This is the culminating part… for the year at least!
There’s no better way to recap the year that was but to go month-by-month on what has happened to me. But unfortunately, I do not have my ’07 planner with me right now so I can’t easily go back to the daily events. The best that I could do is simply let my mind flow… and yes, it is working now, surprisingly…
2007 has been a mix of many things. Promotion to job burn-out. Heartache to loving again... and then, another heartache. Isolation to belonging. All these in 2007.
January 01 was when I learned I have mild UTI. It was such a gruesome day, when all the good food I ate was also thrown-out. First time to go to the ER and was hoping to be hospitalized (so as to experience!) but to my dismay, was just ordered to take a lot of antibiotics etc. Lousy doctor! I know that’s not a good way to celebrate a promotion... January 01’s the official date; I became Accenture-Black Pearl’s People Matters Lead, naks! And the most significant event, I learned I was being fooled already… by whom? Not worthy to mention!
March was my most stupid month (incidentally, my birthday month). I continuously held on to something that’s not worth it. Yes, I was blinded by love. And who wasn’t? Enough said, I’ve moved on.
April was the extension month of the stupidity. Go back to my very first entry. It happened on April 13.
Expenses-wise, maxed-out my four credit cards many times, bought my N95 Cellphone (I am one of the first 100 Pinoys to get one) and had my teeth brackets installed. Hahaha, now paying my debts... and after closing my very first credit card, still planning to close two more and maintain just one. Almost closed a deal of buying a condo unit but I guess it isn't for me. But yes, definite on my plan of saving and buying a property ~ as to where I am still to decide!
If there are happy moments to celebrate aside from attaining greater heights in my career was the fact that I have two good friends who can easily share their lives with me in times when I needed them most, even if in the first place they didn’t know why. Our adventurous side (and my hurting side asked for it) brought us to Taal Crater… and the serene surrounding calmed my aching soul. It‘s really too good to have a Yeth and Jingle in my life!
And of course, the Taal jaunt isn’t the official trip yet; Palawan’s the one! Though we’re not awed as we were when we did Bohol, it was such a good opportunity for the three of us to unwind, and yes, to solidify the ties of friendship that we have. The Island-Hopping, the Long Road-trip to the Underground River, the Dos Palmas ~ Palawan’s good enough! And yes, the trip was somewhat expensive ~ as I bought full set of new wardrobe. Kinareer ko ang Palawan!
And then, my feet didn’t stop wandering ~ Boracay’s next. Just like the rest of the human populace who have been in this paradise, I became tongue-tied of its fascinating view! I will definitely say I would have to be back in Bora (and then Bohol, of course!). The weird me of course was unstoppable ~ had hair braid even if it was too short. And to top it all, I did parasailing! That was one hell of an adventure! But I will try it again given the opportunity. And yes, more Hail Marys to utter!
The time difference between my Palawan and Boracay trips was just a month away ~ so fast. And same goes with my second falling in love for this year ~ it started a few weeks before going to Palawan and it ended days after my Boracay trip! Super quick! Sad? Yes! But I would have to accept this fate! It simply is not the kind of love we both deserve. Today, as I look back, I simply would say to you, yes you my Baby… “I am letting you go completely… Soar high and reach for your stars!”
And now, here I am ~ the same young brat in my late twenties hehehe. Yes, I am getting old. But would have to proudly say, growing up with grace! Recently, I rekindled my ties with the best girls I have met in this lifetime ~ the Ts. Undeniably, they are every man’s dream ~ the girlfriend and wife materials. The ironic side, they are my friends ~ and it ends there. While their boyfriends and husbands can have them exclusively, I can easily steal some of their times ~ if not for all at least to the most! The two chances this year to bond with them was definitely a relaxation. Even if in those two instances they were not complete (and even if doing so would mean an expensive treat hehehe), I loved every single second of it. With them, I am peaceful ~ far from my busy and toxic work schedule and apart from my aching soul. Best ways, of ending my 2007 and starting my 2008.
Again and in general, 2007’s a mix of many things. I have said for many times 2008’s going to be my year. And yes, I am still certain it would be. As I end this entry and this year, all I wanted to say is that I am now a better person ~ a better son, a better friend, (can be) a better lover and above all, A BETTER MAN!
Happy New Year to All!
Monday, December 31, 2007
Thursday, December 27, 2007
Wednesday, December 26, 2007
MY TEN DEAREST FRIENDS
Okay as I promised, here’s the list of my ten dearest friends. First, I apologize if some of you were not able to make it in this roll. Truth is, the list and the ranking were well-thought off. And yes, the majority is my girl-friends; maybe because they have impacted my life more than my male friends did.
And so without further ado, I am now presenting…
10. Arvien Medina - RV and I have things in common but yes, we also have our diversities; we have 5 years age gap and I guess it spells everything. While I am the picky one, he’s okay with anything that comes along his way. While I have resigned on dreaming, he remains to be idealistic. While I am the hard-headed, he’s the diplomatic. And when I want to be distant, he remains to be a constant companion. He has been my headache, and he knows it. It’s okay; I am also his big pain in the ass! I should have not included him here, but this one wouldn’t be perfect if he’s not listed. And yes, I am always proud of our friendship!
9. Dorothy Lim – This girl can read my mind so well. Maybe because I am her guinea pig; she’s a Psyche grad like me. Two words – SOUL MATE, she’s it! My journey to self-discovery has been super super smooth with the help of this girl.
8. Leslie Bañares – I owe her my beginnings as an HR person; Leslie has been a very good trainer. The way I deal with work right now ~ the commitment and the passion that I have ~ all came from her. When I become so grumpy at work, she helps me to re-focus. She’s very organized and always helps me re-sort my priorities, be it professionally or personally. Dear sister, dear daughter and yes, dear friend! We may have been separated by distances and years, but I know we will always share good stories when we reunite; and of course, our lasting friendship will spice up the would-be conversation.
7. Jenie Mercado – the bitch! One thing that’s surprising is that Jen and I are very much opposite. I am friendly, she’s a snob. I am loved, she’s hated. But yes, we’re friends. Give us a table and two chairs and we’ll have a day-long chat, be it over a cup of coffee, a pack of corn chip but we can also do-away without any. My Accenture journey was greatly impacted with this girl’s wisdom and yes, bitchiness! I missed how we’ll talk and fight in high strung; when our paper weights may fly anytime. Gosh, what are DGG’s billiard balls for?
6. Ryan Salamat – aha, my greatest critic! If you guys think I am the worst ‘okrayero’, I am just his second. Don’t put us in a table and give us the task of criticizing people, events and places and you’re up to havoc. We’ll have different perceptions, definitely. But surely, you’ll end up torn and wrecked. But behind this brat’s wickedness is a virgin soul, and a person who’s longing for that one great love. That's one thing I am willing to do a novena for hehehe, even if I do not pray anymore! I know I can always share my whole being with him, without any fear of destruction. Ganun nga ba ha, Rye? Hehehe.
5. Grace Naceno – the sister I wish I had, added to my two dear ones! Grace is the peaceful soul in our triumvirate (Ryan, she and me). She’s been through a lot but remains to be optimistic. There are times when her jaded thinking gets through, but since she’s very smart she can easily get her way out. We’ve shared a lot of sad stories when we’re walking along Ayala Avenue or Ayala Walk-Way and I am sure there’ll be more to come. But in spite of these, we both still hope for our individual sunshines. With our shared optimism, these will definitely come!
4. CLUB T – my girls hehehe. While my relationship to each of them varies, they all occupy a very special place in my heart. No matter how busy my schedule is, I always find time when these girls need me ~ be it their weddings, birthdays, christenings of their kids, etc. I love all of them and with that I need not give any explanation as to why they are here in my list.
3. Ghing Palmiano – my best friend. Ghing has been a very good companion during my teen-age years. She has seen me grow and mature to be the competitive person that I am right now. She’s been very supportive of my quest to self-worth, a constant believer of my hopes and dreams. Right now, we have soared our ways separately, but we always find a landing point ~ be it a common thinking or a common idealism. We both have seen our places under the sun and may no longer spend times with each other, but we’re both certain to say that we always carry a part of each other wherever we go, and those parts complete the person that we are.
2. Jean Batcho – First, Jingle was just an acquaintance ~ a classmate to my dearest friend. Eventually, we learned to realize our commonalities in ways of thinking and behavior. We’re strong-willed, hard-headed and competitive. We see the world as our platform to do well in all aspects ~ be it personally or professionally. We are trip buddies, and couldn’t resign from being fascinated on good sights and relaxing atmospheres. I know we still have more trips to enjoy and still have a lot of rides to do, so Jingle, here’s to a longer journey! With you I would always say that life’s definitely a beach!
1. Mayeth Bornolla – I always say Yeth may not be the best but is worth sharing my life with. I said before my nights are hers, now I can no longer promise the same. But what I like most with her is that, she’s the most available. In all my woes she listened. In all my angst she carried on. In my best she was delighted; in my worst she was supportive. I will not be the person that I am right now if Mayeth has not been my friend. I will forever be grateful of her love and friendship. With her, I am always home. And with her, my life is complete.
So there goes the list of my Ten Dearest Friends. Happy New Year!
And so without further ado, I am now presenting…
10. Arvien Medina - RV and I have things in common but yes, we also have our diversities; we have 5 years age gap and I guess it spells everything. While I am the picky one, he’s okay with anything that comes along his way. While I have resigned on dreaming, he remains to be idealistic. While I am the hard-headed, he’s the diplomatic. And when I want to be distant, he remains to be a constant companion. He has been my headache, and he knows it. It’s okay; I am also his big pain in the ass! I should have not included him here, but this one wouldn’t be perfect if he’s not listed. And yes, I am always proud of our friendship!
9. Dorothy Lim – This girl can read my mind so well. Maybe because I am her guinea pig; she’s a Psyche grad like me. Two words – SOUL MATE, she’s it! My journey to self-discovery has been super super smooth with the help of this girl.
8. Leslie Bañares – I owe her my beginnings as an HR person; Leslie has been a very good trainer. The way I deal with work right now ~ the commitment and the passion that I have ~ all came from her. When I become so grumpy at work, she helps me to re-focus. She’s very organized and always helps me re-sort my priorities, be it professionally or personally. Dear sister, dear daughter and yes, dear friend! We may have been separated by distances and years, but I know we will always share good stories when we reunite; and of course, our lasting friendship will spice up the would-be conversation.
7. Jenie Mercado – the bitch! One thing that’s surprising is that Jen and I are very much opposite. I am friendly, she’s a snob. I am loved, she’s hated. But yes, we’re friends. Give us a table and two chairs and we’ll have a day-long chat, be it over a cup of coffee, a pack of corn chip but we can also do-away without any. My Accenture journey was greatly impacted with this girl’s wisdom and yes, bitchiness! I missed how we’ll talk and fight in high strung; when our paper weights may fly anytime. Gosh, what are DGG’s billiard balls for?
6. Ryan Salamat – aha, my greatest critic! If you guys think I am the worst ‘okrayero’, I am just his second. Don’t put us in a table and give us the task of criticizing people, events and places and you’re up to havoc. We’ll have different perceptions, definitely. But surely, you’ll end up torn and wrecked. But behind this brat’s wickedness is a virgin soul, and a person who’s longing for that one great love. That's one thing I am willing to do a novena for hehehe, even if I do not pray anymore! I know I can always share my whole being with him, without any fear of destruction. Ganun nga ba ha, Rye? Hehehe.
5. Grace Naceno – the sister I wish I had, added to my two dear ones! Grace is the peaceful soul in our triumvirate (Ryan, she and me). She’s been through a lot but remains to be optimistic. There are times when her jaded thinking gets through, but since she’s very smart she can easily get her way out. We’ve shared a lot of sad stories when we’re walking along Ayala Avenue or Ayala Walk-Way and I am sure there’ll be more to come. But in spite of these, we both still hope for our individual sunshines. With our shared optimism, these will definitely come!
4. CLUB T – my girls hehehe. While my relationship to each of them varies, they all occupy a very special place in my heart. No matter how busy my schedule is, I always find time when these girls need me ~ be it their weddings, birthdays, christenings of their kids, etc. I love all of them and with that I need not give any explanation as to why they are here in my list.
3. Ghing Palmiano – my best friend. Ghing has been a very good companion during my teen-age years. She has seen me grow and mature to be the competitive person that I am right now. She’s been very supportive of my quest to self-worth, a constant believer of my hopes and dreams. Right now, we have soared our ways separately, but we always find a landing point ~ be it a common thinking or a common idealism. We both have seen our places under the sun and may no longer spend times with each other, but we’re both certain to say that we always carry a part of each other wherever we go, and those parts complete the person that we are.
2. Jean Batcho – First, Jingle was just an acquaintance ~ a classmate to my dearest friend. Eventually, we learned to realize our commonalities in ways of thinking and behavior. We’re strong-willed, hard-headed and competitive. We see the world as our platform to do well in all aspects ~ be it personally or professionally. We are trip buddies, and couldn’t resign from being fascinated on good sights and relaxing atmospheres. I know we still have more trips to enjoy and still have a lot of rides to do, so Jingle, here’s to a longer journey! With you I would always say that life’s definitely a beach!
1. Mayeth Bornolla – I always say Yeth may not be the best but is worth sharing my life with. I said before my nights are hers, now I can no longer promise the same. But what I like most with her is that, she’s the most available. In all my woes she listened. In all my angst she carried on. In my best she was delighted; in my worst she was supportive. I will not be the person that I am right now if Mayeth has not been my friend. I will forever be grateful of her love and friendship. With her, I am always home. And with her, my life is complete.
So there goes the list of my Ten Dearest Friends. Happy New Year!
Thursday, December 20, 2007
2007 to 2008...
True enough, my weekend was a failure! Was not able to finish shopping; was only able to buy my youngest bro his Christmas shoes (whopping Php 4,200.00; more expensive than my own shoes) and his Christmas shirt. Bought my baby in the office’s Kris Kringle her wished Girbaud wallet. Started looking for items to give my Godchildren but still torn as to what's better, a gift or cash. Not able to buy even a single gift for any of my colleagues in the office (but as of this writing, I’m currently distributing them. Thanks Grace for accompanying me yesterday morning!). Able to adjust my braces’ elastics as it’s a must! And yes, slept well. Had headache? Nah! Became hotheaded? Yes! Who caused? Never mind!!!
Some down, more to go… I feel like I’ll again stroll in Glorietta or SM Makati on Friday morning to buy more gifts. Priority: No one! Whatever gifts are available there, I might buy. For Godchildren or for who is no longer a question; just needed to buy more gifts. Credit card is nearing its limit hahaha! At last, Christmas is now felt!!!
Will have dinner tonight with the rest of Black Pearl’s Leadership in Serendra, will be my first time there. Heard it was such a cool place. Not expecting too much though, just another ordinary dinner! Ooops, sorry! I’m actually looking forward for my wished gift c/o the Leadership Team’s Kris Kringle. Again, short-sleeved polo, any shade of green and preferably from People Are People. If you want to be generous, go to Onesimus. Levi’s? Hmmm, can do! But please, I’ve moved on! I can hear someone reacting violently!
Feeling the ‘Alaska-like’ coldness in this room! Turn the air-con off please!
Cellphone not ringing, text me please!
What else???
Ahh… December 31’s going to be an exciting day. Why? Ask my Ts!
Twenty-peso bills now ready, thanks Iche and Bangzie… no long lines please. Baka sakaling may matira pa pambaon ko hehehe…
Ano ba!!! Walang kwenta!!!
Eto na…
I have plans already for 2008. Less to no big expenses, just one (my own money or can be sponsored) or two (sponsored na 'to kailangan!) out-of-town trips, clear my credit card debts, open a savings account (and maintain it please lang!), less dates (as if meron nga ka-date!), less eating (as if uli!), less Starbucks (hmmm, November na lang uli to collect stamps for the planner, as if na naman!), wise budgeting for E-jay’s school expenses (yes, scholar ko si kapatid!), celebrate my birthday momentously (bahala na!).
Why?
I’m getting old and so must start thinking about the future but somehow still indulge myself in life’s little pleasures. When I say little it should be with minimal expenditures only. No more 45K gadget, no more 20K out-of-town trips, no more 10K wardrobe. But YES to saving for a lifetime investment! This is it!!! I can’t wait for 2010.
Sorry guys I can’t say anything yet. Let me conceal this thing for now. Hahaha, don’t worry, not planning to marry. A big AS IF!!!
Thanks 2007 for such an exciting roller-coaster ride. Heart broken, loved again and heart broken again. Promotion that equates to a more toxic work. Additional team members who lessen my burdens. Committed GP2WC members. Still jaded colleagues in the office. And of course, dear friends! Need I mention them all here? Sige, one of my next entries would be the TEN DEAREST FRIENDS I TREASURE SO MUCH. Sige abangan ha! Mag-away na kayo kung sino ang magiging Number One hahaha!
Thanks God for all these blessings. And I now welcome 2008 with a bang (but please, no more UTI)!!!
Merry Christmas!
And yes, Happy New Year na rin!
Some down, more to go… I feel like I’ll again stroll in Glorietta or SM Makati on Friday morning to buy more gifts. Priority: No one! Whatever gifts are available there, I might buy. For Godchildren or for who is no longer a question; just needed to buy more gifts. Credit card is nearing its limit hahaha! At last, Christmas is now felt!!!
Will have dinner tonight with the rest of Black Pearl’s Leadership in Serendra, will be my first time there. Heard it was such a cool place. Not expecting too much though, just another ordinary dinner! Ooops, sorry! I’m actually looking forward for my wished gift c/o the Leadership Team’s Kris Kringle. Again, short-sleeved polo, any shade of green and preferably from People Are People. If you want to be generous, go to Onesimus. Levi’s? Hmmm, can do! But please, I’ve moved on! I can hear someone reacting violently!
Feeling the ‘Alaska-like’ coldness in this room! Turn the air-con off please!
Cellphone not ringing, text me please!
What else???
Ahh… December 31’s going to be an exciting day. Why? Ask my Ts!
Twenty-peso bills now ready, thanks Iche and Bangzie… no long lines please. Baka sakaling may matira pa pambaon ko hehehe…
Ano ba!!! Walang kwenta!!!
Eto na…
I have plans already for 2008. Less to no big expenses, just one (my own money or can be sponsored) or two (sponsored na 'to kailangan!) out-of-town trips, clear my credit card debts, open a savings account (and maintain it please lang!), less dates (as if meron nga ka-date!), less eating (as if uli!), less Starbucks (hmmm, November na lang uli to collect stamps for the planner, as if na naman!), wise budgeting for E-jay’s school expenses (yes, scholar ko si kapatid!), celebrate my birthday momentously (bahala na!).
Why?
I’m getting old and so must start thinking about the future but somehow still indulge myself in life’s little pleasures. When I say little it should be with minimal expenditures only. No more 45K gadget, no more 20K out-of-town trips, no more 10K wardrobe. But YES to saving for a lifetime investment! This is it!!! I can’t wait for 2010.
Sorry guys I can’t say anything yet. Let me conceal this thing for now. Hahaha, don’t worry, not planning to marry. A big AS IF!!!
Thanks 2007 for such an exciting roller-coaster ride. Heart broken, loved again and heart broken again. Promotion that equates to a more toxic work. Additional team members who lessen my burdens. Committed GP2WC members. Still jaded colleagues in the office. And of course, dear friends! Need I mention them all here? Sige, one of my next entries would be the TEN DEAREST FRIENDS I TREASURE SO MUCH. Sige abangan ha! Mag-away na kayo kung sino ang magiging Number One hahaha!
Thanks God for all these blessings. And I now welcome 2008 with a bang (but please, no more UTI)!!!
Merry Christmas!
And yes, Happy New Year na rin!
Friday, December 14, 2007
Christmas Nostalgia
Weekend is just a day away! Alas, I can take some rest again. Have plans already ~ will sleep the whole day of Saturday to regain lost energies after this quite long week. Truth is, nothing at work has been so toxic, but I feel tired and restless since Monday evening. Maybe because I still can feel the Christmas Party hang-over. On Sunday I needed to shop for the Christmas gifts for my Godchildren and friends or else, I’m doomed. Monday morning I’ll visit my dentist for my monthly check-up and in the evening, back to work. It seems like I’ll have a very organized weekend. But I doubt! Knowing me!
Christmas is really just around the corner. I can see excited faces everywhere. The traffic is now a big headache! Malls are jam-packed; all are busy buying and/or looking for their would-be wish lists, while I am still taking my time idly and feeling lazy to move. Feels like I’m getting pessimistic on this season ~ and I just can’t feel the urge to roam around the malls nowadays. Ironically, I’m always with my two friends when they do their shopping but I join them merely as a companion. You wouldn’t see me carrying a single paper bag after. Maybe because I already have my outfits for the Christmas Day itself. Perhaps because I am contemplating on giving cash to my Godchildren instead of gifts. And perhaps because I’m planning treat my dear friends to lunch or dinner instead of worrying what would be the best gift to give them. Don’t know!
I wrote here before that I am preparing for this season more than the preparation I made last year. I stand corrected ~ it looks like it’s going to be just an ordinary day for me. Yearly, I look forward to watch the movies shown at the local film fest but now, I haven’t seen a single trailer of the movie entries (how would I be able to see one when I haven’t been to movies for months?). All I know is that on Christmas Day I would wake up early, perhaps 7:00 AM (if you can call it early) to visit my Lola Poncing to kiss her hand as a sign of respect and gratitude (a family tradition!). Then will take a bath, wear my outfit, hand my cash or gifts to my nephews and only niece (who happened to be my Godchild as well), visit my beloved and groovy Grandma Noning, Aunt Lydia and the rest of my relatives. Have some good laughs while I give out cashes or gifts to my nephews, nieces, cousins etc. Have a good lunch with the whole clan and then after lunch plan what would be next ~ either watch a movie with cousins or alone, take my afternoon nap or go malling. When tired would have to go home ~ watch the television and then, sleep! Christmas Day is over, quite boring!
Well, what can you expect? I don’t have someone special to spend the day with. Sure I have friends, but of course I wouldn’t want to steal their quality times with their own families. So I’ll be left alone ~ on the merry day itself. Sigh! Well, I'm getting used to it. Enough said!
Christmas is my most looked-forward holiday when I was still a kid, as I am sure to receive a gift from my only God Mom (for life!). But now that I am two decades older, things have turned around. I would have to buy my God Mom a Christmas present (if not, what a shame!). When before I always ask for some twenty, fifty or a hundred bucks from my Uncles and Aunts after kissing them Merry Christmas, they would now send their grandchildren to me to ask for money. Hayy, nowadays, during Christmas I end up penniless. A big sigh once more!
Sure, I am getting older. I am starting to feel what I was hearing before from older ones that Christmas is a day when they feel better to hide away from people ~ in purpose! How I wish I am still the same old kid who fancied the colorful gift wraps my God Mom used for my gifts, who’s excited to wear my Mighty Kid shoes because of its blinking lights and of course who’ll boast of my Christmas outfits with my playmates and cousins. Gone are those days. Christmas is no longer a festive day for my now weary soul.
Hayyy, when will Christmas again be merry for me? Can’t wait! Can’t stand it anymore! Sigh… and yes, a big sigh!
Peace!
Christmas is really just around the corner. I can see excited faces everywhere. The traffic is now a big headache! Malls are jam-packed; all are busy buying and/or looking for their would-be wish lists, while I am still taking my time idly and feeling lazy to move. Feels like I’m getting pessimistic on this season ~ and I just can’t feel the urge to roam around the malls nowadays. Ironically, I’m always with my two friends when they do their shopping but I join them merely as a companion. You wouldn’t see me carrying a single paper bag after. Maybe because I already have my outfits for the Christmas Day itself. Perhaps because I am contemplating on giving cash to my Godchildren instead of gifts. And perhaps because I’m planning treat my dear friends to lunch or dinner instead of worrying what would be the best gift to give them. Don’t know!
I wrote here before that I am preparing for this season more than the preparation I made last year. I stand corrected ~ it looks like it’s going to be just an ordinary day for me. Yearly, I look forward to watch the movies shown at the local film fest but now, I haven’t seen a single trailer of the movie entries (how would I be able to see one when I haven’t been to movies for months?). All I know is that on Christmas Day I would wake up early, perhaps 7:00 AM (if you can call it early) to visit my Lola Poncing to kiss her hand as a sign of respect and gratitude (a family tradition!). Then will take a bath, wear my outfit, hand my cash or gifts to my nephews and only niece (who happened to be my Godchild as well), visit my beloved and groovy Grandma Noning, Aunt Lydia and the rest of my relatives. Have some good laughs while I give out cashes or gifts to my nephews, nieces, cousins etc. Have a good lunch with the whole clan and then after lunch plan what would be next ~ either watch a movie with cousins or alone, take my afternoon nap or go malling. When tired would have to go home ~ watch the television and then, sleep! Christmas Day is over, quite boring!
Well, what can you expect? I don’t have someone special to spend the day with. Sure I have friends, but of course I wouldn’t want to steal their quality times with their own families. So I’ll be left alone ~ on the merry day itself. Sigh! Well, I'm getting used to it. Enough said!
Christmas is my most looked-forward holiday when I was still a kid, as I am sure to receive a gift from my only God Mom (for life!). But now that I am two decades older, things have turned around. I would have to buy my God Mom a Christmas present (if not, what a shame!). When before I always ask for some twenty, fifty or a hundred bucks from my Uncles and Aunts after kissing them Merry Christmas, they would now send their grandchildren to me to ask for money. Hayy, nowadays, during Christmas I end up penniless. A big sigh once more!
Sure, I am getting older. I am starting to feel what I was hearing before from older ones that Christmas is a day when they feel better to hide away from people ~ in purpose! How I wish I am still the same old kid who fancied the colorful gift wraps my God Mom used for my gifts, who’s excited to wear my Mighty Kid shoes because of its blinking lights and of course who’ll boast of my Christmas outfits with my playmates and cousins. Gone are those days. Christmas is no longer a festive day for my now weary soul.
Hayyy, when will Christmas again be merry for me? Can’t wait! Can’t stand it anymore! Sigh… and yes, a big sigh!
Peace!
Monday, December 10, 2007
Haha… Male Star of the Night!
Yesterday indeed was a day! Fun, enjoying, relaxing and of course, toxic! But at least, it’s all over, for now…
Our Winter Wonderland Party was really successful. Though the program and the evening were relatively short, I hope everybody who attended the event enjoyed their night. The venue was just perfect, the food was good and of course the party itself was indeed entertaining. Thanks to Mar, Pong and Migs for hosting, you really did a good job!
Though I wasn’t able to win any of the raffle items, I was so happy for I won the Male Star of the Night category. Well, that’s still a Php 2,000.00 cold cash! Thanks to the two-day sick leave that I had, it enabled me to rest well. Thanks as well to my Sponsors (artista ako!), kahit nagbayad ako sa inyo hehehe ~ Onesimus for my Long Sleeves, Vest and Tie, Memo for my Khaki Pants, Lacoste for my Rubber Shoes, Penshoppe for my Jacket, Kenneth Jo for the Scarf and Grace Naceno for the Socks! Good enough, goal attained!
I also posted a few pics in my Friendster account (http://profiles.friendster.com/adrianmanay), please take the time to visit my account and view the pictures.
Lastly, thanks to all the guests ~ employees and VIPs alike. To all the team members who participated in the Chorale Singing Contest, congratulations for your nice presentations. Special mention of course to the winner, Team AmieKenetic… nice interpretation of my favorite Christmas Song, My Grown-Up Christmas List. Congratulations to Ryan, Grace, Vanny and Tine for your 5-year Loyalty Awards; Team Hermione for bagging the very first Best Team of the Quarter Award; to the PRIME Team for getting the Special Citation Award.
And yes, thanks Josiah’s Catering for the nice food and service. Thanks as well to the Blue Leaf Team for being so accommodating. And lastly, thanks to my PMT and my GP2WC members for your unwavering support and commitment. I really am proud to work with you guys! Till our next activity!
Our Winter Wonderland Party was really successful. Though the program and the evening were relatively short, I hope everybody who attended the event enjoyed their night. The venue was just perfect, the food was good and of course the party itself was indeed entertaining. Thanks to Mar, Pong and Migs for hosting, you really did a good job!
Though I wasn’t able to win any of the raffle items, I was so happy for I won the Male Star of the Night category. Well, that’s still a Php 2,000.00 cold cash! Thanks to the two-day sick leave that I had, it enabled me to rest well. Thanks as well to my Sponsors (artista ako!), kahit nagbayad ako sa inyo hehehe ~ Onesimus for my Long Sleeves, Vest and Tie, Memo for my Khaki Pants, Lacoste for my Rubber Shoes, Penshoppe for my Jacket, Kenneth Jo for the Scarf and Grace Naceno for the Socks! Good enough, goal attained!
I also posted a few pics in my Friendster account (http://profiles.friendster.com/adrianmanay), please take the time to visit my account and view the pictures.
Lastly, thanks to all the guests ~ employees and VIPs alike. To all the team members who participated in the Chorale Singing Contest, congratulations for your nice presentations. Special mention of course to the winner, Team AmieKenetic… nice interpretation of my favorite Christmas Song, My Grown-Up Christmas List. Congratulations to Ryan, Grace, Vanny and Tine for your 5-year Loyalty Awards; Team Hermione for bagging the very first Best Team of the Quarter Award; to the PRIME Team for getting the Special Citation Award.
And yes, thanks Josiah’s Catering for the nice food and service. Thanks as well to the Blue Leaf Team for being so accommodating. And lastly, thanks to my PMT and my GP2WC members for your unwavering support and commitment. I really am proud to work with you guys! Till our next activity!
Sunday, December 9, 2007
This is “The Day”
Woke up a little earlier than the usual. Excited? Yes! Today’s December 9, and is the “Big Day”. Aha, I’m not getting married, just to be clear. Today’s our Christmas Party, the best so far that I am to experience on my four times in Black Pearl.
I will always remember the very first Christmas Party I had with this team way back 2004. It was themed “Belen Awards” as we are to award the company’s most popular employees way back then. I wouldn’t say they are the most significant ones as honestly, some of them aren’t even performing well; winners were chosen out of voting, hence a popularity contest. Short notice, I had to emcee the event; for the male emcee couldn’t even say a word due to shyness (but later on, when I had a feud with him he turned out to talk fiercer than me! Bitch!). I also was not comfortable doing it back then; first because I am relatively new with the company and roughly knew everybody and second, the program wasn’t properly organized. Hayy, those were the days. At least now that I am the one planning for this kind of events for the company, I have my learned lessons to ponder.
The second year I would say is a little better, but quite ‘un-fabulous’. We needed to share the night with the other projects that were handled by our HOS Delivery Lead. While it has been a good opportunity to mingle, I think it turned out to be not as enjoyable as we wanted. Probably because of the venue and the big population. It wasn’t as intimate and merry as a Christmas Party should be (well, that’s my idea of a party). I again was a host… senseless host, I should say hahaha!
Last year showed a very good improvement ~ from the venue to the food and to the event itself. It was a Hawaiian-themed party in a poolside. Presentations of our teams were simply incredible! The food was more than enough for the guests (I can’t describe the taste as I wasn’t able to eat much because I’m one of the ‘punong abalas’). And yes, the hosts were great! Ah, ako pala yun!. I don’t know why Black Pearl employees loved it when I do the hosting ~ maybe because I’m quite witty, smart or what (yabang ko talaga!) ~ or because they love it when I do my spiels (quite libelous, slanderous and hmm, funny!). All I know is that, when I hold the microphone I can’t stop giving funny antics and my energy peaks up to its highest level!
For this year, I will just be a back-up host (ano yun?). You see, I wanted to enjoy the party and be not as worried as the past three ones that I’ve experienced. But since we are expecting very important guests from Accenture and our client, I would have to be on the sides of the three emcees ~ they are now quite nervous and seems to lose words to say. I have high hopes though that these three will be able to do their part tonight with flying colors, with a little to no help from me anymore. I really want them to develop their self-esteem and their talents to host events like this.
True enough, I can now feel the Christmas breeze! Never mind if it’s going to be as cold as ice for me. It was always, anyway! I haven’t done my Christmas shopping yet for my Godchildren and my friends who are on my list. On the other hand, I already have my Christmas Outfits (hehehe)… have my 2008 Starbucks planner as well. Don’t know how to describe what I’m feeling right now ~ if I am excited or what for the Christmas Day itself. All I know is that I am preparing for it, more than the preparations I made last year.
All I wanted is for my Christmas to be merry, and my New Year to be a blissful one!
For now, have to pack-up. Need to go to the party earlier than anybody for our last minute preparations. Parking the pen.
Seasons greetings to yah all!
I will always remember the very first Christmas Party I had with this team way back 2004. It was themed “Belen Awards” as we are to award the company’s most popular employees way back then. I wouldn’t say they are the most significant ones as honestly, some of them aren’t even performing well; winners were chosen out of voting, hence a popularity contest. Short notice, I had to emcee the event; for the male emcee couldn’t even say a word due to shyness (but later on, when I had a feud with him he turned out to talk fiercer than me! Bitch!). I also was not comfortable doing it back then; first because I am relatively new with the company and roughly knew everybody and second, the program wasn’t properly organized. Hayy, those were the days. At least now that I am the one planning for this kind of events for the company, I have my learned lessons to ponder.
The second year I would say is a little better, but quite ‘un-fabulous’. We needed to share the night with the other projects that were handled by our HOS Delivery Lead. While it has been a good opportunity to mingle, I think it turned out to be not as enjoyable as we wanted. Probably because of the venue and the big population. It wasn’t as intimate and merry as a Christmas Party should be (well, that’s my idea of a party). I again was a host… senseless host, I should say hahaha!
Last year showed a very good improvement ~ from the venue to the food and to the event itself. It was a Hawaiian-themed party in a poolside. Presentations of our teams were simply incredible! The food was more than enough for the guests (I can’t describe the taste as I wasn’t able to eat much because I’m one of the ‘punong abalas’). And yes, the hosts were great! Ah, ako pala yun!. I don’t know why Black Pearl employees loved it when I do the hosting ~ maybe because I’m quite witty, smart or what (yabang ko talaga!) ~ or because they love it when I do my spiels (quite libelous, slanderous and hmm, funny!). All I know is that, when I hold the microphone I can’t stop giving funny antics and my energy peaks up to its highest level!
For this year, I will just be a back-up host (ano yun?). You see, I wanted to enjoy the party and be not as worried as the past three ones that I’ve experienced. But since we are expecting very important guests from Accenture and our client, I would have to be on the sides of the three emcees ~ they are now quite nervous and seems to lose words to say. I have high hopes though that these three will be able to do their part tonight with flying colors, with a little to no help from me anymore. I really want them to develop their self-esteem and their talents to host events like this.
True enough, I can now feel the Christmas breeze! Never mind if it’s going to be as cold as ice for me. It was always, anyway! I haven’t done my Christmas shopping yet for my Godchildren and my friends who are on my list. On the other hand, I already have my Christmas Outfits (hehehe)… have my 2008 Starbucks planner as well. Don’t know how to describe what I’m feeling right now ~ if I am excited or what for the Christmas Day itself. All I know is that I am preparing for it, more than the preparations I made last year.
All I wanted is for my Christmas to be merry, and my New Year to be a blissful one!
For now, have to pack-up. Need to go to the party earlier than anybody for our last minute preparations. Parking the pen.
Seasons greetings to yah all!
Thursday, December 6, 2007
Been sick…
What’s with December that for this past two years I experienced sickness on this month? Been out of the office since Tuesday night. Upon waking up Monday I already had sore throat and immediately treated it with a pack of lozenges. But the pill seems not effective I asked my friend Joy for an alternative medicine. She prescribed a certain Antibiotic and I immediately bought it. But when I woke up Tuesday afternoon to prepare for work I felt a slight fever and my sore throat has developed to frequent dry coughing. I then decided to take a rest ~ I need to get well for our Sunday’s Christmas Party.
It has been two days and I seem to feel fine already. Thanks to the many Solmux tablet I’ve taken! I will report back to the office later tonight as more than being well, I needed to come. I know my office table has now piles of papers for reviewing, signing and routing. My planner probably is now shouting my to-do’s. Two days are quite a number and I expect a very busy night later. Dear God, please don’t make my condition get worse! I need to be the Star of the Night on Sunday!
Truth is, I’m getting bored! I thought staying at home for more than 48 hours will be good but after many hours of sleep, my head became so achy. Of course, I simply can’t go out for rains are also pouring (Mom also wouldn’t allow me!). Missed my new desktop monitor (plasma screen), my earphones, my comfy swivel chair and yes, the Management Team’s dance rehearsal! Will be able to rehearse on Saturday morning though! That’s okay, even if I missed the second to the last rehearsal, I am good. I know all the dance steps already.
Of course, even if I am out I needed to check my e-mails from time-to-time and be online in AIM for some instructions to my team members. During times like this I know I need not worry for I have a very reliable team. Since they are good, I am thinking that perhaps I am no longer needed in the office! Joke! I need to work (and earn!) of course! Still have lots of bills to pay!
I can’t think of anything to do here at home anymore. I have checked my Friendster account for more than 20 times already. Have watched boring TV shows as well. Re-watched Regine Velasquez’s movies, organized my dresser, etc. etc. Now last thing to do: write a blog message. BUT, my writing skill has been sick as well, perhaps. No thoughts are flowing on my mind now. Hmp, writing a non-sense blog! Thinking; when can I write a blog message that’s inspiring and thought-provoking? Answer: Don’t know! I need to consult you guys again. Suggest a topic to write! ASAP!
Bye for now. See yah around!
It has been two days and I seem to feel fine already. Thanks to the many Solmux tablet I’ve taken! I will report back to the office later tonight as more than being well, I needed to come. I know my office table has now piles of papers for reviewing, signing and routing. My planner probably is now shouting my to-do’s. Two days are quite a number and I expect a very busy night later. Dear God, please don’t make my condition get worse! I need to be the Star of the Night on Sunday!
Truth is, I’m getting bored! I thought staying at home for more than 48 hours will be good but after many hours of sleep, my head became so achy. Of course, I simply can’t go out for rains are also pouring (Mom also wouldn’t allow me!). Missed my new desktop monitor (plasma screen), my earphones, my comfy swivel chair and yes, the Management Team’s dance rehearsal! Will be able to rehearse on Saturday morning though! That’s okay, even if I missed the second to the last rehearsal, I am good. I know all the dance steps already.
Of course, even if I am out I needed to check my e-mails from time-to-time and be online in AIM for some instructions to my team members. During times like this I know I need not worry for I have a very reliable team. Since they are good, I am thinking that perhaps I am no longer needed in the office! Joke! I need to work (and earn!) of course! Still have lots of bills to pay!
I can’t think of anything to do here at home anymore. I have checked my Friendster account for more than 20 times already. Have watched boring TV shows as well. Re-watched Regine Velasquez’s movies, organized my dresser, etc. etc. Now last thing to do: write a blog message. BUT, my writing skill has been sick as well, perhaps. No thoughts are flowing on my mind now. Hmp, writing a non-sense blog! Thinking; when can I write a blog message that’s inspiring and thought-provoking? Answer: Don’t know! I need to consult you guys again. Suggest a topic to write! ASAP!
Bye for now. See yah around!
Monday, December 3, 2007
What’s been going on lately?
I’m still on the night shift schedule and yes, getting used to it. I might extend on this sched till the end of December. I have a feeling January 2008 will be a good start for me; as I believe 2008 will be my year (leap years are actually good for me). I still do not see signs that it will be a good one but it’s too early to say and look for signs, 2007’s last month has just started.
Let’s have a little rewind. I’ve been to some good activities and events recently. First was attending the Jojo-Sherley wedding last November 24. Sherley will always occupy a very special place in my heart as she’s really a dear friend. I wouldn’t miss her wedding for the world! Good that the date coincided with the US Thanksgiving Holiday; I had a good rest before doing my role as a Candle Sponsor. The wedding was also a perfect chance for us, high school classmates to catch up and it was so nice doing so. I missed the Club Ts and the rest of the gang! Never mind the costly treat; I really had a wonderful time with them. Girls, take good care of your mugs and yes, I’m willing to throw a party for you on my birthday. I still have time to save anyway.
That evening, I was in Aliw Theatre to watch Regine Velasquez’s ‘Ang Ating Awitin’ concert (yes, still a fan!). I was with my two bitchy friends, Yeth (you again!, we’re together in the wedding) and Jean. We’re seated on the VIP section, and was alongside Nadia Montenegro and kids, Vicky Belo and Hayden Kho (Wilma Galvante and Kuya Germs were both near our seats as well). It was really nice watching Reg perform live, and no matter what others would say about the concert and Regine, she is for me, still reigning ~ and yes, the undisputed Asia’s Songbird!
The week after was quite a heavy one – as the long weekend of course has its toll – pile of workloads to do. My team would have to prepare in our project’s attendance to the Accenture BPO Christmas Party. It was so commendable to know that we had around 80 % participation on the event, compared to other projects which had as low as 15 % engagement. I heard the party in general had low turn-outs based on the confirmed registrants; but nonetheless, the World Trade Center was quite jam-packed on the party’s day itself. Do not ask me for my other feedbacks about the event, but it’s a little pass my good marking. Of course, it isn’t easy to stage a party for 4,000 plus employees.
It’s Monday again and the start of the week. I would be at work in a few more hours, but before preparing I decided to write again (been so lazy writing recently). This will again be a very busy week as we are to finalize our very own project’s Christmas Party, scheduled on December 09 (Sunday). I am feeling the butterflies in my stomach now, but still able to relax for I know I have a reliable team with me – my Great Place to Work Council. There are still some dirty jobs to finish and accomplish which are actually on top of our daily to-do’s. I might not be able to write again but don’t worry, I’ll sure be back. Perhaps next week? To give you guys a detailed account of the Black Pearl’s much anticipated Christmas Party.
On a personal note, I am still missing B--- so bad! But there’s nothing I can do anymore. Ours is a closed book, and I believe we both should move on. What we had was so speedy and its end was also so rapid, but despite what happened, I take this as a new learning ~ charged to experience. I also have learned that in love, I should always be optimistic – when you experience the rain, the rainbow will surely show up. Again, I have a feeling 2008 will be my year, who knows my love aspect will also be merry. If yes, then I’m good. If not, I am still good. As long as I can go on day-by-day, then I’m okay.
That’s it for now folks! Till next ish…
Let’s have a little rewind. I’ve been to some good activities and events recently. First was attending the Jojo-Sherley wedding last November 24. Sherley will always occupy a very special place in my heart as she’s really a dear friend. I wouldn’t miss her wedding for the world! Good that the date coincided with the US Thanksgiving Holiday; I had a good rest before doing my role as a Candle Sponsor. The wedding was also a perfect chance for us, high school classmates to catch up and it was so nice doing so. I missed the Club Ts and the rest of the gang! Never mind the costly treat; I really had a wonderful time with them. Girls, take good care of your mugs and yes, I’m willing to throw a party for you on my birthday. I still have time to save anyway.
That evening, I was in Aliw Theatre to watch Regine Velasquez’s ‘Ang Ating Awitin’ concert (yes, still a fan!). I was with my two bitchy friends, Yeth (you again!, we’re together in the wedding) and Jean. We’re seated on the VIP section, and was alongside Nadia Montenegro and kids, Vicky Belo and Hayden Kho (Wilma Galvante and Kuya Germs were both near our seats as well). It was really nice watching Reg perform live, and no matter what others would say about the concert and Regine, she is for me, still reigning ~ and yes, the undisputed Asia’s Songbird!
The week after was quite a heavy one – as the long weekend of course has its toll – pile of workloads to do. My team would have to prepare in our project’s attendance to the Accenture BPO Christmas Party. It was so commendable to know that we had around 80 % participation on the event, compared to other projects which had as low as 15 % engagement. I heard the party in general had low turn-outs based on the confirmed registrants; but nonetheless, the World Trade Center was quite jam-packed on the party’s day itself. Do not ask me for my other feedbacks about the event, but it’s a little pass my good marking. Of course, it isn’t easy to stage a party for 4,000 plus employees.
It’s Monday again and the start of the week. I would be at work in a few more hours, but before preparing I decided to write again (been so lazy writing recently). This will again be a very busy week as we are to finalize our very own project’s Christmas Party, scheduled on December 09 (Sunday). I am feeling the butterflies in my stomach now, but still able to relax for I know I have a reliable team with me – my Great Place to Work Council. There are still some dirty jobs to finish and accomplish which are actually on top of our daily to-do’s. I might not be able to write again but don’t worry, I’ll sure be back. Perhaps next week? To give you guys a detailed account of the Black Pearl’s much anticipated Christmas Party.
On a personal note, I am still missing B--- so bad! But there’s nothing I can do anymore. Ours is a closed book, and I believe we both should move on. What we had was so speedy and its end was also so rapid, but despite what happened, I take this as a new learning ~ charged to experience. I also have learned that in love, I should always be optimistic – when you experience the rain, the rainbow will surely show up. Again, I have a feeling 2008 will be my year, who knows my love aspect will also be merry. If yes, then I’m good. If not, I am still good. As long as I can go on day-by-day, then I’m okay.
That’s it for now folks! Till next ish…
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