Crazy / Beautiful

I heart credit cards

2008-05-27T20:48:00.000-07:00

I have to honestly say that credit cards are my lifeline. I swear I cannot go shopping without the plastic in my purse. I don't usually bring cash when I hit the mall (because most of the time I do not have cash! Hahaha!) so having a handy credit card always saves the day.

Since Dad gave me an extension of his VISA credit card, I knew right away that it will be used for my shopping escapades. Now that I am driving our car pretty much everywhere around the metro, Mom has finally decided to give me an extension of her Shell credit card so that we could have rebates whenever we gas up at Shell. Oh, and an additional card means more means to buy stuff!!! Woohoo! Coolness!

I think it's easy now to apply for credit cards. Take Credit-land.com for instance. The site offers reliable and timely information on online banks’ credit applications. Doesn't matter if you have a great payment history or if you bad credit score because they will match you with a credit card that is right for you. The site also provides info about any issues related to bank deals.

Call me a slave of plastic cards but in the world we live in today, who would still care about cash? It's all about credit cards, baby! Get yours and let's all get shopping crazy!

Whoopee!!

2008-04-11T03:59:00.000-07:00

Yessss! I am once again alone in the laboratory... Times like these make me ponder more on what's been happening in my life. I get to think more about my plans and goals as well as bum about the bad times I've had for the past few days.

At 23, I used to think I have achieved much already in life than most 23-year-old girls do. But if you really think about it, nothing has changed in my life; I am still stuck in school, still can't earn my own money, and still can't move on in life. Simply put, I am still nobody so I have no reason to think I am great after all. While my other friends have moved on into the world of professional work, here I am living in the world of school work with no job experience whatsoever.

Honestly, I can't wait to graduate from my post grad degree. This has been exhausting my energy for the past year; I literally have no time to meet up with most of my friends because I spend my weekends in the lab. It's like my world revolves around the four walls of the Sensors Lab alone. Argh!

Anyway, enough of my whining... let me get back to my lab work now before I get any more Bea Alonzo-ish dramatic. It's almost 8 PM and I need to catch the last shuttle trip.

Wordless Wednesday #1: The Shore

2008-04-02T22:23:00.000-07:00

I love the shore and the sand! The pictures above were taken at the Shangri-La Mactan in 2006.

Earth Hour 2008

2008-03-28T14:09:00.000-07:00

Last year, Sydney made a powerful statement about global warming by turning off its lights. Over 2.2 million Sydney residents and over 2,100 businesses switched off their lights, which led to a 10.2% energy reduction across the city. This event was the first ever Earth Hour.

This year, the Earth Hour has been turned into a global movement. The whole world will make a stand against one of the greatest threats our planet currently face. Tonight at 8:00 PM to 9:00 PM, 24 cities around the globe will participate in Earth Hour 2008 and I am very proud to say that Manila, my Manila, is one of them.

Manila will switch off its lights for an hour tonight to deliver a powerful message about the need for action on global warming. We shall witness the entire stretch of Roxas Boulevard, a road that spans through 3 cities from Manila to Parañaque, join the rest of the world for Earth Hour. Likewise, the City of Makati will take part in the event by turning their lights off along Buendia, Kalayaan, JP Rizal and Ayala Avenue.

According to the Earth Hour website, even SM Mall of Asia will shut down its lights for Earth Hour. Similarly, HSBC, Intel, Canon, Coke, Jollibee, Greenwhich, and Chowking will be participating in Earth Hour by turning off the lights from their billboards and signages.

I STRONGLY ENCOURAGE each one of us to take part in this campaign to prove that we, the people of the world, can effectively work together and fight global warming.

The Earth Hour is just the first big step, but we know that the real challenge goes way beyond this great start. From switching off lights to unplugging appliances when not in use, we can live up to our commitment to save our planet. Together, our simple efforts can collectively make a difference.

We can change the world. We can make everyday an Earth Hour.

So tonight at 8 PM, let's be one with the world. Let's turn out our lights for one hour.

One hour, Manila. Earth Hour.

Just missing my blog

2008-03-28T02:17:00.000-07:00

I can't even log on in to my email account. Can't post pics for Wordless Wednesday. Can't do tags. Can't do opps (actually, there are no opps to do!) Haaaay.

I am doing this post because I terribly miss blogging, and I won't allow my busy-ness and laziness to take over me once again.

I need to update this blog over the weekend, I just hope I find the time to do so. Free, chill time is so scarce these days.

Congrats, Lia!

2008-03-07T11:31:00.000-08:00

Would like to congratulate Lia Inocencio, my partner in CRIME, for successfully defending her thesis!!! Magna Cum Laude, baby!

Oh, surprised with the visitor eh? Haha! I knew you'd love it!

Mad props to you, Lia girl!

I love the 90s

2008-02-22T11:30:00.000-08:00

You Are 56% A Child of the 90s

Ah yes, the 90s! You remember them - and they were totally phat.

Or totally dope. Or totally da bomb.

Are You a Child of an 90s?

This was something really interesting. I guess 56% isn't that bad... I grew up in the late 90s. Haha! Feel free to take the quiz!

Increase thy Alexa Rank

2008-02-17T11:29:00.000-08:00

We all know how Google made our blogs sink into the rut by bringing our PR down to zero. It's been months since this has happened, but we have to admit that we still face the implications of Google's bitch-slapping PR drop even to this day. Its effect is so extensive that it has directly affected our paid blogging opportunities, hence reducing the amount money we can possibly earn.

Bloggers, though, can still pin their hopes on one tool: the Alexa Rank. And I say there is hope in this tool because there are networks (like ReviewMe and SponsoredReviews) that base your blog strength on your Alexa Rank and not just on PR.

However, the problem with the Alexa ranking is that it is based on the number of people who visit a website with the Alexa toolbar installed into their browsers.

If you look at it, the Alexa ranking is really an inaccurate way of determining a blog's strength, but at least it's something that we bloggers can still somehow manipulate and do something about.

How to improve one's Alexa ranking? Let us count the ways.

1. Since the ranking is based on visitors who have the Alexa toolbar installed into their browsers, then the most basic step to improve your rank is to install an Alexa toolbar into your browser. Get it by clicking this.

2. Once the toolbar is installed into your browser, make your blog your homepage. This increases traffic to your site and it affects your ranking.

3. You have to tell the world about the toolbar, so make your friends install it as well. You can probably make a post about it in your blog.

4. Post on online forums and remember to display your blog's URL. This way, you are creating a buzz for your site.

5. People look for timely and interesting content online so make sure you blog about something that is currently a "hot" topic. Interesting topics can make people flock into your site.

6. It is sometimes boring to see words all crammed together in blog posts so make sure you use pictures to attract more readers.

7. Personally, I would advise you to participate in sites like Wordless Wednesday to make people check out your blog. By doing this, you attract visitors who would likely comment on your post, thereby increasing your rank.

Basically, content is the key. Make your posts as interesting as possible. Think about your posts and carefully write them.

Good luck!

Go Philippines!

2008-02-15T11:28:00.000-08:00

I would like to congratulate Marc Nelson and Rovilson Fernandez for placing third in the race around the world! You guys made an Amazing Race record of having the most collective leg wins in one whole season (eight 1st place finishes out of a possible 12!) Woohoo!

Come to think of it, if you add the costs of all the prizes you received for finishing first eight times, you might just end up having a sum that is more than the $100,000 grand prize!

This season has led me to one great realization: I WANT TO JOIN THE AMAZING RACE ASIA 3.

I will not just sit and watch teams pass by. I want to be there... right in the middle of the action.

Registration for the next season dubbed as "The Amazing Race Asia 3 - The Hardest Race Ever!" is until 25 February 2008. I have to find a partner fast. So, who wants to be my teammate?

Let's do this and make the motherland proud! Go Philippines!

I met HappySlip!

2008-02-08T17:22:00.000-08:00

I just came home from Christine Gambito's (aka HappySlip) Meet and Greet at Mag:net Cafe, Bonifacio High Street and I am still overwhelmed by the experience!

Call me a fan girl. Call me whatever. One thing I know is that the whole experience was amazing!

I will post a detailed entry about this as soon as I get the pics from Jo, Maan, and Gorce (just because my camera has a great timing for losing battery charge.)

I am on a high!!! A HappySlip high!

I am Queen Paranoia

2008-02-05T11:25:00.000-08:00

The events happening lately in my life are bringing me closer to my sanity's threshold. Paranoia's driving me to the edge, and it wouldn't be long before I wear a straightjacket. Seriously.

What kills me more is that I can not openly talk about this whole paranoia thing. You see, since I am Queen Paranoia right now, I am too paranoid that the people involved in the situation may get the chance to read that the hoopla has taken me this far -- that alone might just bring joy to their pathetic lives.

By admitting that I am becoming paranoid of some things may indicate that people around me are slowly becoming successful of their mission: to take me down at all cost. I don't care if this is just a figment of my mind, but I will not allow them to completely drive me to my wits' end.

I must stop here before things get crazier.

ANTM = Excitement

2008-01-31T11:24:00.000-08:00

I just learned that the new season of America's Next Top Model (Cycle 10) will be starting on 20 February 2008! Oh boy, am I excited!

You can check out the girls of this new cycle by clicking this.

It's ANTM time once again! Woohoo!

Laziness takes over

2008-01-28T11:23:00.000-08:00

I really wanted to do some of the pending posts I have on my list, but I am afraid laziness is taking over me. I know I must not give in, must control myself, but the force is very strong and I can't fight back. Haha!

I shall have enough will power to posts the following SOON:

1. Evil Girlies' Dinner
2. Manalangsang End-of-the-year Reunion
3. My Cebu Sinulog trip

If there is one thing though that I can't help but make a post about, it's definitely the paid opps that send in $$$ into my pockets! Haha!

Diba? Who can ever say NO? Lalo na if you have lots of bills/debts to pay or if you've been thinking of getting something from eBay? Who can say NO?!

Haaaay. We have to admit it. It's keeps us longing for more... and we love it!

23 years! Beat that!

2008-01-25T23:34:00.000-08:00

Praise be to God for giving me 23 wonderful years of living this beautiful life! And I am so ready for 23 more! I offer everything to you, Lord!

Much, much love to my Mom, Dad, Jhozelle, Abi, Ate Peachy, Ate Ricca, Ate Al, Kris Crooc, Inah Datuc, Leah Casio, Peter Pardo, Kat Marcial, Emar Largo, Karl Edejer, Hannah Vergara, Sheila Colandog, Fr. Ching, O.P., Liz Ocampo, Jhun Galicia, Maian Miguel, Teij Bonaobra, Daisy Casio, Jolleen Balitaan, Ernest Lim, Kris Nuguid, Coco, Cor, PA Flores, Ivan Puno, Mam Karen, Sir Bergs, Dra. Rhona, Lia "the Empress" Inocencio (haha!), Renee Tady, Jenny Carreon, Apol Espino, Eds Briones, Dianne Mancita, Shenley delos Santos, Khriz, Mary Alarcio, Kat, Prue Dy, Cheryl Chua, Kix Abaya, Minay Estacio, Leah Gatdula, Mark Alarcio, Theen Agravante, Jay =), and to everyone who made my day verrrrrry special! *huuuuugsss to all of you*

Just a thought:

When I look back and wonder how I ever made it through, I realize it's not because I've been clever, but because GOD has been wise; not because I've been strong, but because GOD has been mighty; not because I've been consistent, but because GOD has been faithful.

Basta IKAW! Amen, Lord, Amen!

OMG!

2008-01-23T11:19:00.000-08:00

OMG! I just learned that Heath Ledger has died!

Awwww. No more Brokeback Mountain Part 2 =(

Manila, my Manila!

2008-01-22T17:20:00.000-08:00

Woohoo!!! I'm sooooooo happy to be back home!

Just got home this morning from my ultra amazing but equally tiring Cebu trip. Gawd, I missed Manila! I missed my bed! I missed the jeeps! I missed the internet!!!

I planned to sleep the whole day, but then I realized that I have to wash the clothes I brought with me to Cebu because I have almost none left for tomorrow! I finished washing them all just before doing this post, and believe it or not, my hands are numb and shaky while I'm typing this! Talk about first time washing clothes!

In as much as I want to post my stories and pics in Cebu, I really couldn't do it now because my hands aren't cooperating and my mind is going blank. I promise to post entries about my trip as soon as my mind gets back in shape.

Argh! I am delaying posts for the Nth time and I hate it!

Anyway, hafta go now. My body is longing for my bed. Tata!

Love and Hate

2008-01-16T11:16:00.000-08:00

Fillers galore!

1. I love to eat: donuts! yumyumyum!
2. I hate to eat: SINIGANG -- believe it or not!
3. I love to go: to Cebu! Later na yan! Yebah! (I luuurve going to malls too!)
4. I hate to go: to DOST. Haaaaay. Life.
5. I love it when: I wake up in the morning and realize it's Sunday so no need to rush.
6. I hate it when: it rains.
7. I love to see: shooting stars.
8. I hate to see: rude drivers on the road.
9. I love to hear: Fr. Jun's Sunday homilies.
10. I hate to hear: loud sounds from my neighbor's TV at 3 AM.

Just grab this tag if you need fillers.

It's all in my crazy little mind

2008-01-15T03:58:00.000-08:00

It's 20 minutes past 3:00 AM. Yes, I have to go to school later, if that's what you want to ask. But honestly, I've never been a morning person, so school time is more or less a little past lunchtime for me. Therefore, sleeping is not an option right now. My mind is so much wide awake that I'd be needing tons of Prozac to send me to dreamland.

Well, I'm up because this one site recently launched a new paid opp worth $25.00. Twenty-five freaking dollars... that's like a thousand pesos. A thousand pesos for 100 words. Deym. I've been refreshing the page for several times now and all available slots for this certain opp has been reserved. Why are they all so fast when it comes to reserving opps?! What's my DSL for?! What's my updated PC for?! Argh.

Oh. I refreshed the page just now and the opp is gone. Boo.

You have to agree with me when I say that once you earn money from blogging, you just can't help but long for more. What makes it even more attractive is that you get payment in dollars. I mean, come on... who wouldn't want that?! Not that I am some money-loving blogger, but I'm sure you do get where I am coming from. Just think: $1 = 40 pesos (in fact, is kills me that from $1 to 50 pesos it dropped to just 40 pesos.)

Oh, by the way, can you just imagine how Google hates us paid bloggers? Yeah, they did drop our ranks to zero, but that won't necessarily make us stop! Haha! I'm sure they've been trying to figure out a better (and maybe a more permanent) way to eliminate us off the web. Again, boo to you, Google!

Hah. I've never refreshed a page this much in my life, but it seems that nothing is happening to the page displayed on the other tab. Haaaay. I am nearing my give-up threshold.

It's probably time to finish this blabbering. Sorry to waste your time reading crap. This whole thing, everything written here, just kept on popping out of nowhere. No coherence, no flow. It was just popping! Must be from the wild, little corners of my sometimes-insane mind.

Bah, I am making no sense here. Peace out.

Where has blogging taken you?

2008-01-12T11:11:00.000-08:00

For some people I know, blogging has been a major source of cash. I believe it has been, for some, a career while staying at home.

I have read about people who have used the money they earned from blogging in a variety of ways. One has bought Louis Vuitton bags using her blogging money. One has bought so many shoes via an online store in the US. Another one bought Coach wallets for her and her husband (you hear me, Ate Peachy? Haha!) And even my cousin in the US has started paid blogging to earn money to buy kikay stuff!

As for me, I have not touched the money I earned since I started blogging. I reckon it's time to use it, to finally reap the fruits of my labor.

So next week, blogging will take me back to one of the best places I have been to in the Philippines. I can't wait to go back to...

Magellan's Cross

Cebu Cathedral

Fort San Pedro

Cebu Provincial Capitol

Taoist Temple

Mactan beaches

Shangri-La Mactan's coastline

Tita Ellen's beach

Tita Ellen's White Mansion (with the La-Z-Boy sala set!)

Sinulog, here we come! Take me, Cebu, take me!

Now it's time to ask you, where has blogging taken you? Feel free to answer =)

Is it just me or is it the world?

2008-01-10T11:09:00.000-08:00

Today, I realized that no matter how careful you are on the road, you will always encounter a rude driver who's ready to take you down no matter what.

Thank you, Lord for keeping us all safe.

Questions

2008-01-09T11:04:00.000-08:00

Been tagged from my other blog.

The Rule: Remove 1 question from below, and add in your personal question, make it a total of 20 questions, then tag 10 people in your list, list them out at the end of this post. Notify them in their chat box that he/she has been tagged.

1. At what age do you wish to marry?
Late 20s or early 30s. I still want to explore many things before settling down.

2. What color do you like most?
It changes from time to time eh. Now, I lurrrve hott pink.

3. If one of you’re friends will leave and migrate,what would be the last thing you’ll say to him/her?
I would definitely meet you there. Haha!

4. Where is the place that you want to go to the most?
Places with great historical significance. Nakss. Though right now, I am seriously hoping that my Aussie trip this year will push through.

5. Which part of you do you love the most?
Hmm.. I dunno. I love 'em all.

6. When you encounter a sad moment, what do you do?
I cry. Yeah, I am a cry baby.

7. What are you afraid to lose the most?
My family and friends.

8. If you win $1 million, what would you do?
Pang Miss Universe question ito ah. I would definitely save a portion of it. Give some to charitable institutions (share your blessings!). Go on a shopping spree. Buy a house. Pay my debts. Haha!

9. If you meet someone that you love, would you confess to him/her?
We'll see. Haha!

10. Why are you answering this tag?
Nothing to do at home. Plus, it's a filler!

11. How many children do you want to have when u get married?
Two or three.

12. What is/was your course?
I graduated in 2005 with the degree Bachelor of Science in Chemistry. Right now, I am pursuing graduate studies. Hopefully, I graduate in March 2008 with the degree Master of Science in Chemistry =)

13. Which type of person do you hate the most?
Backstabbers.

14. If you had one wish, what would you wish for?
Three more wishes.

15. Song you hate?
I don't like Depeche Mode's Somebody.

17. Do you have any soul mates?
There might be someone out there.

18. It’s already 2008. Do you have a new year’s resolution?
Nah. I always break them anyway.

19. Name of that someone you love.
Kuya Jess

20. Why is the sky blue?
Rayleigh scattering, man. Haha!

Feel free to grab this tag!

Bye, 2007. Won't miss you.

2008-01-01T06:41:00.001-08:00

This may be 2 days late, but what the heck. I was so busy making the most out of the Christmas break that I almost forgot I have a blog and I have opps which are expiring (they expired already, actually).

Anyway, on my way to school this morning (yes, I am trying to be an early bird now), I was thinking of things that happened to the year that had gone by. With the good and bad things that happened last year, I must say my 2007 was one rollercoaster ride that I don't really want to be in again.

New year with the Shnotz... PCC craziness... PCC hoopla... 3-day Tagaytay conference... Lia leaving for Japan (she's back though!)... Scholarship extension... Colloquium... Yadah yadah yadah... Crazy tutorials... Poker nights at Leah's... Serendra strolling... Pictionary contest at Hobbes and Landes... Last minute UAAP craziness with Lia (again!)... Chika moments with Dylan (yun yon eh!)... My drama moments with the barx (it's so me!)... Eds and Oyo break up... Katipunan coffee nights with Eds... DWTL sessions... DWTL staffing... Losing Stephen (awww..)... BL DWTL rebirth... Over night at Lia's... Makati strolling during the wee hours of the morning... Margarita, mudslide, Super Dry, chismis, plus boylet with the devils... Yes, the horn-grabbing devils *insert evil laugh here*... Moments that broke my heart... Moments that made my heart melt... Bonding with Chicago-based relatives... Fun and amazing karaoke nights... Back-to-blogging... Lia's foot ligament injury (goodbye, 3-inch heels! goodbye, jumpshots! goodbye, Nasugbu!)... Hannah's car accident... My very first car accident (ouch!)... No money but still kicking ass... Long lines at DFA... Gateway almost every other day (Lia?)... Fifi... Asiasense... UK-Philippines... Chika moments with our Malaysian and Indonesian friends (nosebleed!)... Earn $$$... Bathless, sleepless, eatless mornings... All the evil plans... Pollock tambay... Gambling nights... Motorcycle rides... Shooting stars... The pain... The laughs... The drama...

Life goes on for me, but I have to say I am thankful that you are finally over. Goodbye, 2007! Won't miss you!

To everyone else looking forward to a better year, a better life, a better "me"...

HAPPY NEW YEAR! Let's rock 2008!

Tell me how to breathe.

2007-12-31T13:39:00.000-08:00

Because bringing my camera proved to be futile, my short stories would have to suffice for now until I get copies of the pictures we took from Ate Peachy.

Nobody probably wants to know what happened to my activities scheduled for the weekend, but I'd blog about it anyway, simply because I can't imagine how I got through every single day without passing out!

28 December 2007 (Friday)

I had six schedule activities last Friday and because I have to admit that I have no superhuman powers, I got only three of them done.

My 8 AM PCASTRD trip happened 6 hours late, so I ended up rushing to attend the Parish Youth Ministry's Christmas party for the less fortunate kids which was supposed to start at 1 PM. I was able to make it to the party's venue; however, the party was nearly done when I got there.

In the evening, my whole family met up with Tito Boy, Tita Alice, and Kristina to watch a stand-up comedy in Quezon City. We were all laughing so hard the whole night! Man, the gays were hilarious! When we went home at around 3 AM, the show was not even over yet!

29 December 2007 (Saturday)

Because we went home late the night before, I expected myself to wake up late too on a lazy Saturday. I wasn't able to attend to my thesis and our Tagaytay was called off the last minute, so I thought I'd bum the whole day... that was until my whole family (including my cousins) suddenly decided to schedule a dinner with Tito Boy and his family, which means I had to miss both my originally scheduled Christmas parties for the night!

We had dinner at Hula Hula in Alabang and had desserts at Cafe Breton. Had the chance to chat with Kristina that night. It's always nice to bond with a cousin who's in Manila for the first time.

At 12 AM, my night was far from over as Leah picked me up to hang out at Starbucks Sucat Road. You know naman, girls would always have time to do a little chit chat called girl talk, take note, no matter how tired/busy/insane they are! Haha!

30 December 2007 (Sunday)

Of course, waking up on a Sunday is the best! It's 11 AM and nobody really cares!

Anyway, we went to the Manalangsang family reunion in Tayuman for lunch. Cousins, aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews -- name it! Everybody was there! We could never miss this gathering ever! Too bad Ate Ricca, Tita Thess, and Tito Bong can only watch us from the webcam! You guys MUST join us in the flesh next year!

Siyempre, a Filipino gathering can never be complete without karaoke! Kesehodang wala sa tono. Mom even danced to my "I Will Survive" song. Karaoke surely gets everyone hyped up! Even Kristina sang Tagalog songs!

I left a few hours later because (argh!) I needed to attend an interview in (eeeep!) Las Piñas for my Aussie trip next year. I wished it was scheduled in the morning and not at 4:30 PM because we wanted to go shopping pa and bond some more with Tito Boy, Tita Alice, and Kristina (since they've been gone for so long and they're leaving for the US later today).

After the interview, me and my mom went back to Tayuman to pick up Tito Boy and his family and bring them to Market! Market!/Serendra/Bonifacio High Street for a last-minute bonding/shopping time. I'd love to show them around but we got there pretty late na so they were not able to do much shopping. Good thing Tita was able to buy the accessories she was looking for since she got here and some pasalubong for friends back in the US.

We wanted to stroll around High Street, but we unfortunately have to go back ASAP to the hotel where they were staying at in Manila because a family friend of theirs was waiting for them to send some last-minute regards.

SO THERE. Haaaay.

I don't wanna forget about what happened to the last few days of my 2007, so I am making sure I post these things before the year ends. I promise to post detailed stories (as if this isn't detailed enough!) as soon as I get the pics from Ate Peachy.

A part of me is jumping for joy right now because I can finally breathe after a tiring (but super fun!) weekend. A part of me is sad, well, because I really don't like ending years. It's like saying goodbye to all the good things that went by.

I am off to hit the sack now. Hopefully, I get the chance to do a year-ender later. Can't do it now, I feel like my head's spinning non-stop. Give me some time to put it back in place. Tata!

Try my shoes

2007-12-27T13:37:00.000-08:00

28 December 2007 (Friday)

1. Submit PCASTRD letter (8 AM)
2. Go to school for experiment (8 AM to 5 PM)
3. Parish Youth Ministry's Christmas party for the less fortunate kids (1 PM - 5 PM)
4. Hannah's request: Visit Lia in the afternoon (probably around 2 PM and onwards)
5. Shopping again with Tita Alice (?) (after lunch)
6. Comedy bar with Tito Boy and his family (evening)

29 December 2007 (Saturday)

1. Go to school for experiment (8 AM to 5 PM)
2. Tagaytay with Tito Boy and the whole family (lunch till afternoon)
3. Lectors and Commentators Christmas party (7 PM)
4. Better Living DWTL Christmas Party (8 PM)
5. Poker/Gambling night (9 PM and onwards)

30 December 2007 (Sunday)

1. Manalangsang family reunion (whole day)
2. Aussie WYD screening (4 PM)
3. Poker/Gambling night (9 PM and onwards)

Should I start breaking myself into pieces now? How in the world will I do/attend all these?!

Kill me, please! NOW NA!

Happy Birthday, Kuya Jess!

2007-12-24T18:00:00.000-08:00

Wow! Your 2007th B-day!

Thank you for keeping me sane all these years. Thank you for always rocking my world! Happy birthday, Kuya Jess!

And to everyone else who visits my blog, may you have a joyous Christmas filled with love and peace. Merry Christmas to you and your families!

3rd devil down

2007-12-23T13:34:00.000-08:00

Yes, another devil has fallen.

After Hannah was side-swiped by an 18-wheeler along SLEX...

After Lia got herself into some serious foot ligament injury caused by PUV carelessness along Alabang Zapote Road...

It's my turn!

After 5 years since I learned how to drive, I got myself into a very minor car accident for the first time yesterday. As Mom was about to get off to buy some meds in the drugstore, a CRV accidentally hit our car while it was backing off. The driver probably didn't notice us parked behind, and his mind was probably somewhere else because I kept honking to make him stop and wait for me to move my car first, yet he still went on.

The CRV's driver admitted his mistake and told us he was looking only at the right side mirror so he really didn't notice us. I thought the damage was huge because it made a pretty big cracking sound. Buti nalang it produced only a small dent on the right side of the car just above the rear wheel. I let Mom talk things out with him because I was really annoyed and pissed... I might let out the bitch in me eh. Good thing din na small lang yung dent and the guy agreed to pay for the damage he caused.

I tell you, the feeling was terrible as you see your car being hit. Traumatic talaga. In fact, on the way home, I was paranoid that all cars coming near me will hit me!

So... I am the third of the evil girls to fall. Two more are left. Be careful, both of you! They're out to get us! Haha!

Catch a falling star and put it in your pocket

2007-12-15T13:33:00.000-08:00

Another Friday of a DWTL Weekend had gone by. It may be the start of a life changing experience for the 18 participants, but as for me, it was another fulfilling Friday where I shared a piece of myself with two youngsters, a lady and a gentleman. =)

The venue was in a heaven located along the uphill road of Antipolo, a place where stars seem so close when you gaze up on them. While I was doing the activity for Friday night, I observed 14 FALLING STARS right in the dark sky above me! It was my first time ever to see such beauty, not to mention the abundance of it last night! It was a meteor shower!

Jess must be telling me that He's all over the place, watching and guiding us through the tough night. Thank you, Kuya. You have never failed us. Basta ikaw. =)

+BiL+

Comfort foods

2007-12-11T13:32:00.000-08:00

I was tagged by Arlene from way back in my other blog and I had the time to do it just now. A tag on my comfort foods... yumyum! Haha! This is so right for me! Thanks, Arlene!

First would be DONUTS! Krispy Kreme, Go Nuts, or even just Mister Donut! I love them all! In fact, I just ate two donut twists (chocoloate and coffee) from Mister Donut before doing this post. And by the way, not just donuts ha... donuts with chocolate milk drink! Haha! Carbo overload!

Second would be ice cream! Mango or mocha or chocolate flavor. Actually, any flavor is fine with me as long as it's creamy and yummy!

Third would be chips! Junk food! I have a sweet tooth, so I prefer those with a sweet twist. Chips go with a good cold cola.. I'd be a happy girl if you give me chips with Coke or Pepsi!

Feel free to snatch this tag!

Bumming for the Nth time

2007-12-10T13:31:00.000-08:00

I am staying home today after a tiring morning I spent at the Department of Foreign Affairs. I got my passport renewed and to actually be able to do that, I had to stand in line for hours with the overwhelming number of people who are planning to get their butts out of the homeland! In fact, I started to work things out with DFA since Friday because of my "hold departure" thingie! I shall share with you stories from this adventure of mine next time.

Goodbye 1992 passport. Maroon, machine-readable passport, I shall wait for you.

I will be watching ANTM's 12th episode for now. Tata!

We grew up in the era where Jollibee is more than just a bee

2007-12-08T13:29:00.000-08:00

He (or she?! Did you guys ever wonder if Jollibee's a guy or a gal? I did! And I still do!) was a sweetheart. Ulkkk.

I was digging through some old photos when I spotted something I could use to blackmail my brother Abi. This pic was taken during his 7th birthday some 17 years ago at Jollibee Binondo branch. Look who was closey-closey with the bee...

The big, thick glasses. The printed polo shirt. The black leather belt. The grey pants. Plus, the black leather shoes (not seen in this pic, but can be seen in the pic below). HAHAHAHAHAHA!

Oh my. At the age of 7... Dang! What was Mom and Dad thinking? I think Abi's aware of his fashion preference then, but what he probably doesn't know is that it will someday find its way online.

Sige na nga Abi, so you wouldn't feel too bad about this, here's my closey pic with Jollibee too. Pero siyempre, with you in the pic parin! *evil laugh*

I was in my Sunday best diyan ha! With matching patent leather white slip ons and white socks with ruffles! Hahaha!

You guys should watch out for more of our "old time" pics. I think I'd be doing regular entries on this topic!

The gods have spoken

2007-12-06T13:28:00.000-08:00

And they said no, the universe is not conspiring for your success, you assuming biatch!

My presentation makes me feel crap. I feel like I'm not going to finish this post grad course in a million years! And it's not helping that I am pioneering this study! That's supposed to be a good thing in the first place!

I know that instead of whining, I should go and prove to myself that I CAN! I know I CAN naman eh, it's just that I am so depressed with the situation now. I am at the stage of my life that I truly feel that my back is against the wall. It's just for now, so please let me feel this way: I am doomed to fail.

Tomorrow is a new day I can't wait to face.

I live another day

2007-12-04T13:25:00.000-08:00

Okay. Remember what's killing me lately?

I was assigned to present my research updates tomorrow, but for some crazy reason held by the One that makes the universe turn, I have been saved from Doomsville. The presentation has been moved to Thursday, 6 December. Yeahhh!

Actually, there are two major reasons why my presentation is not pushing through tomorrow. One, my adviser will not be around and there's no way I'm going to present without him. Two, the research center staff members need to leave early for a commitment, so nobody will facilitate the reporting.

If you ask me, I'd like to think of it this way: the research gods see my agony and have decided to spare me this time. Thank you, thank you. I'm sure you know how I badly need more time to prepare myself for this.

Funny how things are starting to go my way now -- they usually don't! Maybe the universe is finally conspiring for my success. *insert millions of crossed fingers here*

We'll see. =)

ANTM Cycle 9: Episode 11

2007-12-02T13:23:00.000-08:00

I have been following the current cycle of America's Next Top Model through YouTube, and I have to say that this cycle has become a little less than what I expected it to be.

No, I am not talking about that cycle being shown in ETC. Last time I checked, we were 2 cycles late, no thanks to geography. Friends have told me that ETC is now showing cycle 8, but that's a past cycle concluded even before August of this year.

Anyway, episode 11 of cycle 9 had Heather saying goodbye after her so-so chinese princess shoot and a very poor performance with the Go Sees. I honestly think it was time for Heather to go home since she was going down from week to week. It's true that she takes amazing photos, no doubt about that, but that's because she has a face that "the camera loves," and she need not exert too much effort on her poses. We all know that a pretty face is not enough to get her through the business.

Heather's pre-season futuristic shot

Heather's second photo shoot: Couture Rock Climbing

Don't get me wrong, I do like Heather, and for a time I thought she'd win this competition. What I do not like about her is that she became so used to being on top, that a single negative critique stressed the hell out of her and it obviously affected her performance in the competition. What frustrates me more is that she's using her Asperger's syndrome (a mild version of ADHD) as an excuse for her poor performance. It could've been better if she used her condition to prove that she has what it takes to become a model and her disability can not stop her from being one.

Well, I guess Heather's just not ready for the punches of the modeling industry. I'm afraid it's something she can't handle.

By the way, why in world is Bianca still in the competition? She should've gone home even before Lisa or Ambreal did. I dunno what Tyra sees in her. She's stiff and not fierce at all. Plus, she looks sleepy in most of her photos.

With the way things are going, looks like Saleisha is going to win this cycle. Jenah might be the runner up. Honestly, I don't like Saleisha's do; it isn't edgy for her features. And I think she still has that girl-next-door look that isn't modelish at all. On the other hand, Jenah's extensions are, ermm, messy actually. I hope she had them removed as soon as they finished shooting the cycle.

My final two

Only four are left. Let's see who's going home next week. Meanwhile, check out Heather's portfolio by clicking this.

Tag you!

2007-12-01T13:18:00.000-08:00

Tag! I have another filler for my blog. Yay!

FiVe tHiNgs foUnd in My bAg :

- red magic wallet
- polka-dotted umbrella (never go without it!)
- my techie kit (holds my phone, iPod, hamburger speakers, Palm Z22, and my extra phone in case I get held up! Haha!)
- a bundle of keys
- my fan! (As in pamaypay! Galit ako sa init eh!)

FivE tHinGs foUnd iN my waLLet:

- cash
- credit card
- ATM card
- Driver's License
- receipts

fiVe ThingS fOunD In My RoOm:

- books! lots of em!
- double-deck bed (I get the one on top!)
- aircon
- my beloved shoe rack
- my study table

FivE thIngS I've aLwaYs waNteD to dO:

- learn how to wake board
- represent my country in one event (scientific or not)
- get my PhD
- drive a truck
- travel to Brazil

fIve tHinGs I'm cuRrEntly iNto:

- doing endless reports!
- shopping! (I have to agree with Ate Ricca!)
- doing paid opps
- music, music, and more music
- bum around

I tag:

- anybody who wants to grab this tag!

PBB = more money

2007-11-24T13:14:00.000-08:00

This evening, Big Brother announced to the celebrity housemates some changes in the prizes that await the Big Four, a never before twist in the many seasons of PBB in the Philippines.

The housemates, who have just heard director Maryo delos Reyes' comments on their short film, were gathered in the living room when Kuya suddenly called his "special guests" and the Wowowee girls started coming in, all in skimpy clothing, with boxes full of money. You should’ve seen Baron going crazy! Haha!

What the hell are all the boxes full of money for? It appears that Big Brother has decided to double the cash prizes of the show: P400,000 for the 4^th placer, P600,000 for the 3^rd placer, P1,000,000 for the 2^nd placer, and a whopping P2,000,000 (plus other perks) for the Big Winner. Kuya also said that challenges will be tougher and only the toughest can stay until the big night on January 5, 2008.

January 5^th. Wow. The first thing that came to me was, “Oh, they have to spend Christmas and New Year inside the house!” At that instant, Kuya announced that he is opening the door and those who cannot take the challenge are free to exit the house. The episode was cut as the housemates were left amazed by this shocking declaration.

Initially, this season was expected to run until mid December, right before the holidays. I suppose this tremor was never anticipated by the housemates, unless this has been preplanned and revealed to them even before the show started. Giving them the benefit of the doubt, I reckon the housemates joining because they know in the first place that they’ll be home for Christmas and New Year. If only they knew the twist, would they still go for it?

On a side note, it makes me wonder what drove the PBB production to come into this kind of twist. After four seasons, why double the prize only now? Is it to make the show more interesting to watch after the “hell week” that happened? Could it be because of the unexpected exits that took place this past week? I honestly think Mcoy was insulted by Kuya’s behavior and Ethel was just, well, being the pasaway that she is, but that's another issue altogether.

Anyway, back to the topic.

Okay, I thought, if I were in the housemates’ position right now, what would I do? Should I leave the house to spend the holidays with my family (as originally planned) or take a shot at the doubled rewards?

This dilemma, I think, is brought about by the culture which we have been brought up as Filipinos. I say it’s a difficult decision because we were taught ever since childhood to value our families just like how we value God, more than money or fame or anything material in this world. So not being able to spend Christmas or New Year (it is when family reunions are usually arranged) is a big no-no to most conservative Filipino families.

But as I look carefully into the situation, if I were a housemate, this can be the only holiday season that I am not spending with my family. I mean, it’s not like I will never come back or something. I can always have my next holidays spent with my loved ones, but this is a one-shot deal that may never come again, so why waste it?

My take on this issue: take up the challenge. After all, only 8 housemates remain; four will be evicted and there is a 50% chance of winning the money. P400,000 isn’t bad at all, so might as well take the risk. If the opportunity gets better, P2M might be on its way, which is a totally good thing!

This is just me being practical and all. Others might need 20 years working in the office to get this amount of money. I might need to work in the lab for several years to get my hands on P400K. It’s money, and no matter how we look at it, we are going to need it for sure. In fact, I even tried paid blogging to make extra moolah!

So now I pass on the question to you: if you were in this predicament, if you were a housemate, what will you do? What will you choose? I’d love to hear you guys out.

Rainy Thursday Randomness

2007-11-15T13:11:00.000-08:00

I was about to leave the house and head to school when my Mom called to tell my Dad that classes have been canceled because of the non-stop rain. I had my mind set on visiting Doc Sev to give him our gift (it's his burrrrrdddaaay!) and at the same time present my experimental data to him. But because of the not-so-friendly weather and the floods attempting to fill Dapitan today, I am stuck at home with nothing to do but blog and read journal articles.

****

Speaking of Doc Sev's birthday, I might just drop by BF later to get him some Starbucks Coffee beans. He loves caffeine so we'll give him loads of it. Plus, I will have an excuse to go out of the house. Haha.

****

While trying to print some documents earlier, I found out that our new HP printer software doesn't display ink levels. The page had several unprinted lines, so I guess the black ink's running out. I re-installed the software, found out that I missed installing some components, and that it woundn't complete its installation because my computer doesn't have enough RAM.

Argh.

I must really go out today and buy those RAM cards.

****

I do not really watch local movies, but my friends have convinced me to go watch John Lloyd's movie, One More Chance, tonight. Hmmm...

****

I hate it when it rains. It's sssssoooooo sad, so gloomy. It's like you have nothing else to do but sleep!

Therefore, I must really go out. Now na!

What's killing me

2007-11-14T13:10:00.000-08:00

Thursday last week. 8 November 2007. I came to school early to spend some quiet time to do my reports for DOST. When I stay at home, I usually procrastinate until the day has ended without me typing a single letter for my report. I have constantly been putting it off that I totally forgot it's the 2nd sem already and I badly need to pass my reports ASAP. I needed motivation to do what needs to be done and the laboratory is the perfect place to get that motivation from.

As I was approaching our lab, I saw this blue paper stuck on our door. Announcements, I thought to myself.

Blue paper on our laboratory door

I moved closer and checked out what does it really say.

RCNS updates

So this was it. This was what Dr. Binag called me for 2 months ago. Researchers get to report to the "local scientific community" what they have been doing and improve their research work through the insights and suggestions of other researchers.

Anyway, I looked at the names of those who will be presenting...

names names names

...and nearly fainted when I found mine written under the December 5 heading.

December 5. 2:00 pm. DORCAS CROOC. ahh (faint!)

I was honestly alarmed to find myself presenting my study so early in December. I knew it's going to be in December, but I didn't expect it to fall on the first week! It's just too soon!

So for the past week, I've been doing follow-ups on my experiments to get more reliable and presentable data.

Experimental set-up

What's hard for me is that I have several other deadlines to beat for my money-making brouhaha. But who says I have to sacrifice one of my duties? I can always do things at the same time. After all, I'm not called ultra-amazing Superwoman for nothing.

Doing paid opps while doing experiments

My working area

And so for today, since I am finished with the last few experiments for the first phase of my study, I will be staying at home trying to encode my data. I will be having a meeting with my adviser tomorrow, so I need to prepare the stuff I will report to him. This research update thing goes at the top of my list (together with my paid opps), and next are my pending DOST reports which I hope I can prepare as the days (or weeks) pass by.

*As I was doing this post, the mail man arrived and handed me a letter from DOST. Yes, they are looking for my reports already. Waaaaaahhhhh! OMG, I'm gonna die! (Mariel Rodriguez way of saying)

To Hann and Chres

2007-11-12T13:09:00.000-08:00

This post may have been 2 weeks late but that doesn't mean I totally have forgotten to blog about it. I will make this short and sweet. =)

To my dear Hannah and Chris,

It's the peak of the mountain, the end credits of the movie, and the period of the sentence. You have finally capped the MS program with the defense of your theses! I want you girls to know that I am very very very proud of you both! Two Magna Cum Laudes in a day! Beat that!

Hannah during her defense

Chris during hers

Mad props to you, girls! Congratulations! *smoooooch*

We are Dazers forever

2007-11-11T13:02:00.000-08:00

I just got home from the 41st Days With the Lord Anniversary Mass and I am once again on a high. I was overwhelmed with the experience not only because this is the first time I attended the DWTL Anniv. Mass in my four years of being a Dazer, but also because of the fact that I am representing the Better Living-DWTL Community along with the other BL DWTL core members.

Actually, our attendance wasn't planned at all. Our originally scheduled meeting with our parish priest would coincide with the Anniv. Mass schedule and so we never thought we'd be able to attend the Mass in the first place. In the afternoon, we were informed that our meeting was cancelled. We then decided to just go to the DWTL Anniv. Mass sponsored by the St. Scholastica's College DWTL Community.

Before leaving MHC Parish

Waiting for Jerold outside his house

Backseat peeps: Zaldy, Apol, Grace, Jerold, and cross :)

We all thought that we were late when we got to St. Scho but it turned out that the Mass was just about to start. It honestly felt so good to see hundreds and hundreds of Dazers from different communities gather in one place to celebrate the 4th Day with our Kuya. And getting to renew our commitment as Dazers was the best part of it! The first and last time I got to express my commitment was like four years ago!

After the Mass, posing for the camera was just unavoidable. And it wasn't only us, as in everyone talaga!

Boys Batch 2

With people from UST DWTL (Yup, I serve this community too!)

With our cross

Just when we were about to leave, Mon's van seemed to have some start up problems, and so we took more pics while waiting for him to fix things up.

Apol and Grace

Picture-taking along Estrada St.

Si Grace lang naiba! Brown nga ang BL DWTL eh. Haha.

Some of the people I know from UST Days passed by as we were making tambay along Estrada St. Jhun (my co-BIL staffer) suddenly blurted out, "Wala pa tayong picture, Dorx!" Picture, you say? Madali akong kausap. Hahaha!

With UST Dazers (Karl, Jhun, Patrick, Ja, and the other girl. Awww, I forgot her name.)

Since our tummies were already making noises, we decided to head back to Parañaque and eat our dinner there. Pero the traffic was bad along Sucat Road, so we had no choice but to...

...take pics again!

While waiting for our orders at Sinangag Express BF

Can you tell Mon and Je are so hungry already?

Renewed commitment, time with Kuya, lots of pics, full stomachs, and a fun fun fun bonding time with the BL DWTL core members... the simple joys that made my day. It's good to be with Dazers. I am a happy girl! =)

****

Some thoughts...

Dazers,

We are called to be a Dazer, we are Dazers forever. Remember: He never said it would be easy, He only said it would be worth it. And we all know it was definitely WORTH it.

Let's live our commitment! Let's live the 4th!

+BIL+

I miss you.

2007-11-09T13:00:00.000-08:00

In your lifetime, there will always be people whom you will remember for the many good (or bad!) things they did to you. That someone whom you had your first date with. That someone who first broke your heart. That someone whom you had very very good conversations with (which by the way lasted for hours!). That someone who first called you names. That someone who made you cry all night long.

Then there's this one who you can't seem to forget no matter how many years passed. Who made you happy with even the corniest of jokes. Who stunned you with his witty comments on life. Who was amazing by being simply himself...

We may never get the chance to talk like we used to, we may never be the same again. But just in case I wasn't able to tell you, thinking about our memories still make me smile. Thank you. You are forever in my heart. =)

I miss you, CJ. And you don't know how incredibly much.

(It's funny how Avril's "I miss you..." kept on playing in my head as i was doing this post!)

Call me Ultra-amazing Superwoman

2007-11-06T12:54:00.000-08:00

Aside from the other gazillion things I have to do in life, e.g. thesis experiments, manuscript, household chores, DWTL duties, lector on Sundays, sell stuff on eBay, prepare GS publication, meet up with friends to keep my social life from completely going down the drain, tutor General Chemistry to a freshman, etc., I have recently decided to add "extra special blogging" in my to-do list for extra moolah.

Yep, I'm joining the bandwagon.

My future posts may not be of interest to anyone than the advertisers, but I will surely be doing posts that aren't paid from time to time.

So to those asking for a special article about them (READ: Sheila), I'm afraid I have to put that off for a while. I am getting paid to do articles now, you know. Hahahaha! Seriously Shi, I would do something for the barx next time. It's just that I have my hands so full right now. I know you understand. =)

Christmas Wishlist

2007-11-05T12:52:00.000-08:00

Since the holidays are fast approaching, I have decided to make an early list of the top 100 stuff I wanna have at my doorstep this Christmas.

Here goes my Christmas Wishlist...

1. Apple MacBook Pro (17 inches)
2. 2007 Honda CR-V A/T
3. 3 pairs of jeans (Kahit Lee lang please...)
4. White iPod Video Classic
5. Crocs Khaki/Pearl Patra size 10
6. Red Sony T100
7. Hollister Applique T-Shirt
8. Gucci belt bag (brown)
9. cK be perfume (100 mL)
10. Bulgari BLV for Women
11. Cranium Set
12. Lacoste Drawstring bag (classic)
13. Ralph Lauren doctor's bag (classic brown plaid)
14. Nike Merge watch
15. GNC Vitamin B-1 tablets
16. Red Samsonite Luggage
17. Palm Tungsten E2
18. Nokia E90 Communicator
19. HP Laser printer
20. The Body Shop Beleaf and Amorito perfume
21. Victoria's Secret sparkling body ice
22. Shu Uemura Brush Set
23. Jimmy Choo Kennedy patent sandals
24. Manolo Blahnik Sedaraby pumps
25. Ellianto nail polish (earth tones)
26. Black Mango purse
27. Green Lacoste Pique shirt
28. One week vacation at the Bahamas (nakksss!)
29. iPod AC charger
30. Harry Potter 7-book set
31. Victoria's Secret hip hugger undies
32. White Guess? socks
33. HP Deskjet F4185 black and colored cartridges
34. White Hermes scarves
35. Disney Princesses bedsheet and pillowcases
36. 50,000 pesos cold cash
37. The Body Shop silver-toothed comb
38. Chips for Poker
39. Logitech optical mouse
40. Nike Free 7.0 (pink and gray)
41. Jansport polka-dotted bag (white)
42. Sony Bravia 40 inches LCD
43. IMAX passes
44. Roxy board shorts
45. Havaianas slim metallic (39/40)
46. JVC DVD Player
47. RL Denim jacket
48. Kate Spade classic nylon tote
49. GAP argyle sweater
50. Tumi wallet
51. Team Manila shirts
52. Play and Display orange bed
53. Kultura capiz frame
54. Trip to Hong Kong Disneyland
55. Burberry Baby Touch EDT
56. Clarion CD player for car
57. Bayo white pants
58. Marc Jacobs cream cashmere
59. Bottega Veneta large woven tote
60. Christian Louboutin Brudges pumps
61. Vivienne Westwood argyle tote
63. Miu Miu Prada Vernice white wedges
64. Oakley frogskins vintage sunglasses
65. Nintendo DS white
66. Esprit 3-fold umbrella
67. XOXO Blue Ink Hearts bag
68. Ralph Lauren make up bag
69. Bebe jeans
70. Nine West black satchel
71. Coach multistripe tote
72. Dooney & Bourke Quilt Signature Tassel tote
73. Starbucks Oreo Cheesecake
74. Microsoft Vista installer
75. Dove Energy Glow body wash
76. Vicky Belo gift cheque
77. Anna Sui eyeshadow #101
78. MAC Pro Golden Bronzer
79. Red Moleskin notebook
80. Apple iMac 20 inches (Core 2 Duo)
81. Ralph Lauren Pink Pony large tote
82. Beijing 2008 Olympics Opening passes
83. Obagi Skin Care System
84. Tommy Hilfiger travel bag
85. TechnoMarine pink Chrono Ceramique watch
86. DKNY Be Delicious EDT (100mL)
87. Black Fendi Baulotto Boston bag
88. Motorola D&G gold edition mobile phone
89. Louis Vuitton Petite Noe drawstring bag
90. Michael Kors Carly leather wedge
91. A year supply of Baby Ruth bars
92. Ferragamo slingbacks
93. Canon 400D DSLR
94. PSP (white)
95. Neutrogena Sun Block SPF 30
96. Bose Sound Dock for iPod
97. Levi's button fly jeans
98. Juicy Couture tote
99. Finish my experiments and defend my thesis
100. Graduate from the MS program in March

Disclosure Policy

2007-11-03T12:40:00.000-07:00

This policy is valid from 03 November 2007.

This blog is a personal blog written and edited by me. For questions about this blog, please contact dmcrooc@yahoo.com.

This blog accepts forms of cash advertising, sponsorship, paid insertions or other forms of compensation.

The compensation received may influence the advertising content, topics or posts made in this blog. That content, advertising space or post may not always be identified as paid or sponsored content.

The owner(s) of this blog is compensated to provide opinion on products, services, websites and various other topics. Even though the owner(s) of this blog receives compensation for our posts or advertisements, we always give our honest opinions, findings, beliefs, or experiences on those topics or products. The views and opinions expressed on this blog are purely the bloggers' own. Any product claim, statistic, quote or other representation about a product or service should be verified with the manufacturer, provider or party in question.

This blog does not contain content which might present a conflict of interest.

To get your own policy, go to http://www.disclosurepolicy.org

UK - Philippines: Partners in Science

2007-11-02T12:37:00.000-07:00

25 October 2007 -- Another crazy day for us sensors people at the TARC. UST hosted the UK - Philippines sensors workshop dubbed as "BIOSENSORS: Exploring New Domains in Bioanalysis" at the Research Complex. Foreign guests from UK and Singapore came over, and of course, as Doc Sev's minions, we had our tasks during the event.

My initial duty was to prepare the Souvenir Program. It took me a few days to finish the whole thing, which caused me to miss experiments and preparation of experimental materials. But what the heck. I have been doing layout stuff since college, so this was not something new to me. It's funny because until now I get excited when I do these things.

Anyway, a day before the workshop proper I was asked by Ate Karina to man the registration booth--wearing Filipiniana. I got to school really early the next day and helped Sir Bergs put up posters presentations, which by the way, kept on falling every minute or so. By the time the registration started, I was sweaty already and I still needed to change to my Filipiniana costume. Just imagine my haggardness. Argh.

I immediately went to help at the registration booth as soon as I got myself all made up.

Registration booth with Ate Karina and Ate Levi

Registration booth with Tita Beng and Ate Jacq

Chres, Erick, and I helping out at the registration booth

As Doc Sev's minions, we couldn't fully participate in the workshop. As I've said, we had tasks to accomplish for the day. And since we were assigned at the registration booth, we took pics while waiting for late attendees to arrive. We just had to unleash the camwhores in us.

Mam Karen, Chres, and me

Registration peeps at the TARC lobby

TARC gurls - Em, Mama K, Chres, me

At the end of the first session, people came rushing to our booth to ask for extra workshop kits. I tell you: we've encountered every type of human being imaginable. It's important to keep your cool at times like these. Really. Kasi if not, you know what happens.

Me and my Kopiroti bun after being attacked by really scary participants

We went back up to the lab to change into our normal clothes during the second session.

Hanging out in the lab

Prue, Em, Hannah, me

Just before having our lunch, we have decided to take a "batch pic." Yeah. Batch 2005 (BS)/2008 (MS)! Hopefully, this doesn't spoil our expected graduation from the MS program in March.

Batch 2005 / 2008

Doc Sev was the first speaker for the third session held after lunch. With full stomachs and a cozy auditorium, it was hard to keep our eyes open. We did things to amuse ourselves.

Doc Sev during his talk on biosensors and food safety

Doc Sev's minions

Chres sleepy na

Certificates in frames. Heavy.

Hannah pacute

The workshop was running an hour late already. By the time Doc Sev was doing the closing remarks, we, the registration committee, have gathered up outside the auditorium, took our seats, all ready to hand out the certificates.

Ready to distribute certificates

People came to approach us. We divided the certificates into groups. Surnames starting with R-Z were the ones assigned to us. A couple of names were mispelled and one wasn't even printed. Thank God Sir Dharm was ready to reprint certificates with corrections. I knew they would come for us if we didn't correct their certificates!

Filipino style cocktails soon followed. When I say Filipino style cocktails, I mean "fiesta-like." We had something like this when we hosted AsiaSense 2007 back in June. We had puto bumbong, bibingka, sapin-sapin, yummy pansit--basically kakanin--but we also had shrimp tempura, chicken lollipops, etc. I noticed our UK and Singaporean guests liked the pansit. They kept coming back for more.

Cocktails night

There was a short cultural show by the Salinggawi Dance Troupe and a game where a palayok needs to be hit while blindfolded.

SDT doing Maglalatik (is that what it's called?)

Dr. Higson trying out the Tinikling

And what is a Pinoy fiesta without karaoke?

Ate Karina and Sir Dharm singing

Our guests seemed to enjoy our singing because they began dancing as soon as we started with our Magic Sing!

Dr. Michel dancing with Dr. Su

Erick dancing with Dr. Hall

I was dead tired when I got home at around 10 pm. Nonetheless, we had so much fun during the day. How many times do you get to host an international conference with all -- as in ALL -- expenses paid by the sponsoring government?

UK, I heart thee. I shall visit you soon.

Randomness

2007-10-23T12:35:00.000-07:00

Just thought of being vain today. Here are eight random facts about myself...

1. I am named after a character in the Bible. My name actually means "gazelle" or "deer" (yes, the one with antlers). My name is Greek but has a Hebrew translation: Tabitha.

2. My 18th birthday was Wild Wild West-inspired. I didn't wear a gown, instead I wore a Cowboy outfit (with a cowboy hat to match, yee-ha!).

3. I used to be part of the college paper.

4. I feel sad when it rains.

5. I am a super impulsive buyer.

6. My birthday is Cory Aquino's birthday. And Robert Boyle's too.

7. I have trouble getting up in the morning. Believe me, it's AGONY.

8. I thought Ian Veneracion was adorable when I was five years old. God, was I crazy.

Be vain and dedicate this day to randomness. Post something about you!

Student eternally

2007-10-19T12:33:00.000-07:00

If you guys are wondering if I have finished my post-grad studies, well, the answer is NO.

I know, I know. I was supposed to finish everything last year, but things didn't go my way and for once I was convinced that the universe conspires for my failure. It's really hard not to know which direction to take, especially when people are constantly breathing down your neck. You tend to try and live up to the expectations that people have set for you, only to realize that these "wonderful things" do not necessarily make you happy.

I sat in my room for several hours. I thought of the situtation I have myself in. No, I do not believe in mistakes, in wrong decisions. There are no mistakes in this life, just lessons. And it's up to you to pick up those lessons and learn from them. It is by learning that you appreciate the value of what you have or what you have been through.

No, I have no regrets. And if I were given the chance to go back to March of 2005, I'd still pick this route among all the other routes that were laid before me. In the two years that I've been in this predicament, I honestly have learned and gained lessons that changed the way I see things and people now. The experience may have been bitter at times, but hey! I'm still doing good. :)

After all, happiness is relative. Being happy doesn't mean everything's perfect. It means you have decided to see life beyond the imperfections. Don't be happy because everything is alright. Be happy because everything sucks but you're still doing fine.

Wow. Thank God for this opportunity to grow.

Drama ito! I am in the lab right now, in senti mode because nobody's here, making important scientific work happen. Later on this day I shall attend another DWTL batch at the Pollock Renewal Center in Ateneo. Grabe, there's just so much to be thankful for!

I must now go back to nerd mode. Duty calls!

Boom!

2007-10-18T11:56:00.000-07:00

Yay! Another blog for me! I have decided to put up another blog to, ehem, increase chances of getting moolah. :-)

I tell yah, putting up another blog is no easy task. I had to pick out a design and customize it since I do not want this blog to appear "ignored." I mean, I am a details freak so everything here was carefully done with oh-so-much love. It's really a tedious job!

Things here are actually some stuff from my other blog, which has been around for a while. However, I might post entries only to this blog and not to the other one, so please do check this site out from time to time. Give your love to this baby that needs precious attention... NAKS!

Why Crazy / Beautiful? Aside from the movie title that bears these two words, it basically describes how I am with people I am comfortable with: I am superfluously crazy that it shows a unique kind of beauty... a unique side of me. I guess it's time to unleash a little of that craziness inside me and share it with you people. *insert cheezy awwww here*

Oh, enough of the drama. Thanks for dropping by, and welcome to my new site ;-)