, forcing them to recycle concepts and ideas over and over again.
Leftover Issues
A few months ago, Jen and I had dinner at Aristocrat. It was a busy Saturday night, a lot of families were out dining along Roxas Boulevard, and the restaurant was packed.
While we were waiting for our food to arrive, Jen motioned me over to look at a Pinoy family seated at a nearby table. They just paid their bills and were starting to leave the restaurant. The waiters started cleaning up the table and we noticed that there were a lot of leftovers.
We watched as the waiters dumped all the food together. The family could have taken all these food as doggie bags, but they chose to leave it in the restaurant. In the end, the waiters managed to salvage one and a half plate full of java rice, three pieces of chicken barbecue (slightly eaten), and some kare-kare.
Both of us felt that the family was throwing away their money by wasting all these food. Part of me thought that they were probably doing it out of habit. I know that it is a tradition for some Filipinos to leave some leftovers in their plates – this would guarantee that they would have something to eat in the future. Some of my ex-officemates do that – order a cup of rice or porkchop, and eat only half. But it this still practical in these times?
Or maybe it's just the way we were brought up as Filipino Chinese. Our parents would scold us whenever we have leftovers. They insisted that we finish everything in our plates. It was good training for us, so that we'd only put as much food in our plates, without wasting or having any leftovers.
A few months ago, Jen and I had dinner at Aristocrat. It was a busy Saturday night, a lot of families were out dining along Roxas Boulevard, and the restaurant was packed.
While we were waiting for our food to arrive, Jen motioned me over to look at a Pinoy family seated at a nearby table. They just paid their bills and were starting to leave the restaurant. The waiters started cleaning up the table and we noticed that there were a lot of leftovers.
We watched as the waiters dumped all the food together. The family could have taken all these food as doggie bags, but they chose to leave it in the restaurant. In the end, the waiters managed to salvage one and a half plate full of java rice, three pieces of chicken barbecue (slightly eaten), and some kare-kare.
Both of us felt that the family was throwing away their money by wasting all these food. Part of me thought that they were probably doing it out of habit. I know that it is a tradition for some Filipinos to leave some leftovers in their plates – this would guarantee that they would have something to eat in the future. Some of my ex-officemates do that – order a cup of rice or porkchop, and eat only half. But it this still practical in these times?
Or maybe it's just the way we were brought up as Filipino Chinese. Our parents would scold us whenever we have leftovers. They insisted that we finish everything in our plates. It was good training for us, so that we'd only put as much food in our plates, without wasting or having any leftovers.
Healthy Merienda Food Under 20 Bucks
I've spent years working here in Makati and I still find it difficult to buy healthy food that is less than 20 bucks. If you're in a tight budget, you're often forced to eat cheap junk food.
Do you have to shell out a lot of money just to eat a healthy merienda? Among the few healthy (and cheap) food products I discovered being sold in Makati are:
* Steamed corn (for around 12 to 15 pesos)
* banana bread being sold at a nearby bakery or 7-11 store (for around 10 to 18 pesos)
* banana or fruits at the nearby canteen/carinderia (unforutnately our canteen closes after lunch)
There really isn't that much option for cheap and healthy food here in the city. No wonder people choose to consume junk food since it is more available.
I've spent years working here in Makati and I still find it difficult to buy healthy food that is less than 20 bucks. If you're in a tight budget, you're often forced to eat cheap junk food.
Do you have to shell out a lot of money just to eat a healthy merienda? Among the few healthy (and cheap) food products I discovered being sold in Makati are:
* Steamed corn (for around 12 to 15 pesos)
* banana bread being sold at a nearby bakery or 7-11 store (for around 10 to 18 pesos)
* banana or fruits at the nearby canteen/carinderia (unforutnately our canteen closes after lunch)
There really isn't that much option for cheap and healthy food here in the city. No wonder people choose to consume junk food since it is more available.
Early Christmas Gift
Met the old La Salle gang for lunch yesterday at the old house of pancakes. It's been a long time since we last came together and it was nice catching up on each others' lives.
Eddie then surprised us with an early christmas gift -- the first eight episode of Heroes. I am very grateful for the gift. Even though I watched the fist seven episodes already at the office (during non-working hours), I still wanted to have a personal copy of the series and I got my wish.
So Jen and I watched the first episode last night (it was her first time to watch it, and my second). It was good to watch the episode again since I noticed some stuff/dialogue that I missed during my first watch.
After we finished, Jen was asking if there's a continuation. I said yes. She wanted to continue watching but it was late (she has to wake up at 6am to go to work). At least she seem to like the show as well.
Met the old La Salle gang for lunch yesterday at the old house of pancakes. It's been a long time since we last came together and it was nice catching up on each others' lives.
Eddie then surprised us with an early christmas gift -- the first eight episode of Heroes. I am very grateful for the gift. Even though I watched the fist seven episodes already at the office (during non-working hours), I still wanted to have a personal copy of the series and I got my wish.
So Jen and I watched the first episode last night (it was her first time to watch it, and my second). It was good to watch the episode again since I noticed some stuff/dialogue that I missed during my first watch.
After we finished, Jen was asking if there's a continuation. I said yes. She wanted to continue watching but it was late (she has to wake up at 6am to go to work). At least she seem to like the show as well.
傳染暑假病
這一月過去就是聖誕節了﹐我所知道的人都傳染了“ “ 暑假 ” 病。
同事們都在看日 曆﹐他們在擦最近的節日 (希望它不會適逢在週末 )。
一些朋友就 開始安排在聖誕節要做的事情。
大家有一點不高興﹐因為今年的聖誕節適逢星期一 ﹐明天星期二就要回工作了。
同事們都在看日 曆﹐他們在擦最近的節日 (希望它不會適逢在週末 )。
一些朋友就 開始安排在聖誕節要做的事情。
大家有一點不高興﹐因為今年的聖誕節適逢星期一 ﹐明天星期二就要回工作了。
Attack of the "Showbiz Moms"
Last weekend, we attended the birthday celebration of a family friend in one of those Chinese restaurants in Greenhills. We were seated in a table with old couples (almost the same age as my parents). For a typical Chinese birthday party, it was good. The food was prepared creatively and everyone seemed to enjoy the take home presents given by the hosts.
When it came to the final meal, the host's family stood up and started mingling with the guests. One of the hosts came to our table and started chatting with us. One of the mothers in our table asked the host why her son did not perform during the meal.
Everyone at the party knew about the host's son, who was a great vocalist and a gifted tenor. He loved to song those high operatic music, and everyone adored his voice.
The mother explained that her son was resting his voice for a performance the next day. A few of the mothers in our table started calling the poor boy (who was unfortunately standing a few tables away). They started pressuring him to sing.
I could not help but pity the young man, he smiled and politely tried to decline. But the mothers were relentless, they continued to coerce him to sing for them. I thought this sort of thing only happens to small kids (when their mothers trick them to dance or sing at parties). Here we have a mature college student being forced to do something he didn't want to do.
The mothers continued to badger him, even my mother (and the boy's mother) joined in. They finally convinced him to sing one song and he did perform quite well (in acapella). After he finished, some of the mothers clamoured for another one. But this time he refused and was saved by his father (who called him to talk to the waiters).
I don't know if I should feel sorry for the boy. With great musical talent comes great pressure to perform in front of relatives and friends. But then again, he must enjoy the clamouring and the adoration. Why else would he put up will all these mothers bugging him to sing all the time?
"Showbiz" 媽媽攻擊
上週我們在清山一個餐廳參加一個生日宴會。我們跟一些老夫婦(大概像我父母一樣的年齡)坐在一起。
雖然這是一個普通的中國生日宴會﹐做的菜很不錯。每餐創造的很好﹐大家也喜歡主持人送的禮物。
在出甜食的時候﹐主持人一家站起來﹐開始跟客人談話。一個主持人來我們桌子﹐跟大家聊天。桌子的一個母親問主持人﹕“為什麼妳兒子吃飯時沒有表演﹖”
大家知道她的兒子是一個天才的男高音.大家喜歡聽他唱歌。
主持人就解釋她兒子明天有大表演﹐所以在休止他的咽喉。我們桌子的一些媽媽開始叫那個孩子(他很倒霉﹐站在附近的桌子)。這些媽媽就開始勉強他去唱歌。
我真的對不起這個傢伙。他笑一笑﹐文雅的拒絕。但是這些母親不間斷的強迫他。我以為這種事只發生在小孩子們(他們母親在宴會時﹐叫他們去跳舞﹐唱歌)但是這個是一個年輕﹐讀大學的男人﹐被強迫做他不喜歡做的事。
這些媽媽繼續強迫他﹐連我媽媽(跟主持人)也在鬧了。他們終於叫他唱一首歌。他唱的不錯。唱完時﹐有些媽媽又叫他唱新的歌。當時他爸爸來救他(叫他去看服務員)。
我該不該對不起這個孩子﹖有這麼大的音樂天才﹐也有這麼大的壓力來向別人表演。其實他也喜歡被敬愛﹐被喧鬧。他為什麼願意忍受這些母親的強迫呢﹖
When it came to the final meal, the host's family stood up and started mingling with the guests. One of the hosts came to our table and started chatting with us. One of the mothers in our table asked the host why her son did not perform during the meal.
Everyone at the party knew about the host's son, who was a great vocalist and a gifted tenor. He loved to song those high operatic music, and everyone adored his voice.
The mother explained that her son was resting his voice for a performance the next day. A few of the mothers in our table started calling the poor boy (who was unfortunately standing a few tables away). They started pressuring him to sing.
I could not help but pity the young man, he smiled and politely tried to decline. But the mothers were relentless, they continued to coerce him to sing for them. I thought this sort of thing only happens to small kids (when their mothers trick them to dance or sing at parties). Here we have a mature college student being forced to do something he didn't want to do.
The mothers continued to badger him, even my mother (and the boy's mother) joined in. They finally convinced him to sing one song and he did perform quite well (in acapella). After he finished, some of the mothers clamoured for another one. But this time he refused and was saved by his father (who called him to talk to the waiters).
I don't know if I should feel sorry for the boy. With great musical talent comes great pressure to perform in front of relatives and friends. But then again, he must enjoy the clamouring and the adoration. Why else would he put up will all these mothers bugging him to sing all the time?
"Showbiz" 媽媽攻擊
上週我們在清山一個餐廳參加一個生日宴會。我們跟一些老夫婦(大概像我父母一樣的年齡)坐在一起。
雖然這是一個普通的中國生日宴會﹐做的菜很不錯。每餐創造的很好﹐大家也喜歡主持人送的禮物。
在出甜食的時候﹐主持人一家站起來﹐開始跟客人談話。一個主持人來我們桌子﹐跟大家聊天。桌子的一個母親問主持人﹕“為什麼妳兒子吃飯時沒有表演﹖”
大家知道她的兒子是一個天才的男高音.大家喜歡聽他唱歌。
主持人就解釋她兒子明天有大表演﹐所以在休止他的咽喉。我們桌子的一些媽媽開始叫那個孩子(他很倒霉﹐站在附近的桌子)。這些媽媽就開始勉強他去唱歌。
我真的對不起這個傢伙。他笑一笑﹐文雅的拒絕。但是這些母親不間斷的強迫他。我以為這種事只發生在小孩子們(他們母親在宴會時﹐叫他們去跳舞﹐唱歌)但是這個是一個年輕﹐讀大學的男人﹐被強迫做他不喜歡做的事。
這些媽媽繼續強迫他﹐連我媽媽(跟主持人)也在鬧了。他們終於叫他唱一首歌。他唱的不錯。唱完時﹐有些媽媽又叫他唱新的歌。當時他爸爸來救他(叫他去看服務員)。
我該不該對不起這個孩子﹖有這麼大的音樂天才﹐也有這麼大的壓力來向別人表演。其實他也喜歡被敬愛﹐被喧鬧。他為什麼願意忍受這些母親的強迫呢﹖
Starbucks 2007 Planners
I heard unconfirmed news that Starbucks is already giving away coupons for their 2007 planners. Most of my officemates are excited about this. They are planning a trip to one of the coffeeshops this coming Friday (our payday), just to buy coffee and accumulate receipts/stickers. I hope they won't get disappointed.
Personally I wish they are still selling their choco-banana frap. for me, it's probably the best drink they created.
星巴克2007曆書
我聽到星巴克又在發卡片送它們2007年的曆書。
我同事一聽到這個消息就很高興。
他們想在禮拜五去附近的咖啡館﹐買咖啡﹐拿卡片。
我希望他們會拿到這個卡片。
我只想買到星巴克的巧克力-香蕉的冰咖啡(choco-banana frap).
這是我最喜歡喝的咖啡飲料。
Personally I wish they are still selling their choco-banana frap. for me, it's probably the best drink they created.
星巴克2007曆書
我聽到星巴克又在發卡片送它們2007年的曆書。
我同事一聽到這個消息就很高興。
他們想在禮拜五去附近的咖啡館﹐買咖啡﹐拿卡片。
我希望他們會拿到這個卡片。
我只想買到星巴克的巧克力-香蕉的冰咖啡(choco-banana frap).
這是我最喜歡喝的咖啡飲料。
Listening to Teresa Teng
When I was young, our family always listened to Teresa Teng's songs. My parents and grandfather loved to hear her voice. At that time, I couldn't understand what she was singing about, but I thought the music was nice.
Her songs were pleasant to hear, and very romantic, but I think they are a bit sad. Teresa Teng always sings about lost love, and lonely songs. Even though she died already, a lot of people still loved her music.
I could say that Teresa Teng's music helped me learn Chinese. At that time I was just in grade school, starting to learn Mandarin. I encountered a lot of characters which I couldn't understand (At home we only use Hokkien and rarely use Mandarin).
But after listening to Teresa Teng's music in my parents' office everyday, I finally understood what she was singing about, and also recognized a lot of Chinese characters.
In memory of Teresa Teng, I found some of her famous songs and lyrics. I hope everyone would be able to enjoy it.
收聽鄧麗君
小的時候我家常常收聽鄧麗君的歌。
我父母跟祖父非常喜歡聽她的聲音。
當時我還不明白她在長什麼﹐但是我覺得音樂好聽。
她的歌很好聽﹐很浪漫﹐但是我想這些歌很悲哀。
鄧麗君常常唱失戀﹐難過的歌。
雖然她已經過世了﹐很多人還喜歡聽她的歌。
我可以說﹐鄧麗君的歌幫我學華語。
當時我在小學才開始學習中文﹐
遇到好多很難的中國字﹐不知道怎麼念出來
(我們家裡只用閩南話﹐很少用普通話)。
天天在父母的辦公室聽到鄧麗君的歌﹐
我終於明白她在唱什麼﹐認識了好多華語字。
為了紀念她﹐我找到了鄧麗君最出名的歌。
希望你們能夠欣賞她。
Her songs were pleasant to hear, and very romantic, but I think they are a bit sad. Teresa Teng always sings about lost love, and lonely songs. Even though she died already, a lot of people still loved her music.
I could say that Teresa Teng's music helped me learn Chinese. At that time I was just in grade school, starting to learn Mandarin. I encountered a lot of characters which I couldn't understand (At home we only use Hokkien and rarely use Mandarin).
But after listening to Teresa Teng's music in my parents' office everyday, I finally understood what she was singing about, and also recognized a lot of Chinese characters.
In memory of Teresa Teng, I found some of her famous songs and lyrics. I hope everyone would be able to enjoy it.
收聽鄧麗君
小的時候我家常常收聽鄧麗君的歌。
我父母跟祖父非常喜歡聽她的聲音。
當時我還不明白她在長什麼﹐但是我覺得音樂好聽。
她的歌很好聽﹐很浪漫﹐但是我想這些歌很悲哀。
鄧麗君常常唱失戀﹐難過的歌。
雖然她已經過世了﹐很多人還喜歡聽她的歌。
我可以說﹐鄧麗君的歌幫我學華語。
當時我在小學才開始學習中文﹐
遇到好多很難的中國字﹐不知道怎麼念出來
(我們家裡只用閩南話﹐很少用普通話)。
天天在父母的辦公室聽到鄧麗君的歌﹐
我終於明白她在唱什麼﹐認識了好多華語字。
為了紀念她﹐我找到了鄧麗君最出名的歌。
希望你們能夠欣賞她。
辦公室又減少兩個人
這星期我們的部門又減少了兩個人。
一個要去美國陪她老公。
一個找到了新的工作。
上次我們經理報告﹕公司的人員越來越多
經理打算明年要擴大公司﹐增加一千個人員。
但是我們的部門比上年少了一半。
好幾個同事也打算新年後要離開﹐
看起來我們這個部門不穩定。
後來這個公司會剩下機個人﹖
一個要去美國陪她老公。
一個找到了新的工作。
上次我們經理報告﹕公司的人員越來越多
經理打算明年要擴大公司﹐增加一千個人員。
但是我們的部門比上年少了一半。
好幾個同事也打算新年後要離開﹐
看起來我們這個部門不穩定。
後來這個公司會剩下機個人﹖
Lego Sale at Robinson's Place
If you have the time, you might want to drop by Robinson's Place. There is a weekend salke and Gift Gate is disposing it's last few lego sets. Aside from the 99 peso assorted brick packs, all Harry Potter lego box sets are on 50% discount.
These are some of the sets that are on sale:
Professor Lupin's Classroom (4752) Around 870 pesos.
Draco and the Hippogriff. Around 270 pesos.
Sirus Black's escape. Around 870 pesos.
Happy shopping and building!
These are some of the sets that are on sale:
Professor Lupin's Classroom (4752) Around 870 pesos.
Draco and the Hippogriff. Around 270 pesos.
Sirus Black's escape. Around 870 pesos.
Happy shopping and building!
New Lego Toys
I grew up playing Lego. I was seven or eight when my aunt gave me my first Lego set. It was a factory/construction set, with various cogs, wheels, and battery-powered motors. I used this basic set to create things from cars, boats, spaceships, and miniaturized towns. In the following years, I got more Lego sets from my relatives. I got a Lego Castle box set from my Uncle and a Lego Technic Car from my Godfather.
I could say that playing with Lego helped me develop a good imagination. It helped me create different worlds and objects. I remember bring some friends over to my house and we'd spend the afternoon paying with my Lego set (this was before the advent of Atari and Apple computers).
I stopped playing Lego but I still kept an eye out for new Lego sets. Over the years, I've seen Lego expand into all sorts of themes. From pirate ships and ninja temples to Star Wars and Harry Potter sets. These newer sets look interesting but they are a bit expensive. They are also composed of bigger pieces, which can be easily assembled. There's not that much challenge to make them.
Currently, Lego has expanded its line to cover other cartoon-related products. There are Lego versions of "Avatar the Last Airbender", "Batman", and even "Spongebob". Here are some of the products I discovered in the Lego dot com website.
("The Air Temple" from Avatar the Last Airbender)
("Bikini Bottom" from Spongebob)
("Arkham Asylum" from Batman)
These new sets are nice and I want to look at the actual sets. Unfornuately Gift Gate is not selling any new Lego models right now. I think they are disposing of their old lego stocks. The good news is that Gift Gate is selling small packs of Lego at 99 pesos per pack. It's a good bargain for those who are starting their lego collection or those who looking for particular lego parts.
I could say that playing with Lego helped me develop a good imagination. It helped me create different worlds and objects. I remember bring some friends over to my house and we'd spend the afternoon paying with my Lego set (this was before the advent of Atari and Apple computers).
I stopped playing Lego but I still kept an eye out for new Lego sets. Over the years, I've seen Lego expand into all sorts of themes. From pirate ships and ninja temples to Star Wars and Harry Potter sets. These newer sets look interesting but they are a bit expensive. They are also composed of bigger pieces, which can be easily assembled. There's not that much challenge to make them.
Currently, Lego has expanded its line to cover other cartoon-related products. There are Lego versions of "Avatar the Last Airbender", "Batman", and even "Spongebob". Here are some of the products I discovered in the Lego dot com website.
("The Air Temple" from Avatar the Last Airbender)
("Bikini Bottom" from Spongebob)
("Arkham Asylum" from Batman)
These new sets are nice and I want to look at the actual sets. Unfornuately Gift Gate is not selling any new Lego models right now. I think they are disposing of their old lego stocks. The good news is that Gift Gate is selling small packs of Lego at 99 pesos per pack. It's a good bargain for those who are starting their lego collection or those who looking for particular lego parts.
Elf Only Inn
Elf Only Inn
"Written and drawn by Josh Sortelli, Elf Only Inn is a webcomic set in the virtualization of a fantasy chat room. Though its cast represents a broad spectrum of gaming, fantasy, horror, and science fiction genres, each character is actually an avatar for a chat room participant. Represented through their characters, it is about the relationships, neuroses, and sub-cultures that grow up around online communities.
It (the webcomic) started out as a copy-and-paste comic, with each of the characters having one image modified in minor ways between the panels and strips. The author used this format because it represented the static nature of the avatars used in most chat rooms and online forums. Later on, however, the artwork became more dynamic, and he eventually abandoned copy-and-paste altogether."
-- Taken from Wikipedia
I stumbled on the webcomic by accident the other day. I could'nt help but laugh at the jokes and the characters. All of them reminded me of my mIRC days, hanging out in RPG chat rooms, playing a vampire character and bugging other "angst ridden" characters from the World of Darkness.
"Written and drawn by Josh Sortelli, Elf Only Inn is a webcomic set in the virtualization of a fantasy chat room. Though its cast represents a broad spectrum of gaming, fantasy, horror, and science fiction genres, each character is actually an avatar for a chat room participant. Represented through their characters, it is about the relationships, neuroses, and sub-cultures that grow up around online communities.
It (the webcomic) started out as a copy-and-paste comic, with each of the characters having one image modified in minor ways between the panels and strips. The author used this format because it represented the static nature of the avatars used in most chat rooms and online forums. Later on, however, the artwork became more dynamic, and he eventually abandoned copy-and-paste altogether."
-- Taken from Wikipedia
I stumbled on the webcomic by accident the other day. I could'nt help but laugh at the jokes and the characters. All of them reminded me of my mIRC days, hanging out in RPG chat rooms, playing a vampire character and bugging other "angst ridden" characters from the World of Darkness.
Puppies at Home
Three weeks ago, one of our dogs gave birth to six adorable puppies. They look like tiny puffballs running around the garage, annoying their mother. We want to keep all of them, but having six more pets would be costly. My mom just gave away one of the puppies. We're trying to find other people who are willing to take them in.
Two Ghost Festivals in a year
Apparently there are two Ghost festivals in this year's Chinese Lunar calendar. The Chinese Ghost Festival is equivalent to the Western "All Soul's Day", where people go to the cemetery and commemorate the dead. According to Chinese tradition, this is the time when the gates of hell are opened and ghosts from the nether world are free to roam among the living. These ghosts return to visit their relatives and friends, most of them are hungry and are looking for food (hence, the local Tsinoy coined the term "Hungry Ghosts").
During this time, Chinese from all over the world would prepare ritual food (to offer to the ghosts), visit/pray at temples. burn incense and hell money. My parents would buy some canned goods and order cooked food, which they'll arrange in front of my grandparents' altar.
What makes this year so special is the fact that there are two Ghost Festivals (although most Tsinoys prefer to celebrate the latter festival). This is the first double celebration in ages. I heard a lot of Tsinoys complain about this unlucky time. Such an event only shows that we are trully living in a very "troubled" time, where "bad karma / misfortune" is everywhere.
Part of me thinks this is plain superstition, that most Chinese blame their misery on the stars (rather than accept full responsiblity for their actions). But another part of me tend to agree with them. I guess my belief comes from following the Chinese customs and traditions. Events such as these have a major influence on other Chinese practices.
Many Tsinoys schedule their businesses, marriage, and personal activities around celebrations such as these. Most of them would wait for months before they'd move furniture or get married. Whether I'd believe on the Ghost Festival or not, the festival does have an affect on my family and on my life.
一年﹐兩個鬼月
在中國的陰曆﹐今年有兩個鬼月。
中國鬼月像西方的萬聖節。
在這節日﹐人們都去墓地來紀念過世的親友。
根據中國傳統﹐在這天地獄的大門會打開﹐各種鬼魂就回世界找他們活著的親人。
這些鬼魂一年沒吃過飯﹐就會著食物(所以菲國華僑稱呼他們叫“餓鬼”)。
在鬼月時﹐中國人就會準備好多飯菜(來崇拜鬼魂)﹐拜訪廟宇﹐點燃香,灼燒鬼魂金錢。
我父母會買一些罐頭﹐點幾個小菜﹐整齊的安排在祖父母的祭壇上。
今年很特別﹐因為有兩個鬼月(但是很多菲華只慶祝最後個鬼月日子)。
很多菲華相信這是個不幸的年。
這只證明世界是一個很煩惱的地方﹐壞的因果也很多。
我想這都是迷信。很多中國人遇到困難時﹐就怪天怪地(不承認自己有責任)。
但是我也相信這是中國古老傳統的信仰。這些節日對中國人有很大的影響。
很多菲華人按照陰曆日子來安排他們的商業﹐婚姻﹐和私人活動。
有些人願意等幾個月後才搬家或結婚。
不管我相信不相信鬼月﹐這個節日對我社會和家庭有很大的影響。
During this time, Chinese from all over the world would prepare ritual food (to offer to the ghosts), visit/pray at temples. burn incense and hell money. My parents would buy some canned goods and order cooked food, which they'll arrange in front of my grandparents' altar.
What makes this year so special is the fact that there are two Ghost Festivals (although most Tsinoys prefer to celebrate the latter festival). This is the first double celebration in ages. I heard a lot of Tsinoys complain about this unlucky time. Such an event only shows that we are trully living in a very "troubled" time, where "bad karma / misfortune" is everywhere.
Part of me thinks this is plain superstition, that most Chinese blame their misery on the stars (rather than accept full responsiblity for their actions). But another part of me tend to agree with them. I guess my belief comes from following the Chinese customs and traditions. Events such as these have a major influence on other Chinese practices.
Many Tsinoys schedule their businesses, marriage, and personal activities around celebrations such as these. Most of them would wait for months before they'd move furniture or get married. Whether I'd believe on the Ghost Festival or not, the festival does have an affect on my family and on my life.
一年﹐兩個鬼月
在中國的陰曆﹐今年有兩個鬼月。
中國鬼月像西方的萬聖節。
在這節日﹐人們都去墓地來紀念過世的親友。
根據中國傳統﹐在這天地獄的大門會打開﹐各種鬼魂就回世界找他們活著的親人。
這些鬼魂一年沒吃過飯﹐就會著食物(所以菲國華僑稱呼他們叫“餓鬼”)。
在鬼月時﹐中國人就會準備好多飯菜(來崇拜鬼魂)﹐拜訪廟宇﹐點燃香,灼燒鬼魂金錢。
我父母會買一些罐頭﹐點幾個小菜﹐整齊的安排在祖父母的祭壇上。
今年很特別﹐因為有兩個鬼月(但是很多菲華只慶祝最後個鬼月日子)。
很多菲華相信這是個不幸的年。
這只證明世界是一個很煩惱的地方﹐壞的因果也很多。
我想這都是迷信。很多中國人遇到困難時﹐就怪天怪地(不承認自己有責任)。
但是我也相信這是中國古老傳統的信仰。這些節日對中國人有很大的影響。
很多菲華人按照陰曆日子來安排他們的商業﹐婚姻﹐和私人活動。
有些人願意等幾個月後才搬家或結婚。
不管我相信不相信鬼月﹐這個節日對我社會和家庭有很大的影響。
離開公司
今天是我們一位同事的最後一天了。她在新加坡找到了工作﹐就決定離開我們的公司。大家 為她很高興﹐但是我們也有一點難過。我們的部門又減少了一個職員﹐ 剩下來的同事不相以前那 麼吵。
其實我們有自己的打算﹐有的同事也在找別的工作。我想大家只在等十二月的工資福利﹐ 明年很多人也會離開。
我也在找工作。這機個月我們部門沒有工作可做﹐ 所以現在我們在做另外一個部門的事。現在的工作比較單調。有的同事整天在電腦或網路里看電視。有的人覺得這種無聊的工作很不錯﹐ 但是我想我們只在浪費工資的錢﹐浪費自己的時間。
其實我們有自己的打算﹐有的同事也在找別的工作。我想大家只在等十二月的工資福利﹐ 明年很多人也會離開。
我也在找工作。這機個月我們部門沒有工作可做﹐ 所以現在我們在做另外一個部門的事。現在的工作比較單調。有的同事整天在電腦或網路里看電視。有的人覺得這種無聊的工作很不錯﹐ 但是我想我們只在浪費工資的錢﹐浪費自己的時間。
教書
我剛才跟 Ochie 講話。他現在有新的工作。
Ochie 剛剛讀完他的碩士學位。
他打算在拉薩大 學 教文學。他講過那邊的工資不錯。
一個 教 師 每個月能 賺 三萬多披索。
我 真的祝福 Ochie,希望他這次會成功。
Ochie也提過拉薩大學有好多博士學位。
他想一面當 教師﹐一面當博士生。
拉薩有三種文學的博士學銜。
他 在 鼓 勵 我 繼續 學習文學﹐ 但是我現在不想回到 學校讀書了。
Ochie 剛剛讀完他的碩士學位。
他打算在拉薩大 學 教文學。他講過那邊的工資不錯。
一個 教 師 每個月能 賺 三萬多披索。
我 真的祝福 Ochie,希望他這次會成功。
Ochie也提過拉薩大學有好多博士學位。
他想一面當 教師﹐一面當博士生。
拉薩有三種文學的博士學銜。
他 在 鼓 勵 我 繼續 學習文學﹐ 但是我現在不想回到 學校讀書了。
Trip to Australia (A travel log)
I finally had the time to write a decent post of our trip to Australia. After weeks of sorting through my files and pictures, I have created a synopsis of the things that happened during our stay in the land down under.
Jen and I spent eight days in Australia, travelling to three cities -- Sydney, Melbourne and Gold Coast. We stayed an average of two days in Sydney and Melbourne, and four days in Gold Coast. It was a wonderful and relaxing experience. I definitely recommend Australia as a tourist destination, with its nice natural sceneries and sophisticated urban cities. Unfortunately there is no night life there... stores and malls close at six in the evening.
Anyway, you can visit these links to get a brief summary of what happened to us during our stay in Australia...
Jen and I spent eight days in Australia, travelling to three cities -- Sydney, Melbourne and Gold Coast. We stayed an average of two days in Sydney and Melbourne, and four days in Gold Coast. It was a wonderful and relaxing experience. I definitely recommend Australia as a tourist destination, with its nice natural sceneries and sophisticated urban cities. Unfortunately there is no night life there... stores and malls close at six in the evening.
Anyway, you can visit these links to get a brief summary of what happened to us during our stay in Australia...
Shaving While Commuting...
My officemates and I would usually go down to the basement canteen to have our lunch. After we finish eating, we would take some time to relax and chat with one another. Yesterday the girls from my office were talking about inappropriate/disgusting things that men would do in public.
One of my officemates mentioned about a guy she saw carrying a battery powered razor, shaving his beard while strolling on the sidewalk, going to work. It seems rather inappropriate or strange to find someone removing his facial hair in public... unless (the girls all agreed) the guy is good looking. At least an electric razor is better than using a Gillette razor.
I then steered the conversation from inappropriate to disgusting when I told them how a guy once sat next to me on the jeep and started shaving. What made the whole experience disgusting what that the guy was using two 25 centavo coins to pluck out each strand of hair in his chin. The guy wasn't ashamed or conscious of doing anything wrong, he simply pulled out one facial hair at a time (and seemed to enjoy every moment of it).
I remembered staring at the guy, amazed at his high level of tolerance. Plucking out facial hair is very painful and this guy seems to be oblivious to the pain. The other passengers were also indifferent to what the guy was doing, despite the fact that he was publicly grooming himself in front of them.
My co-workers were totally grossed out from my story. I told them that I had completely forgetten about the incident. It was their fault for letting me remember it with their shaving in the public story.
One of my officemates mentioned about a guy she saw carrying a battery powered razor, shaving his beard while strolling on the sidewalk, going to work. It seems rather inappropriate or strange to find someone removing his facial hair in public... unless (the girls all agreed) the guy is good looking. At least an electric razor is better than using a Gillette razor.
I then steered the conversation from inappropriate to disgusting when I told them how a guy once sat next to me on the jeep and started shaving. What made the whole experience disgusting what that the guy was using two 25 centavo coins to pluck out each strand of hair in his chin. The guy wasn't ashamed or conscious of doing anything wrong, he simply pulled out one facial hair at a time (and seemed to enjoy every moment of it).
I remembered staring at the guy, amazed at his high level of tolerance. Plucking out facial hair is very painful and this guy seems to be oblivious to the pain. The other passengers were also indifferent to what the guy was doing, despite the fact that he was publicly grooming himself in front of them.
My co-workers were totally grossed out from my story. I told them that I had completely forgetten about the incident. It was their fault for letting me remember it with their shaving in the public story.
Being happy despite of everything else...
Yesterday I came across an article in the Philippine Inquirer, claiming that the Philippines ranked 17th as one of the happiest places on Earth. Other third world countires, such as Colombia, Costa Rica, Dominica and Panama, belong to the top five in the Happy Planet Index.
So does this mean that people from third world countries are happier compared to people from developed countries such as the United States (150th), Canada (111th), Singapore (131st), or Japan (95th)?
I also noticed that these top five countries are predominantly Catholic/Christian in faith. Does this mean that Christians live happier lives?
Perhaps the stress level here is lower, and the family ties are stronger. Or maybe the consumerist/commercialism attitude is not as strong in the Philippines? At least this is something that we Filipinos can be proud of.
So does this mean that people from third world countries are happier compared to people from developed countries such as the United States (150th), Canada (111th), Singapore (131st), or Japan (95th)?
I also noticed that these top five countries are predominantly Catholic/Christian in faith. Does this mean that Christians live happier lives?
Perhaps the stress level here is lower, and the family ties are stronger. Or maybe the consumerist/commercialism attitude is not as strong in the Philippines? At least this is something that we Filipinos can be proud of.
Wanna be a Porn Writer?
One of my officemates recounted an experience she had while applying as a writer a few months back. She was looking for a writer position at jobstreet and noticed this company advertisement. The ad looked respectable and credible. It was looking for online writers - those with a flair in creative writing.
My officemate applied for the position and after a few days, someone called her up for a job interview in Makati. She went to the office and got interviewed. There she was informed that the company was looking for people to write for their porn sites. The interviewer told her that the job pays well (around 25k a month), since this isn't really a job suited for everyone.
The interviewer also told her that she had to take a test but she may opt to leave right there and then. But my officemate agreed to take the exam, since she was now curious and wanted to take on the challenge of writing some erotica.
The interviewer then sent her to a computer terminal with four pictures. The test required her to make up a story from these four pictures. My officemate thougth she could handle the pictures, thinking that these were just soft pornography. But the pictures were far from the R18 scenes in the movies.
It took her sometime to finish the "test". There were other applicants coming in and out of the room (all of them guys). They had an easier time finishing the exam, typing as fast as they could. Once she finished her story, she quickly left the company.
Obviously my officemate never came back for her second interview.
My officemate applied for the position and after a few days, someone called her up for a job interview in Makati. She went to the office and got interviewed. There she was informed that the company was looking for people to write for their porn sites. The interviewer told her that the job pays well (around 25k a month), since this isn't really a job suited for everyone.
The interviewer also told her that she had to take a test but she may opt to leave right there and then. But my officemate agreed to take the exam, since she was now curious and wanted to take on the challenge of writing some erotica.
The interviewer then sent her to a computer terminal with four pictures. The test required her to make up a story from these four pictures. My officemate thougth she could handle the pictures, thinking that these were just soft pornography. But the pictures were far from the R18 scenes in the movies.
It took her sometime to finish the "test". There were other applicants coming in and out of the room (all of them guys). They had an easier time finishing the exam, typing as fast as they could. Once she finished her story, she quickly left the company.
Obviously my officemate never came back for her second interview.
I'm back
After a long vacation I am finally back. I hope to post more stuff here in the coming days... specially since big brother has restricted most of the photo and blog sites available.
I'm doing fine and things are going well. Hopefully I would get to post more later.
I'm doing fine and things are going well. Hopefully I would get to post more later.
Return to Manila
1. We woke up early today, around 5:30am to get ready for check out. We had a 20 minute breakfast, stuffing the pancakes, cereal, sausage, and curry cauliflower into our mouth. By the time we stepped out of the restaurant, the bus driver was in the lobby waiting for us.
3. It was another one hour trip back to Brisbane airport. We arrived at the airport around 8am. We were supposed to take a plane to Sydney and from there, we would take the plane to Manila. It was a long wait at the airport. Good thing there were a dozen duty free shops. I spent most of the time wandering around the small bookshops, browsing the latest novels.
4. Arrived at Sydney airport arnd 11am. We did more waiting and lining up. Boarded the plane around twelve noon and arrived in Manila around seven in the evening.
3. It was another one hour trip back to Brisbane airport. We arrived at the airport around 8am. We were supposed to take a plane to Sydney and from there, we would take the plane to Manila. It was a long wait at the airport. Good thing there were a dozen duty free shops. I spent most of the time wandering around the small bookshops, browsing the latest novels.
4. Arrived at Sydney airport arnd 11am. We did more waiting and lining up. Boarded the plane around twelve noon and arrived in Manila around seven in the evening.
Side trip to Brisbane
1. On our last day at Australia, Jen and I decided to use the day to travel to another city. We decided to take a bus and train to Brisbane, thinking that Brisbane would offer a lot more exciting city sights as compared to Gold Coast. We ask the hotel receptionist for directions and figured our way to Brisbane city.
2. We spent an hour riding a bus down to the train station at Helensvale. The hotel receptionist instructed us to ride a certain bus that would take us to the train station. Unfortunately the bus drove around Gold Coast, from the various resorts, shopping malls, to the local university.
3. It was almost noon when we arrived at the train station. We then took a train to Southbank. From there we had to take another bus to Brisbane. Just as I was wondering if travelling to Brisbane was a good idea, the bus finally arrived at the city. We were thrilled to see the tall buidlings and the busy streets.
4. The bus station was under the Myers Mall. We got out of the bus and started malling. Jen began to window shop while I visited the local bookstores. We began touring downtown Brisbane. There was a certain bus that went around the city, carrying passengers for free. We rode in this bus and got a free tour of Brisbane. Judging from the sheer number of people and shops, this city was more lively than Sydney & Melbourne.
5. We stopped by the local bontanical park of Brisbane. The park was situated beside the shore and the local university. We continued walking (and window shopping) until seven o'clock. By dinnertime, we decide to eat at Subways, ordering 2 six inch sandwich with cookies & soda for 9.95 AUD.
8. After eating our sandwiches we went back to Myers to catch the train and bus heading back to surfers paradise. By then we were exhausted from all the walking. I bought a couple of local books, so I spent the train ride browsing through the stuff I bought.
9. We got back to Gold Coast around nine-thirty. There was still enough time for us to visit the night market along the beach (it closes around ten). So we got off the main street and began strolling through the night market. We saw some jewelry, handmade soap, chinese stuff, foam lizard, leather stuff, crocodile skin and shark tooth keychains. Jen was looking for street food, unfortunately there were no fishballs.
10. Before going back to the hotel, we decided to buy some food. We spent half an hour walking aroudn the beach's shopping plaza, looking for something to devour. Finally we bought a large blueberry muffin at 7-11 and two scoops of ice cream at Copenhagen.
11. We walked back to resort around eleven in the evening. There were no buses along the plaza so we decided to use our two feet. It was chilly cold but we were glad to get the exercise.
2. We spent an hour riding a bus down to the train station at Helensvale. The hotel receptionist instructed us to ride a certain bus that would take us to the train station. Unfortunately the bus drove around Gold Coast, from the various resorts, shopping malls, to the local university.
3. It was almost noon when we arrived at the train station. We then took a train to Southbank. From there we had to take another bus to Brisbane. Just as I was wondering if travelling to Brisbane was a good idea, the bus finally arrived at the city. We were thrilled to see the tall buidlings and the busy streets.
4. The bus station was under the Myers Mall. We got out of the bus and started malling. Jen began to window shop while I visited the local bookstores. We began touring downtown Brisbane. There was a certain bus that went around the city, carrying passengers for free. We rode in this bus and got a free tour of Brisbane. Judging from the sheer number of people and shops, this city was more lively than Sydney & Melbourne.
5. We stopped by the local bontanical park of Brisbane. The park was situated beside the shore and the local university. We continued walking (and window shopping) until seven o'clock. By dinnertime, we decide to eat at Subways, ordering 2 six inch sandwich with cookies & soda for 9.95 AUD.
8. After eating our sandwiches we went back to Myers to catch the train and bus heading back to surfers paradise. By then we were exhausted from all the walking. I bought a couple of local books, so I spent the train ride browsing through the stuff I bought.
9. We got back to Gold Coast around nine-thirty. There was still enough time for us to visit the night market along the beach (it closes around ten). So we got off the main street and began strolling through the night market. We saw some jewelry, handmade soap, chinese stuff, foam lizard, leather stuff, crocodile skin and shark tooth keychains. Jen was looking for street food, unfortunately there were no fishballs.
10. Before going back to the hotel, we decided to buy some food. We spent half an hour walking aroudn the beach's shopping plaza, looking for something to devour. Finally we bought a large blueberry muffin at 7-11 and two scoops of ice cream at Copenhagen.
11. We walked back to resort around eleven in the evening. There were no buses along the plaza so we decided to use our two feet. It was chilly cold but we were glad to get the exercise.
Malling and Drinking
1. Today we decided to explore the three main malls of Gold Coast. We decided to go back to Australia Fair, since we only had dinner in that mall last night at 6:30 (when all the shops were closing). We took a bus to the mall and bought grocery/souvenirs.
One thing I noticed about Australian goods is that most of the stuff they have there are readily available here in the Philippines, like chocolates, chips, junk food and other processed foods. The only things authentic there are native products like art works, boomerangs (we found a few boomerangs that were manufactured in China), and paintings.
So we bought food that were not available here in the Philippines, like some kit-kats (mint and caramel flavor) and Cadburry candies. Jen bought several kangaroo stuffed dolls for our relatives back home.
2. We got back to the hotel around 3 or 4 in the afternoon. I decided to take a dip in the pool. The hotel had several swimming pools - from kiddy ponds, olympic sized pools, and jacuzzis. I swam a few laps in the large pool, waiting for Jen to finish her packing. When she arrived, we both took a soak in the hot pool.
3. Around 6pm, we decided to take a stroll on the beach. There were small shops and restuarants along the beachside. We were glad that the stores were still open, since the area catered to tourists and visitors staying in the nearby hotels. There we found a nice restaurant and ordered some lamb steak.
4. After devouring our meal, we continued to wander around the beach plaza and decided to visit one of the fancier hotels. There we got the chance to relax in the hotel lobby and order a round of beer.
One thing I noticed about Australian goods is that most of the stuff they have there are readily available here in the Philippines, like chocolates, chips, junk food and other processed foods. The only things authentic there are native products like art works, boomerangs (we found a few boomerangs that were manufactured in China), and paintings.
So we bought food that were not available here in the Philippines, like some kit-kats (mint and caramel flavor) and Cadburry candies. Jen bought several kangaroo stuffed dolls for our relatives back home.
2. We got back to the hotel around 3 or 4 in the afternoon. I decided to take a dip in the pool. The hotel had several swimming pools - from kiddy ponds, olympic sized pools, and jacuzzis. I swam a few laps in the large pool, waiting for Jen to finish her packing. When she arrived, we both took a soak in the hot pool.
3. Around 6pm, we decided to take a stroll on the beach. There were small shops and restuarants along the beachside. We were glad that the stores were still open, since the area catered to tourists and visitors staying in the nearby hotels. There we found a nice restaurant and ordered some lamb steak.
4. After devouring our meal, we continued to wander around the beach plaza and decided to visit one of the fancier hotels. There we got the chance to relax in the hotel lobby and order a round of beer.
Visiting Warner Brothers Studio
1. Today we went to Warner Bros. studio. We took a bus from the hotel to the amusement park. Rode the Superman ride (caution do not ride again), Scooby Doo ride, Shrek 4D and the Batman ride. We also visited the Harry Potter Wizard story, as well as the Matrix exhibit, and the Loony toons show.
2. Jen and I left the amusement park pass 2pm. We wanted to visit one of the local malls so we took a bus to Australia Fair. It's a pretty standard mall, but I think our own SM malls are better. We spent the rest of the afternoon malling and shopping for gifts.
3. Mall closed at 6pm. We had chicken & hotdog at the Australia Fair foodcourt. We left the mall shortly and went back to the hotel.
2. Jen and I left the amusement park pass 2pm. We wanted to visit one of the local malls so we took a bus to Australia Fair. It's a pretty standard mall, but I think our own SM malls are better. We spent the rest of the afternoon malling and shopping for gifts.
3. Mall closed at 6pm. We had chicken & hotdog at the Australia Fair foodcourt. We left the mall shortly and went back to the hotel.
Night Safari at Gold Coast
1. Left Melbourne early in the morning. Our next stop is Gold Coast, the summer capital of Australia, as well as the home of three amusement parks. The plane didn't actually land at Gold Coast. We landed on Brisbane and then took a bus to Gold Coast. It was a two hour trip going from the city to the beach side paradise.
2. After checking in the hotel and settling down, we swam in the pool. This was the only hotel that had swimming pools available for their occupants.
3. Went to a night safari at Curumbin. Got the chance to explore the ecosystem of Asutralia at night, as well as meet more koalas and kangaroos.
4. At the end of the safari, we got the chance to witness an aboriginal/tribal welcoming ceremony. Too bad the "tribesmen" were not really genuine aboriginals.
2. After checking in the hotel and settling down, we swam in the pool. This was the only hotel that had swimming pools available for their occupants.
3. Went to a night safari at Curumbin. Got the chance to explore the ecosystem of Asutralia at night, as well as meet more koalas and kangaroos.
4. At the end of the safari, we got the chance to witness an aboriginal/tribal welcoming ceremony. Too bad the "tribesmen" were not really genuine aboriginals.
Touring Melbourne
1. We had breakfast at the hotel (as usual). Breakfast is the only time we get to eat for free (because that's part of the deal... we have to buy our own lunch and dinner). It's the usual eggs, cereals, sausages, and bacon. Honestly the food in Sydney was more delicious.
2. Had our city tour. We went sight seeing at outskrits of the city. We visited a botanial garden and a war memorial park.
3. We got back to Melbourne and had lunch at the central mall. We managed to stuff some breakfast food, so we had bacon and sausage sandwiches. Jen bought chicken & corn soup to make our meal more interesting.
4. After a quick lunch, we rode the APT bus to Philipp Island. We were supposed to go watch penguins. But we first made a quick stop to another petting zoo. Took more pictures of goats, kangaroos & koalas.
5. Watched the little penguins come back to beach. Too bad they prohibited the use of cameras (the flash scares the little birds). It was freezing cold.
6. We ended our tour with a dinner in an Italian restaurant. Jen and I ordered some pizza, pasta & potato-pumpkin soup.
2. Had our city tour. We went sight seeing at outskrits of the city. We visited a botanial garden and a war memorial park.
3. We got back to Melbourne and had lunch at the central mall. We managed to stuff some breakfast food, so we had bacon and sausage sandwiches. Jen bought chicken & corn soup to make our meal more interesting.
4. After a quick lunch, we rode the APT bus to Philipp Island. We were supposed to go watch penguins. But we first made a quick stop to another petting zoo. Took more pictures of goats, kangaroos & koalas.
5. Watched the little penguins come back to beach. Too bad they prohibited the use of cameras (the flash scares the little birds). It was freezing cold.
6. We ended our tour with a dinner in an Italian restaurant. Jen and I ordered some pizza, pasta & potato-pumpkin soup.
Coming to Melbourne
1. We Left Sydney around 8am. Spent an hour at the airport waiting for our flight. Nothing much to do, so we took some pictures of the airport.
2. Arrived at Melborne after lunch. Jen and I were much happier here because our hotel was right in the middle of the city. The streets were filled with people and tourists. There were a lot more restaurants, malls, and bookstores. Prices here are cheaper.
3. Around 3pm, we attended Sunday mass at St. Francis. It was a small church and there were only a handful of people inside (as compared to the crowds of people attending mass in the Philippines)
4. Its colder here than Sydney. I tried to invite Jen out for an "after-dinner-walk" but she found the cold unbearable.
2. Arrived at Melborne after lunch. Jen and I were much happier here because our hotel was right in the middle of the city. The streets were filled with people and tourists. There were a lot more restaurants, malls, and bookstores. Prices here are cheaper.
3. Around 3pm, we attended Sunday mass at St. Francis. It was a small church and there were only a handful of people inside (as compared to the crowds of people attending mass in the Philippines)
4. Its colder here than Sydney. I tried to invite Jen out for an "after-dinner-walk" but she found the cold unbearable.
Lost in Blue Mountain
Here's a brief run down of what happened to us on our second day at Australia:
1. Jen and I had our breakfast at the hotel. Packed some leftover sandwiches.
2. We missed our scheduled bus trip with Asia Pacific Tour. We were instructed to catch up with the tour, so the hotel clerks were nice enough to help us meet up with the bus at Blue Mountain. We went to Central Station (which was a couple of blocks away from the hotel) to get a train & bus ride to Catomba.
3. Riding in the train going to Catomba, we got to see the suburbs of Sydney - the scenery looks much like the houses along South Super Highway going to Alabang.
4. Arrived at Catomba - Blue Mountain at 11:45am. Looks like Tagaytay. Took a trolley up to Scenic World. We finally caught up with the APT bus.
5. We rode a cable car down to Scenic World and went for a hike in the rain forest. Saw the mountain range and ridges known as the 3 sisters. Had to walk back up the trail. We almost missed the APT bus again.
5. Went to a petting zoo. Touched a wombat & koala. Took some kangaroo pics.
6. Got back to Sydney. Went window shopping at Victoria building. Sadly all shops close at 5pm (even on a Saturday).
7. On our way back to the hotel, we got lost again. We took a wrong turn and walked back where we came from.
8. Ate at McDonalds. Had strawberry shake and McOz burger (it's an Australian version of the Quarter pounder with beet & tomato mixed in it)
1. Jen and I had our breakfast at the hotel. Packed some leftover sandwiches.
2. We missed our scheduled bus trip with Asia Pacific Tour. We were instructed to catch up with the tour, so the hotel clerks were nice enough to help us meet up with the bus at Blue Mountain. We went to Central Station (which was a couple of blocks away from the hotel) to get a train & bus ride to Catomba.
3. Riding in the train going to Catomba, we got to see the suburbs of Sydney - the scenery looks much like the houses along South Super Highway going to Alabang.
4. Arrived at Catomba - Blue Mountain at 11:45am. Looks like Tagaytay. Took a trolley up to Scenic World. We finally caught up with the APT bus.
5. We rode a cable car down to Scenic World and went for a hike in the rain forest. Saw the mountain range and ridges known as the 3 sisters. Had to walk back up the trail. We almost missed the APT bus again.
5. Went to a petting zoo. Touched a wombat & koala. Took some kangaroo pics.
6. Got back to Sydney. Went window shopping at Victoria building. Sadly all shops close at 5pm (even on a Saturday).
7. On our way back to the hotel, we got lost again. We took a wrong turn and walked back where we came from.
8. Ate at McDonalds. Had strawberry shake and McOz burger (it's an Australian version of the Quarter pounder with beet & tomato mixed in it)
Hello Sydney!
Here is what happened on our first day/arrival at Australia. Got off the Quantas airplane and got held up at the Sydney Airport customs. We had to report all food stuff we brought along (including the biscuits and instant cup noodles). These people are strict and paranoid about visitors bringing in stuff that would damage the local ecosystem. In the end, the custom officer took away our nissin seafood noodle cup (to think that was my favorite).
1. Bought a pair of day tour bus pass to go around the city
2. Stopped over at IMAX theater. Watched "walking in the moon" At the 3D theater. It is a documentary about space travel on the moon, narrated by Tom Hanks.
3. Went to Sydney Aquarium where we bought a coke zero for 3.50AUD. Got to pet baby sharks sea urchins and starfish.
4. Stopped at Queens building where we wallked along market street and to Sydney tower. Experienced Oz trek which was not that impressive.
5. Hopped back at tourbus. Went to Sydney Opera house. Missed the tour since it was past 5pm.
6. Walked along Circular Quay. Took a bus back to the Pacific International Hotel. Bought some fish & chips and salmon sandwich for dinner (aside from the Lucky Me noodles and biscuits). All the shops and malls were closing around seven in the evening. Where have all the people gone?
7. Got to walk around George Street at night. Stumbled upon Chinatown street with nightmarket and street restaurant.
1. Bought a pair of day tour bus pass to go around the city
2. Stopped over at IMAX theater. Watched "walking in the moon" At the 3D theater. It is a documentary about space travel on the moon, narrated by Tom Hanks.
3. Went to Sydney Aquarium where we bought a coke zero for 3.50AUD. Got to pet baby sharks sea urchins and starfish.
4. Stopped at Queens building where we wallked along market street and to Sydney tower. Experienced Oz trek which was not that impressive.
5. Hopped back at tourbus. Went to Sydney Opera house. Missed the tour since it was past 5pm.
6. Walked along Circular Quay. Took a bus back to the Pacific International Hotel. Bought some fish & chips and salmon sandwich for dinner (aside from the Lucky Me noodles and biscuits). All the shops and malls were closing around seven in the evening. Where have all the people gone?
7. Got to walk around George Street at night. Stumbled upon Chinatown street with nightmarket and street restaurant.
Lost in Pasay
Today I got myself into an accidental adventure. I took the wrong bus while I was going to work. I distinctly remember seeing the "Ayala" and "LRT" signs in front of the bus I boarded. But then I might have been sleepwalking or dreaming while moving from one public vehicle to another.
I handed the conductor some lose change and told him where I was headed. If the conductor was paying any attention to what I said, he would have told me that I boarded the wrong bus.
I should have noticed something was wrong. There were fewer passengers in this bus, compared to the battalion of commuters that squeezing through the bus aisle. The seats were more comfortable, inviting me for a short nap.
By the time I realized my mistake, I found myself pass Makati, heading towards Pasay. I quickly got out of the bus, trying to find someway of retracing my way back to the office.
There were jeepneys and taxis along the highway, turning to this small street. I figured that the steet would lead me back to Makati. I walked a couple of blocks before boarding a jeep, asking the driver for directions.
The jeepney driver was kind enough to help me. He told me that he was traveling back to Buendia, and I could take another ride from there going to Makati.
I spent the next fifteen minutes traversing the backstreets and alleys of Pasay. It was a surreal experience for me. Partly because I was worried about coming in late for work. The jeep pass through a street called Evangelista, where there was a row of motor shops similiar to Banawe. There were stores selling mufflers, headlights, motor gears, and other automotive equipments.
After making a few turns, the jeepney driver pointed me towards an alley. He told me that the street beyond is Buendia. I thanked him and began my walk back to the office.
It was quite a long detour from work. Something different from the usual routine I have of going to Makati.
I handed the conductor some lose change and told him where I was headed. If the conductor was paying any attention to what I said, he would have told me that I boarded the wrong bus.
I should have noticed something was wrong. There were fewer passengers in this bus, compared to the battalion of commuters that squeezing through the bus aisle. The seats were more comfortable, inviting me for a short nap.
By the time I realized my mistake, I found myself pass Makati, heading towards Pasay. I quickly got out of the bus, trying to find someway of retracing my way back to the office.
There were jeepneys and taxis along the highway, turning to this small street. I figured that the steet would lead me back to Makati. I walked a couple of blocks before boarding a jeep, asking the driver for directions.
The jeepney driver was kind enough to help me. He told me that he was traveling back to Buendia, and I could take another ride from there going to Makati.
I spent the next fifteen minutes traversing the backstreets and alleys of Pasay. It was a surreal experience for me. Partly because I was worried about coming in late for work. The jeep pass through a street called Evangelista, where there was a row of motor shops similiar to Banawe. There were stores selling mufflers, headlights, motor gears, and other automotive equipments.
After making a few turns, the jeepney driver pointed me towards an alley. He told me that the street beyond is Buendia. I thanked him and began my walk back to the office.
It was quite a long detour from work. Something different from the usual routine I have of going to Makati.
(W)Holy Trek Day Recap
Attended the Holy Thursday event of Via Astris. Like the previous years, the event was held at Paolo's place. It was an entire day of games, food, and video. Unlike the previous years, there were tons of board games to entertain people. The popular food of the day was chips.
To look at more pictures, go to this site.
To look at more pictures, go to this site.
Another Interesting Experience while Commuting
Last night, I took a jeep from Edsa Crossing back to Kaletong. There is a jeepney terminal station in Crossing where all the loading passengers pay the 'jeep conductor' before they can step inside the jeep.
I paid my fare. In less than a minute, the jeep took off. We were several blocks away from Crossing when one of the passengers started talking in a loud voice.
He was a big man in his mid-forties, wearing a red t-shirt, shorts and sandals. I first thought he was talking to someone on his cellular phone. But as I listened to his monologue, it turned out he was begging for money.
The man loudly pleaded for loose change. He said he was hungry and that he had no money left in his pocket. The other passengers were silent, I could see they were annoyed by the man's presence and wished that he would step out of the jeep.
A couple of blocks passed and the man continued to whine about his situation. He continued to beg for money. The passengers seated near him were getting annoyed. Some were looking at the driver, hoping that he would reprimand the beggar or tell him to get out of his jeep. But the driver was obviously ignoring the man.
Another two blocks and the man began to cry. As he sobbed, he continued to lament about his cruel fate - how he lost his job and his family. I thought he would freak out and start physically harassing the other passengers.
The man continued to sob for a few more blocks when he finally stepped out of the jeep. Everyone was relieved that the man left.
I looked at him as he walked away. He was a big man and he could easily get a job. And if he didn't have any money, how could he have boarded the jeep? (Everyone had to pay the conductor before they boarded.)
As the man walked away, the driver began to cuss and shout at the man - "pa-iyak iyak ka pa diyan... bakla... bakla!!!" (You're still crying... you faggot.. faggot!) It seems that the driver finally mustered the courage to speak up against the beggar when he was outside the jeep.
I paid my fare. In less than a minute, the jeep took off. We were several blocks away from Crossing when one of the passengers started talking in a loud voice.
He was a big man in his mid-forties, wearing a red t-shirt, shorts and sandals. I first thought he was talking to someone on his cellular phone. But as I listened to his monologue, it turned out he was begging for money.
The man loudly pleaded for loose change. He said he was hungry and that he had no money left in his pocket. The other passengers were silent, I could see they were annoyed by the man's presence and wished that he would step out of the jeep.
A couple of blocks passed and the man continued to whine about his situation. He continued to beg for money. The passengers seated near him were getting annoyed. Some were looking at the driver, hoping that he would reprimand the beggar or tell him to get out of his jeep. But the driver was obviously ignoring the man.
Another two blocks and the man began to cry. As he sobbed, he continued to lament about his cruel fate - how he lost his job and his family. I thought he would freak out and start physically harassing the other passengers.
The man continued to sob for a few more blocks when he finally stepped out of the jeep. Everyone was relieved that the man left.
I looked at him as he walked away. He was a big man and he could easily get a job. And if he didn't have any money, how could he have boarded the jeep? (Everyone had to pay the conductor before they boarded.)
As the man walked away, the driver began to cuss and shout at the man - "pa-iyak iyak ka pa diyan... bakla... bakla!!!" (You're still crying... you faggot.. faggot!) It seems that the driver finally mustered the courage to speak up against the beggar when he was outside the jeep.
Death Along Ayala 6750
What a way to start the week. My usual morning commute to work turned gory when I saw a dead man in the middle of the street, near Ayala's 6750. Apparently the guy was ran over by a bus.
I should have just turned away from the scene but I was curious at what was happening on the other side of the street. The side going to EDSA was practically deserted, except for an empty bus parked on the side of 6750. A couple of MMDA officers were seriously talking to the bus driver.
There was a crowd several meters away. I'm guessing that these were the passengers of the bus, forced to disembark because of the accident.
On the middle of the road lay a dead man, his brain matter scattered all over the ground. The cops should have at least covered the corpse since it was a sad and sickening sight to behold. But then they were busy managing the traffic to even care about the victim.
The poor guy resembled one of those dead cats that got ran over in the streets. There was no blood since he was hit on the head (then again, I doubt if he still has a face). People from the other side of the street could see the dead guy.
From the looks of things, the guy was probably crossing the road in the wrong place. The bus must have accidentally hit the man. I guess the moral lesson of this experience is to be really careful whenever you cross the street (and use the pedestrian crossing).
I should have just turned away from the scene but I was curious at what was happening on the other side of the street. The side going to EDSA was practically deserted, except for an empty bus parked on the side of 6750. A couple of MMDA officers were seriously talking to the bus driver.
There was a crowd several meters away. I'm guessing that these were the passengers of the bus, forced to disembark because of the accident.
On the middle of the road lay a dead man, his brain matter scattered all over the ground. The cops should have at least covered the corpse since it was a sad and sickening sight to behold. But then they were busy managing the traffic to even care about the victim.
The poor guy resembled one of those dead cats that got ran over in the streets. There was no blood since he was hit on the head (then again, I doubt if he still has a face). People from the other side of the street could see the dead guy.
From the looks of things, the guy was probably crossing the road in the wrong place. The bus must have accidentally hit the man. I guess the moral lesson of this experience is to be really careful whenever you cross the street (and use the pedestrian crossing).
Passing thru old Recto
Yesterday morning, I had to pick up something from a shop along Recto. So I had no choice but to brave the traffic and travel to Manila along the crowded street of Recto. Much to my surprise, the street had changed. Ever since the MRT was built, the establishments along the street have undergone a major facelift. Despite the changes in building façade, traffic is still pretty much the same.
When I reached the corner of Recto and Avenida, I noticed that a portion of old Recto was still preserved and thriving. I am talking about several old theaters (older than me) showing dirty movies – the kind where perverts and addicts hang out to enjoy adult movies.
I took a picture of a theater that was currently showing ‘Magenta’. The movie stars Julian McMahon (the actor who starred in Fantastic Four, Nip Tuck and Charmed). The billboard hanging outside the theater looked uninviting and creepy – which probably discredits the actor and the movie itself. But then again, I doubt if anyone goes into these theaters to watch the movie.
When I reached the corner of Recto and Avenida, I noticed that a portion of old Recto was still preserved and thriving. I am talking about several old theaters (older than me) showing dirty movies – the kind where perverts and addicts hang out to enjoy adult movies.
I took a picture of a theater that was currently showing ‘Magenta’. The movie stars Julian McMahon (the actor who starred in Fantastic Four, Nip Tuck and Charmed). The billboard hanging outside the theater looked uninviting and creepy – which probably discredits the actor and the movie itself. But then again, I doubt if anyone goes into these theaters to watch the movie.
My Favorite Superhero/heroine
This topic came up the other day when my girlfriend and I were talking about comics and superheroes. I was trying to explain to her about the other heroes in the DC universe. The only heroes she knew are from the old superfriends cartoons (She even admited to having a crush on the Aquaman in the cartoon).
She asked me who my favorite DC characters are. I told her my favorites are Captain Marvel and Zatanna. She then looked at me and asked, "huh? Who are they?" Apparently she never heard of them. I told her I have a tendency to play favorites with underdogs.
After introducing (and showing) the characters to her, I had to explain why these two were my favorites. I liked Zatanna's character as a stage magician turned superhero. I preferred her to Wonder Woman, Batgirl, and the other female heroes. Rather than confront her adversaries with physical violence or brute strength, Zatanna's powers come from her words. She is sexy and alluring in her stage magician outfit (I like her fish net stockings). What made me love her more was when she made a wonderful transition from the mainstream DC universe to Vertigo's Book's of Magic - playing pseudo-mentor to Tim Hunter.
I have always liked Captain Marvel. But after reading Alex Ross and Paul Dini's Shazam, Power of Hope, he became my favorite superhero. Although he is kinda like Superman, I think he is a more interesting character than the man of steel. Captain Marvel's true nature is that of a young boy, whose naivete and innocence is carried over to his superhero persona. He is, in fact, living in two worlds - the world of children/adults as well as the world of superheroes/humans. This unique perception of the world gives Captain Marvel an awareness and insight which other superheroes would never possess.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)