Solace and Serenity

Koh Samui : A Night to Remember

2010-02-07T07:06:00.000-08:00

Day 5: December 27, 2009

The long bus trip aint fun at all! That was the longest bus trip I’ve had in my entire pathetic life, EVER. And I swear, I’m not gonna do that again in the future, given I have other options, NEVER. The seat was uncomfortable for people my size so I didn’t get enough sleep. I think I was already occupying half of Andy’s space haha.

We had the usual 30-min bus stop in the middle of nowhere, and that’s where I filled my almost-empty stomach. Though I bought chips, juices, and water for this trip but it’s still good to have a nice food when you’re hungry. I had a very nice sausage dipped in mayonnaise. When I was about to take a big bite, it fell to the ground! Annoyed about what happened, I just ordered another one! and additional cup of rice, egg, and beef! Hahaha. Yummy!

I was already a bit upset with Marius this time because of what happened in Bangkok. When I came back from my “massage”, he wants us to go to the Lomprayah office right at that moment to get the ticket early but I told him we can still wait and go there around 8:30pm. But he insisted to go there earlier than that. So I took my backpack and waited for him on the street outside. But the good Marius kept me waiting for 30 minutes! And when he came out he was with this group of backpackers also heading to Koh Samui. So all this time, he was just talking to them... the fact that he knows I am waiting there outside! And in the end, this group of travellers are actually travelling on different bus. Grrh! So irritating...

After long hours, we finally arrived in Chumpon Port almost 6am. However, the ferry to Koh Samui will only leave at 7:30am! So it means we have to wait for almost 2 hrs there. I saw Anna waiting alone so I told her to join the group. She booked on the same us company, same time, but boarded on different bus. To kill time, we had the usual chitchats like what do you do for a living, blah blah blah. And to break the ice, I made jokes of her profession hehe; it was just for pure fun. :)

But 2 hrs of waiting became 3 and then 4, hopes began to wane. I thought we’re going to stay there for whole f*cking day. Then they finally announced that we can already board the HUGE ferry. After 4 hrs of waiting, grrh!

I managed to find some sleep during this 4-hr boat trip. We first stopped in Koh Tao, then Koh Phangan, then lastly Koh Samui. We didn’t buy the taxi ticket in Chumphon because we thought it's easier and cheaper to find a taxi in Koh Samui port to our Resort. Wrong! Haha. We ended up paying the same amount + the time waiting time.

I usually don’t print my tickets/bookings when I travel. So to be consistent, I didn’t print my booking for our accommodation haha. Problem is, I forgot to jot down the address hihihi. Well, I assume the driver should knows our hotel. I just told him to drop us in “The Room Chaweng” near Chaweng Beach Resort. Luckily, he dropped us near the location where our place is. ;) Later that day we found out that they actually changed their management so as with their name that’s why most drivers don’t know it yet.

The hotel is nice and clean... and we have free internet, but the connection sucks! It was so slow like a dialup connection and they only have one station working lol. But it was fine, I’m not gonna use it the rest of my stay there anyway. The staffs are very friendly and accommodating, not to mention that the operation manager is a Filipino hehe. ;) We’re all so friendly and nice and humble too! Haha :P

Andy, Marius, Anna and I had our late lunch near the Loft. And I was happy to see Karen there! We met her in Bangkok. She’s one of the cool people attended the XMAS party. 4 of us walked a bit and went to the beach area the rest of the afternoon while Karen head to her room to get fix herself, but we all plan to meet that night for another PARTY! ;)

Only Anna was wearing proper swimming attire. I didn’t bring my speedo! Hahaha just kidding. Marius was wearing pants and Andy was even wearing sneakers. But that didn’t stop me, it was very tempting so I took my shirt off and dipped into the sea. While the rest are just staying there doing nothing I guess.

While on our way back to the hotel I suggested to Marius that next time bring shorts since he’s travelling in tropical countries. It’s just a simple valid suggestion but what this sissy lad replied is somewhat offensive. He told me something like “Do you know what are you talking about? Have you been to Europe? You don’t know we don’t wear shorts there blah blah blah.” The fairy godmother inside him started to come out hahaha. Dude, it’s just a common sense to bring light clothes in a tropical country like this. Not because you wear winter clothes most of the time, you will bring winter clothes too hahaha. Just be rational. Anna is from Canada, and it’s damn cold there to, but she’s well-prepared. So don't rub it in my face that you're European.. coz for me you're nothing haha :P. Anyway, I just tried to understand him. It’s his first travel, first visit to Asia, first to travel alone. He should have brought his Lady Gaga’s costume haha. Ok from now on, lemme call him Ladyboy Gaga lol.

Together with Karen, Drew, and Alex (amigo), we had our sumptuous dinner @ Andaman Steak House Seafood Restaurant. Alex, Andy, and I shared a set meal which we didn’t even manage to finish. The serving was so huge and to be honest, I’m not a fan of seafood. Not that I hate it, I just don’t like it as much as chicken or pork hehe. But it was alright, good enough to feed our appetite.

Before we start the “night party”, we stopped by first on different travel agencies to book a package for the next day’s trip! We all decided to go to Angthong Marine Park and do water sports. Karen, possesses good negotiating skills, managed to cut down the package price from 1800 to 1350 Baht each! That’s a good bargain. However, Drew won’t be joining us since he’s been there few years back.

I don’t know what’s wrong with Ladyboy Gaga but he’s getting on my nerves lately. I find him so annoying and loud! I was tired of listening to his galling voice and wanted to just go out and drink. But seems like everyone doesn’t want to go yet so I left them and walked out! Was I drunk? No. I dunno hehe.

Not answering Alex and Andy’s calls and text messages, I went to a go-go bar few blocks away from them. I had a bottle of beer there trying to cool down before I head back. I didn’t stay there for long. I don’t want to spoil the night so I came to meet them again. This time they were already drinking. I ordered beer and bucket and shared to everyone. But Ladyboy Gaga decided to go home and have his beauty rest. Anna also hit the bed early that night. So it was only me, Karen, Andy, Alex, and Drew stayed there.

A mate from TB, Punit, texted me that he’s just around the corner and want to meet us. He came with a friend to see us and invited us to join them partying in the beach area but we were just started the night while they’re already in the middle of having some good time. So we opted to stay where we are while they head back to the beach.

After we finished our buckets and beers we walked down the street to see other bars. I think this time we already lost Alex. Most likely, he went to go-go bars haha. But 4 of us (Karen, Drew, Andy, and me), stayed in the Soi street. We first went inside an open-air club just down the street but the music is freaking loud and the drinks ain cheap either. So we went out and find a cheap place to drink. When we were about to give up, we found this dodgy-stinky pub along the street where customers are so few. But hey, they have the cheapest bucket out there! 9-shots bucket for 249 Baht! Niccceeeee!

We consumed so many buckets! (countless hahaha) I was pretty drunk I must say. I can’t even remember how we lost Drew. Coz in the end, it was only me, Andy, and Karen left drinking haha. Karen impressed me! She’s a tough girl. It’s hard to make her drunk! Hahaha. But she’s wasted too for sure. She even almost passed out inside McDonalds haha. We took a tuktuk and brought her home.

If you think we already called the night off? NO! Not yet! Andy and I decided to go back to pub street and find a place that’s still open that time hahaha. Sounds crazy, aye? Hihi But since it was probably around 5am, most of the bars were already closed. However, we found a small bar which’s still open and few people still drinking. That’s where we met Charmaine.

Charmaine is a young Scottish girl currently living in Thailand. I don’t know how it all started but it was a very profound conversation, she told us her experiences in life, all her struggles to attain her dream to travel, her sacrifices, adventures, even her situation with her parents. It was surreal! It’s weird that you meet strangers with almost the same experiences, same obsession, and same principles on that kind of place and time. I nearly cry just listening to her stories. I can so relate to her. I am very emotional especially when I’m drunk, but I don’t want to sob my heart out that moment. But really, it was something so special, so bizarre.

In an hour or less, we’ll see the sun. And we still have a day tour that morning so we really have to go back to our room. So we hugged her and bid our goodbyes. It was pleasure meeting you Charmaine, hope to see you again in the future.

Killing time

2010-02-04T21:45:00.001-08:00

Day 4: December 26, 2009

There's nothing much things happened on my last day in Bangkok. We checked out before 11am then we left our luggages in the storage room as our bus trip to Koh Samui is still at 9pm. We basically did our own thing that day. Marius went for a day tour with the South Africans. While I just wandered around the area killing the time.

Andy and I had our late lunch together; no noodles this time for god’s sake! We were craving for Western food and we ended up eating at a pizza parlor. But we didn’t order pizza haha. I had a chicken wings and lasagna while he ordered pasta, the spiciest pasta ever!, too spicy that you can’t even taste the food itself.

I was so feeling tired this time. I know I need to recharge! After our lunch, I headed back to our hotel while Andy went out to meet his Thai girl. I just stayed at the sofa in the lobby since we already checked-out. But I found a comfortable place to rest anyway.

I was already in the middle of my sleep when Mark and Dave woke me up! Guess what?! just to inform me that they went to a nice go-go bar the night before! Sweet! I just nod and smiled to them. I think they realize I was so damn tired and need to rest so they leave me there and went back to the street.

When I was about to find some sleep again, Alex arrived! He looked terribly sick. He said he just came back from clinic for some medicine because he wasn’t feeling well after last night’s party. Too much alcohol haha.

Our bus will leave Bangkok at 9pm so I still have few hours to kill but not enough to go far from Khao San. So instead of just waiting for the time to come, I decided to go for a massage hehe. I had a nice foot spa in one of the legitimate massage parlors out there! Hahaha. Not only I had a nice massage, I also manage to get the much needed rest! ;)

Before 9pm, Marius, Andy, and I went to Lomprayah office to get our tix. There were already tons of travelers waiting to board. I wasn’t looking forward to this long bus trip, to tell you frankly! But since its the cheapest way to go to Koh Samui, so I bear with it hehe.

Loving the Phad Thai...

2010-02-04T17:26:00.001-08:00

Day 3: December 25, 2009

Surprisingly, I didn’t feel tired at all. I woke up before lunch time and headed out to get something to eat. But it feels like an ordinary day. I didn’t feel the spirit of Christmas. That wasn’t I was expecting. Yes, Bangkok is a Buddhist country but I am in the backpacker’s area and most of the people there are westerner so I am expecting that they will somehow put some effort to bring the Christmas spirit in town, but not.

I came back to the hotel and meet Andy with his Thai girl haha. How he ended up with this girl and what happened after we left him in the club is none of my business. But his stories were hilarious! Being his 1st time in Thailand, I’m kinda not surprised about his crazy adventures. That’s pretty normal hehe.

We only have two days left in Bangkok before we head down south. With nothing else to do, Andy and I decided to ride a ferry to take us to Bangkok Central (downtown I guess). It was a calm and relaxing 30-min ferry ride. Though the river is nowhere as blue as the water in other parts of Thailand (pollution alert!), but the scene was pretty cool.

Then we took a MRT going nowhere haha. We alighted at the station near National Stadium. Seriously, have no idea what to do or where to go. We were just walking and walking ‘til we both feel tired. It was like a ghost town. It was way too quiet, totally apart from the busy street of Khao San and not many annoying tuk-tuk drivers.

We went back to Khao San Road before nightfall. I just had my quick shower then I met up with the rest of the gang. I had a nice dinner with Drew, Jodi, Andy, Marius, and Alex.
I invited Anna to join us but she already planned to have a massage that night. She’s also from Travbuddy and staying at Rambuttri.

That night, we also met up with Carlyn and Hakima from South Africa. They missed the XMAS meetup because they landed in BKK late last night. We were already in Gazeebo when they arrived in Hippie Hi Bar.

After our dinner, we went on the same bar that we hang out the other night, Rooftop. And my buddy Anton from Russia joined us too! I met him a year ago in the airport on our way from Manila to KL and we chilled out here for few nights. Since then we still keep in touch and few days before my Thailand trip, he told me that he will be there the same time as me. So we planned to meet that night and party in Thailand! He didn’t stay with us the whole night though. He went back to his place around 2am. But it was really nice meeting you again my friend! J

A group of UN volunteers joined our table and jammed with us. Everyone was already drunk I must say. But I still know what’s happening around. I’m bit surprised that I don’t easily get wasted despite all the walking and touring during the day hehe.

I think it was past 3am when the bar closed but we are still going strong and kicking. However, Alex was so f*cking drunk already. He went inside the next door club named “The Club” by himself swerving. We both fell down on the ground when I was trying to pull him out. No one cared to help us lol. He doesn’t want to leave the place so we left him there.

Jodi, Drew, Andy, Marius, Carlyn, Hakima, and I moved to Gazeebo for more booze of course. But the music was so loud that we can’t even hear each other. After few drinks there, Andy and I went back to The Club to find Alex.

There are a lot of hookers hanging around inside waiting for their potential clients and some of them are obviously minors. Prolly Alex already hooked up with one of them because he’s no where to be found. Andy and I stayed there’s ‘til closing time. The crowd was mixed of tourists and locals… and ladyboys too! Andy had a funny experience with one of them. All the while he thought that the girl he was dancing with is a real she, but she’s NOT. And the “girl” even kissed him! Hahaha. How’s that? :P

It was past 5am when the club closed. I think Andy can’t get over with the ladyboy yet as I still have to convince him to leave the place hahaha. Poor boy. :P

Before going home, we feed our alcohol-filled stomach with the most sumptuous Phad Thai ever haha! Everything tastes good when you’re starving and drunk haha. We sat on the sidewalk for an hour, eating our Phad Thai and talking none-sense to the Phad Thai girl. Andy finds the girl cute! Everyone is cute for him, duh! But in fairness, she made our night even more fun and memorable. Despite the language barrier, she still kept us entertained. She’s amusing. ;)

Whatta AWESUM Night!

2010-02-04T05:51:00.000-08:00

Thailand (Day 2): December 24, 2009

I woke up around 10am pretty excited for the meetup. It’s been months of preparation and it all boils down to one amazing night! one epic night of madness. Bring it on!

It’s already past lunch when we started the day right. Andy, Marius, and I did a short tour in the city. Armed with our reliable bible and maps, we strolled down the streets and went to our first stop, Royal Grand Palace!

But on our way, we stopped by at Wat Mahathat; very quiet place in the middle of busy city. Grand Palace closes at 3pm so we didn’t stay there for so long. We then went straight to the palace to not miss it.

We’ve been approached by tuktuk drivers every single minute. “How are you? Where’re you from?” the usual statements you will hear from them followed by offering to show you the city. Again, this is a scam. And you’re stupid if you don’t know about this haha. It’s quite annoying but you’ll get used to it and you will learn to ignore them eventually.

Good thing you can rent pants inside the palace as I was just wearing short. Yes, it’s not permitted. But I am not the only one; a lot of us actually even Andy.

We roamed around the Palace for a little over an hour. It was a majestic place I can say but the striking heat is unbearable.

After Grand Palace, we took a ferry to cross on the other side of the river to visit Wat Arun. The steep steps make it difficult to climb but the view on the top is worth a try.
Tired and exhausted, we went back to our hotel and prepared for the Christmas Eve. I’ve been receiving numerous text messages and calls from everyone joining the meetup. Everyone is pretty much excited.

I have never met anyone yet (except Mark) so I don’t know how they look like other than the pictures they posted in Travbuddy. Alex, arrived first who I didn’t recognize since he doesn't have pix on his profile.

Mark, whom I met here in KL few months ago, arrived with his brother Dave. I also met up with Drew, Peter, and Jodi in the lobby. Together with Andy and Marius, we went to Hippie Hi Bar to meet the rest of the group. It would cost pages to write down all their names. But more or less we are 30 people celebrated the XMAS Party.

After Hippie Hi bar, we went to Gazeebo to groove the night. Man, it was so hard to organize this group but I think I manage it pretty well. We had so much fun and it’s nice to meet like-minded people and partied with them.

It was already midnight when 6 of us decided to hit the club. Mark, Dave, Alex, Andy, Juan, Juan’s brother, and myself left the rest of the gang and went to Patpong Area for Bangkok’s cultural awareness haha! We watched the infamous Pingpong show. That would be my 1st and last time ever. It was disgusting! I wouldn’t deny that I was excited at first because this is something that we missed to do on our first visit. But after a while, I feel bad for the performers. It was sickening to watch them do their tricks. Pity them. What made it even worse; they want us to pay more than 1000 THB per person! Hell no, we’re not gonna pay 1K for one beer and freaky show! Alex confronted the manager but in the end we settled to pay 300THB each.

After that awful experience, we went to a go-go bar. After that incident in the patpong house, we were a bit skeptical if they will try to rip us off again. But the place looks real (alcohol is talking ok), so we went in. Whatever happens inside this bar is private haha. I can’t recall what happened to be honest hehe.

The bar closed around 3am but we still want to party! We walked along the road looking for a cab to bring us to an after-hour club. But all of them was trying to rip us off! What’s wrong with these drivers? Yes, we’re tired and a bit drunk but we’re not stupid. Speaking of which, out of nowhere, horny Andy was accompanied by an ugly old prostitute haha.
It took us an hour to leave the area because: First, Dave doesn’t like the idea of taking a cab. Second, we're still waiting for Alex to buy his food in KFC. Third, Andy has to ditch the girl. After long discussion, we finally agreed to leave and take a cab. However, Dave and Mark didn’t join us and went straight home. And yeah, Andy ditched her girl lol :P

The driver brought us to Bossy Club which I have no idea where. It was packed by locals and tourists! and sleazy girls too! We met an Iranian girl which obviously a hooker. It was an interesting crowd and a party place to go but we were so f*cking tired already. We called the night off past 5 am... But one of us, Andy ehem ehem, was having so much fun with a local girl that we had so leave him there hahaha.

What an incredible night! fooking awesome! And thank you for those who attended the XMAS Alcoholiday Meetup! You guys rock! :)

Sawasdee

2010-02-04T05:46:00.000-08:00

Thailand (Day 1): Dec 23, 2009

After so much preparation, anticipation, and excitement, I finally arrived in Bangkok. Not like my Phuket trip where I almost miss my flight, everything turned out smoothly. Except that I can’t find my roommate Marius.

Marius, a Romanian guy working in France, WAS my online friend prior to this meetup. We chatted couple of times in FB and Skype. And we planned to get hammered, plastered, and wasted! My drinking buddy so to speak… NOT!

I looked for him for an hour, asked the information service to page him but to no avail. I tried to call him several times but he can’t be reached. When I was about to leave the airport and to go the city, I received a text msg saying that he’s just having lunch with a friend on the second floor of the airport! Sweet! duh!

Since I have already taken my brunch in KL, we didn’t stay there for so long. After the usual hi hello, we took a cab and went straight to Khao San Road where I booked our room at Rambuttri Village Inn. His French friend (which I forgot the name), joined us since he still have few hours to kill before flying to Australia. Our room wasn’t ready yet when we arrived. But not to waste our precious time, we just leave our luggage and head out to see a glimpse of Bangkok. This isn’t my first time in Bangkok. I was here in 2007 with my friends Anai, Gen, and Dru. But they were the one who booked our hotel, prepared the itinerary and planned everything. I did nothing so to speak. This time, I am doing it by myself or with fellow solo-travelers and just all play by ear.

Like I said, Mr. French guy only have few hours to spare so instead of wasting our time navigating the streets, we hired a tuk-tuk for only 20THB to bring us to different sites nearby. Alas! We were trapped in a scam! Stupid me, I totally forgot about these numerous modus-operandi in Bangkok where we once victimized (almost) last time. He forced to bring us to tailor shop and travel agency in exchange of free gas coupon. Marius had some heated argument with the driver but in the end, we bowed out. Come on, this is just our 1st day in city of smiles, I don’t want to ruin my mood at this early stage… NOT YET… hehe.

After the stupid argument, attempt to visit temples, and a long walk, it’s about time to bid goodbye to his friend. But before we headed back to our hotel, we had our 1st local noodles and our 1st bottle of local beer at one of the local cafeterias (god knows where).

We went back to our room and took a quick nap. Did I? nah, but I think he did. Prolly, around 6-ish, we went out to find something to eat (again). We were strolling in Soi Rambuttri when we met Andy! We exchanged messages in Travbuddy few times since he will be joining us in Bangkok, Koh Samui, and Koh Phangan but I barely know him yet. Dunno if he's nice or not haha. I also met Ben, my kayak-mate in Halong Bay, in Khao San Road. He’s traveling with Chayne and Nick but I didn’t see the Kiwi couple. On that same day, I also randomly bumped-in with the Brit guys I traveled with in Halong Bay, Vientam a week back. Small world, aye?

At night, we met up with Jodi, a Filipina-Australian, who’s also staying at Rambuttri. We've been talking in Facebook and Travbuddy weeks prior to this but I haven't met her in person yet. Since all of us were there for the XMAS Alcoholiday Meetup the next day, we decided to check out the meetup place Hippie Hi Bar. It took us almost an hour searching, to the point that I have to call Dodge (Thai) for the direction. Still, we got lost and we found Hippie ‘de Bar instead. We ordered a pitcher of beer and chilled out for a while before hitting the bar/club for our first taste of BKK’s night life.

There are tons of bars, pubs, and clubs to choose from, name it and you’ll find it in Khao San. We chose to stay in “The Rooftop” bar, situated in the middle of Khao San, which has a live band / singer playing nice acoustic and alternative rock music. The night wouldn’t be complete without the 1st taste of bucket of joy! Yes, buckets! We ordered Blue Lagoon and Redbull Vodka coupled with our beers. Out of nowhere, an American lady (Jodi’s bestfriend haha) joined our table. She’s obviously drunk or may be stoned but she's harmless and funny. She entertained us actually (a bit).

After the bar closed, two Aussie guys on the next table recommended going to an Irish after-hour pub just few blocked away. We all went there but it was almost empty. And since it was already past 3am, Marius decided to just hit the bed and have some beauty rest lol, Jodi stayed with the Aussie guys, while Andy and I decided to go somewhere else.

We found a place that’s still open at that time and we ordered our last beer for that night. We just stayed outside and watched people pass by; we even witnessed local people fighting. What an interesting scene!

With nowhere else to go, we just stayed at the sidewalk trying to finish our beer. It was already past 5am when we called the night off.

What a nice way to start this trip. And yeah, I found a drinking buddy in Andy! A bloody good mate! :)

LOooOooNg HiAtUs AGAIN and again and again

2010-02-04T05:31:00.000-08:00

Ok I won't say any excuse right now. I don't even have a valid reason in mind why I stopped blogging. It's been almost two years since my last entry. That's a looong break!

I'm not gonna promise that I am back in full blast... I don't want to make promises this time. I'm not gonna force myself to write just for the sake of writing, no way. I will just write if I feel like writing. If I'm not in the mood, then sorry. ;)

I started blogging my recent Thailand trip but wordpress is giving me so much headache! from the way you navigate your dashboard, fixing your entry, and even to attaching your pictures! so f*cking complicated! I had enough so I decided to resort back to blogspot. That's why I'm here again haha.

IM BACK! (I hope so haha)

A Trip to Memory Lane (AMA Microsystems)

2008-03-24T06:37:00.000-07:00

I was laughing like crazy when I saw this picture! Look closely! Freaking HILARIOUS! Hahaha. Parang may starvation crisis / famine noon ha hehehe

Modesty aside, this is the best group of students in our campus back then! (yabang!!!)

And my dearest best of friends as well... (pero kulang pa ito, wala pa sila roch, lala, louie, and a lot more.)

We all have our own different careers now. Some of us are already living and working abroad, but most prefer to stay in Phil. Some are already married while most are still single... kasama ako dyan *sigh

I love you guys! I miss you so much! Hope someday we can have a time to set-up a reunion!

Another restless days...

2008-03-24T06:04:00.000-07:00

It is raining hard outside. The weather has been acting like this since last week. Raining for like hours during afternoon and it makes me feel depressed.

Truly, these days I feel so restless and depressed. There are a lot of things bothering me lately, causing me to be uneasy and unstable. I feel so anxious about what future holds for me.

Here I go again, thinking of what's gonna happen for me in the next couple of years. I thought I'm done and over with this. I thought I survive to settle down this anxiety. But I was wrong. The nightmare is itching all over again.

Yet again, I am starting to ruminate about my goals in life. Before I came here in Malaysia, I didn't have concrete set of goals but of course I do have my own purpose or aspiration that's why I moved here. But I failed to make myself clear if I'm going to achieve them here or not.

My misery right now has something to do with career stability. I'm about to reach my 2nd year here in KL. As they say, time flies when you're having fun. Yes, I enjoyed and had fun during my 2-yr stay. I gained new friends but lost friends as well. I've had many good experiences and memories... and some bad accounts as well. I was able to go to places that I've never been to and have done little things that I long to do. But these are all personal realizations. None relates to my career. So what happened?

I know this is pretty usual for me to complain about my work. For more than a year, I was just doing lackluster tasks and I was dreary complaining to give me challenging tasks. And now that I have plenty on my plates, here I am crabbing again. I am always not contented; always not satisfied.

Don't get me wrong, I like my job. I've been doing this for like 6 years already at some point in time; I began to enjoy it more and more. But there's this something in my current company that hasn't given me enough satisfaction and fulfillment. Perhaps the management, perhaps the lack of process; I certainly don’t know... And because of this uncertainty, I'm starting to feel unhappy of my situation.

The monotony or lack of excitement in my career rebounds in my personal life. Yes, I had so much fun as I've said. Met many interesting people; individuals that helped me in one way or another, been to different places, embraced different cultures and traditions. Yet, there's still missing. I feel like I am less than a man. I am as far from being a man as I am from anything else. I feel like I do not grow, I do not develop, I feel like I became static.

One thing for sure, there's something wrong here within me. I better start figuring out before it's too late.

I told you, I am so lost right now...

Date Scribed: March 24, 2008

Long HIATUS

2008-03-02T07:52:00.000-08:00

After a long hiatus, this is it! I'm back in blogging moments! Hehe. Gee, it has really been so long since my last post and to tell you frankly, I don't even know where to begin.

I've gone through some rough time these past few months but I am still happy in general. My absence was mainly caused by lost of interest, or should I say lost of inspiration (eeew kadiri). But then again, I'm back with vengeance (talaga lang ha!).

I'll try to recall the events happened to me for the past few months and post it here, but for now, let me just post the most recent event I've had which was my trip back to Philippines.

Last week, I went back home for a week vacation. The main purpose of my trip was to visit my brother and sister (who came back from Dubai) and to work-on on some important documents.

It was very disappointing to find out that my brother stopped his schooling (for the nth time already). We've tried everything to convince him to continue his studies. We've given him everything he needs just to finish his schooling. But after all we've done, he still decided to stop. We've had enough of him so we just let him do whatever he wants to do. But he should also accept the consequences… No extra allowance AT ALL. gipitan na ito!!!

Just in time on her yearly vacation, my sister also went back to consult some doctors about her condition. She was diagnosed with CTS (Carpal Tunnel Syndrome), a condition that affects the nerves specifically in hands. This is pretty usual to people in line with her work as a physiotherapist. According to the doctor she either needs to undergo an operation or quit her job, having said that, she needs to rest for a month or two. But 'til now, she still hasn't undergone her operation yet. She'll ask for second opinion this coming Tuesday. But if the doctor insists for an operation, then she doesn't have any choice but to do it. Or else, like I said, quit her job. Sana maging OK sa kanya ang lahat.

Also, I went home to look for a good investment. I've been eyeing to buy a lot of my own ever since I started to work. But I didn't have enough resources to start with. This is one of the reasons why I chose to work abroad; to save enough money to achieve my goals. Now that I have a little amount on my pocket, I decided to buy a lot in a newly-built exclusive subdivision (ITC Woodlands) in Valenzuela. I chose this place because first, it's so hard to find an affordable place within Metro Manila these days. Not that it's cheap, in fact, it's expensive for me. But having terms to choose from makes it's a little economical. Second, we've been staying in this city for like half of our lives already, so sanay na kami dito. Third, I find it very accessible which is very important. Fourth, the supermarkets, malls, hospitals, and schools are within the reach. Kaya kahit mahal, go na ako! Besides, it's really a good investment. Don't you think?

So there you go... that's basically gobbled up my time. In fact, I'm not even half-through in fixing all the necessary documents. Ang dami pala... bahala na si Batman, pero kaya ito.

P.S. I would like to apologize to my very special friend Ochie for not greeting her on time on her birthday. I was so busy and pre-occupied so I forgot to even send an SMS. Enough of excuses, sorry talga mama Ochie! Bawi talga ako next time. Belated Happy Birthday!!!

And to all my barkada in AMA and Accenture, babawi ako next time promise. Sorry...

Date Scribed : March 02, 2008

You will never be forgotten...

2007-10-24T07:33:00.000-07:00

For your information, I intentionally did not include this event from the previous entries because it's quite delicate and must be written separately.

Late Mia was a good friend of mine. We're teammates and seatmates. We used to go out everytime we have time to. She loved to make "libre" to everybody. Sadly, she was diagnosed with cancer and after 2 years of battling from her sickness, she died.

She left so many great memories in my life. She gave me a rosary and a picture of us when we had our escapade in Puerto Gallera, before I left to US (with a message "hope wag mo kami kakalimutan"). She left me text messages days before she gone which I still saved in my phone.

Two months after, I received a forwarded text message saying something like "an angel exists but sometimes, since they don't all have wings, we call them friends. Pass this on to your friends and something good will happen to you at 11:00 in the morning something you have been waiting to hear. Someone will call you by phone or will speak to you about something that you were waiting to have.", the first person comes into my mind that time was Mia. Then around 11am, Edmund (my employer, right now) called me and sent me the contract. I was stunned and shocked. Might be coincidence, it did happen so to speak. Since then, I considered her as my guardian angel. I always talk to her everytime I need someone to talk to and always asked for her guidance. I sometimes sent SMS to her like as if she's still here with us and was just sent onshore. Every time I traveled, I always bring the rosary with me. And whenever I have problems, I confide to her. She's been my confidant and listener. If there's one person who knows what I've been dealing with, it's her. So she's very special to me.

Friday, before we went to the party, I suddenly missed her so I opened our pix at Puerto Gallera. I even let Gerry saw them. Then during the party when everyone was "high with the spirit of the alcohol", Leo suddenly broke down. He was trying to hold his tears and ran to his room. As we all know, Leo is Mia's bf. In fact, there's a collage pictures of them in their living room. I followed him and tried to console him. He cried aloud and broke down in front of me and Donnie. I can't help myself but to cry as well. Everything just flashbacked, from the moment I met her, our visits in the hospital, and during her wake. I also cried in sorrow. I felt Leo that night. I tried to hold my emotions but it was so hard so I broke down too. I let his heart cry about the pain he's feeling right at that very moment.

The next day when I saw him, we never talked about that moment. I don't want to open a conversation that he might feel uncomfortable. Even when we went to PJ, we never talked about that.

Then yesterday he popped me a message. He thanked me for being there for him. He thanked me for remembering Mia. He thought no one remembered her. He thought she was already forgotten by her friends. He thought he was all alone missing Mia. He thanked me for crying with him. He said after that, he dreamt of Mia. In all occasions, he always feels down whenever he dreamt of her but that instance was different. He felt relief and at peace.

I know for sure Mia wants Leo to move on. She will never be forgotten for sure but Leo still has life ahead of him to take good care of. I know Mia is very proud of him. Leo you're going there... just hold on and you'll be fine.

Mia, as promised, I will take an eye on Leo 'til I know he's already moved on.

Date Scribed: October 17, 2007

The Maybankers

2007-10-18T05:25:00.001-07:00

To be honest, I was never closed to some of Pinoy officemates. When I first came here, I felt different and alone. I tried to adapt and mingle with them but I can't find the connection. So I learnt to depend on myself. There were only rare times that I asked help from them. Not until a new batch of Pinoys exactly a year after I came here.

Imagine I was the latest Filipino they hired before this new batch. For a year, I somehow feel alienated with the rest maybe because we weren't on the same wavelength. But that's how life goes. I don't want to push myself to anyone or do things just to please others. I only befriend people that I think I can make a connection. I don't want to force something that really not meant to happen. But despite the gloomy relationship I have with other Pinoys, I am still fortunate to have close friends from other company who helped a lot for me to survive. Not to mention to new friends I've met along my journey here.

When this new batch came, I hope that I can find new friends in them. Oh well, I've known Leo from my previous company. In fact, I was the one who referred him. He was my former TL and a great friend. But the rest, I don't know them at all.

But it wasn't easy. I bet feeling sequestrated and alone for a year changed my attitude towards co-Pinoys. I would admit I was hot-tempered and grumpy. I became unapproachable and grope with them which leads to a misunderstanding with one of them (Mavic). I don't want go into details but we reconciled after few days. Since then, I learnt to be more patient and understanding.

Every time there's an event or happening held in Bistari Condo, I always make excuses not to go with them. I kept pushing myself apart from them like I don't want to be close to them for some point. But I realized that I was the one making my situation hard. There they are reaching hands, inviting me, yet I tend to detach. So since then, I started to reach all of them and befriend them.

I always go out lunch, watch movies, and have dinner with them. I would say I am more comfortable now with them than before. And they made me feel welcome and important on my birthday. Thank you guys for everything. You made my 27th birthday so special. =)

To Leo, Donnie (and Jay), Charisse, Lisa, Mavic, and Agnes, thanks for the company... 'Til our next food trip, movie night, dinner out, and night gimmicks... And may we have long years of "pagsasama" here @ Maybank (ASA PA!!! Hehehe)

Cheers!

My 27th Birthday - Pix

2007-10-18T05:15:00.000-07:00

My 27th Birthday

2007-10-17T08:31:00.000-07:00

My gracious goodness, I am a year older now. Last Sunday, October 14, 2007, I celebrated my 27th birthday. Before reminiscing the past and contemplating for the future, let me tell you guys what made my birthday so special...

Due to persistent requests of my friends from Scope to "treat them" for my birthday, I asked Charisse last Thursday night to accompany me somewhere in Bukit Bintang area to look for a reasonable restaurant as a venue for my birthday treat. We went to Planet Hollywood but they'll be close on Sunday to celebrate Hari Raya. We went to Hartz Chicken Buffet but seemed too crowded. After an hour or two, we didn't find any prospect. Since we're both starving, we decided to take our dinner at U-Village, a HongKong restaurant. We ordered Cheese Chicken Wings and French toast for our appetizers, big set rice for our main course, and coffee and tea for our drinks. No desserts as our stomach were already full.

After our sumptuous dinner, we went to Borders to find this book with all these nice restaurants here in Malaysia. There's a Starbucks inside the bookstore so we stayed there and scanned the book but again, didn't find any affordable restaurants nearby so we went home with nothing in mind.

Friday came, October 12, 2007, without any plans yet. While having my lunch with my office friends, one of them asked me why would I treat my friends for my birthday? Wouldn't supposed to be the other way around? To tell you frankly, all my life since I started working I was the one treating my friends on my birthday because that's how it goes in my previous company. And there was only one instance I can remember that a close friend of mine treated me during my 24th birthday. (Thanks Ronnie!) So they suggested, I'd rather spend the money to treat myself. But then we all wanted to have a good weekend, so we decided to go to Redbox right after office hours. (KKB po 'to). But last minute, Donnie proposed why not celebrate it on their unit instead? As agreed by all, after office hours, Donnie, Mavic, Lisa, Charisse and I went straight away to Kota Raya and Cold Storage to buy ingredients for the food that they'll be preparing. Donnie cooked bake macaroni, Lisa prepared ground pork nachos, Mavic and Charisse helped in preparation, while Leo went to The Mall to buy drinks and chicken.

It was around past 8 when the party started. We have bake macaroni, nachos, fried chicken, brownies, and ice cream in the table. Simple yet mouthful. Thank you guys for preparing these!
After dinner, we started the drinking session right away. I would say this is the main happening of the night! Hehe. Leo brought out 2 bottles of vodka, 1 bottle of wine, 1 bottle of sky vanilla, and half-filled bottle of whisky. Of course, karaoke will always be part of it. Hell we care (though magkapiyok-piyok at masintunado kami), we just all wanna have some fun! F*ck that I didn't charge my cam so we failed to capture those funny, wacky, hilarious moments that night.

Believe me, all of us were soooo drunk. That was when I had my first face-to-face encounter with the toilet bowl. It was my first time to be in total blackout; my first time that I totally can't remember what I have done. But I didn't feel embarrass because everyone has their own boo-boos that night hehe. The last thing I can remember, I was going to the toilet almost every 2 minutes. Then someone gave me a hot coffee but I didn't manage to drink. Then I rested on the chair then that's it. I can't remember what happened next. The next thing I knew, it was already 8 in the morning and I was sleeping on one of the rooms haha. Did they rape me? That I don't know hahaha. Lucky that my condo is just a walking distance away from theirs so I manage to go home the next morning safely even I was still so tipsy.

October 13, 2007, I slept the whole afternoon and woke up around 2pm. Still with hangover, I fixed myself up and went to Time Square to take my lunch, to do a little bit of shopping, and to have my hair done as well. I chose Transit Hair Salon located on the 7th flr of Berjaya Time Square because of its hip ambiance. They even have LCD flat screen TV on each chair to watch a movie while they do their business. But all these cool treatments come with a quite pricy price. For a two-tone hair colors and a haircut from a professional stylist, it costs me 144RM (roughly 2K pesos). But all worth it. I really like the way the stylist colored my hair. She used brown for the base and blonde for the highlights. =)

I was supposed to have a facial treatment but I didn't have much time as I still need to go home and prepare myself for the Saturday night out with my office friends. We (Lisa, Agnes, Charisse, Mavic and I) all met at Donnie and Leo's unit. We left their place past 10 and went to P.Ramlee area. We first went to Puppy's bar. Entrance fee is 35RM/pax with free complimentary drinks. The crowd was young and yippee. Too young for us I guess. I didn't like the music much so after we finished our glasses of vodka and champaigne we headed to Bed bar in Asian Heritage Row. This is where we meet Jay after his work. Entrance fee here is 40RM/pax but since we intended to stay here for the rest of the night, I suggested buying one bottle of vodka worth 350RM rather than paying for individual fee. Besides, if you buy it, entrance fee for maximum of 5pax is already covered. But since we're 8, we have to pay 120RM for the 3 extras. Still, it saved us a considerable amount rather than having one complimentary drinks then buying individual drinks inside.

It wasn't my first time to go to this bar. The last time was with Eric when he brought me to Cynna as well. It was named B beautiful then and the music was plainly boring techno. So I was so surprised that when we came there, the music genre played from RnB, Pop, to Hiphop. It was a hell of a fun. We danced the whole night long. We're all tired and some were tipsy when the party was over. We were then introduced to some of Jay's party friends who happen to be on that bar as well. But we still don’t want to go home yet. We went to Marriott to pick up Jay's things and to fix ourselves up, except Lisa and Agnes who were so tired and decided to go home. After that, we went to Bukit Bintang strip to find a place where we can spend the rest of the morning 'til sunrise over a cup of coffee. Jay knows the place well so we let him lead the way. We went to this hawker area where groups of people were already there (most of them gone there after party for sure). In our surprise, the owner is a Filipina so we didn't have a hard time choosing the best food to eat. Yes, the intial plan of just a coffee turned out to have another yummy breakfast for us haha. We ordered fried seafood rice, big tilapia, and beef. We all went home delightedly full.

Again, my body clock wasn’t normal. October 14, 2007, I was in bed the whole morning and already woke up after lunch. I went out to pamper myself. I finally had my facial and do a little bit of shopping again. Gosh, I have to stop myself from impulsive shopping! Oh well, I just let myself because it’s my birthday hehe. I attended the mass at 6pm and stayed in the church for a little while after the mass. I thanked Him for all the blessings that he has given me. I thanked Him for another wonderful year and wishing for another fruitful year to come. After hearing mass, I went home and relaxed for the rest of the day.

October 15, 2007, (still holiday here in Malaysia), Leo and I met at Masjid Jamek around lunch time. We were heading to Petaling Jaya to meet Almer who just arrived the other night from Manila. He was our Manager from our previous work but also decided to move here and work. Anyway, I had lunch with Leo, Almer, Tza, Vera, Migz, Allan, Anna, and Marla @ iThai. They're all my friends from our previous company and obviously, we're now all working here hehe. I liked all the food that they ordered but what I really like most was the ice-blended lychee! (I remember my daily Big Chill session with Rye and Anai back then). I had a great time catching things up because I haven’t seen them for so long. Truly, it was a great lunch with you guys! Hope to do that again...

Past 4 in the afternoon, Leo and I accompanied Almer to buy some of his things in Mydin (ang Uniwide ng Malaysia hehe). We finished past 7 already so we decided to have our dinner @ Picadilly before Leo and I head back home. Indeed, it was a great time seeing you again. Thanks for your laughter and fun! I missed that so much... =)

Tuesday, October 16, 2007, everything's back to reality; though I hate it. As if I have a choice hehe. Anyway, a Spanish chatmate arrived in KL for a business trip a few days ago and invited me for a dinner and drink. For all you know, I am fond of meeting new acquaintances. And since he's already here, might as well take the chance to meet him in person (we've already seen each other several times in webcam though). I cancelled my plans for the night and missed the gym to go home early. But the last minute, he cancelled the meeting because he was fucking busy. Fuck! I was really pissed off with that, who wouldn't? Fortunately, my buddy Hardus was online so I spoke to him and air my anger hehe. Then late that night, my long lost friend Martin came online so we did video conferencing in Skype. Gosh, I haven't talked to him for a looong time. Honestly, I thought I already lost him. Lucky he's still kicking alive but busy as usual. Anyway, we’ve talk for like 30 minutes or so. And I had a great time chatting with him. It’s really been a long time pare! (Oh yes, he can speak a little bit of Tagalog , beat that! Hehe). Having a chance to talk to Hardus and Martin is more than enough to feel happy again. I just wish that fucking moron Spanish guy believes in Karma.

Holiday is finally over and I would say that I was able to make the best out of it. The party, the celebration, the fun, and the moments exceed way over what I've thought off. I can't describe the experiences and intense felicity that I am feeling right now, it beyond any words. Everything is a BLAST!

For all the people who made my 27th birthday memorable! Thank you! I owe you a lot guys! I will never ever forget this event for the rest of my life. Maraming maraming salamat!

Cheers!

Date Scribed: October 17, 2007

Dinner - Party with Eric and Charmain

2007-10-17T08:25:00.000-07:00

Eric invited me for a dinner and party at Saturday night the next day after he arrived from China. We we're with Charmain, one of the girls I met in Starhill last year.

Meeting time was 8:30pm but I arrived at 9:00pm because of heavy traffic. After one glass of wine we headed straight to Shook to have our dinner. It's a fine dining restaurant inside Starhill Gallery. I would say it's pretty expensive but worth it. I ordered their sumptuous ravioli and white wine.

After our dinner, we decided to go to Zeta bar inside Hilton Hotel. The foreign band/group playing in the stage was not that impressive for me. I didn't like the music they're singing. But probably it's just me because the crowd was enjoying it. It was horrendous to be honest! Oh well, Charmain agreed on that.

We ended the night party at almost 3am. Except the horrible music, I had fun that night. Thanks Charmain for the company. Thanks Eric for inviting me again and welcome back to KL! See you again soon! Cheers!

Date Scribed: September 28, 2007

Cloud nine...

2007-10-08T10:50:00.000-07:00

I'm still in cloud nine from our 4-day Bangkok trip while writing this entry. We had so much fun! So many things to do so little time. 4 days was not enough but at least we were able to make the best out of it. So worth it! I'll definitely be back for sure! I love it!

Pix to follow... =)

Things that kept me busy...

2007-10-01T09:10:00.000-07:00

For a change, my social life these past few weeks kicked-off way better than my work life. After 2 months of rigid investigation and testing on one of the most challenging tasks I've ever handled here, I finally manage to fix it mid last month. Since then, my workload has back to normal so as my social life.

Two weeks ago, I went to Reggae bar with Charisse and Marivic to have a dinner and try their cocktails. The place is located somewhere in Petaling Street. It's just a small bar for backpacker tourists. Oh yes, a lot of "friendly" foreigners. I reckon none of the customers were locals. For our cocktails, I ordered Sex in the Beach, Charisse ordered Mudslide, and Mavic ordered Long Island Iced Tea. Don't expect much as it's not really the classy type of bar you would like to go but nonetheless, a nice place to drink. And very affordable.

The next day I went to my friend Lisa's birthday party. Again, food haven ito! We had tuna pasta, cakes, ice-cream, pizza, and chicken. The usual food you see in every Filipino party yet very mouthful. And we didn't fail to do videoke of course. (partly part na to ng culture natin eh hehe).

The party didn't end in one day. The following day, we went to Lisa's place to eat the leftover haha. Another heavy dinner again. *whew*

There was a newly opened mall here in KL, the Pavilion; the largest mall in KL as they claim. For our Friday night out, we decided to go there. I was with Charisse, Mavic, Leo, and Donnie. We had our dinner @ Pasta Mania. I'm not really a pasta lover so I didn't quite enjoy the food. But I like the garlic pizza though. After dinner, we headed to Starhill to meet Donnie's "friend" Jay which is working in Marriott Hotel as an officer. Since it's still pretty early to call the night off, we all decided to have a drink and dessert @ Jiff's Lounge. It is located at the 2nd floor of Starhill. They have these huge and unique coaches that I've never seen in any bars here. I ordered chocolate martini while the rest ordered other cocktails too. For the dessert, they chose green tea cake and other chocolate-type cakes which I hardly remember the exact names. All I know they're all sweets haha. We stayed there 'til 1am.

It didn't just end there. Sunday night, my Aussie friend Mike already arrived in KL. I went to Crown Princess Hotel to meet him and we headed to the nearest restaurant where he ordered beef sathay and teh o' ice. Surprisingly, he really likes Malaysian dishes so as soon as he landed here, he looked up for something local food to eat. It was already Monday 3am when I went back home.

Yesterday, Charisse, Leo, and I went to Time Square to watch a movie. With no other choice, we watched White Noise 2: The Lights. But before we enter the cinema, we ordered siopao @ Baoz. One thing I want to say about the movie. I HATE IT!

Lastly, a while ago, I went back to Crown Princess Hotel to see Mike again. He'll be back to Australia tomorrow so tonight is our last night to hang out 'til he comes back again next year.

These were the events I pretty much had during the past 2 weeks. Quite tiring but I am not complaining hehe. In fact, I am loving it. hehe

Scribed: September 27, 2007

Jars of Clay - Silence

2007-09-17T08:57:00.001-07:00

"Silence"

[verse]
Take
Take till there's nothing
Nothing to turn to
Nothing when you get through
Won't you break
Scattered pieces of all I've been
Bowing to all I've been
Running to
Where are you?
Where are you?

[verse]
Did you leave me unbreakable?
You leave me frozen?
I've never felt so cold
I thought you were silent
And I thought you left me
For the wreckage and the waste
On an empty beach of faith
Was it true?

[chorus]
Cuz I...I got a question
I got a question
Where are you?

[verse]
Scream
Deeper I wanna scream
I want you to hear me
I want you to find me
Cuz I...I want to believe
But all I pray is wrong
And all I claim is gone

[chorus]
And I...I got a question
I got a question
Where are you?
Yeah....yeah
And where...I...I got a question
I got a question
Where are you?
Where are you?
Where are you?
Where are you?

Eternity...

2007-09-16T04:16:00.001-07:00

Close your eyes so you don't feel them
They don't need to see you cry
I can't promise I will heal you
But if you want to I will try
To sing this summer serenade
The past is done we've been betrayed, it's true
Someone said the truth will out
I believe without a doubt in you
You were there for summer dreaming
And you gave me what I need
And I hope you find your freedom
For eternity

For eternity

Yesterday when we were walking
You talked about your ma and dad
What they did that made you happy
What they did that made you sad
We sat and watched the sun go down
Then picked a star before we lost the moon
Youth is wasted on the young
Before you know it's come and gone too soon

You were there for summer dreaming
And you gave me what I need
And I hope you find your freedom
For eternity

For eternity

For eternity

To sing this summer serenade
The past is done we've been betrayed, it's true
Youth is wasted on the young
Before you know it's come and gone too soon

You were there for summer dreaming
And you are a friend indeed
And I hope you find your freedom
For eternity

You were there for summer dreaming
And you are a friend indeed
And I know you'll find your freedom
Eventually

For eternity
For eternity

Plain White Ts - Hey There Delilah - Official (HQ)

2007-09-11T08:37:00.001-07:00

Check this out! Very nice video...

Damien Rice - Cannonball

2007-09-05T08:05:00.001-07:00

This is one of my favorite songs... Whenever I feel down, no matter what I feel like then listening to this song takes everything away. Hope you like it too!

"Love is volatile. It can be and is influenced by everything around it. It is not hard to fall, it's not hard to mess it up, n a world where everyone expects instant delivery satisfaction. It's not hard to fall when all we do is run. It's not hard to grow for love is infinite, finite beings cannot know the infinite. who knows were we can go. thus, we love."

Moving On...

2007-09-05T07:20:00.000-07:00

There was this unforgettable event that happened to me just recently that I really regret most. I was weak and hopeless that I let other people dictate the situation. But I am not blaming anyone but myself. Anyway, it's done and I can't do anything about it. All I can do right now is to move on and learnt from my mistakes...

To all my friends who gave advices, thank you so much. To Hardus, thanks for keeping me company. To Johan, thanks for the lifting my spirit up. Thank you guys!

I decided not to publish it here because it's quite delicate.

Again, thank you!

Welcome to KL Hardus!

2007-08-27T06:51:00.000-07:00

I've been like in hell for the past weeks. I've been so hectically busy investigating an issue which drives me like crazy. What makes it worst is the people that I've worked with. It's so frustrating to know that the people who was supposed to help me with this issue, is not giving any help at all. Until now, we still haven't resolved the issue, yet, I've already found out the root cause. It's just that the affecting program is so critical that even a minor change would need thorough analysis and testing.

Though we're not yet through with this, I asked my manager to give me a short break. Luckily, he gave Friday and Monday off for me so I kinda have a long weekend. In time, my friend Hardus from UK is here in KL for a short vacation. So I can accompany him to roam around the place.

Last Thursday night, I went to Bukit Bintang in front of McDonalds to meet him for the very 1st time. Though we already chatted and saw each other's in cam several times, this would be our 1st time to see each other in person. When I came to the place, I saw this good looking white guy (*wink *wink) standing wearing a shirt and jeans and seem waiting for someone. I know it was him so I approached him and introduced myself. He greeted me with his big smile (kinda peculiar) haha. I know I sort of like amazed or worst scared him as he looks shocked. Oh well, I'm used with that kind of reaction :P.

Since it was a bit late, actually 12:30am is already late here; most of the restaurants and cafes were already closed so we just stayed in Planet Hollywood and grabbed something to drink. We chilled out and stayed there 'til about past 2am I guess just talking anything under the sun. After that, we strolled around Bukit Bintang area 'til we both get tired. Its funny because a lot of "bugaw" out there trying to offer him their "fresh" ladies... Yeah right, fresh as if hahaha. When we both get tired, we decided to call the night off.

The next day, I picked him up on his hotel and looked for a place where we can have a big breakfast and he can have a taste of Malaysian fancy food. But in my surprise, all canteens and food places were still closed so with no other choice we opted to go to McDonalds.

After breakfast, we went straight away to Batu Caves where we climbed more than 100 steps to reach the top. Exercise it is! Hehe. And along the way, we meet our friends (the monkeys! Oh they love Hardus a lot hehehe PEACE man!). After a couple of minutes and taking a couple of pictures we headed back down the stairs.

Next stop is Sunway Lagoon. This is unexpected. We never plan to go here but since we don't know yet where to go, we rid a cab off to Masjid Jamek station. From there we took the Star LRT up to Kelana Jaya station. From Kelana Jaya, we took a bus and alighted to Sunway Lagoon. That was also my first time to go there so we don’t know what to expect. But it's a theme park so we know there are rides in there. Also, water park where there's a huge pool and cater different water sports. Ok, since we're not prepared, we didn't bring anything other than ourselves, camera, and pocket money of course. But that didn't stop us from swimming! Hahaha. Just wearing our undies and shorts, we jump to the pool. He even tried body boarding. Damn, it looks so easy… but I don't wanna embarrass myself in front of the crowd so I just let him do that thing alone. I just watched him afar. After his attempt of body boarding which he managed to do it right at least hehe. We decided to go to the theme park and tried the rides like roller coaster and the likes. I didn't enjoy the rides much because they weren't that extremes but I enjoyed watching the people along with us especially the kids because they're so hilarious! Hehe. Around 6pm, we decided to go home. Still damped wet, we took a cab and went back to KL.

The next day, he flew to Labuan to visit a friend and see the beauty of the place as well. He'll be back to KL on Monday and probably will stay a few more days here before heading to Singapore.

Dude, I want to let you know that I really had a great time. Though short but heck of a fun. I am so happy that you manage to find time to see me here in KL most importantly I am happy to know you personally. You're such a wonderful guy with a big heart. I just hope that I made your stay here pleasant and memorable. I hope you also had a wonderful time.

Thanks for the fun time together. I wish that even were miles away, we still find time to continue our communication and wonderful friendship. 'Til next time...

Cheers!

Date Scribed: August 26, 2007

Shukran Gazillan! (Thank You Very Much!)

2007-08-12T10:24:00.000-07:00

Welcome back Shan! Eshtaqto elaika katheeran! Araka fi ma ba'd! – this is my personal message in MSN. This is an Arabic statement means "I Missed You so Much! See You Later!" Yes, my friend Shan came back to Malaysia!

One night, while I was just washing the dishes, my housemate said that a guy was looking for me and waiting in front of our door. Clueless and wondered, I went straight away to see who that person would be. Then in my surprise, I saw Shan standing in the corridor smiling at me. I didn't know what to say when I saw him as I was really dumbfounded. I didn't expect to see him as we somehow lost our contacts. I tried to call him several times but either his phone is out of service or no one is answering. It's been half a year that we didn't communicate. So I just uttered the word OMG.

We didn't waste any time. We spent that night talking and catching up things. The last thing we knew, it was already too late. But before we called the night off, we decided to see each other again the next day.

Since then, we always made see to it to see each other after my work. We always meet at the gym or pool area. Either we hit the gym together or we swim in the pool as what we used to do before. We never run out of topics to talk and time is the only thing that can stop us from chatting. He's like a brother to me, a brother that I never had. He's so caring and at the same time funny. There's no dull moment every time we talk.

But as they all say, every story has its ending. Sad but his vacation has come to an end. He needs to go back as soon as possible to settle some unfinished business in school and house. He went down to my unit to personally inform me that he will be leaving the next morning. Since I quite expecting this to happen, though not this soon, but I have already prepared myself for this. So what we did was just spent the night together, swimming and talking ‘til almost mid night.

The next morning, before I go to work, he went down again to bid farewell. For the last time, we talked and wished each others' good luck. It's pretty unusual for us to be serious and silent but that moment, that time was bizarre. He talked so little and I almost didn't talk at all. It was so heartbreaking to think that he's leaving that soon. But then again, I'm so happy that despite the short span of time he stayed here, he remembered me and we spent most of our nights together.

Before we finally parted ways, he promised that he will be back and we will see each other again soon.

Bro, see you soon! Shukran Gazillan!

After a long HIATUS...

2007-08-06T08:51:00.000-07:00

This blog badly needs some updating. I've been crazily busy these past few months, hence the total silence. Because things are not getting any less hectic in the coming weeks or so, I decided to drag my self to post something here.

Indeed, time is running so fast, and would you believe that I've been doing this blogging for a year now. Yes, it's my 1st year anniversary! Though I must admit that I lost the rhythm across the later part but here I am still trying to pick up. But there's one more, I am also already on my 2nd year here in KL; 2nd year of having my full independence, my own decision-making, and my own free-will. So amazing!

For the sake of this post, let me recount the people that made my 1st year meaningful. =)

It was never an easy journey for me. As you all know, I emotionally struggled from homesickness, boredom, and loneliness during my first few months. Struggling from adjusting to the environment and people surround me. Fraught from adapting to the new life as the memories of the pass still disconcerted me. But I am very thankful that I was able to survive and manage to overcome all of these trials with the help of many interesting people I've met along the way.

Shan, an Arab guy, was my 1st foreigner friend here. He was staying at Vistana Residence, the same condo where I live. He became my swimming buddy for few months until the time he needed to go back home in Oman. We used to spend our nights in the pool area sharing many experiences in life. We jived and became close instantly, I would never forget the night before his flight where he gave me his home address, email address, and contact number written in a piece of paper. He said he still wants to continue our friendship despite the distance. He also game me his PC speaker as a remembrance. In return, I gave him a royal selangor pendant and a personal thank you letter I wrote for him. Right now, he's busy with his university life. But I am still hoping that one day, our path will cross again.

I am very thankful that I've met Eric here in KL. He's my Belgian friend who introduced me to KL's night life. He always brings me to different bars and clubs every time we go out. He also introduced me to some of his girl friends in town. He's a party-goer and out going type of person. But that's him outside his profession. Part of his job is to travel and visit his company's branches in Europe and Asia. So we made see to it that whenever he's here in KL, we go out as many as we could. Currently, he's in Europe managing his businesses there but he'll be back two months from now. Can't wait to go out party with him again… Sorry if I got so tipsy the last time we went to Cynna. Next time don't give me too much alcohol OK. Hehe. By the way, thank you for the Belgian chocolates! I still owe you one! See you soon buddy.

A few months back, my Brit friend Piers had his 1 wk vacation here in KL. So I took the opportunity to meet him for the very first time. During our first meeting, we went out for dinner and strolled around the Bukit Bintang walk afterwards. It was then followed by a dinner at Frangipani and drinking session in one of the bars nearby. I had so much fun knowing this guy, brief but meaningful. Wish you all the best in your future endeavor. Hope to see you soon! Chat with you online.

I did not expect that I will find a friend in the plane. His name is Liam, an Australian backpacker guy that I met when I was on my way back from Manila to KL. The 4-hr travel which I expected to be as boring as always turned out to be a fun-filled travel because of his stories and experiences in all his journeys. We were supposed to grab something to drink before he heads to Thailand but our schedule didn't permit us to do so. Anyhow, we still continue to exchange emails and chat once in a while. I am grateful to meet you biatch! Just kidding…

There was this Indian guy named Sujit I met early last year. Sorry but his rudeness and indiscretion are just some of his bad personas that I really want to forget. But thanks for the memories though. Good luck!

To Anai, Gen, and Minnie, my gimmick angels, thank you for spending “windang” night outs with me. From the clubbing scenes upto videoke sessions, there were no dull moments every time I go out with you guys. Looking forward for more night out gimmicks girls! (even though I look like your bodyguard already hehe…)

I would also like to thank my housemate Tony and Ato for being my kuya in the house. I didn't know them personally 'til I got here. I am total stranger to them and vice versa, but it that doesn't give them us notion to judge each other accordingly. I knew from the very beginning that they're good housemates to be with. During my first few weeks here, they brought me to different malls and other nearby places. They introduced me to their barkadas and welcomed me to their group. Thanks for accommodating me and treating me like one of your old friends. I am so happy that you're my housemates.

I also want to thank these following people whom made my cyber life colorful:

To Martin of Korea, “Kumusta Pare?”, though we hardly chat these days due to our busy schedules, I still owe you something for cheering me up when I was once down and low. Hope to chat with you soon and catch up with everything.

To Wayne of HongKong, despite the fact that we always argue with our differences and beliefs especially in religion and culture, I am so thankful to have you as my friend and counselor. Thanks for all the advices and comfort. Hope to see you soon!

To Hardus of UK, I am so grateful to have you as one of my online friends. Thank you for sharing your stories to me and most especially thank you for listening to my pathetic life stories. Hehe. Hey, when are you gonna visit me here? Hope to see you soon!

To Albert of Spain, the heartthrob, thank you Amigo for the friendship! This guy is so talented. I know you'll be successful someday! Just believe in yourself. Hope to see you soon. Asia tour? hehe

To Steve of Spain for sending me the postcards and the package! *wink *wink. Waahh I still owe you a lot! And most importantly, thank you for taking good care of my bestfriend. hehe

To Neil and Ochie, you know how thankful I am to have you in my life. You're like a brother and sister to me. You know how much I love you guys...

Of course, this post wouldn't be complete without mentioning my travel buddies Anai and Rye! So cliché, but truly, there's no perfect words to describe how thankful I am to have you with me (whether you like it or not! Hehe). I don't know where to start and how to begin thanking you guys for all the help you've given me. I am so grateful to have you as two of my closest friends...

I love you guys! :P

Trip to Philippines

2007-06-16T21:24:00.000-07:00

I must admit that I've somehow lost interest in blogging, not that I don't have something to blog about, but I just merely can't find the rhythm and time to do it. I hate it! I also felt that it somehow became an obligation rather than a therapy for me. But now, I am trying to recall some events that happened to me these past weeks. Please bear with me.

I would say that last month was my busiest month to date! I was piled up with tons of work on my plate. I always stayed up late and even worked weekends just to finish the tasks given. It was really so stressful in my part but I don’t have a choice because this is part of my work. But don't get me wrong, I still love my job. Though at times I really want to give up and try something else hehe.

Just in time, I had my 3-wk planned vacation (2 weeks in Manila and 1 wk here in KL). But believe me, up to the last minute of the day of my flight, issues were coming left and right. In fact, I still went over time trying to finish some tasks. But as I anticipated, I did not able to finish some of them so I handed them off to my colleague.

I flew to Manila last May 18 via Cebu Pacific Air. I stayed there for 2 weeks. Unlike last time, I spent my days mostly at home. One reason is the weather condition. It was so hot and humid! Malaysia is also a tropical place but not as humid as Philippines. Secondly, cost-cutting! Haha. 500 pesos will bring you nowhere. One day out will cost you more than 1K pesos. Not to mention the shopping of course. So I chose to stick my butt off instead. Hehe

But I still managed to see my former teammates and friends like Almer, Thea, Stu, and Arthur. Also my former batchmates Rye and Cathy. I met up with them in Starbucks in Cybergate where their new building is located. It was a fun talk especially the "kulitan" and "laitan" session with Cathy hehe.

After that I met up with Ochie, one of my beloved best friends. Supposedly with Gilbert too but he wasn't in the office that time. We sat down and talked for hours in Starbucks talking anything under the sun. Last thing we knew, it was already time to go home hehe. As always, it was fun talking to you! Miss you girl! Oh before I forgot, Gilbert next time, don't go to spa during office hours! *wink *wink

However, the main reason of my vacation is to spend more time with my family especially to my sister which also spending her vacation from Dubai. When I flew to US for onshore last 2005, a month later she flew to Dubai. So it’s been almost 2 years the last time we saw each other. So even we just stayed at home, went to mall, watched movie, having her and my brother with me is already exceptional and special for me.

May 29, I flew back to KL with my sister. I brought tickets for both of them. Unfortunately, my brother can't make it because his passport was illegally used by other person. So he has to fix it first before he can go out of our country; too bad, but there's still another time though. And when we think everything is ok, they noticed that my sister's passport will nearly expire in 5 months time in which Malaysia only allows passport that will at least expire in 6 months. So they printed a waiver just in case the Malaysia immigration questioned her passport's expiration. Fortunately, they allow her to enter Malaysia without any further questions.

Too bad because I don't know many places here in KL other than the Petronas Tower and couple of malls hehe so we ended up hanging around on those places only. Next time I will do some research promise. And will bring you to many places.

My sister promised to buy a laptop for my younger brother. And the best place to go is none other than Lowyat! So we planned a day to go there and look for a best buy. After choosing from different brand, specs, and everything, we ended up buying an Acer laptop for only 1800RM! Cheap it is! Promise, the specs are already good enough for a student and personal use! Since its way cheaper than what they hay in Dubai, my sister also bought for herself. So we came home with two laptops in hand. Hehehe.

What we thought a great buy turned out to be a disaster (just a little though). We always hang-up whenever we use the enable/disable functions of the wireless adapter in the startup icon. However, if we use the enable/disable button in the PC, it was working perfectly. Weird, right? So we went back to the store to let them fix the problem.

We stayed in Lowyat for whole day again! To buy our time, we decided to go to Sungei Wang to go for a little window shopping, food tripping, and such. And when we returned back to the store, they still haven't resolved the problem. They already consulted a lot of technicians but none can figure out why that thing happened. Then later that afternoon they said that the driver of our network adapter is made for Windows Vista OS and not on Windows XP that we purchased. I was really pissed off that night that I really wanna return back the laptop to them. But honestly, it was just a minor problem. I just really want everything’s working perfectly… but like what happened, it didn't turn out that right. Anyhow, we just decided to bring home the laptop again and monitor the condition. To be honest, the laptop was nice except for that flaw. But they can actually use the button in front of the laptop instead of the one in the icon if they want to enable/disable the wireless adapter. I just became somehow OC (if that’s the correct term for that) hehe.

Because of that, we ran out of time to go to Genting. I would love to bring her there but due to time constraint we decided to just stay here in KL and do the last minute shopping in Central Market.

My sister flew back in Manila on June 4. She’ll spend for another week there before she goes back to Dubai.

To be honest, I felt sad to see her go. I am very emotional type of guy but I am not showy in front of my family. I am pretending to be strong but the truth is I am not. So instead of showing my emotions, I stayed stiff. I even failed to hug her for that matter. But she knows how much I really really love her…

Anyway, we'll gonna see each other again next year as she’s planning to have a vacation on
Feb 2008! Hmmm I am still thinking where we can go that time… Thailand? =)

As I write this blog, I am already missing you so much… Can't wait to see you soon!

Date Scribed: June 09, 2007

I'm Back...

2007-05-12T06:43:00.000-07:00

I hate to admit it, but my blogging moments have been falling short these days. The more I get used to working life in the office, the harder it seems for me to keep my blog up-to-date. But I'll try to do my very best to recount the noteworthy experiences and get you up to date.

Last two weeks ago, I spent my long weekend in Singapore and Indonesia with my friends. See my other post for the details.

Last week and this week, after I came back from a wonderful vacation, my tasks have been piled up. Some issues occurred and need to resolve ASAP. Some urgent tasks that need to work on ASAP, and a couple of emails here and there. I've been so busy these days trying to finish all the tasks in my plate which means, rendering OT.

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But aside from work, I also manage to find some time for myself. I was supposed to meet one of my friends who happen to visit KL this week. But for whatever reason, I still haven't heard from him. The last time we talked was when he's about to go to the airport going here. Since then, no words or calls from him. Anyway, I hope he’s enjoying his stay here. =)

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The other night I went out with my Belgian friend Eric and had some drinks. At first, we planned to go to Qbar inside Westin Hotel. But late that night he texted me if we can go to Asian Heritage Road instead, just beside Sheraton Hotel where chic and trendy bars can be seen. Also, because he has a friend there that will be dancing that night so we could see and meet her.

We first went to Savanah bar. The place was dim and dull. He said when he went there one Friday night it was dancing hip and loud. But when we went inside, it was so dreary. The music was all Lionel Richie collections! Haha. Quite romantic actually, but for two guys who want to unwind, isn't that kinda weird? erk! To be honest, I almost fell asleep with the music. After we're done with our glasses of alcohol each; and after seeing me bored and just playing with my drink, he suggested going somewhere else. Since it’s almost 12am, we decided to go to The Loft KL where his girl friend will be dancing. This place was what we were looking for! loud, hip, and cool. There's a DJ playing dance music; people are casual and trendy; and the place is simple yet lively. He introduced me to his girl friend Kellyn. She's ¾ Chinese and a quarter Thai. Mind you guys, she's so beautiful and sexy. Oh well, just according to Eric, she was just the Miss Malaysia Fitness 2003. Beat that!, huh?! Anyway, we talk and dance while drinking. And when we finished our bottle of beers and hard liquors, we decided to head back home.

Though I was tipsy and drank, I managed to go home safe hehe. I had so fun that night and glad to meet new acquaintance in her. Hope to see her again soon.

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Last night, one of our managers and a friend from our previous company, Sir Rom, was here in Malaysia for a training. For his last night, we went out for a dinner. Anai, Gen, Lawrence, Leo, Rom, his friend Emerson (who left the place after dinner to meet their other friend), and I had our dinner at Bongsen, a Veitnamese Restaurant in KLCC Suria Mall. Late that night, Issa also showed up. As usual, we never failed to take nice pictures all together. We sat down somewhere outside Petronas and talked about anything we can talk about that night.

Around 11pm, we separated ways. Sir Rom, Emerson, and the their German friend took the service van back to their hotel; Issa and Lawrence went straight away home in PJ; Leo, stayed there and waited for his housemates; whilst Anai, Gen, and I went straight to the cinema to watch Spiderman 3. I don't wanna write anything about the movie because it's not worth it. I didn't like it much so better not write any comments. Hehe

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Alex, a friend of mine from Shanghai, China is on a merge of deep crisis these past days. He was so disturbed and restless. I spoke with him in the phone everyday to console him; to give him my countless moral support; to encourage him to hang on and strive to survive. I don't want to discuss the details of his problems as I don't think doing so would help him surpass the crisis. I think I have done my part as a concerned friend and it's really up to him how he will handle the situation. To be honest, I am worried because I don't know where and how he is right now. Last night, Greg, a friend of Alex, called me and asked me to call Alex immediately. He said that he is in terrible condition and was about to breakdown. But I was in the middle of doing something urgent in my work so I failed to call him. Early this morning, I tried to call him again but his number is already out of service. I am really bothered right now. I just hope that he's already ok and was able to find some help. I just really hope that nothing bad happened to him… May God guide him and give him enough strength to hang on…

Date Scribed: May 12, 2007

Singapore - Indonesia Trip

2007-05-12T06:07:00.000-07:00

Exactly 2 week ago, I had my much awaited Singapore-Indonesia tour with few of my closest friends.

It's been a long mind over matter battle whether to go with my friends in this trip or not. First, I don't have enough vacation leaves to use. Second, I'll be having my vacation in Philippines in 3rd week of May. Third, I'll be bringing my siblings back with me here in KL for a week vacation. Needless to say, I'll be spending generously these coming weeks so I have to watch my finances carefully. But just in time, May 2 was declared holiday! Together with May 1 of course giving us 5 day off if we file VL on April 30, soooo tempting right?! To make this story short, I was persuaded to join my friends with their escapade! Ergh!

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Day 1 – Friday, April 27, 2007

I left the office at exactly 4:45pm and went straightaway home to do the final packing of my things. Around that same time, I received a text from Rye that he already arrived in KL from Manila. Rye and I rode a bus from KL to Singapore, while Anai and Mars took the train. Initially, our plan was to take the train all together, but to the last minute, Rye and I opted to ride a bus instead. Roughly 10pm, I met up with Rye at Masjid Jamek station while the rest were already on their way via train. Our bus will depart to KL at 12am, and since we still have ample time and we also feel a bit hungry we decided to grab something to eat at McDonalds Pudu Raya. I personally didn't expect that the bus is as beautiful and comfortable as that. I thought it was just an ordinary bus as it only costs us 35RM each. But in my surprise, it was one of the most beautiful buses I've ever ridden! hehe. Imagine, I am 6'4 yet I can stretch my legs comfortably. Awesome! Anyway, while on the bus, Rye and I catch up things like a never ending talk 'til we both feel sleepy. And never ever deny Rye that you snore like a cow! Haha.

Day 2 – Saturday, April 28, 2007

Our first stop over was somewhere in the middle of nowhere. I don't know where exactly we were. But we didn't stay there for long; they just let us use the restroom and continue the ride. The next thing we knew, we're already in immigration in Johor Bahru to exit Malaysia. One good thing of having the gold card, we don't need to go thru the usual process; no need for stamp or whatsoever. We just have to show our passport and card then they will let us pass just like that.

A few miles away sited the Singaporean immigration in Woodlands. There was one boo-boo thing that we made there. Rye headed first in the line before me, and when he was already being interviewed by the officer, we realized that we both don't have the embarkation form with us. So we head back, filled-up, and queue back 'til we finally enter the Singapore territory. Yehey! We're finally in Singapore… and later that day we found out that we even came first that the rest. So we're not the last team to arrive! We're still on the race for becoming the America's Next Top Model! Bwahahahahaha.

Going back, when everything was already settled, we both didn't know what to do next. We went to the bus station area not knowing whether; first, our bus is still there and will bring us to the city proper itself. Second, the bus didn't wait us and already left both of us. Or third, we really have to go by ourselves from there. After waiting for few minutes hoping that the bus will come to pick us up and bring us to the city, Rye asked someone how to go to the nearest MRT station and we decided to leave the place and start our misadventure from there hehe.

From Woodlands, we rode a bus that will bring us to the nearest MRT station (Woodlands Interchange). The fare was .90 SGD each but the smallest bill we have that time was 50 SGD. But what a good morning to start with for us as the bus driver didn't mind us to pay! So generous he was.

From there, we took the MRT and alighted at Orchard Station. Then we rode a cab to go to Regency Hotel where Polly and Alfred stay. I haven't seen her for almost a year now! She's one of my batchmates in Phoenix and one of my closest as I would say. So I was excited to finally see her. But we didn't stay there for long. After having the breakfast prepared by her of course, after using the bathroom to clean up ourselves and to change our get-ups, and after the "kulitan" and "kwentuhan" sessions, Rye and I headed straight to Bugis Backpackers Hostel where we stayed for the rest of our trip. But of course, we didn't fail to pose in front of my camera before we leave the place hehe.

Finally, when we reached the place around 1:30pm, we just checked-in and placed our bags in our room then we hurriedly went to Esplanade where Anai and Mars already waiting for Rye inside the theatre where they gonna watch Phantom of the Opera whilst I waited outside and roamed around the place for nearly 3 hours. I took pictures of Esplanade, Merlion, etc. I also ate my merienda at Thai Express. I passed by on this concert hall where the band is having their practice. I went to the nearby shore and rested for a while. The place is packed with tourists from different places and it's so amazing to see people of different colors.

After the play, we (Anai, Rye, and I) all went back to our hostel to change our outfits once again. Based from our itinerary, our plan was to go to Clark Quay, Orchard Road, Suntec, and the nearby places. But we ended up just lost inside the huge mall of Suntec. Haha. Before continuing our never ending walk, we all decided to eat our sumptuous dinner first in one of the Thai restaurants there. Yummy!

We strolled around the Esplanade place once more and took many pictures as we could. And when we all feel tired and exhausted, we grabbed something to zip at Starbucks. We weren't supposed to stay there for long as we still have a lot of places to go in our list for that day. But our exhaustion and fatigue led us to nowhere. I find myself stuck on that place with them, enjoying the still of the night, and had the deepest, most sincere, heartfelt conversation with them 'til we called the night off.

Day 3 – Sunday, April 29, 2007

We scheduled this day as our QT (quality time) day to meet our respective friends separately. Anai and Rye spent their day with their relatives while I spent mine with a friend.

I supposed to meet some of my old Filipino friends there but our time didn't allow us to do so. Wrong timing as they say because their families were there with them that time so better luck next time I guess hehe.

Fortunately, one of my 3 online friends living in Singapore was available that day while two of them were out of the country. We planned to meet at City Hall at around 12nn. But he texted me around 11am that he was already in Intercontinental Hotel near Bugis Junction which apparently near the place where I was staying. So I hurriedly fixed myself up and met him up at Bugis Junction.

Since we both had our brunch, we decided to skip lunch and watch movie instead. With no other choice, we watched the movie "The Wild Hogs". Hehe. After the movie, he toured me around the place and brought me to Chinatown.

The time ran so fast that we didn't notice that it was already 6pm. Before saying goodbye, we promised to see each other again when I get a chance to go back to Singapore or when he goes to Malaysia. I had fun and was a pleasure meeting him.

I took a nap for a while 'til Rye came back in the hostel. We supposed to go to Clark Quay and Night Safari. But again, we ended up doing something else. Instead, we roamed around Bugis place and had our dinner within the area. Just watching all these street lights and beautiful structures...so wonderful!

Day 4 – Monday, May 01, 2007

The only agenda for this day is to go to Bintan Indonesia. Meeting time was 8:45-9am at Harbourfront which was the other end of the MRT. Rye and I we're on time and not in my surprise the girls were late. What's more dissapointing was that they were late by more than an hour! So not to spoil our day, Rye and I ordered pancake meal for our breakfast in McDo and talked about happy thoughts haha. And when Anai and Mars finally arrived after 48 years, we just cheerfully smiled like as if there's nothing happened. But the truth of the matter is, we wanna kill them and rip up piece by piece! Hahaha.

And what worsen the case, when we're about to buy our tickets, we found out that we're on the wrong tail! All ticketing counters in Harbourfront stations are all going to Batam Indonesia and not Bintan! None of them were selling tickets to Bintan! The port going to Bintan was on the other side of the MRT! So not wasting our time, we ran like speed rocket just to make it as early as we can. We're like contestants of the amazing race chasing one MRT to another. We alighted at Bedok station and waited for bus 35 which didn't appear after waiting for several minutes. So we decided to take a cab instead which is always the best option for people who's running out of time haha.

When we arrived on terminal, we're a few minutes late as the ferry already sailed off. With no other choice, we took the next ferry available which will leave the place at 2pm and will arrive in Bintan at the same time since Indonesia is an hour delayed due to time difference. While waiting for the next ferry to start boarding, we ate our lunch first at Kopitiam and again took many funny pictures as possible. Of course, the "kulitan" and "asaran" sessions were always part of it.

We traveled for almost an hour in the sea via M.V. Bupala. It was a smooth sail that made us sleep for a while. The next thing we knew, we were already on the island of Bintan. From there, we took a cab to bring us to Nirwana Resort which was a just a couple of minutes away from the port.

As we're all eager to swim, after changing our clothes, we all jump off to the beach like kids playing in the still sea. Believe me, we're just the loud people there. It was not crowded. You can even count on your fingers the visitors that time.

The place is not as big as the other beaches. The water is not as blue as the others, and the sand is grey but fine. It may not be the best beach in town but the comfort and tranquility of the place made you feel at ease and stress-free. Relaxing it is.

Then again, we took many pictures up to the last minute we stay there. Lucky that we didn't stay there overnight because the place is plain dead at night. No lights, no music. No bars open, no people walking. Dead it is. But we all had so much fun for sure.

The taxi picked us up at around 7:30pm and brought us back to the port area for the last ferry trip that night. We arrived on the Singapore port at around 10pm already. Mars went off to the MRT station to meet someone whilst Rye, Anai, and I had our dinner at McDo (again, again, and again) by default hehe. We didn't eat dinner at Bintan because it was hell expensive! Imagine for just a small bottle of water already cost me 3 SGD! What more for the food. My goodness! So we just ate our "baon" of chocolate cookies and nuts just to nosh our empty stomach. Talking about thriftiness here… hahahaha. After dinner, Rye and I took a cab to bring us back to our hostel while Anai also took a cab to bring her home.

I was supposed to still meet Eden that night but I was so exhausted that I can barely get up on my bed so I texted her that we can just meet the next day.

Day 5 – Tuesday, May 02, 2007

This was our last day of stay in Singapore. Based from our itinerary, we will go to Sentosa to see the place and to meet with our former officemates. We will also buy souvenir items and to shop given we have enough time.

Rye and I woke up early to pack all our things as we need to check-out by 10am but good thing, they allowed us to leave our things near the counter 'til we head back home. We met up Anai at Bugis McDo where he had our breakfast and immediately strolled around Bugis place to buy souvenirs.

After that, we went straight to Sentosa to meet our former officemates. One way to get there is to ride a cable car, which we did. The view was nice, not that spectacular though, but quite short. Anyhow, we roamed the place and of course took many pictures as we could.
And when we all feel starving to death, we look for a better place to eat but unfortunately it took us walking like forever to see one. We ended up having our lunch at Delifrance which is of course expensive again because it's in SGD haha. For just some bread, soup, and drinks for about more than 20SGD! My goodness!

After a couple of minutes, our former officemates (Janjan, Hazel, Khris, and 2 of Anai's friends) just arrived. Again, we never ran of topic to talk and laugh about. It was just a short meeting but we're glad to see them again.

We didn't stay there for long. We ran like speeding bullet, chasing one train to another, back to Bugis to get our things and head back somewhere near Sentosa again where Aeroline bus is, which will bring us back to Malaysia.

I was so exhausted and my ankle was already a bit swollen so the moment we sat on our bus seat, I lay down and relaxed. But there's this one annoying kid at my back which was so screaming loud the whole time which is so irritating! Swear, I really wanna throw him out of the window that night! Hehe.

It only took us less than 5 hours to travel back to Malaysia. We spent our morning in Menara Jaya 'til Rye's flight back to Manila. We invited Tza and Miggy to meet Rye in Anai's place and spent the morning chatting and sharing our experiences in our respective escapades.

At around 4am, Rye left Anai's place to chase his flight back to Manila while I went straight away home in KL.

SUMMARY:

Our trip was not just all about fun and relaxation. For me, it's more on discovering how life goes in Singapore. For each and every country you visit, there's always had a negative aspect. For one, no doubt this place is clean, sophisticated, contrive, organize, discipline, yet very busy and always on the go. Not to mention that living there is way too expensive. I would have not imagine myself living and working their for good, not unless I'll be paid good too!

On the other hand, it was indeed a nice and memorable experience that I would never ever forget for the rest of my life. What made it more special is that I spent it with two of my closest friends Anai and Rye, and with Mars as well.

Thanks for the wonderful time travel buddies! 'Til our next (mis)adventure!

Routinary Days

2007-04-22T07:49:00.000-07:00

My days has been routinary these days, office-home, office-home. Nothing really so special going on...

I was busy with work, working to finish the tasks that I am planning to implement early next week. Given the little amount of time, I hope I could do just that. If not, then I will be forced to move it early week of May because of freaking freeze period.

@ @ @

Last Friday, I attended the special cycling/spinning class @ California Fitness. It was special because first, the instructor was Kannan, the best instructor in town; second, you need to call a day prior the class for reservation of slot, else, you can’t attend; lastly, it was a long 3-hours cycling class! Beat that, huh! Just count how many kilo-calories we burned for cycling roughly 90 kilometers! After the class, we're all tired and exhausted. My legs are still in sore upto now. Unbelievable class!!!

@ @ @

The less-talented yet entertaining Sanjaya Malakar was finally voted out from American Idol! It was long over-due for him actually. I just still can't figure out why America loved him. Anyway, now that he’s gone, the competition is even! I wish Jordin will win this season.

@ @ @

I'm no longer interested much with Amazing Race All-Star because I already know who won the race! Due to fucking idiocy, I read the spoiler before the pilot episode even started! Haha. And as the race goes on, the spoiler results seem reliable and accurate. I just didn’t like the winner. *sigh. But I still do watch them though hoping that the result will change. Hehe.

@ @ @

As of this writing, Rafael Nadal, my least favorite top tennis player, just won the Monte-Carlo Championship defended his title for 3 consecutive years. What even made it worst, he beaten the ranked 1 in the world and my number 1 favorite tennis player Roger Federer with 6-4 6-4 result. Giving him 7-3 head to head match record. Oh well, Roger wasn't in his rhythm and play strokes forcing him to get unnecessary and uncalled unforced errors. I know he can do better than that! Anyway, better luck next time idol! and congratulations to Nadal.

Signing-off...

Date Scribed: April 22, 2007

Redbox with friends

2007-04-14T09:16:00.000-07:00

Exactly a week ago, my friends (Anai, Minnie, Gen, and Agri) and I, together with Anai's parents, went to Redbox and spent the whole day there (from 1:30am up to 9pm! Beat that?!?!) hehe.

As you know, we Filipinos love to sing. This is just one good way for us to release the stress after long working days. This is also a better form for us to express our feelings and emotions. And the best way to enjoy life in general!

We stayed there for 7.5 long hours singing almost all genre of musi... from ballad, alternative, dance, pop, RnB, and so on. It was so much fun!

@ @ @

Just a few minutes ago, I chatted with my friend Liam! If you go dig my previous post, he's the Aussie guy I met in the plane and became good friend of mine. He's currently in India, having some divine intervention. He really loves to see different places, meet new people, and immerse himself on the culture. What a nice person indeed. Truly, he's a very very very down-to-earth person.

I know dude your trip will come to an end soon. But just remember this quote "Trips do not end when you return home, usually this is the time when in a sense they really begin."

I wish you all the best in your future endeavor! And of course, hope to meet you soon.

Take Care Always!

@ @ @

In two weeks time, from April 28 – May 1, I'll be in Singapore!

May 1 and 2, Labor and Wesak day respectively, are officially declared national holiday in KL. But unfortunately April 30 is a working day. So just to have a long weekend, I filed it as a VL.

I'm gonna be with Anai and Rye, two of my best of friends. We still don't have itinerary yet, but we're gonna work on that this week.

I'm really looking forward for fun experiences and (mis)sadventures! I just can't hide the excitement! Hehe.

Before I forgot, I am also planning to meet my old friends and some of my online friends there. See you guys soon!

Date Scribed: April 14, 2007

What a wonderful week it was!

2007-04-08T20:43:00.002-07:00

I haven’t been blogging lately not because I don’t have something to share with. In fact, I have a lot of memorable things happened to me these past days. But there are some things that I just wanted to keep to myself; some things that I don’t think others could understand; or others would have to know. So rather than publishing them, I “censored” it myself. Though, for the sake of blogging, I will write here what made me busy this past week:

Monday, I went out dinner with Apollo @ Bongsen, a Vietnamese Restaurant. Then went to Dome to cruise and grabbed something to drink.

Tuesday, I was busy at work with urgent tasks. Grhhh

Wednesday, I went to gym with Eric.

Thursday was my rest day for me, but I still find myself in front of my PC chatting ‘til midnight.

Friday, I went out dinner with Apollo @ Frangipani, a French Restaurant then went to bar afterwards.

Saturday was another rest day for me. Did my weekly laundry and house cleaning.

Sunday, I attended mass and went to Redbox with Filipino folks.

It was indeed a tiring week, but nonetheless, I had so much fun! I had a blast! A very memorable week for me here in KL…

Date Scribed: April 8, 2007

Bon Voyage dude!

2007-04-08T20:43:00.001-07:00

My friend Apollo went back in Indonesia today from a week vacation here in KL. He’s a 33 yr old Brit guy born somewhere near Manchester, UK. He’s currently working as a secondary teacher in one of the international schools in Jakarta for 9 yrs now. Having said that, he’s very fluent speaking in Bahasa.

I met him online and we’ve been chatmates for a couple of months now but we haven’t seen each other in person yet ‘til he decided to have a vacation here.

We first met last Monday. That night, I left the office and headed straight away home at exactly 5:45pm to prepare myself to finally meet him. Since it was raining hard that night, we decided that I’ll just pick him up in Radius International Hotel at 8pm, just off Bukit Bintang near Allson Genesis Hotel, and take a cab from there to KLCC for a dinner.

The fact that it was raining incessantly harder, the traffic was dreadful. So instead of taking a cab that probably will left me stuck in heavy traffic for hours, I took a monorail. I dropped off at Raja Chulan station, one station away from Bukit Bintang, so I could also withdraw cash in the nearest ATM machine. I know I was just near the place then but didn’t know how to manage to get there so I opted to take a cab from there. But I waited for f*cking 30+ minutes ‘til I get a f*cking cab which worsen things up by charging me a f*cking 10RM for just a short distance! F*CK!

We ate dinner at Bongsen, a Vietnamese restaurant located at 4th floor of KLCC Suria. After that, we decided to stroll inside the mall talking to each other about anything under the sun. We stayed there roaming for about an hour or two then decided to take a cab and go to Dome to cruise and grab some drinks as well.

Past 1am, we went back to his hotel and called the night off.

Our second meeting was on Friday. I went to his hotel at exactly 9:17pm. We went to Frangipani, a French restaurant, which is just walking distance from his hotel. The place is nice and trendy however, the light is quite dim. The food is great but pricey.

Past 11pm, we headed off and went upstairs where they have this very snug bar. We stayed there ‘til past 1am chatting and drinking before we called the night off.

Dude, I know you enjoyed your experience in S*nj*k*la. hahahaha, But other than that, I hope you enjoyed your stay here. Personally, I would like to thank you for the wonderful time together. I had so much fun… =)

Thank you for everything. Hope to see you again in the future!

Now, back to reality… LOL

Date Scribed: April 8, 2007

Happy Birthday Sis!

2007-04-08T20:40:00.000-07:00

Today is my sister’s 30th birthday! With no more words to say, I wish you all the best this year! more happiness, and more blessings… and happy love life as well! Hehe.

Can’t wait to see you next month! I love you! Muah!

Date Scribed: April 8, 2007

Cozy night @ Skybar (Traders Hotel)

2007-03-28T06:57:00.000-07:00

"I lead a life where each person I meet touches my life and I search for the experience and the effect each person that comes across my life brings. Often times, I meet people who in that short period have brought so much joy to my life. These are people whom I love to stay in touch with and hopefully share future adventures."

As I've mentioned on my previous post, my friend Eric went back to KL last Saturday. Monday night, I received a voice message from him inviting me for a drink. I tried to call him late night but he's not answering, probably he's already sleeping so I just sent him a message that we can meet on Tuesday.

Early this morning, I received a text message from him asking for the place and time. And he called me to confirm. Needless to say, we decided to meet at Traders Hotel tonight at 9pm.

At exactly 8:26pm, Eric texted me that he's already there waiting on the Skybar! Too early huh? So I hurriedly fix myself up so I won't keep him waiting for long. Since the hotel is not that far from my place, I left our unit 15 minutes before 9. I took a cab from Titiwangsa to Traders Hotel and arrived on the place just on time.

Skybar is located on the 33rd floor of Traders Hotel somewhere near KLCC adjacent to Petronas Towers. It is a two floor opened-air area with a minimalist swimming pool in the middle which gives vibrant cozy impression. Not to mention the breath-taking view of Petronas Towers and the resplendent city lights at night. The ambiance is all but perfect for people who just want to unwind and relax after busy work. Or chitchat with friends in a vastly tranquil atmosphere. Greatness! *sigh

BUT! Despite the beauty of the place, sad to say, their service is ghastly. For one, my friend ordered an orange juice before I came, but they only served it after 2 hours! Second, he ordered a gin tonic and was served on time. But! There was no ice on it! Funny, right? They served a warmed gin tonic!?!?!!? My gracious goodness! But lucky for me because my virgin pina colada and fruit punch served just right. Dude, maybe they just didn't like you! Hahaha just kidding…=)

We stayed there for almost 3 hours gazing the beauty of the blissful night, feeling the serenity of the site, talking about our lives and catching things up in general. After 2 drinks each, we called the night off.

Dude, it was great seeing you again and nice chatting with you as always. Have a safe trip to Hong Kong. Have fun there! See you soon! (* in the gym? hehe)

Oh before I forgot, thanks for the Belgian chocolates. Lovely… =)

Cheers!

Date Scribed: March 27, 2007

Feeling Ecstatic!

2007-03-24T09:48:00.000-07:00

I've been swamped by work these past days. I was doing 3 urgent tasks at the same time; one is related to the major project, second is an enhancement ticket, and third is a production issue caused by my previous install. The latter one has already been finished yesterday. The second one is almost done and will be installed on 1st week of April right after the freeze period. And the first one is still on-going. That’s one of the reasons why I feel ecstatic.

Finally, my friend Eric from UK was back in KL early this morning! FYI, he's the one who introduced me to KL's night life! He texted me and invited me to hang out one of these days… Sure dude! Let's meet on Tuesday night! See you there... just one of the reasons why I feel ecstatic.

Early this week I received a package from my friend Steve all the way from Spain! By the way, he is Neil's special friend *wink *wink. Dude, thanks for the DVD! Gracias! It was awesome! I am speechless hahahaha. Gosh, I wish I can see them for real! haha... another reason to feel ecstatic.

The other day was my friend Martin's birthday. Happy birthday dude! I hope you celebrated it with a blast! We haven't talked much lately because he's always busy or maybe he really doesn't want to talk to me much... but! I was able to talk to him last night... just another reason why I feel ecstatic.

Then yesterday afternoon, my manager called me for a meeting together with 2 of my regular officemates. He then officially informed us that 3 of us are chosen to handle one of the major projects of Maybank to date. We will be responsible in overseeing the project, doing the impact analysis, designs, and programming. In lieu with that, he verbally told me that they will be renewing my contract which happens to end on May 29 because the project estimated timeline will last for about 12-14 months. He wants me to be there with the project from start 'til end. Now, this great news makes me feel more ecstatic!

I've been waiting for this opportunity in my career life here in KL. Since I came here, most of my tasks were petty. I never had a chance to work in a major projects or enhancements nor had a task that touches our system’s modules (Cardlink). All of my tasks were in-house enhancements. Because of that, I somehow lost my drive to work and find it already plateau for me. But just in time, He gave me what I've been praying for! I will be involving in a MAJOR project that will test whatever skills I have right now hahaha. I can’t hide the excitement in me because I know I will learn A LOT from this...

However, my manager already cautioned us that this project ain't easy to deal with as it's a very high profile project. He also forewarned us that the assigned PM (project manager) is a deadhead and very hard PM to work with. He also mentioned that the upper management has so much expectation on us and he just hopes that we can live up on their expectations (so do I). Despite of the nerve-wracking and intimidating expectation setting/meeting, I am still so excited and really looking forward working on this project... can't wait to start the work proper!!!

Thank God for all the Blessings!

Date Scribed: March 24, 2007

Blood Diamond

2007-03-17T11:32:00.000-07:00

While I am still emotional here after watching the movie Blood Diamond, let me tell you something about it…

Blood Diamond is a intense, action filled, political and emotional movie about the dark side of the diamond industry in Sierra Leone starring Leonardo Di Caprio, Jennifer Connelly, and Djimon Hounsou.

Out of boredom, I decided to watch this DVD late this evening. My housemate bought this 2 wks ago and recommended me to watch it over the weekend. But since I was so pre-occupied with surfing, chatting, and other things for the past weekends, I ignore it 'til just earlier.

I never had any idea what this movie is all about. All I know, it was a nice movie since it already won several awards from different award giving bodies in US. Nor I am a huge fan of Leonardo but I must admit he is becoming better and better these years. I rarely watch movies but I must say that this is one of the first-rate movies that told a story that will grip you and move you.

Every part of the movie is brilliant. But there is one dramatic scene which I really like most… where Danny (Leo) made his promise to call up Maddy (Jen)…the moment before he died. "I am looking at an incredible view right now, I wish you were here, Maddy". I know it's so mushy but you have to watch the entire movie to feel it. I bet you will…

So if you not have seen the movie yet, you better should…

Date Scribed: March 17, 2007

Restless and Bored...

2007-03-17T07:30:00.000-07:00

Right now, I feel like I am in a state where I'm doing fine yet at unexpected times, solitude hits me like a pouring rain in a sunny sky… and I can't figure out why it is happening and where it is coming from.

These past 2 weeks, I suffered from wakeful nights staying up too late in the morning, wide awake and can't find sleep, heading to bed around 2-4am, forcing myself to sleep just because of work.

Probably, I know by heart what is missing… but do I have the courage to move? Do I have the power to go? I am still confused…

As my status message goes, I am still finding my way back to sanity….

Apologies for this melodramatic post… maybe I am just RESTLESS and BORED…=(

Date Scribed: March 17, 2007

Stress Test

2007-03-15T08:05:00.000-07:00

This is FUNNY!

***

I am not sure exactly how it works, but this is amazingly accurate. Read the full description before looking at the picture.

The picture below has 2 identical dolphins in it. It was used in a case study on stress levels at St. Mary's Hospital. Look at both dolphins jumping out of the water. The dolphins are identical. A closely monitored, scientific study revealed that, in spite of the fact that the dolphins are identical, a person under stress would find differences in the two dolphins.

The more differences a person finds between the dolphins, the more stress that person is experiencing.

Look at the photograph and if you find more than one or two differences you may want to take a vacation.

No Need To Comment : I'll be on Vacation

What's even funnier, my friend Rye took this seriously! Don't deny it!!! hahaha.

My Beloved Sistah!

2007-03-13T08:07:00.000-07:00

At last! After almost 2 years! I have finally seen my sister, not in flesh though, but in webcam!

I haven't seen her for nearly 2 yrs now except in the pictures. After I left to US for a 6 months onshore assignment last July 2005, my sister flew to Dubai the following month. When I came back home on January 2006, she wasn't already there. I felt so gloomy without her on my side. She's not just a sister for me; she's more of like a mother and a good friend. Most of you might probably know that I grew up without our parents with us. Both of them worked and are still working in Saudi Arabia for some demanding reasons. As part of the Filipino culture, as the eldest, she had to take good care of us. She cooks for us, she always does the household chores, she does the budgeting, etc. She's a very domesticated sister so to speak especially during those times that we don't have nanny with us.

But time is running out for her. She can't just stay at home looking after us. She has to work and find herself as well because sooner or later, she'll be having a family on her own. She chose to work in Dubai, UAE because she thought that it would be easier for her to find work there and my cousin may help her find a job as well. So we took a risk and bought her a tourist visa hoping that she could be able to find an employer there the soonest possible time. But it didn't turn out that easy. She struggled a lot and took her 4 months after getting a permanent job. There were a couple of opened jobs but not related to her course. She was then looking for something fits to her skills as a therapist since she took up B.S. PT. Now, she's working as massage therapist.

I wouldn't say that my relationship with her has been smooth ever since. I remember when we were still on teenage years; we keep on fighting almost every day. I still have scars that remind me of those troubled days. But when we got older, we became so close to each other. I began to respect her as my older sister. I began to love her even more. There were still moments that we argue but no more hitting and beating like I used to do to her before. Probably the maturity in me made me realize how important she is to me.

We also treated each other as good friends. We shared a couple of common friends especially her school friends whom eventually became my friends too because they always slept over our house before. We even watched porn movies together with our friends! Of course none of us was serious, we’re all just laughing about the movies as they’re comparing the sizes! Hahaha. But it was a funny experience.

I felt that I've always been a big influence on her love life. Or should I say a big hindrance? Haha. She had her first boyfriend at the age of 15 named Jet (Thomas). He was a good childhood friend of mine. They stayed together for almost a year I guess. But apparently, my parents didn't like her to have bf that time so they broke-up. Her second boyfriend was Julius. If I am not mistaken, they stayed together for almost 5 years. They were classmates in internship back in college. At first, I really really don’t like him. I didn't allow him to step inside our house or even phoned my sister. I will hung up the phone when I hear his voice, and likewise. It was just on their latter years when I learned to accept him. But then again, for some appalling reasons, they didn't stay together for good. Currently, she has an Arab boyfriend named Hassan. I talked to him once and I was surprised that he can speak Tagalog. He even called me kuya (older brother) where in fact he's older than me! Haha. He’s already 36 by the way. This time, I am letting her to decide. If she thinks he's the right guy for her then no problem with me. If she thinks that she already wants to spend the rest of her life with to this guy, then go. I don't stop her from doing so. I will just be here to support her for all her decisions.

Last Monday morning, around 2am here (10pm in Dubai), I saw her online in Yahoo. She was still in the clinic (evening shift) and just testing the computer. We didn't talk for long because it was already closing time for them. But she said she'll go to a nearest computer shop so we could talk more. And when she came back online, we chatted for like more than an hour with webcam! I really missed her so much! And an hour of conversation seemed so fast because we never run out of topic and stories to tell.

I can't explain the happiness that I felt seeing my sister again after such a long time. It's very tedious to explain the feeling as I ran out of words to describe it. I can’t wait to see her on May!!! But somehow, it makes me ponder how times goes by so fast… really fast…

LOVE YOU ATE WHENG!

Date Scribed: March 12, 2007

My Music

2007-03-11T03:45:00.000-07:00

As you have noticed, I recently changed my blog skin with a very picturesque serene photo designed by QQ. In addition, I added some of my favorite videos and the lyrics of my favorite slow alternative song “The Distance” popularized by Evan and Jaron.

I wish I could squeeze in all my favorite songs in my blog but due to space restraint, I decided to just post here my ALL-TIME favorite slow alternative/slow rock songs to date:

Evan and Jaron - The Distance
Lifehouse - Breathing
Switchfoot - Dare You to Move
Lifehouse - Somewhere in Between
Keane / Lifehouse - Somewhere Only We Know
Semisonic - Act Naturally
Splender - I Think God Can Explain
Dishwalla -Angels or Devils
Kid Rock - Only God Knows Why
Coldplay - Yellow
Better than Ezra - Desperately Wanting
Howie Day - I Collide
Matchbox 20 - Unwell
Creed - My Sacrifice
The Calling - Wherever You Will Go
Edwin McCain - I’ll Be
Lifehouse - Just To Be Where You Are

JUST TO BE WHERE YOU ARE

I will not stop searching till I am where I want to be

cause all I have is nothing without you right here with me

I wont stop chasing after you

it doesnt matter how far

cause everything that I need is everything you are

and I would wait right here forever

just to be where you are

and I would trade it all in a second

just to be where you are

and I would wait right here forever

just to be where you are

and I would trade it all in a second

just to be where you are

dont have all the answers

but one thing I know is that

where you are going is where I want to go

dont have all the words to tell

I know cause Ive already tried

all I know is that when you are here

you make me feel alive

just to feel

to feel you here with me

just to hear you whisper

the words that are priceless to me

just to know you more

to be with you

to lose myself in you

is all I want

all I want

just to be where you are

and there is nothing that I wouldnt do

just to be where you are

and there is nothing that I wouldnt go through

just to be where you are

A Day full of FUN!

2007-03-11T01:27:00.000-08:00

Friday is the day where most of us are really looking forward, of course because it kicks in the start of the weekend. After long boring hours in the office, I headed straight away to gym. I missed it for 4 days due to appalling reasons so I said to myself that I must go this time. I did everything that I can think of doing like I attended 90 mins of strenuous cycling class, ran like crazy in threadmill, did resistance training and a little bit of weight lifting, and lastly had a chitchat with some of my gym acquaintances inside the sauna bath. I didn't notice that I stayed there for more than 4 long hours hehe. There were this small group of more of less 10 people in the cycling class that always go out for a dinner and might go for party afterwards almost every Friday night and they invited me to join them but I wasn’t in the mood that night to stay up late as I really wanna go home and have my body rest so I didn't join them. Maybe next time…

That same night I stayed online 'til 2-3am surfing and chatting with friends. I also tried c2c with Anai to try her newly bought webcam (stayed up late looking for her perfect angle! Hahaha). We we’re supposed to have a video conferencing call with Rye in Manila that night but apparently, he didn't make it because they had production issues at work. Anyway, there's still had some other time.

The following day, Saturday, we (Anai, Gen, Minnie, Agri, and I) went to Green Box karaoke bar. We stayed there for 3 hours singing out loud 'til death there. It was fun and hilarious! Agri did an awesome job of entertaining us! 3 mic for 5 people, every one of us had our moments to sing! But no doubt, she's the star of that moment! Haha. Despite of flats and sharps here and there (Simon is that you?!?! Bwahaha) she still managed to stay sexy! Hahaha so so funny!

After 3 hours of singing (damn too short! Wished we could extend more next time! About 6 hours would do I guess! hehe), we roamed the place for a bit having Anai buy her headband. Then we decided to separate ways… Gen and Minnie stayed in Sungei Wang, Agri went to the office, whilst Anai and I went to Mid Valley.

We decided to go to Mid Valley to watch the movie Dreamgirls. We've been waiting for these for long after hearing all the wonderful reviews and comments, not to mention that Anai love musical and I am too eager to watch Jen Hudson, we never have to miss this one! And just in time, Anai had a "buy 1 free 1" movie coupon. Wonderful! Before going to a long queue of people buying tickets, we indulge ourselves with Haggen Daz ice cream!

Ok this is it! After watching the movie, we were both amazed with unbelievable vocal prowess of Jen Hudson (Effie) especially when she sang the song "And I Am Telling You.. I am Not Going" and "I Am Changing". I almost got into tears... really. I felt her in those scenes. Her acting was just subtle but her voice alone is more than enough for you to feel her character in the movie. It was a superb performance. Kudos to her! That’s all I can say… Unbelievable voice… Ok, Beyonce is also good when she sang the the song "Listen" but obviously she was overpowered by Jen and her acting is not good either.

While we're still both struck, Anai accompanied me to buy my gym training gloves and socks. Afterwards, we both decided to eat in Oh Sushi restaurant; cozy and nice ambiance place to dine in with family and friends. I ordered Teppan Salmon and maki which were just OK for me (Anai I forgot what you ordered hahaha). We stayed there 'til 10pm talking about everything that happened the whole week; a one on one conversation like a Q&A segment hehe. Again, thanks Anai for being so understanding! =)

I arrived at home past 11pm already and I immediately opened my pc as it's about time to had a webcam session with Rye and Anai (haha d naman tayo sawa sa isa't isa no? umay na umay ka na cguro sa pagmumukha ko hahaha). Another Master Showman (Walang Tulugan!) session! Haha. It was really cool. It was like talking to them face to face… Of course, we never fail to laugh at one another especially Rye's cam (1x1 photo).

While chatting with them, I was also chatting with Gilbert (one of my college barkada) about PBB! and also a little bit of myself on the side. Little did we all realize that it was already almost 4am! As much as we would like to continue chatting like as if there’s no more tomorrow haha, we called it off then.

To wrap it up, it was a loaded Saturday for me with so much fun activities but I really had so much fun… Yes, again it was tiring but all worth it. And can't wait to do that again soon! Love you all guys!

Cheers!

Date Scribed : March 11, 2007

Oh, What A Day It Was!

2007-03-07T08:52:00.000-08:00

As I blogged on my previous post, my friend Martin and I had a little argument or should I say misunderstanding yesterday morning. Since it happened, I can't concentrate on my work thinking why we blew it out of proportion. It was so unnecessary and uncalled for. Because of that I didn't feel well the whole day still thinking what have I done wrong? All I know is that I just told him what I feel that very moment and why I am pissed off when we talked the other night. Then suddenly, he bursts out like an outraged volcano, leaving me this notion that I am becoming a burden for him as he said that I don’t understand him and his situation.

I've been trying to be very understanding to my friends on my best way possible. I am the type of person that will do everything for my friends to please them even sometimes I feel like stupid of being neglected. At the same time, I am also sensitive, temperamental, and sometimes becoming egocentric unintentionally.

I talked to some of my "concerned" friends the whole day seeking for advices and also to have someone's shoulder to lean on as I was really feeling down with what happened. Almost all have the same pieces of advice, which is to let it go and give space.

At the end of the day, I realized my mistakes. I should have listened to him first. I should have let him explain first before reacting oddly. But deep inside I know that wasn’t just solely my fault. Even so, I eagerly want to speak with him to talk about it and to say sorry as well.

After long hours of popping messages every now and then, asking him to talk to me, waiting him for hours… finally, past 12am, he talked to me. I didn't waste any time and took the moment to apologize for everything that I have said and done. Likewise, he said sorry too. It was just a brief yet noteworthy conversation with him. Not much promises, we called off the night reconciled and wishing that hopefully it won't happen again. What a day it was!

Date Scribed: March 7, 2007

Elated yet Ruined

2007-03-06T03:57:00.000-08:00

Yesterday and early this morning was one of the moments in my life where I dealt with some personal matters. I had this kind of serious chat, talk, and exchanging of emails with some of my closest friends. It was the time where I tested the water, a time where I found out the deepest meaning of our friendship. I am so happy to know that I really have true friends in you. Thank you. Because of that, I feel so elated.

But before the day ends, I felt sadden because I had a little argument with a friend late last night and early this morning. I wish I can write everything here in details. I just feel so stupid… I shouldn’t be going thru this if I just listened to my concerned friends. I shouldn’t be feeling this way if I didn’t push myself from the very first start. I shouldn’t be confused if I know where to stand in the first place. Now I know what they keep on telling me. Now I understand. But now, I am ruined.

I always tried to understand you and your situation… I hope this time, try to understand me…

Date Scribed: March 6, 2007

Am Back Again!

2007-03-05T21:02:00.000-08:00

Finally, after eons of time, I manage to update my blog. I don’t really know why but these past weeks, I really can’t find my rhythm. I can’t find the right words to start my blog with. I started a couple of entries back but can’t find the exact words to close them the way I like it. Even up to now… so I better leave them as they were and start a new beginning.

I was very busy at work for the past weeks. I had and still doing urgent tasks which shadowed my blogging moments. I can’t find time to blog because my mind was already stressed out from work at night. I know I shouldn’t be complaining as this is how programmer life goes; always dealing with codes' issues and abends. But doing this often made me think twice if this is really what I want… haha excuses excuses…

In addition to that, we finally got our own internet connection this week! So instead of spending my spare time blogging, I spent it chatting with my friends. So as you would have thought, I can’t sqeeze my time to blog.

Since I am still anxious and too excited to use our connection, I spent and devoted my weekend at home. I did nothing but chat, surf, and listen to music. It was a damn lazy weekend to admit. But I liked it! It was fun doing it once in a while and not to mention that I am really, with all honesty, a chat addict hehe.

Sunday, after attending the mass, I went to Subang Jaya with some of my Filipino officemates. My manager invited us for a lunch on his house (Open house for CNY). So after mass, we headed straight away to his place. We took STAR LRT to Bandaraya, then took KTM Komuter to Subang Jaya station. From there we took a cab. It took as more than an hour to get there.

We were really starving to death while on our way. We thought of like he’d probably be serving us dimsum, shiomai, etc since my manager is a Chinese; just talking about those Chinese delicacies made us even more hungrier. When we arrived in the place, we’re surprised! Pizza for lunch! (Come on, it was lunch so of course we expect a meal at least! Hehe). But I actually loved it. Though it’s not a heavy meal like what we Filipinos normally have for lunch, but it’s still fine with me. After all, it’s for free so we should be thankful in the first place! After lunch, we played cards with the locals but we didn’t stay there for long. We headed back home mid afternoon but before we separate ways, we ate first in Chicken Rice! (obviously, you know why ahahaha)

I was supposed to play tennis with my friends last night but rain stopped us from doing. So I just jumped straight off to my pc and chat to my online friends.

I really missed this chatting habit I have in me. I remember, I used to be a founder and operator of several channels in MIRC way back college years. I was always up late to chat with my friends and never complained nor get tired of it. I just lost momentum when I started to work. But now that I have more time at night, I think I can get back that old habit of mine hahaha.

Date Scribed: March 5, 2007

Night Out @ Thai Club

2007-02-15T22:17:00.000-08:00

After a long week, with nothing else to do last Friday night (February 09, 2007), my friends Anai, Minnie, Zari, and the newly recruited member Jen, and myself decided to go out PARTEEH!

We met at KLCC around 10pm. As usual, they were late! After 48 years of hanging around (hehe), they finally arrived. And in my surprise, I saw Anai wearing dress! I was stunned, shocked, disoriented, and almost fell off on the ground (haha exagg). But seriously, it was only my first time to see her in dress. I usually saw her in jeans and shirts or just match it with blouses. But never have I imagined her wearing something like that, a silhouette tube matched with micro-mini skirt along with netted stockings embroidered with flowers and feathers in it. Bwahahaha just kidding PEACE Anai! She actually wore a casual sleeveless dress. Not that revealing for some, but for a very conservative, demure, and reserved woman like her, it definitely is! I am really proud of you Anai! You’re now coming out of your shell! *wink *wink

The early plan was to go to Zouk bar which is just a few blocks away from Suria-KLCC. I haven’t been there yet so I was quite curious too. When we arrived on the place, there were already some people outside; some were just hanging around with their friends whilst some probably were waiting for their time to go inside (because they let members to get in first). The crowd is similar to what I had seen in Cynna and B Beautiful, mostly young show-off , elite people. So if you’re into like that, then these are the places for you to be. But we’re not haha. So before we totally get bewildered with these people, we left the place and headed to Bukit Bintang Walk instead. This is the same strip where we celebrated our New Year. Here you can find a lot of clubs and bars for all genre and ages. So for that night, we chose Thai Club!

This club is somewhat similar to The Beach Club but quite decent I guess. The music is no doubt way better that the other one. It varied from hip-hop dance to house music. So we didn’t not waste any time and danced out the whole night. One funny incident happened that night where I was (then again) approached by a “guy”! A Chinese guy talked to me while we were dancing in the middle of the crowd. But I didn’t entertain him because he’s obviously drunk.

It was indeed another tiring and exhausting night out but, as always, I had so much fun! And it seems like we’ll be doing this often from now on! Can’t wait! =)

Date Scribed: February 16, 2007

Lakwatsa with Marla, Anna, and Allan

2007-02-04T22:40:00.000-08:00

Last Saturday, I treated my friends Marla, Anna, and Allan here in KL. Three of them were my former AMEX-Triumph friends and all of us are now working here in KL. Marla arrived a week earlier that the two. But relatively, they’re all still new in this place.

Since I was the once who convinced them to try their luck here, I treated them for a day of “lakwatsa at lakaran”. We all decided to meet after lunch in front of Rotiboy at KLCC. Since it was their first time to go to KL, we didn’t waste any time. We went straight away to Petronas Tower and took pictures of them with Petronas (as usual). It was drizzling, so we didn’t stay there for so long. After taking pictures we went inside the mall and roamed around the place.

We then went to Aquaria. It was also my first time to go there so I was kinda excited. As expected, we saw a lot of interesting fishes including the popular sting-ray and sharks. I personally enjoyed it but for 38RM entrance fee, I don’t think it’s worth it.

Nothing much to see in KLCC, I brought them to Lowyat, Sungei Wang, and Time Square. But before that, we had our merienda first in fast food. I ordered them the famous seafood marinara spaghetti, fettuccine, seafood supreme, and americano supreme pizza.

After looking around for new gadgets, laptops, etc; buying lala’s earphone, sandals, pen drive; we called the day off at 8PM.

Like my case, they resigned on our previous work looking for greener pasture, better life, and stability in all aspects. I just hope that they will like their stay here in KL as I did. And I also hope they can find what they are looking for here in their so called journey of life.

Date Scribed: February 5, 2007

Australian Open

2007-02-04T22:39:00.001-08:00

This is to acknowledge the greatness of my favorite Tennis players! =)

Just recently, I was so keen watching the Australian Open, one of the Grand Slam Tennis Tournaments, other than Roland Garros (previously named as French Open), US Open, and Wimbeldon Open. I never failed to watch any matches of my favorite players from 1st round until they made it to the Finals.

First is my idol Maria Sharapova…

After watching her match with Camille Pin, I know she wasn’t in her game. I was reluctant on her performance. I wasn’t even sure if she will be able to make it in the finals knowing that Serena, Hingis, Mauresmo, Vaidasova, and other best female players are still in the game. In short, she wasn’t in her best form. But fortunately, she made it to the finals. Unfortunately, she didn’t grab the trophy home. She lost on a frustrating and humiliating 6-1, 6-2 game over Serena Williams. Nevertheless, reaching the finals is already an achievement. I just hope that she can brag another grand slam event soon. Before I forgot, she was officially ranked no. 1 after Henin withdrew on the event.

Second is none other than Roger Federer...

Who would have not liked this young, timid, nice Swiss guy! He possesses the true heart of a tennis player. From his top spin forehand, backhand drive, slices, drop shots, to his reliable services, nothing can top this man. I was already a follower of this guy since early last year. I researched everything about him and even read his blog every now and then. I really admire this lad. He didn’t manage to lose any set from 1st round ‘til finals whom no one done that since 1978. No doubt, he won the event giving him his 11th grand slam title.

These two players are undeniable the two best players in the world right now. I hope I can meet them someday bwahahaha.

Due to this passion of watching tennis games, I was fervent and excited to learn this sport. I bought a racket and played tennis with my housemates and friends. *wink * wink

I need MORE PRACTICE and PROPER TRAINING though. *sigh*

Date Scribed: February 5, 2007

ITAC Outing

2007-02-04T22:39:00.000-08:00

ITAC Outsourcing agency organized a whole-day outing last January 21, 2007. We were like more or less 100 people joined the outing. Out of two buses, 3 of a quarter were Filipinos so it was sort of like a Filipino gathering too!

I’m not in the mood to write down everything in details so I will just mention the places we visited:

- pick up point was in Wisma MCA in KL
- one of the Hot Spring Parks in Ipoh
- passed-by the Kellie’s Castle
- one of the caves in Ipoh

It was indeed a long and tiring whole-day trip but I had fun not with the places but more on traveling out of town with my friends. Not to ignore the meals served to us! Yummy!

I personally had fun and I hope everyone else did too.

Date Scribed: January 31, 2007

A New Aussie Friend

2007-02-02T00:55:00.000-08:00

Who would have thought that I’d be able to meet a new acquaintance in the plane? This post is written for my new friend that I just met recently.

Last January 14, 2007 was my scheduled flight back from Manila to KL via Cebu Pacific flight 5J501. As I normally do, I requested to assign me any seat on exit row so I can sit comfortably. I was seated at 11A exit row; beside me was a young foreigner guy and after him was another Filipino guy.

His name is Liam, a 24 yr-old Irish-Australian guy born and raised in Melbourne. While in transit, we talked about his stay in the Philippines, about his experiences; his travels and trips; and even a little about his life in general. He’s a backpacker guy and been traveling around Asia for 6 months now. Visiting one country to another, chasing flights after the other is what he’s mostly doing right now. He’s been in Laos, Vietnam, China, Thailand, and a lot more. It’s really inspiring to hear his story and to meet someone as young as his age doing what he really likes to do to his life. How I wish I can have the guts to do that too.

This time, he’s planning to visit Malaysia and stay in KL for a couple of days. Since I knew the lodge where he’ll be staying, I warmly accompany him from the airport up to his place: 1 hr bus ride from airport to KL Sentral and taxi ride from KL Sentral to our respective places. We even shared 1 taxi… but dude we’ve been fooled! According to my housemates, 40RM was way expensive for a short distance like that! They said that we should have ridden a budget taxi parked somewhere upstairs! Sorry for that. Oh well, lessons learned. Next time we know where to find one. =)

Honestly, for a short period of time that we’ve been together, I felt sincerity and genuine person in him. I don’t easily trust strangers before… but nowadays, I find it cool to meet someone you’ve met unexpectedly or just someone you bump-in somewhere along the way because there’s no pretension and no airs. Weird as it may sound, but I feel delighted every time I meet new acquaintances along my way because more and more these days, I feel like we're all connected... and it's beautiful... and it's funny... and good.

Though we haven’t seen again after that incident, we were able to get each other’s contact info. And although he’s been on the road most of the time, we still do contact and chat once in a while. We supposed to meet to grab something to eat or drink the night before he left KL but our time didn’t meet halfway.

Anyway, when you feel coming back to KL, just hit me dude. I will welcome you whole-heartedly. Take care and God bless you on your trips! Hope to see you soon! Cheers!

P.S.

I bet you’ll get mad if I’ll post your pictures here… so better not! Haha

Date Scribed: January 23, 2007

MY First Vacation

2007-02-02T00:54:00.000-08:00

I had my 11-day vacation in Philippines last Jan 3 to Jan 14, 2007. Though it was really exhausting and “mind and body” draining experience, I would still consider that as a vacation for me.

My brother picked me up and drove me home from the airport. While on our way home, I felt sadden to see how miserable life there compare in KL. I can’t stop myself comparing everything here and there. It was really frustrating to see how we were left behind by our neighboring countries. Pity us * sigh*

Going back to my “vacation”, I never had a single day rest at all except the day where I got sick! But I was able to squeeze a lot of things in 11-day stay there. Here are just some:

1. I visited my relatives in Pampanga (mom’s side) and stayed there overnight.

I remember when I was still a kid we used to spend our school vacation there every year. But due to my hectic schooling and busy work, I can’t find time to visit them. The last time I visited them, which I can still remember, was more than 5 years ago. I would say that they’re my closest relatives as I grew up my childhood with them. In fact, it was my Auntie Uben who attended my college graduation day.

My mom is the youngest among 6 siblings. She also has 2 other younger half brothers. All in all, I have 33 cousins not to mention my second and third degree cousins, which most of them are already married and with lots of kids. This is just on my mother’s side (Hernandez Family)… my father’s side (Palacios Family) in Bacolod is way bigger than this… Now just imagine how big my family is! =).

We didn’t stay there for long because my brother had early class the next morning so we headed back to Manila at 3am. Inspite of that, I enjoyed my short trip back.

2. I came to see my old college friends at last!

My friends Ochie, Rain, Allan, Khaye, Grace, Roch, Weng, Laarni, and myself decided to meet at SM North (our usual meeting place haha). After our dinner at one of the Italian Restaurant in Quezon City, we went to a comedy bar to watch a comedy show. I really get a kick out of watching them! The show ended around 3am. Since most of us were still wide awake, we decided to hang out @ Starbucks and chilled there ‘til the morning sun rose. In my surprise, the AMEX Mountaineering group was there too and some of them recognized me.

Gilbert didn’t able to join us last night so I decided to meet him the next day. We decided to have our dinner at Teriyaki Boy.

I really missed these guys! I know one day isn’t enough to rekindle the memories we’ve had but we still have more time in the future for sure. Though it was short, I really had so much fun … hope to see you again soon!

3. Of course I did not forget to pamper myself.

I had my hair done, foot spa, hand spa, and facial with diamond peel. Wish I had more time to have a body massage. Next time I won’t miss that for sure.

Not to mention that I did a little bit of shopping.

I really had so much fun especially seeing my relatives and my old friends again. Now that I am back in KL, I just can’t wait to have my next vacation on May! New experience, new adventure!

P.S.

My stay wasn’t just all about fun. Other than I got sick for a day, we got a bad news that my second cousin passed away due to heart attack. Despite of not feeling well, I went to her wake and prayed for her soul. May you rest in peace ate Ella. We will miss you.

Date Scribed: January 22, 2007

Blessed 2006

2007-01-19T23:06:00.000-08:00

I considered last year as my turning point year of my career, a make or break so to speak. They year when I resigned on my previous company after serving for almost 4 years. It was also the same year where I signed and accepted a 2 year contract abroad which led me to the place where I am right now. As I’ve said several times, it wasn’t an easy decision because of the obvious reasons. Nevertheless, I am happy that I have made a big decision in my career. And with all the things that happening right now, no regrets at all.

When it comes to financial matters, I would consider last year as my best year to date. I don’t want to elaborate more on this because I don’t wanna sound so arrogant. Let me just say that I was blessed with enough support to share it with others especially to my family.

It was also last year where I finally found myself after a long time mystified in the midst of nowhere. I began to love myself, to love the people surround me, and to acquaint with new people around me. This year, I’ve met a lot of interesting people here in KL, people that I will never forget for the rest of my life. Also, I’ve met new online friends all over the world which gave me reason to go online everyday. Special thanks to those people who showed me the another side of me; who helped me become sociable, friendly, and outgoing; who helped me changed to the man that I am right now.

Recalling all the significant events that happened to me for the year 2006, been blessed with so many things in life, I would say that it was indeed a phenomenal year for me.

Date Scribed: January 16, 2007

New Year’s Party

2007-01-19T23:04:00.000-08:00

After our dinner on our friends’ place, we (Anai, Mars, Agri, Minnie, Zari, and me) decided to go out and GO PARTYYYYY!!!

There’s a fireworks show in KLCC Park at exactly 12am to welcome the coming of 2007 so we hurriedly leave Menara and headed to KLCC to watch it. But before that, we had a sort of like picture taking moments in the house first! Haha. While on our way to KLCC, we still did some candid picture taking inside the train. People were already looking oddly on us but the hell they care! We’re just having fun. Come on, I think every one love’s the camera! Agree? Hehe

Anyway, when we arrived on KLCC, there were already heaps of heaps of people waiting for the show, different people from different races. It was jammed-pack! Honestly, I personally like the crowd. It was refreshing to see people from different races gather in one place, just a perfect moment to mingle with them (Oh well, if you’re sociable type of person you will appreciate what I am saying). Unfortunately, to my surprise, some of my friends decided to leave the place earlier than expected as they can no longer stand the crowd. They were overwhelmed with the number of people present on the park. They were dumbfounded and frightened at the same time on the behavior and looks of some locals. But in my opinion, there was nothing wrong with that. There was nothing wrong with what they’re doing as they’re just having fun. But once they hurt you, it’s another story. Anyway, it’s just my opinion. Guys are guys, and we can protect ourselves. So to give way with my ladies, we leave the place and went straight to bars. In short, we missed the fireworks! =(

All of us decided to go to Bukit Bintang Walk, a strip of clubs, pubs, and bars in KL. This is a popular place not just for locals but mostly for foreigners too. It's a perfect place for party goers and freaks hehe. And if you also just want to go “site-seeing”, this is also a perfect place for you. Along this walk, you can choose a lot of places to hang out. This time, I just let the girls to decide where to go. In the end, they chose THE BEACH CLUB! But Agri and Mars weren’t in the mood that time so they just waited for us in Coffee Bean.

It wasn’t my first time to go here, my friend Eric already brought me here (see my previous post re: Night Life in KL). It was not a good experience. Since it was holiday, the entrance fee was twice the normal. I told them about what I have experienced and what to expect. But probably due to their curiosity, they still decided to kick their ass in.

There was a funny incident in the entrance where my ladies where asked to present their IC! Haha. Come on, they we’re already old enough for this kind of club! Do they look minor? Haha.

As expected, the music was damn boring. We tried to get along inside and dance in the middle. You can look on our faces that we were not enjoying! It looked like we’re just forcing ourselves to get the beat and have fun like the others. But when we really had enough, we decided to breathe out of the dance area. Funny because the music weren’t that much danceable and yet a lot as in A LOT of them were really enjoying the music. Haha. Seriously, we were the only group not enjoying the moment inside! My goodness! The music! Horrendous! Hahaha.

While resting outside, a young Norwegian guy approached me and greeted me a Happy New Year. He introduced himself and so do I. We talked for a while about our stay in Malaysia. Then I introduced him to the girls. I don’t know what’s wrong with my ladies as they look like they see a monster in front of them! Oh my, if they could only see their faces…Next time ladies be gracious, be sociable! They won’t bite you, believe me! Literally… hehe. He also introduced me to his friend who’s also from Oslo. After a small chit chat, they decided to go to their other Norwegian friends inside and I went back to my ladies.

Since we can’t stand the music, we went out the club to see Agri and Mars in Cofee Bean. We stayed there for a while then decided to go back hoping that the music is already pleasant (LOL) while Mars and Agri made their way home. Surprisingly, the music was already OK. Not just tolerable but already danceable like song of Shakira, Gasolina by Daddy Yankee, etc. So we took the opportunity and dance out with the crowd! At last, we could say that we finally dance! Haha. We were still on the middle of enjoying the moment when they played the last song. Yes! The LAST song of the night! Pity us!

Here in Malaysia, bars and clubs close at 3am even holidays so we can’t do anything about it. We went out and strolled around the place looking for any place we could hang out more. While on the street, a young Chinese guy approached me and greeted me a Happy New Year. Shockingly, he offered 200RM! At first, I thought he was telling that to one of my girls but little did I know that he liked me! Hell no! I am not into that… For God sake, give me a million RM and I’ll probably have second thoughts hahaha. Just kidding! Hehe.

Since we don’t have any place to go, we all decided to go back home (on Anai’s unit). Anai and I watched the AMEX idol video while Minnie and Zari slept on the sofa. We criticized each and every person in the video with no exemption even our friend Rye. Aside from that, we also talked about our experiences so far here in Malaysia. Little did we realize that it was already 8AM so I decided to go back home to rest.

It was indeed a tiring night for all of us but I had so much fun... I hope everyone else did too.

Date Scribed: (not recorded)

New Year's Dinner

2007-01-19T22:55:00.000-08:00

I celebrated my last year’s New Year when I was still in Scottsdale Arizona with few of my onshore friends. We gathered in one of my friend’s house and prepared simple yet mouth-watering dishes. It was a simple dinner with my some of my closest onshore friends in town.

This year’s celebration, I was again away from my home country. I was with my friends’ unit at Menara Condominium somewhere in Petaling Jaya. At the same time, it was also Agri’s post-birthday party. Happy Birthday Agri!

Not the hardest menu that you could think of, like the normal and simple menu you could see in a usual Filipino party such as spaghetti, cake, salad, nachos, ham, wine, etc. but just the thought of having Agri in your table is already something to be great of! Haha. Mind you guys, she’s one of the bubbliest persons I’ve ever met!

Gong back, I would say that the dinner was great, simple but fun! Often times it’s not really how sumptuous or extravagant that really matters most but more of the somberness and meaning that the event brings to you. Simple as it may seem to others but they were really memorable ones for me.

Date Scribed: January 1, 2007

Christmas 2006

2007-01-19T22:47:00.000-08:00

My manager invited me to join him and his “outside-work” friends in their sort of like a Christmas party (they’re not Catholic so they don’t celebrate Christmas here). But I decided not to join them because I wasn’t really on the mood to party.

Then late afternoon, I received a text from one of my Filipina friends here inviting me to go to their unit and join them in their small “salo-salo” (get together). Just in time, right after my gym session, I went straight away on their unit (same condo where I am at) and had dinner with them.

We’re like 10 Filipinos there but I don’t know most of them. As I’ve said, I wasn’t on the mood so I didn’t mind talking to them (does it sounds a bit snob? LOL). After dinner and watching High School Musical and 2 other soooo boring movies of Lindsay Lohan, I went back to my unit.

To tell you frankly, this was my loneliest Christmas ever! But celebrating it in an Islamic country, I didn’t expect much…

Date Scribed: December 26, 2006

Purpose In Life

2006-12-21T19:41:00.000-08:00

Yesterday, while practically doing nothing because I am just waiting for the go signal of my boss whether to push thru on my implementation or not, I visited one of my best friend’s blogmate’s blog. I’ve been a follower of “Fresh Mess” for few months now without knowing him actually. I always visited my favorite blogs every morning before starting my day work. And I am really having so much fun reading all his posts. Though we don’t know each other personally or even online, I am somehow beginning to know him little by little by his posts which I think one of the reasons of blogging… To share and let others know your thoughts.

I began to get snoopy on his latest post about this one guy named David Eric Poarch, a Filipino-American who decided to go back to the Philippines to find his purpose in life. I recalled Neil also mentioned this guy to me a long time ago. This guy also has his own blog “Coconuter”. To satisfy my curiosity, I started to read his blog one entry at a time. Little did I realize that I was already reading his entire blog! From the introduction, resume, ‘til every single entry he posted. To be honest, I was moved, I was touched, that I kept thinking about it until now. I even reminded myself to visit his blog today which I did. I don’t know but I felt sincerity on his writings.

Emotionally stressful life experiences, it's like the feeling you get after watching a very dramatic and sad movie, that’s how to describe it. Maybe I am a bit emotional about it because I see myself in him. Maybe not on the same intensity and adversity, but the objective is somehow alike, because like him I am still in search about my purpose in life.

I chose to live my life far away from my family and friends, to live in a new environment - to learn how to live on my own. Like him, I wanted to pursue my happiness and liberty. For a moment, I was reminded about those questions that I keep asking myself. I can't believe that for months now, I was already here in another country busy with work, with my materialistic thoughts, my so-called single life that I actually forget to reflect and breathe. I miss my family, my funny friends, and even my chaotic life with my siblings back home. But I chose to live right here, right now so I just have to experience everything in life… from the sweetest stroke of own-sovereignty to the bitterest taste of living independently, and practically doing everything on my own. Every man has his own battle, and for each step we take, should be a learning experience. Oftentimes, I need to be reminded.

Soon, I hope to travel and see the other part of the world. And I know I need all the courage, strength, and confidence to do that. I’ve done that when I resigned with my previous work. I chose to leave my comfort zone in exchange with greener pasture and liberty. So I know I can do that again in the right time.

Soon, I hope to be in a so-called “real” relationship, and that also need all the courage, strength, and confidence. Soon, I will be making major decisions in my life, and it will need all of them too. And when I get there, I will always remember the story of him.

"It's not enough to have a dream, unless you're willing to pursue it.
It's not enough to know what's right, unless you're strong enough to do it.
It's not enough to learn the truth, unless you also learn to live it.
It's not enough to reach for love, unless you care enough to give it.
Men who are resolved to find a way for themselves will always find opportunities enough; and if they do not find them, they will make them."

- Samuel Smiles

Date Scribed: December 22, 2006

ABC Tagging Game

2006-12-21T19:26:00.000-08:00

Hello!!! Finally, here I am again. Work and my gym sessions have been terribly tasking these past few weeks, and all I could think of is lying in my bed and saving those few remaining brain cells and energy for the next couple of days. Work has been my constant solace other than gym. Insane as this may sound, work proved to be a good companion back in Accenture Manila. It keeps me sane every single day haha.

At times when I feel depressed and longing for my family and good old friends, it is ever present to divert that unbearable longing to unbearable guilt, ticking like a time bomb when deadlines are way behind schedule. And whenever I feel alone and lonely, I just make myself busy at the gym.

Ok enough of this… I need to go back at work. My manager gave me everyday task that I need to execute. I'll just continue this next time. For now, I am gonna post the ABC tagging game that Neil tagged me.

ABC tagging game...

A - Available/Single? YES! Very much single and available… Hit me up!
B - Best Friend? Neil dela Cruz! I miss you bro.. see you soon… =)
C - Cake or Pie? I love cake
D - Drink Of Choice? For alcohol, vodka and tequila. . For juices, iced lemon tea.
E - Essential Item You Use Everyday? A lot, not just one… All these things that I use on my morning regime such as lotion, deodorant, perfume, gel, toothbrush and paste, toner, facial wash, moisturizer, and creams….
F - Favorite Color? Blue
G - Gummy Bears Or Worms? Gummy bears
H - Hometown? Manila, Philippines
I - Indulgence? Chocolates, chocolates, and chocolates.. waahhh =(
J - January Or February? January coz it’s the start of a new year.
K - Kids & Their Names? N/A
L - Life Is Incomplete Without? LOVE (cliché but true)
M - Marriage date? Not in the near future for sure
N - Number Of Siblings? 3 (1 older sister, 1 younger brother, and 1 older half-brother)
O - Oranges Or Apples? Apples… I eat 1 apple a day.
P - Phobias/Fears? I still don’t know…
Q - Favorite Quote? A lot… here are just some:

“We come to love not by finding a perfect person, but by learning to see an imperfect person perfectly.”

“Stand up for what you believe in, even if it means standing alone.”

“In the end, it's not going to matter how many breaths you took, but how many moments took your breath away.”

“You know you're in love when you don't wanna go to sleep at night because your life is better than a dream.”

R - Reason to Smile? Simply because life is beautiful… Despite of all the sorrow, pain, disappointments, frustrations, anger, and all negative energies that came along my way for the past years, I still believe that life is beautiful, it’s funny, and it’s good.
S - Season? None in particular.
T - Tag 4 or 5 people? Whoever reads this, do one now coz I am tagging you!
U - Unknown Fact About Me? Just ASK ME if you wanna know!
V - Vegetable you don’t like? None. I eat almost everything. I am not really choosy when it comes to food.
W - Worst Habit? I don’t wanna share… too personal bwahahaha

X - X-rays You’ve Had? Huh? Is this really important? Hmmm when I had my med exam.
Y - Your Favorite Food? Vege and Chicken.
Z - Zodiac Sign? Libra.

Date Scribed: December 21, 2006

Double Birthday Blast!

2006-12-20T18:55:00.000-08:00

Last Saturday, we celebrated Ellen and Ato’s birthday. Ato is one of my housemates and currently working as IT Consultant for more than 4 years now while Ellen is working as branch Manager of Burger King. The party was held in Sucasa hotel where Bong, Ato’s friend, temporarily lives.

The party started at 8PM. We were roughly around 20 pax in the room mostly from IT. But there are also some invited managers of Burger King and few ladies all the way from Singapore. They prepared spaghetti, crispy pata, pork chop, roasted chicken, grilled tilapia. And we have choco-banana cake and leche flan for the dessert.

As usual, we never failed to have the videoke session! Well, we should always expect this at every Filipino party hehe. Of course, beer will also not be missed! But I no longer drink much beer so I wasn’t drunk.

The party ended around 5AM ‘til we all feel tired and sleepy.

I was glad to know new acquaintances here in KL, at the same time, I had so much fun partying with my new found friends here.

Date Scribed: December 11, 2006

No Place to Go

2006-12-20T18:52:00.000-08:00

I really don’t know what to write. A lot of things in my mind right now but I have no desire to write all of them. Maybe in the future if I am in the mood hehe.

Christmas and New Year is just a few weeks from now and yet I still don’t have any plans to do. To be honest, I really don’t know where to go and what to do on these days. I won’t be going back home this Christmas vacation, instead, I chose to spend my vacation on Jan 3 – 13.

In short, I will be celebrating my Christmas and New Year here in Kuala Lumpur. Two months ago I was planning to go out of town or go to beach for Xmas and New Year but I ran out of time to prepare and book a flight so I ended up just stuck here in KL. So what am I gonna do here? Hmmm most likely, I’ll just go to mall to do a little bit of shopping after attending mass. Or maybe watch movie if there’s a nice one. I’ll be alone definitely, unless I’ll meet someone along the way haha. ( in this place, I doubt! dang). And on New Year, I might go to KLCC to watch the fireworks. Basically, that’s it. Just like an ordinary day… nothing to look forward to…

Two years ago, I celebrated Xmas and New Year in Philippines. Last year, I celebrated them in USA. This year, I’ll be celebrating them here in Malaysia. I hope next year iI’ll be in Europe! Hahaha ( wish ko lang) J

That’s all folks… I’ll better go back at work now.

Date Scribed: December 7, 2006

California Fitness

2006-12-20T18:47:00.000-08:00

I am back! It’s been quite a while… I was so pre-occupied this past few weeks and I can barely find time to blog. But here I am again… back in action… =)

One thing that makes me busy these days is my gym schedule. If you’ve read my posts from the past months, I am really trying my best, pushing myself, to be on shape. We have this small gym in our condo that I used to go everyday to do cardio exercises. But I came to the point that I was beginning to feel bore stiff and plateau. So to not lose my interest, I decided to enroll in a fitness center near my place.

There are only two widely known fitness center here in Malaysia, California Fitness and Fitness First. Both offer a reasonable fee with their state of the art equipments and facilities. But I chose the first one because of the location, just near my office and home.

It was first introduced to me by my officemate Agnes. She’s been a member of this center for a year now. I set an appointment with one of the gym consultants to basically find out what they can offer. They toured me on the place and showed me all the facilities. I was really overwhelmed. It is a 5-floor fitness center situated in Sultan Ismail (Raja Chulan station), 4 stations away from my place. The 1st floor is the reception area where they accommodate all their guests. 2nd floor is the Physical Training area and headquarters of the personal trainers. 3rd floor is where you do your cardio exercises and other classes like cycling, body pump, yoga, pilates, dancing, etc. 4th floor is the resistance area where you can find the weights and other equipments for building muscles, kick boxing ring, etc. 5th floor is the shower, locker, and sauna and steam bath rooms.

Right then and there, I enrolled for a year and a half plan which they gave me a considerable discount. At the same time, I hired a personal trainer for a month to help me achieve my goal and to monitor my day to day training activities.

I was really excited to enroll in a gym. So this is finally it! I have no expectations or whatsoever… I’ll just go there to have fun… =)

Date Scribed: December 4, 2006

The Champions

2006-12-20T18:45:00.000-08:00

Last Sunday, our own pride Manny Pacquiao defeated Eric Morales by TKO for the second time around. I just don’t feel to elaborate this… If you really want to know what happened and know more details, just do the research. For sure, there’s a lots of articles about this bout. Anyway, congrats Manny for your victory!

Last Sunday Roger Federer won the Master’s Cup title in Shanghai, China. He defeated James Blake in the finals (6-0, 6-3, 6-4). With no doubt, he’s the master of the tennis court. Blake has really no match for Federer. He took the title with no sweat. Just an FYI – for this season, Federer only lost 9 out of 180 plus matches and won 3 grand slams but French. Congratulations!

I am not an avid fan of boxing but yes, I do watch once in a while especially when the fighter is my countrymen. I am not keen with the technical rules and regulations. All I know is that, you have to knock your opponent down haha.

On the other hand, I can say that I am a follower of tennis nowadays. I love watching every tennis games either for men or women. I am a fan of Roger Federer (the world’s no.1 tennis player – men’s division) and Maria Sharapova (currently world’s no. 2 tennis player – women’s division). They’re both superb and spectacular players.

Oh well, nothing more to add… =)

Just a side note: Sadly, the Filipino couple team in the Amazing Race Asia was the last team arrived in the pit stop leg in Indonesia and was also the first team eliminated in the race. But we still have one Filipino team standing! But despite of that, we’re still proud of you. =)

Date Scribed: November 22, 2006

Food Poisoning

2006-12-20T18:40:00.000-08:00

Friday is my favorite day of the week or should I say most of us do. Do I need to explain more? But last Friday was disaster and dreadful for me.

I started the day with delight waiting for the weekend to come. I came to the office early so I can go home on time. But I was forced to go home early with appalling reason. I was FOOD POISONED!

We just decided to eat our Friday lunch-out on the Filipino canteen that we usually go for lunch everyday. I ordered fish and vegetables which were just the same as what my friends ordered too. I was so full as always. Right after lunch, three of us went to the Maybank’s cafeteria to buy fruits. I bought a slice of papaya and ate it on my cube. It was just ok.

But after an hour, I started to feel something strange. My stomach started to react oddly. I thought it was just a normal stomach ache or slight diarrhea. But it even got worst after a few minutes or so; I puked twice and started to feel dizzy. Since I can’t concentrate on my work, I just decided to ask for a leave and go home immediately. I vomited twice at home and suffered from painful stomach ache. Vomiting 4 times really makes my body weak. Honestly, I don’t know what to do. I don’t even know what medicine to take. But I know it was really something about the food that I ate. I knew I was food poisoned. So I drank a lot of water so I won’t be dehydrated, I ate chocolates as what my housemate told me, and had enough SLEEP. When I woke up, I already have a fever but I felt a bit relief on my stomach. I just took a paracetamol for my fever and ate solid foods for dinner. The next day, I was glad that I was already feeling OK. Though I still have a slight fever, but I know I just need to take more rest and I’ll be ok.

THANK GOD that it wasn’t really that serious. THANK GOD that it happened on weekend so I won’t have to take a leave of absence. THANK GOD that I am OK now.

And from now on, I’ll just buy FRESH fruits in the market and will PREPARE it myself.

Before I forgot, thanks Anai for researching and giving me info about food poisoning hahaha.

Date Scribed: November 20, 2006

Relaxing Weekend

2006-11-13T21:56:00.000-08:00

I was supposed to go to mall to do a little bit of shopping for myself on weekend. It was my plan but ‘til the last minute I decided not to go, and I just stayed at home instead.
I can’t think of any excuses, I was just really feeling damn lazy that time.
Since I was just at home and practically doing nothing, I was able to find more time watching TV which I missed for some period of time.

I was not able to watch the pilot episode of Amazing Race Asia last Thursday, but luckily, they replayed it on Saturday! The race consists of 2 Filipinos duo, 2 Malaysians duo, and 1 pair each from Hongkong, Indonesia, Singapore, Sri Lanka, Thailand, and India. The race started here in KL Malaysia. Of course, the Malaysian teams dominated the race as they’re already familiar with the places here. But surprisingly, the Indonesians strategic moves made them the 1st team to arrive on the pit stop, followed by Filipino couple, then one of the Malaysian teams made it as 3rd, 4th is the Filipina lasses, then followed by the rest of the teams. The last team arrived in the pit stop was the gym-buff couple from Hongkong. They struggled to find the place for the third clue with led them to the last position ‘til end. Fortunately, it wasn’t the elimination day yet so they’re still on the race. However, being the last team to arrived, they will continue the race with no penny at hand. I am excited and can’t wait to see the succeeding episodes. I hope that one of the Filipino teams emerges the winner at the end of the race.

Last week was also the week for the World Pool Championship which was held in Manila, Philippines. It is an annual tournament for best billiards players all over the world. Among 128 participants, 21 were Filipinos, and the rest came from different part of the world. The Chinese Taipei contingents also dominated the tournament as the reigning and defending champion and runner-up from last year’s event came from their pool. Unfortunately, those Filipino legendary players and former champions like Reyes, Bustamante, and Pagulayan did not make it even to the quarter finals. They were beaten by other great players on the early stages of the competition. However, one Filipino in the name of Renato Alcano, showed the eagerness and heart of the true champion. He defeated Reyes, last year’s runner-up, and the defending champion along the way which brought him to the finals and was able to nail it down ‘til the end by defeating Ralph Socquet with an outstanding score of 17-10. Imagine those great players he went through each stages of the competition just to get the title, what a superb performance! Congratulations!

Also, I was able to watch the 4th and final round of HSBC Golf Tournament where most of the top rank players such as Tiger Woods, Jim Furyk, Goosen, and the likes participated. Shockingly, the Korean golfer, Yang, led the tournament with whopping score of -16, 3 points ahead of the second placer. Woods only settled for 3rd place though. I didn’t expect that someone unpopular will win the tournament. Well, it just simply proves that Asian players are now beginning to penetrate the sports scene.

A1 Grand Prix also happened this weekend somewhere in China. Team Italy, Great Britain, and Australia won as 1st, 2nd and 3rd placer respectively. My bet and favorite Malaysia didn’t make it to grab any title. But I am sure he’ll get one next race which will be held here in Malaysia sometime next month (if I am not mistaken).

This weekend, I was also watched the shows like Pimp my Ride, Punk’d, Made, America’s Next Top Model, MTV Cribs, Fear Factor, Ripley’s Believe It or Not, The World’s Most Amazing Videos, Maximum Exposure, and a lot more… =)

If you think that I just spent my weekend at home, hell NO!. My week doesn’t just all about slacking or watching T.V. I also went to Uly’s post-birthday celebration last Saturday night in their unit at Bistari Condo.

Date Scribed: November 13, 2006

Catching up with my High School Friends

2006-11-13T21:28:00.000-08:00

Early this week, when I was just slacking inside my room and nothing else to do, I finally decided to open a new account in Friendster. Ok you might just wonder why just now? Isn’t that too late? Oh well, I had one before. But I didn’t visit much often to the extent that I already forgot the password or even the email add I used. So I just created a new one instead.

To give you a bit background, I studied my secondary years at Sta. Clara Parish School in Pasay City, Manila, Philippines just adjacent to St. Mary’s Academy where I studied my elementary years. Sta. Clara is a parochial school headed by parishioners and RVM (Religious of the Virgin Mary) Congregation. In short, it’s an exclusive catholic school.

Studying in an exclusive school for boys is undoubtedly a fun mess! It wasn’t that difficult to deal with embarrassments in front of your classmates because you were all guys. But it also has negative side where you have to deal with a lot of issues, controversies, and people’s misconceptions. I know you know what I mean hehe. Truly, I’ve met wonderful friends over my 4 years of stay (straight and gays) but it doesn’t give me the notion to judge them accordingly. In fact, they were even the brightest students in the campus. I personally respect them whole-heartedly.

Going back to friendster, in my surprise, I saw a lot of my High School friends and batchmates’ page, from the friends’ list of the friend of a friend of my friend blah blah blah. In my delight, I immediately add them on my list and sent them messages to catch things up!

Some are already living and working abroad like me. To name some,
- Romano : Spain
- Roy : USA
- Eric : USA
- Walter : China
- Sheridan : Saudi Arabia
- Alvin : Singapore

It’s been a long time the last time I saw my closest friends in H.S. After a humiliating a disappointing decisions I’ve made in Mapua, they hear nothing from me nor see me at all. I personally feel ashamed of my situation then; big part of that because of the shameful fact that I stopped and failed to continue to have high grades. I don’t think I have the courage to see them after all those reprehensible decisions. So I intentionally stayed away from them.

But now that I have already picked up all the pieces, I am now ready to face them and to catch things up. Though I know it’s not right to just disappear like that. But as I’ve said, I intentionally did that for my own sake. I want to prove to everyone including myself that I can stand up by my own feet again and learn from my mistakes.

I know it’s not yet too late to catch up with them. I have a lot of special memories to reminisce and a lot more to look forward to.

Just from the few days of chatting with some of them and sending messages back and forth, I have found out that some are already married, but most of us are still happily single and looking haha.

I hope to see you again all… I miss you guys.

Date Scribed: November 10, 2006

Happy Birthday Bro!

2006-11-05T19:41:00.000-08:00

This entry is purposely for my buddy, adviser, bestfriend, and brother Neil.

Neil and I have known each other since 1st day of our 1st year in college. We both took up B.S. in Computer Engineering at AMA Computer University (graduated batch 2002). Since then, we became block mates, close friends, and barkada.

Since we’re barkada, we reviewed, hang-out, strolled around the mall, dine-out, and watched movies together with our friends. I never had a dull moment every time I’m with him.
At one point in his life, GOD put him to the test. I saw how he strived hard on his studies, how eager and determine he was to maintain high grades to prove his worth to his parents. But unexpectedly, the day which should have been his DAY, the day he offered for his mom and dad, weathered by sorrow and mourning. A few weeks prior our graduation day, his father who then working in Spain with his mom, who supposedly be coming back in Philippines to attend his graduation and to go with him on stage to accept the medal, passed away. I felt sorry for my best friend because I believe he doesn’t deserve such providence. But GOD has all the reason for everything.

A few weeks after graduation, he flew to Spain with his mom. He pursued his career there as planned by his family. Little by little, he was able to adapt the spanish lifestyle. A once very conservative, timid, simple guy has transformed now into a matured, confident, and stable man.

Distance has never become an issue for both of us. In fact, we even became closer now. He knows ALL of my deepest secrets and grievances. Although I am not physically present to console him whenever he has problems, he knows that I will always be here for him and will help him carry all the loads the best way possible. And I will never ever turn my back on him whatever happens. As I keep on saying, friendship is a lifetime commitment.

My life after school somehow didn’t turn out to be what I have expected. I’ve been through a lot of trials and sufferings in my career and most especially in my personal life. Luckily, he was there to give advises, to share his experiences, to comfort me so to speak. Though we’re miles apart, I feel his presence. We haven’t seen each other for years now, but I still don’t feel that way perhaps because we make see to it to chat or email each other often. Our personal blogs also plays a big part on our friendship because we we’re able to know what’s happening on each other’s lives. At times, I have serious problems that I know only him can understand. He’s the perfect person to give me advices. And I am lucky that he was always there for me. With that, thank you bro.

He’s staying in Madrid, Spain for more than 4 years now and I am very proud for all the accomplishments and successes he has in his life. Keep it up bro… Hope to see you soon.

Now that you are celebrating your 25th glorious birthday, I am wishing you all the LOVE in the world! You know what I am talking about hehe. *wink *wink

Oh before I forgot, he was the one who encouraged me to try blogging and make one for myself. So without him, solaceandserenity blog will not exist. Hurray! Cheers!

Friends, a simple word uttered everyday to almost every person imaginable. I used to think that friends were the people that you could laugh and talk to. Now I know that they aren't that, they're the people that touch your heart. You could spend hours with them doing nothing at all and it can be the best time of your life, just because it was with them. They're the people you can share your secrets with, cry with, laugh with, and just have fun with. They don't judge you or make you change. They accept you exactly as you are. They look at you and they see a great person, one they love spending time with. You all share something in common and are tied together by memories, tears, laughs and smiles.

Date Scribed: November 6, 2006

My Night Life Experience @ KL

2006-11-05T19:37:00.000-08:00

In all honestly, it was only last week when I finally had experienced my first ever night life in Kuala Lumpur after being here for more than 5 months already!; part of it because I don’t have much friends to go party with.

Last Wednesday night, I went out with Eric and his girls at Starhill. We did choose to stay in just one place as we didn’t plan to stay late that time. The place was neither crowded nor loud so it was really a perfect place for us to talk and know everyone better. Before we parted ways, we planned to get together again on Saturday night. However, no one confirmed yet because we still don’t know if everyone is available that time.

Saturday morning, I received a text message from Eric inviting me if I could join him with his client and some girls later that night for a party. I went to the meeting place on time and saw him waiting at the entrance. Apparently, some of the girls were out of town and Jo has her flight outside Malaysia. While his client left the place a bit early because he still has flight the early next day. To make it short, we ended up just the two of us partying.

1st stop: The Beach Club
- Entrance Fee: 35.00 RM (w/ free 1 drink); free entrance before 9PM.
- The place is really jam-packed! More or less, the crowd consists of 70% men and 30% women from different ages coming from different races (Europeans, Americans, Asians, Middle Easterners, etc), and I was surprised that probably 80-90% of this “GIRLS” are Filipina! No wonder why there are a lot of foreigners on that place. *wink *wink, you know what I mean…
- The music is pretty loud with a live banand from different genre but most of the time old dance music hehe.
- We did not stay there for long. After 1 glass of vodka and 1 glass of gin tonic, we headed off to the next stop.

2nd stop: B Beautiful
- Entrance Fee: 40.00 RM (w/ free 1 drink); no free entrance at any given time.
- This is way beautiful than the first one. The crowd is way younger than the first one as well. Most especially, the girls are way BEAUTIFUL and CLASSY that the first one haha. I noticed that there are no Filipina in the crowd.
- The music is techno and house. No live band and just a DJ.

3rd stop: Cynna Bar
- Entrance Fee: 50.00 RM (with free 1 drink); no free entrance at any given time.
- The best place of the night. The crowd is a mix-up of youngster and adult. As expected, no Filipina in the crowd hehe.
- The music is almost just the same as the second one, techno and house. No live band, just a DJ’s too.

We didn’t stay for long at The Beach Club. After a few glasses of drinks, we headed off to the next stop - B Beautiful. But when we arrived there, only few people were wining inside so we decided to go to the 3rd stop – Cynna. According to my friend, 3 months ago when he went there before he flew back to UK, the interior was totally different. They renovated the place and made it more attractive to people.

My night life experience in KL was fun and delightful, though it would be more enjoyable if we’re on a group. Nevertheless, I had good fun with my new found friend and had a pleasure to have party with him.

By the way, after consuming 3 glasses of vodka, 3 glasses of gin tonic, 1 heinneken while dancing, though obviously I was a little tipsy, I still manage to walk straight the line! *whew*

Date Scribed: November 6, 2006

First Acquaintance at Starhill

2006-11-04T16:56:00.000-08:00

Last night I went out to finally meet my online friend Eric (European) and his girl friends for the very first time. Eric and I have known each other via online chat for a couple of months already but we never had a chance to meet yet because he was still in UK when we first chatted. He’s a businessman and has his offices at Malaysia , Belgium , Indonesia , China , Hongkong, and UK so he flew back and forth on these places every now and then.

He returned back to KL two weeks ago to look after his business here and to have some time for himself I guess. Just in time, he texted me and asked for a drink. However, I was busy preparing for my Taman Negara trip and cannot accommodate him. And by the time I was already free, he was out of the country for some business trip. It was just last night when we finally find time to meet and have a couple of drinks.

We’d decided to meet at Starhill Gallery. It’s one of the nicest, luxurious, elite places here in Kuala Lumpur . Surrounded by huge and classy grand hotels, this place is really a perfect haven in the middle of the busy city for tourists and class people. (I’m not saying I am because I’m not haha.)

We’d met at around 9PM at the entrance. He was with his friends Jo and Sharmaine and was politely introduced to me. Jo is a 25 yr-old Chinese-Malaysian lady who’s currently working as an international flight stewardess at Malaysia Airlines while Sharmaine is a 20 yr-old Chinese-Malaysian student taking up Mass Communications and also a part-time Make-up artist and Cosmetics Specialist. We headed straight up inside in the cocktail/bar area where we met his other friend Cathy, a half Indonesian-half British student who’s also taking up Mass Communication and an event organizer. Mind you guys, these angels are so CLASSY, BEAUTIFUL, SEXY, and GORGEOUS with OOZING SEX APPEAL. All men in the area are looking at them because they really look so lovely. And most likely they envied us as well hehe.

Anyway, we talked talked and talked, laughed laughed and laughed, drink drink and drink all night, the usual things that people do during the first meeting. The girls are so liberated that they’re even not ashamed to talk about XXX (*wink *wink). In the middle of the night, Cathy’s friends Ali and the other guy (sorry I forgot the name; both are Europeans-Middle Easterners) came over and were also introduced to us. So all in all we’re 7 in the table.

Since most of us have early stuff to do the next morning, we have decided to head off past 12. Yeah too early for a night life huh, but anyways we can do that again some other time. Cathy was already tipsy by the time we leave the place but still kicking her ass out, On the other hand, Jo and Sharmaine were still poised and composed. While Eric and I, still pretty damn OK. Nonetheless, the girls still look stunning, eye-catching at night.

I had fun and enjoyed talking and drinking with these new found acquaintances. Nice meeting you guys. See you on Saturday! Let’s go party! Cheers!

Before I forgot, I’ll add you on my friend’s list ok. =P

Date Scribed: November 3, 2006

My First Facial Treatment in Malaysia

2006-11-03T03:39:00.001-08:00

When I was still in Philippines , I used to go to one of the skincare clinics to have a regular facial treatment at least once or twice a month. Its one way for me to pamper myself and relax form busy and stressful work I had back then. I always feel rejuvenated and energized every after session which I think essential for everyday living.

However, since I moved here in Malaysia , I never had a facial treatment yet. It’s been more than 5 months the last time I had it and I know I badly need one. Surprisingly, a lot of skin clinics here in Malaysia which offers a lot of skin treatments. After several researches and inquiries, I narrowed my list to four: Clara’s International, Derm Klinic, Men’s Skin Clinic, and Dermatologica. Each clinic offers different treatments from normal corrective treatment up to their most expensive intensive microdermabrassion treatment.

I still haven’t decided which place to go. Though Derm Klinic is on my top list because of their microdermabrassion treatment, but mind you, it was so expensive. In fact, all of them are expensive and their products are way too pricy for me hehe.

But yesterday, while waiting for the rain to stop, I have decided to try one of them (of course the cheapest). I went to Clara’s clinic and had corrective treatment, my first ever facial treatment here. It costs me 100RM (1,400 PhP) for that.

Treatments here are pricy, 2X or even 3X compare to Philippines . The one I tried yesterday only half of price in Philippines . And to be honest, I am not fully satisfied with their service. *sigh*

Next stop, Derm Klinic. =)

Date Scribed: October 30, 2006

Yolly’s Birthday and Jenette’s Farewell Party

2006-11-03T03:39:00.000-08:00

Yolly and Jeanette are two of my newest acquaintances here in Malaysia , introduced by my housemates. They are both SAP consultant and have already been in IT industry for quite sometime.

Last Friday night, we celebrated Yolly’s 31st birthday at our unit. At the same time, we also celebrated Jennette’s farewell party, as she will be transferred in Singapore on Nov. 1.

We whooped it up ‘til 4am and most of them were drunk!

It always feels great to have fun with new friends. =)

- From (L to R): Jerome, Tony, Mike, Yolly, Jeanette, Ato, me, Jo-ann

Date Scribed: October 30, 2006

So Long my Friend

2006-10-29T06:14:00.000-08:00

Last Tuesday afternoon we received a bad news from Manila that our officemate and good friend Arnel, after 4 years of battling with cancer, passed away that morning.

Arnel was one batch ahead of me but since we came from one management when we first started in AMEX, we became friends. He was so jolly and funny type of person. He loved to crack jokes and “manlait” at times. He was one of the most “jologs” peeps in AMEX. He knew almost all shows in television and familiar with almost all tagalog movies. A lot of people in our project know him because he’s very bubbly.

Few years back, he was diagnosed with throat cancer, coincidentally, same year with our dear friend Mia. They both suffered the same illness. He underwent several radiations and chemotherapy and was able to recover and went back to the office. But after a few months, sadly, the cancer strikes him again. I know he fought hard to survive but the fate dictates.

I cried and mourned because I missed them so much. But somehow, I am happy for both of them because I know that wherever they are right now, GOD is with them.

Guys, you will always be here in our hearts. We’re gonna miss you!

Date Scribed: October 26, 2006

I think I gained Weight sigh

2006-10-29T06:12:00.000-08:00

For the past few days, I was busy with a lot of personal things which caused me to miss my gym regime. I can’t squeeze myself to find time to exercise. For the past 10 days I was actively busy with stationary activities and found myself eating awfully, except for the Taman Negara trip which was strenuous one of course.

I am not complaining because for the past days that I was on a vacation, I had so much fun bonding with my friends. It’s just that I felt that I have already gained more pounds today.

Anyway, I just need to go back to my gym regime and continue what I have started before. I still have 2 months to reach my goal. =)

Date Scribed: October 26, 2006

Taman Negara Trip

2006-10-29T06:11:00.000-08:00

After a long 2-months of planning, Anai’s rigorous research of the place, and arguably delay of Rye’s vacation due to his inconsiderate manager, our trip to Taman Negara has finally come to an end.

Anai, Rye, Vera, and I had our adventurous Taman Negara trip from October 21-23, 2006. Taman Negara was the official protected rainforest in Peninsular Malaysia. Situated somewhere in Pahang, embodies a tropical haven of verdant undulating ladscapes crossed by river with rapids and waterfalls.

Our activities include the following:

- river rapids going to Orang Asli village

- visited the Orang Asli Aboriginal Settlement where we watched their fascinating blow-pipe and fire making skills which are essential to their livelihood.

- jungle night walk where we saw snakes, scorpions, tarantula, wild deer, etc.

- Jungle Trekking and Canopy Walkway which was the longest canopy walkway in the world spanning 450m and suspended 40m above the ground.

- Cave exploration where we had a close encountered with heaps of heaps of bats and challenged ourselves on how to get out from the cave.

No exact words could describe the ecstasy and joy that this trip has brought to me. Really, I enjoyed the moments with my friends and I loved it so much! =)

Date Scribed: October 26, 2006

Ryan – Welcome to Malaysia (Truly Asia)

2006-10-29T06:09:00.000-08:00

Our friend Ryan had his PLANNED vacation here in Malaysia from October 20-25, 2006. He’s one of our batch mates, one of our teammates, and most especially one of our closest friends in our previous work in Manila.

Since most of us are already working and living here in Malaysia, we invited him to come over and have a time off from his very busy and stressful work. After all, he deserves to have a BIG break.

2 months ago, we already planned his vacation. We decided to visit Taman Negara for 3 days and 2 nights, just in time for the long holiday here in Malaysia. As early as that time, we already filed our vacation leaves, booked his flight, inquired for the packages, and prepared ourselves for the upcoming adventure.

But up to the last minute before his flight, his persuasive manager kept on compelling him to back out which really pissed me off. Fortunately, he was able to find a way to get off.

Here’s what happened on Rye’s stay here in Malaysia.

Day 1
- He arrived in Malaysia around 4PM. And rode a bus from LCCT to KL Sentral where I picked him up.
- We went straightaway to Menara Jaya Condo, on Anai’s unit, where he stayed.
- Since it was also Mar’s (one of Anai’s housemates) birthday, we had dinner party on their unit and videoke will never be missed of course.
- We all packed our things for our Taman Negara trip ‘til 3AM.

Day 2
- Taman Negara trip

Day 3
- Taman Negara trip

Day 4
- Taman Negara trip
- Dinner at Donn’s place with former AMEX peeps til 1AM

Day 5
- We went to Petronas Tower but unfortunately it was closed due to holiday so we just took many pictures of us outside.
- Went to Sungei Wang and Low Yat where he bought his laptop.
- Went to Mydin to buy chocolates for our team back in Manila but it was closed so went to Carrefour instead.
- Packed all his things ‘til 3AM.

Day 6
- he flew back to Manila

I hope you had so much fun during your stay here, though it was very tiring hehe. We are looking forward to see you again soon hehehe.

Ciao!

Date Scribed: October 26, 2006

Acrid Haze shrouds Malaysia

2006-10-29T06:03:00.000-08:00

“Acrid haze thickened over Malaysia as smoke from a large number of forest fires in nearby Indonesia shrouded the peninsula's heavily populated west coast, officials said on Wednesday. An officer at the meteorological services department said that winds from a dry annual southwest monsoon were blowing the haze across to Malaysia. The fires causing the haze were located in forests on Indonesia's Sumatra Island, which is separated from Malaysia only by a narrow waterway. Burning in Indonesia and some parts of Malaysia to clear land for crops causes an annual haze affecting the region. The fires are set mainly by plantation owners.”

- pic was taken from my unit at 11th floor of Vistana Condo

In fact, on the same month last year, Malaysia's leader declared an emergency closing workplaces and calling on mosques to hold special prayers for rain to rid the country of hazardous haze drifting from forest fires in neighboring Indonesia. All educational institutions and government and private workplaces were suspended, including factories, construction sites and quarries. Road works were suspended and the use of personal cars and trucks were discouraged due to reducing visibility.

Date Scribed: October 02, 2006

Feel Elated - Part 2

2006-10-29T05:59:00.000-08:00

Everyone knows how determine and eager I am to get in shape nowadays. If you read some of my previous posts, I wrote something about my weight control programs.

Yesterday, Anai and I went to Midvalley Mall to buy our stuffs in preparation for our Taman Negara Trip. While strolling around, I saw a weighing scale machine that will measure your weight and print that on a piece of paper.

Based from the result, I now officially weigh 91.9 kg (202 lbs).

DATE RECORDED WEIGHT
January 2006 256 lbs / 116.36 kg (official)
May 2006 249 lbs / 113.18 kg (official)
August 2006 220 lbs / 100 kg (unofficial)
October 2006 206 lbs / 93.5 kg (official)

If we base on the body mass index table, I am already on the normal weight! For my height of 6’4 to 6’5, the ideal weight ranges from 182 – 229 lbs.

I feel more elated now!

My new and old pix... =)

Date Scribed: October 16, 2006

My 26th Birthday!

2006-10-16T07:11:00.000-07:00

It’s been 26 years when I came out from my mom’s womb. A once cute and adorable baby turns into a handsome and loving man (bwahahaha I don’t need your REACTION on this OK).

I celebrated my birthday with my housemates and few invited friends. I initially intended not to celebrate it at all because I just didn’t feel it this time. But my housemates volunteered to cook for me so we went to the nearest wet market to buy ingredients needed. We prepared pansit, grilled tilapia, sisig, shrimps, and crispy pata.

Jennette brought her magic sing so we had videoke right after dinner while some played cards. Of course with beers and left over as pulutan hehe.

The party ended around 2am but the guys continued drinking ‘til 4am.

It was very tiring yet memorable day for me because I celebrated my birthday with a new crowd. =)

Birthday Wishes:
- more blessings to come (I hope I hope)
- stability in life (in all aspects)
- good health for myself, family, and friends (health is wealth)
- LOVE LIFE! (*wink *wink)
- and WORLD PEACE

Goals:
- to be physically fit and work on my flabby stomach (I am currently working on)
- to be able to save enough money to buy a house and lot for my family (I am already saving up for this)
- to be able to save enough money for my personal travel (maybe to follow)
- to retire my parents from working (my ultimate goal but as of now we have to help each other)
- to put up a small business (not my priority yet but soon)
- to look more attractive (bwahahaha do I need to say more?)

Special thanks to my housemates Ato and Tony for making this celebration possible. =)

Date Scribed: October 16, 2006

Giordano SALE!

2006-10-16T07:09:00.000-07:00

As much as I would like to update my blog regularly, I can’t still find time from my busy schedule because I have a lot of tasks in my plate nowadays. And during non-office hours, I am as always pre-occupied with my other personal regimes.

It’s just that we have lost our connection from our host server now so I was able to set time to blog hehe. What a perfect time hehe.

Anyway, last Friday after office, we went to Jalan Segambut where Giordano had their factory sale. It was my first time so I was kinda excited. I recalled when I was in Phoenix I also loved to go to factory outlets and mega sales obviously because of the BIG discounts.

The outlet closes at 7pm so exactly 5pm we hurriedly wrapped-up everything in the office and went straight-away there. Fatefully, the cab driver didn’t know the place so we got lost! A 20 minutes away ride turned out to be an hour or so. *sigh*.

Since we don’t have much time to choose, I just grabbed everything I saw nice haha. The price ranges from 10RM to 29RM. It was damn CHEAP! So I bought a lot of t-shirts. polo shirts and pants. I was delighted not just because I bought new clothes for me more of I was able to save much.

The next day, I accompanied my housemates in the outlet and also bought shirts for my brother. All in all I only spent 500RM for 25 shirts (t-shirts and polo shirts) and 5 pants. Imagine, just 7,000 PHP for everything. Whew!

Date Scribed: October 16, 2006

Request Rejected

2006-10-16T07:07:00.000-07:00

Alas! My change request was rejected! Ok fine… honestly, I am expecting this since no one is assisting me in the process hehe. Luckily, they don’t “Q.A’d” the rejected tickets or something like that… well, I hope so… or else, it would be a darn bad record for me. :P

First, the change coordinator rejected my request because it did not meet the lead time when my boss provided his sign-off. So I changed the date a day later. Then the next day, it was rejected again because no UAT sign-off has been provided yet to the migration team. So I urgently faxed the sign-off form and requested to change the date again to a day later. Hopefully, everything will be ok now. A lot of lessons learned for me.

My change will install today consisting of 2 new programs and 1 modified jcl. Wish me luck! Hehe.

Date Scribed: October 5, 2006

I Feel Elated

2006-09-28T02:51:00.000-07:00

Right after I came back from Phoenix Arizona, I weighed 256 lbs. (116.36 kg.) which was the heaviest I’ve ever recorded. Eating the left over with soda every breakfast, double cheeseburger meal with large soda and fries at lunch, bars of chocolates every after meal, Cheetos and Doritos on my office bin every snack time, heavy meal at dinner, and most especially no exercise, were pretty much my life back in US. No wonder why I gained more pounds. Obviously, I lived in a very unhealthy lifestyle.

I began to ponder when all of my friends told me that I’m already fat and obese. Well that’s true, ‘coz I can no longer play long hours in the volleyball court or walk for distance which I used to do before. I looked terribly bad.

But due to the nature of my work in Manila, I can’t find time to go to gym. I was pre-occupied with a lot of tasks. But I managed to join the company’s volleyball league during off hours. In a way, it helped me reduce a couple of pounds and made me feel active. But still, my eating habits never changed. I still loved fast food meals, eating junk foods, and drinking sodas. Though I already lessen my food intake and started to drink fruit juices regularly. Nevertheless, I just have lost more or less 6 lbs in 4 months of doing that.

Before I flew here in Kuala Lumpur, I weighed around somewhere in between 247-250 lbs. with humungous bloated waistline of 40-42 inches. I was still damn overweight. But it didn’t cross my mind to try any diet program or go to gym though my doctor told me to start losing fats in my body for healthy living.

Until the time when I shed a couple of pounds due to boredom and homesick during my first few weeks here, I realized to give it a try. I believed that it was the right time for me since I have already started to lose weight, might as well continue it anyway. Since then, I go to gym regularly and watch my food intake. Each evening I drag myself out of my room and do my routine exercise.

As of this writing, my official weight is 220 lbs. (100 kg.) based from the reading I made 3 days ago. I have already lost 30 lbs. I feel elated!

Date Scribed: September 28, 2006

Guilty from What I've Done

2006-09-26T07:39:00.000-07:00

Last night, I hurriedly went down to gym to do cardio and resistance training while doing my laundry at the same time (multi-tasking).

Gym routine:
- stretching for few minutes
- jumping rope for few minutes
- bicycle (weight lost program) or threadmill (35 minutes combination of brisk walking, jogging, and running)
- 15 lbs dumbbells (30 counts each arm X 2 sets)
- sit-ups (30 times X 3 sets)
- and other machines for legs, arms, and shoulders, and abs (X 2 sets)

It took me 1 ½ hours before I finished my routine. Then I took shower afterwards.

From the time when I started my so called diet, I don’t eat heavy dinner during weekdays anymore. I just eat 2-4 slices of wheat bread with low-calories cheese and light mayo OR 1 apple, 1 orange, and slices of watermelon OR 1 apple, and slices of papaya OR vegetables with salad dressing such as thousand island, sos coleslaw, Italian dressings. BUT last night, my housemate cooked pasta with spaghetti sauce of his own. Believe me, my housemate cooks pretty well. I tried not to eat with them but I can’t refuse the temptation. I was already starving to death that time so in short I ate dinner with them. Then I ate pasta again as midnight snacks. Damn, I ate HEAVY dinner! Waaaahhh…

Now I am guilty. I know I’ll gain weight because of that and it’s no good. I hope this would be my last to cheat. Grrrhhh…

To somehow set right what I’ve done wrong last night, since I can no longer turn back the time, I woke up @ 6:30am and did some sit-ups. I still feel full and bloated upto now. I’ll just go to gym again later and do the same routine. *sigh*

Date Scribed: September 26, 2006

Ecstatic Feeling

2006-09-26T07:38:00.000-07:00

Yesterday afternoon, I was on Time Square right after my support shift in the office. Oh yes, I was in the office because I was on standby support from 9am to 3pm. Lucky for me, there was no issues.

I just strolled around and trying to look for a dermatology clinic. I miss “Let’s face it” in Manila. I used to go there 3 times (sometimes more) a month for facial cleaning, pricking, etc. I badly need a facial now. Grrrh. But instead of a clinic, I found myself in stores buying clothes.

I’ve been watching my diet and going to gym regularly for more than 2 months now and considerably lost amount of weight but I don’t have the exact measure how much I’ve lost. I know I’ve trimmed a couple of inches in my waist, thigh, and hips as all my pants are already big for me now. When I was in Manila, I used to buy 40-42 size jeans and shorts. Poor Reylon… Yeah, I was overweight but since I stand 6’5, it wasn’t obvious much. (Hmm, maybe it was really obvious, it just that I didn’t mind it so much. Or should I say I was keep believing myself I wasn’t… on denial hehe). Going back, when I tried fitting shorts yesterday, I was surprised that I am already fit on size 36 (depending on brands some were even 34!) So if you do the math, I’ve lost 4 inches! Isn’t that great?!?!? Also, I used to buy 2X to 3X size shirts, but now, I can buy XL! I can’t believe with the result. I can’t believe I’ve done that. I am so proud of myself. Ha-ha.

But it was still a couple of inches more of my goal which is 32-33. So I still need to exert more effort and continue my motivation. Nonetheless, I am happy because in a short span of time I’ve lost significant figure. I still have more than 3 months to accomplish my mission so I know I can reach my goal on time. I believe I can make it!

I am just so delighted, overjoyed, ecstatic… hehe. Kudos for me!

Date Scribed: September 25, 2006

Almost Busted

2006-09-26T07:37:00.000-07:00

Holy crap! I thought my Ipod video was busted… but really, it was almost…

For some reason, it hanged up. I just can’t play my music nor navigate the control. I was just listening a while ago then all of a sudden it stopped. I tried to plug-in, still it didn’t work. Gosh, this was only the first time it happened to my Ipod so I don’t know what to do. I don’t have the manual with me as I left that in Philippines.

Luckily, my friends Anna and Polly know how to reset. They asked me to toggle and hold the menu and the middle button for a while at the same time.

It worked! Thanks friends! I owe you one!

Date Scribed: September 25, 2006

Petronas and MATTA fair

2006-09-26T07:36:00.000-07:00

After a long busy week, I thought I will be on full rest this weekend. But I was wrong.

My housemates’ friends Mike, Jerome, Yolly, and Janet came over our place and brought beers and “pulutan” foods. I already swore to myself that I won’t drink anymore. To be honest, I already quitted with alcohol since I started living in a healthy lifestyle (gym and diet), but they still gave me a can of “redhorse” beer. I zipped for one but my self-conviction towards my goal managed to kick my ass out of them. I decided not to join and rather stayed in my room. Should I be proud of myself for doing that?

The next morning I woke up early because I planned to go with Anai, Agri, and Mars in Petronas Tower, formerly the highest building in the world. Our meeting time was 8am but I arrived 15-20 minutes late. We met at Rotiboy bakeshop inside the Suria KLCC and headed straightaway to Petronas twin tower. There were already a massive group of people mostly foreigners in the line waiting for the ticket to be given out. The tickets are just limited and it’s a first come first serve basis. While we were on the line, an American guy spoke to Mars and asked about the catchphrase on her shirt. She was wearing the AMEX give away pink t-shirt with a slogan “They can’t tax your dreams”. Later we found out that the guy is actually working with American Express based in Washington and his wife is actually a Filipina. What a coincidence! We’re Filipino and we’re all former AMEX workers. Anyway, we all got our entrance tickets scheduled at 10:45AM. Since we still have time, we decided to have our breakfast @ Burger King.

We went back on time and watched a video about the tower. It was just a brief yet educational video. After that, we went up on 41st floor accompanied by the tourist guide. The panorama was amazing! We can only stay there for a couple of minutes so we took as many pictures as we can. It was a nice experience to be there overlooking Kuala Lumpur.

We strolled around Suria KLCC mall and had our lunch there. Anai and Agri ordered Chicken rice, Mars had Yoshinoba’s meal, and mine was Marinara seafoods pasta. After our lunch, we went to PWTC to visit the on-going MATTA fair.

We went there to see the cheapest packages they have going to Taman Negara since we are planning to go there on October 21-23. At the same time, we looked for packages going to Europe so we at least have an idea how much we need to save if we plan to have a vacation there in the future hehe. We also watched contingents from different Asian countries performing their cultural dances. Around 6:30PM, we decided to have our dinner @ Kenny Rogers. We all ordered the quarter chicken with 3 side dishes and muffin. It was a delightful heavy dinner.

It was indeed a long and tiring Saturday for all of us but as always I had fun going out with them.

Date Scribed: September 24, 2006

My Friends in College

2006-09-26T07:32:00.000-07:00

Since I don’t have something to write on, I decided to write something about my college years…

I graduated at AMA Computer University last May 2002. I took up Bachelor of Science in Computer Engineering. Throughout my college years I’ve met several folks from different walks of life. From smart to shabby, trendy to passé, old to young, well-off to destitute, straight to homo, and a lot more. From all of these people, I manage to keep few which I deemed my real TRUE best of friends NAMELY: Neil “neil” dela Cruz, Rochelle “ochie” Paz, Rainier “rain” Nepomuceno, Gilbert “gbert” Merto, Kathleen “khaye” Cabangon, Rowena “wheng” Eilinger, Rochelle “roch” Encarnacion, Sheilamar “sheila” Rocili, Graciela “grace” Ambalan, Laarni “lala” Gaba, Allan “allan” Mejia. Ronillo “ron” Dumaplin.

I considered Neil as my bestfriend. He knows almost all my secrets. He’s a very trustworthy person. He’s the 1st guy I’ve met on our very 1st day in school that’s why perhaps we jived a lot. We often called him “lolo” Neil because of his “almost all” unique grey hair. Thank God he dyed it now! Hehe.

Ochie is one of the nicest persons I’ve met in my entire life. She will never take her back on you (proven and tested hehe). Small but terrible as I describe this lady, she’s also articulate and very smart girl. She was one of my buddies in our thesis!

Rain was the wackiest person I’ve met in our school. I love to be always around him because he keeps on cracking jokes and he never failed us to laugh. He was also my partner in our thesis together with Ochie. He’s a very dependable friend. We used to hang out on their house whenever we have projects.

Gilbert was simply the GENIUS guy in the campus. No doubt that he was the most brilliant student in the history of our school, up to date. He excelled in ALL subjects except PE and ROTC? bwahaha. Sorry to say but he’s not a sports enthusiast! Hehe. Aside from being genius, he’s also a nice friend with a pure heart.

Khaye is the youngest in our group. FYI, she’s the female counterpart of Rain. She’s the most “kalog” gal in our group. She also liked to throw jokes together with Rain. I love being around with both of them hehe. But seriously, Khaye was very studious and one of the brightest stars in our class.

Wheng was the “quietest” person in our group. Don’t you ever dare to argue with this lady because you will feel sorry bwahaha. She’s very moody and temperamental. But on the off chance, Wheng is very thoughtful and compassionate (*wink*wink*).

At first, Roch and I were not that close because I’ve heard bad things about her from some of my classmates. But when we started to know this lady personally, I realized that they were all wrong. I found out that this lady is actually very polite and generous. I’m glad we became friends.

Shiela possesses an exemplary attitude when it comes to her studies. She was also one of the brightest stars in our class. I like this gal because she has a lot of ideas to share. She’s also articulate and witty person.

Grace was one of the midgets in our group hihihi. Despite of her height, she was the LOUDest among us. No need to mention why hehe. On a serious note, she’s very caring and sensitive.

I love Lala a lot! I will never ever forget the calculator incident bwahaha. Just because of that, I didn’t talk to her for almost a year! Bwahaha SO FUNNY. Despite of that, she remains my friend. Thanks being so kind and patient. hehe

Allan was the “marimar” of our group. I just don’t understand why this guy loved to sing Marimar songs bwahaha. On the serious side of him, he’s trustworthy and responsible too.

I’ve known Ron since my 1st year, 1st trimester. Since then, we’ve been classmates. His house is one of the places that we used to hang-out when we have projects (aside from Rain’s house). I should say that he’s the most creative and artistic among us.

Events/Moments/Place that I will never forget:
- Baguio trip with Rain, Och, Wheng, Neil, Shiela, Khaye, Mel (shiela’s bf).
* Thanks Neil for accommodating us on our 3 days and 2 nights’ trip.
- Ilocos trip with Rain, Och, Wheng, Shiela, Khaye.
* Thanks Sheila for the warmth hospitality. I loved the food and the beach! and the island hopping of course hehe. Also, the dinner near the shore then “kantahan” guitar session with bush fire afterwards.
- Baguio Retreat
* I will never ever forget the moment I was drunk! (captured by Butch’s video)
* kulitan/kwentuhan session with the “lasing” mates on Jonas’ room. bwahaha
- “tambay” session in McDo,
*na laging inoorder ni Neil eh value meal #1 hehehee
- Ochie/Rain/Roch/Ron’s Place
* brainstorming session that later on will end up to “kulitan” and “asaran” session
- SM North
* very memorable place for all of us bwahahaha
- Quezon City Circle
* trip lang hehehe
- “pasensya na” moment ni Roch
- “sibenti nine – 79” moment ni Grace
- “stidler” moment ni Lala

I’m really running out of words and can’t think of anything to add on this. But truly, I am so blessed to have you guys in my life and be my friends up to now.

That’s all for now folks… Signing off.

Date Scribed: September 18, 2006

Dull and Dismal

2006-09-23T22:23:00.000-07:00

For the past weeks I was very busy with my work. I worked on and implemented most of my tickets so I can’t find time to update my blog. At the same time, I don’t have something to write on. There’s nothing really so special happened to me this past weeks. Nothing…

I don’t have someone or something to inspire me to write. I am dull and dismal since my good friend left. I don’t have someone here to cheer me up, no one to laugh with. There wasn’t even something special happened to me. My goodness, my life is damn BORING again.

I am running out of words to say right now. I better get going. *sigh*

Date Scribed: September 18, 2006

I Love You...

2006-09-09T08:43:00.000-07:00

Last Wednesday my mom flew back to Saudi. =(

I should have prepared myself… I should have used to this…But honestly, it is still the same pain I had felt the first time he left us when I was four. It is hard for me to accept and to realize that I can’t see my mom for years again. I haven’t seen her for 3 years now, then more years to count because of this.

What’s more painful for me is to think that I am already earning enough to support them but I was not able to convince her to stay. In the first place, they’re the reason why I chose to work here abroad so I could give them their wants and needs, but I felt useless. I told her it’s no need for her to come back, but she insisted to go.

In all fairness, my mom explained to us everything. Besides, my dad is still there as well. Don’t worry, I promise that when you retire from work and decided to stay in Philippines for good, I’ll bring you to different places… I’ll do my best to give you what you deserve.

I love you Dad, I love you Mom.

Date Scribed: September 9, 2006

Nothing Much

2006-09-09T08:24:00.000-07:00

It’s been a while when I posted my last blog. Where have I been? Actually, nowhere else but stuck here in my small world. I’ve never been in a vacation or something. For the past days, I was so busy at work and a lot of things happened so quickly that I can’t even find time to write it down.

I have so many deadlines right now that I need to work on. But that’s the reason why I am here, to work, so I have to deal with it. Besides, I am starting to enjoy my job. Hopefully this is the beginning…

Last week my friend Shan went back home to Oman. See my previous post about him. I happened to contact him early this week. So bad that I don’t have enough load in my cellphone, but none the less I am happy to talk to him again even for a few minutes only. He’s now back on school and swimming team. I’m so proud of him.

Last week, finally, I was able to finish watching the season 1 of Prison Break! Two thumbs up! It was exhilarating ‘til end. You must watch this series…

Last Sunday I accompanied my friend Vera to buy her laptop and move all her things from hotel to her new condo unit. We were with Ulysses when we went to Lowyat. After that, we just stopped by on her hotel to leave her laptop and went straight away to Midvalley Mall. We played bowling ‘til midnight and had a light drinks. We were still up ‘til 3am playing cards on Vera’s hotel unit. We slept over her place to help her move all her things that morning. It was tiring day for me but I enjoyed seeing my friends as always. I had fun.

Farewell My friend!

2006-08-31T22:57:00.000-07:00

When I first came here in Malaysia, it was kinda disorienting. It looked like a mass of dots, all jumbled and disconnected. The moment I step my foot in the ground I know my life wouldn’t be the same, it wouldn’t be that easy. I was pretty much sure that I will be facing a rough road…

I live in a place where I know no one, not even my housemates. I just met them when I arrived on our place. All my friends are living and working from other state so I don’t know someone nearby.

Honestly, I emotionally struggled during my first few weeks. It was so hard to deal with homesick and boredom. All night I was just staring at my wall. Just kept myself busy chatting with my friends online. I was always alone and lonely most of the time. It even came to the point that I almost gave up and wanted to return back home. I felt lost and can’t find myself back. I felt like I was in an empty dark room and can barely breathe. No place to go except my room. I was like a prison on my own place. But little by little everything turned out to be OK when I found my new buddy.

One night, while waiting for the elevator in the lobby, an Arab guy approached me and asked the very usual and communal question that people throw me. “Are you a basketball player?” I just answered, “I used to, but not anymore”, Then I asked him if he was. He replied, he’s not, instead he’s a swimmer. It was just a short and brief conversation.

I go to gym regularly after office hours. It’s my outlet of my boredom and homesick. I’ve met new acquaintances in the gym mostly Chinese and Indians but we never talk much. One afternoon, after I finished my gym, I saw a familiar face waiting in the elevator. Honestly, I am not sure if he was that guy because I just met him once. We’re just the two of us at that time but both of us we’re not talking until I broke the silence by asking if he was the swimmer guy whom I talked in the elevator a few weeks back. He replied yes. It was another short and brief conversation but everything, our friendship, started there.

His name is Shan, 18 yrs old, born and raised in Oman. All of them (family and 15 of his relatives) are here in Malaysia to spend their holiday. Every holiday season, they travel to different places. But this is already his 3rd time to visit Malaysia. He’s the eldest among 4, two guys and two girls. I’ve already met his parents and talked to his father once. I’ve already met his younger sisters and played with them in the pool. But I haven’t met his younger brother yet because he is not with them. He’s currently competing for a swimming tournament in Australia.

Swimming is one of their passions, other than traveling of course. He and his brother are both swimmers on their own rights. His brother is representing the Arab Gulf and already won several competitions internationally. His brother is not only being supported by their country but also by the whole Arab nation. On the other hand, he is also a professional swimmer. He represented his country internationally and also won several competitions. Jack of all trades as I describe him because he won gold medals on almost all strokes. But unfortunately, unlike his younger brother, he was not chosen to represent the Arab Gulf yet (maybe in due time). Who knows, maybe he will compete in Olympics in the future.

It was on the gym where we had our first long (2 hours) conversation. Pool is also where we love to go and just bathe in the warm water in the Jacuzzi. From then on we used to see and talk more often than before. We talked about anything under the sun: movies, religion, cultures, traditions, experiences, and a lot more. Name it and surely, we’d already talked about that. We never ran out of topics to share. There’s really no dull moment with him. Sometimes we argue, but just a friendly debate on some moral and religious issues. But none the less, we always smile and laugh.

Yesterday, August 31, 2006, they all went back home. Actually, 2 weeks prior to that he already told me that they will be leaving soon. He needs to go back home to prepare for a lot of things like school, swimming team, etc. For his last 2 weeks here, we spent more time bonding together, swimming and talking ‘til 12am Ha-ha. Then a night before their flight, while we were on the pool side, he told me that they will finally leave the next day. I was not surprised that much as I know that time will come soon. I have already prepared myself for that. He took a paper in his pocket and gave it to me. The piece of paper has his real name, home address, cellphone #, and email address in it. Since it was our last night together, I took the opportunity to thank him for everything especially the kindness that he has given me. I went up to my room and too the little present I bought, just a token of appreciation for our friendship, together with the letter that I wrote for him. In return, he gave me a present as well. We promised to each other that we will still continue our friendship even far distant. He gave me all his contact info and I gave mine too.

Honestly, it’s really painful to see my friend go but that’s life, full of surprises. I still remember my H.S. friend told me, “In life, there are series of meeting and partings. In a particular event we meet a friend, and for some demanding reasons we part ways. But I’ll always look back at the event that has somehow helped me grow. “

Last night, I went down to the gym, pool, and jacuzzi. And I can’t stop myself reminiscing all the good memories we’ve shared together.

Dude, thanks for the time that you’ve given me; the memories are all and will always be here in my mind… ‘Til next time…

EXCERPT from my LETTER:

Bro, I won’t be dismayed at goodbyes because I know you and I will meet again when we’re least expecting it.

Go knowing that you have touched a life and have been important here. Go knowing that you choose your own trail and that what ever trail you follow, no matter which way you try to go, you will come to the place where you are supposed to be in the final moments.
Thank you for the moments we have shared dude.

“No distance of place or lapse of time can lessen the friendship of those who are thoroughly persuaded of each other's worth. Trips do not end when you return home--usually this is the time when in a sense they really begin.”

My Last Week's Schedule

2006-08-27T18:54:00.000-07:00

MONDAY – August 21, 2006

07:00 AM – 08:20 AM : Prepared myself for work
08:45 AM – 06:00 PM : WORK hours (including lunch time)
06:00 PM – 08:00 PM : went to KLCC to buy Ochie’s magazine
08:00 PM – 09:00 PM : went to gym to do cardio exercises
09:00 PM – 10:00 PM : went to pool alone for relaxation
10:00 PM – 11:30 PM : took shower, had dinner, and wash dishes
11:30 PM – 12:30 AM : listened to music and did nothing, went to bed and sleep

Finally, I bought Ochie’s magazine Popolo Sept 2006 Issue. But still, I haven’t decided what to but to my friend grrrhhh.

Date Scribed: August 22, 2006

TUESDAY – August 22, 2006

07:00 AM – 08:20 AM : Prepared myself for work
08:45 AM – 06:00 PM : WORK hours (including lunch time)
06:00 PM – 07:00 PM : watch TV (news)
07:00 PM – 08:00 PM : went to gym to do cardio exercises and a lil weights
08:00 PM – 10:00 PM : went to pool with my friend
10:00 PM – 11:30 PM : took shower, had dinner, and wash dishes
11:30 PM – 12:00 AM : listened to music and did nothing, went to bed and sleep

I find it very relaxing to bathe in pool after gym session. Of course you have to shower your body first to remove the sweat and everything before soaking yourself in the water hehe. Another bonding time with my friend…

Normally, every Tuesday night, I always go to night market to buy fruits but it was raining hard last night so I’ll just do it next week.

Date Scribed: August 23, 2006

WEDNESDAY – August 23, 2006

07:00 AM – 08:20 AM : Prepared myself for work
08:45 AM – 08:30 PM : WORK hours (including lunch time)
08:00 PM – 09:00 PM : just rest for a while
09:00 PM – 11:00 PM : went to pool with my friend
11:00 PM – 12:00 PM : took shower and had dinner
12:00 PM – 1:00 AM : listened to music until I fell asleep

I hate this day because I worked ‘til 8! Damn, I missed my gym. I was running our batch and I kept on abending. I can’t easily figure out the issues because it was my first time to run the WHOLE batch train… No one was even assisting me or helping me! But on the other hand, I am learning…

Another day in pool with my friend… Actually, it’s only open ‘til 10:00 PM but what we normally do is we stay there until the caretaker or the guard will force us to leave hehehe.

I can’t get internet signal within my range for 3 consecutive days now! This is not good! I badly need to connect!

Date Scribed: August 24, 2006

THURSDAY – August 24, 2006

07:00 AM – 08:20 AM : Prepared myself for work
08:45 AM – 06:00 PM : WORK hours (including lunch time)
06:00 PM – 07:00 PM : idle
07:00 PM – 08:30 PM : went to gym
08:30 PM – 09:30 PM : went to pool
09:30 PM – 10:30 PM : took shower and had dinner
10:30 PM – 11:00 PM : my mom phoned me, copy the whole season 1 of Prison Break in my laptop
11:00 PM – 11:30 AM : listened to music until I fell asleep

Work -> gym -> pool -> music -> sleep… This is my normal everyday routine.

As always, I spent the night in the pool with my friend. Truly, I just went there alone. I thought he won’t show up. But then again, after a few minutes he came down and then we talked. He didn’t bathe; he just stayed on the side while we talk.

I am kinda excited to watch the first season of Prison Break… my officemates always talk about this series during our break… Of course I was always OP (out of place) because I haven’t even watched a single episode yet haha. I got curious if this is really nice so I asked them to give me a copy. My foreigner friend also has a copy of this and he also recommended me to watch this. Hmmm. Probably I will this weekend…

Waaaaaaaahhhhhhh I still can’t connect to the internet! Actually I was, but after a second, when I was about to pop my friends, I got disconnected... waaaaaaaaahhhhhh. I don’t know until when I can bear this… waaaaaaaahhhhhh…

Date Scribed: August 25, 2006

FRIDAY – August 25, 2006

07:00 AM – 08:20 AM : Prepared myself for work
08:45 AM – 05:30 PM : WORK hours (including lunch time)
05:30 PM – 07:00 PM : watch TV
07:00 PM – 08:30 PM : went to gym
08:30 PM – 09:30 PM : went to pool
09:30 PM – 10:30 PM : took shower and had dinner
10:30 PM – 11:30 PM : watched the first episode of Prison Break
11:30 PM – 12:00 AM : went to bed

Friday is usually the time for winding down with friends, but not in my case here. After work I went home straight away. I went to gym and pool afterwards with my friend.

I watched the pilot episode of Prison Break and it was really really great! I just feel sleepy that time so I didn’t play the next episode but to be honest it was really nice series. No wonder why a lot of people really eager to look forward on the next season.

Date Scribed: August 26, 2006

SATURDAY – August 26, 2006

09:00 AM : wake up time =)
09:00 AM – 11:00 AM : had our breakfast and watched TV
11:00 AM – 03:30 PM : internet internet internet!!!
03:30 PM – 06:30 PM : went to Kota Raya to send some important documents to Phil, had my hair done, had my dinner.
06:30 PM – 07:30 PM : watched TV
07:30 PM – 08:30 PM : went to gym
08:30 PM – 11:00 PM : went to pool
11:00 PM – 01:00 AM : listened to music until I fell asleep

Saturday afternoon, I went to Kota Raya to courier some important documents to my mom in Philippines via LBC. Then after that, I had my hair done in one of the salons there. Actually, I didn’t expect much. As usual, I don’t like how they done my hair. One thing I noticed here, they have a lot of salons but only few can know how to do the real CUT. I think as long as you know hot to hold comb and scissors then you can be a stylist here, not that important if you’re good or not haha. Anyways, I am not that disappointed like the first one as I’ve said I don’t expect much hehe. Better not to expect at all next time hahaha.

As usual, gym and pool are always part of my everyday routine. I went to gym to do some cardio and light weights. Afterwards, jump straight away to pool.

Finally! After 48 years, I was able to connect! Hehe

Date Scribed: August 27, 2006

Last week was not just an ordinary week for me as I spent most of my time bonding with my new found friend. One of these days, I will post something about him solely. Sadly, he’ll be leaving so soon, probably this week or next week. But still, I am happy that our paths have crossed along the way.

My Yesterday's Schedule

2006-08-21T02:01:00.000-07:00

SUNDAY – August 20, 2006

08:30 AM – 10:00 AM : Prepared myself for Sunday Mass
10:00 AM – 10:30 AM : Watched TV (Fear Factor)
10:30 AM – 12:00 NN : Attended Mass
12:00 NN – 04:30 PM : had Lunch and went to KLCC with Anai and Mars
04:30 PM – 07:00 PM : took shower, watched TV (US PGA) and napped for a while
07:00 PM – 09:00 PM : had dinner while watching TV (Hallow man)

MONDAY – August 21, 2006

09:00 PM – 12:30 AM : went to Jacuzzi/pool with a friend to relax and unwind swim
12:30 AM – 01:30 AM : took shower, went to 7-11 to buy load, and called-up my mom, called-up my friends in PJ.
01:30 AM : went to bed and sleep

I went to KLCC to look for the Japanese magazines that Ochie wants me to buy for her. Also, to look for a book that I can give to my friend as a token since he will be leaving soon. I saw one of the magazines but the other one was already sold out. I also saw interesting books for my friend but quite pricy. I didn’t buy the magazine yet because I need to confirm first if it was really the magazine but I will be back tomorrow to finally buy them. I hope I can make my dear friend Ochie happy then hehe.

Funny because my friend and I didn’t notice that it was already late and yet we were still in the Jacuzzi. It was very relaxing to bathe in warm water, aside from that, it was also our bonding time together because he will be leaving so soon and he will be back in his country Oman. I wish you all the best in your future endeavor dude!

I was also ecstatic to talk to my friend Vera who just arrived last night and will also be working here in Malaysia from now on. She was one of my batch mates and barkada in AMEX-Triumph. Welcome to Malaysia!

By the way, Tiger Woods won the US PGA Championship AGAIN! It’s his 12th Major titles already!, and if I am not mistaken, it’s his 52nd titles all in all including minor tournaments. AMAZING!

Date Scribed: August 21, 2006

Midst of Nowhere

2006-08-16T02:43:00.000-07:00

I am in the middle of choosing whether to move out or not. If you were on my shoes, what would you choose?

I am currently living in Vistana Condo in KL just 15 to 20 minutes away from my office. The place is very convenient as it has cafeteria opens until 12am, nice gym to workout, and pretty neat Jacuzzi and pool to swim. The place is also surrounded with convenient stores and hawkers (term we used for small canteen). Downside, I don’t have close friends living here. I just met my housemates here the moment I arrived because my employer was the one who set-up my accommodation. But they’re good and nice people so no regrets. It just that we’re not that close. I’ve met new acquaintances, new friends, inside the condo whom I talked to regularly. But some of them already moved back to their own countries while some will be moving back soon too.

My friends Anai and Mars are both living in Menara Jaya Condo in PJ. The place is nice, clean, and comfy. It has gym and pool as well. But the place is not surrounded with any convenient stores or hawkers. You need to walk a ‘lil farther just to get to the nearest store. They have available vacant room in their unit that they are offering to me. I really want to occupy the room but my big concern is the distance. The place is an hour away from my office. If I’ll be living there, I need to wake up too early just to be on time and will be home a ‘lil late because of the travel time obviously.

Ease wise, my current condo is pretty convenient but I also need to take into consideration the time spending with my friends after office hours and weekends.

Somehow, I am already attached in this place. I already have a couple of nice memories with my new found friends here whom I will miss dearly. But actually, few weeks from now, my life would not be the same as now as my friends will be leaving soon. I’ll be going back to the old days, alone and no friends to talk to. So that’s why I am thinking living with my friends in PJ.

I don’t know, I just don’t know yet. I am still in the midst of nowhere. But I have to decide by end of this week. I wish I’ll choose the right one for me….

Date Scribed: August 16, 2006

Can Hardly Sleep

2006-08-16T02:40:00.000-07:00

For 3 consecutive days now, I can hardly sleep well, a lot of thoughts lingering in my mind.

“Tuesday 3am, once again I am wide awake waiting for time to mend this part of me that keeps on breaking. Newspapers I threw away and washed the dishes in the sink. 3am on Tuesday, I have too much time to think and I could call up to heaven, or I could crawl down to hell. Nothing will change the way things are and nothing ever will…”

“All my life I’ve looked for angels, all this time I’ve searched for signs. Now I’ve turned at the corner, you’re standing beside me, you’re not what I thought I might find.

I’ve never been shaken, never been confused. Always protected all my affection, only direction I choose. All my intentions and all my best plans now come to rest in your hands.

If I could fly, if I could soar, if I could rise up to heaven and unlock that door, I might finally stop this world spins around, I would just to be with you now.

If I could find the key into your heart and unlock that door, I might finally stop all the spinning around, if I could just be with you now.

I’ve never been shaken, never been confused. Always protected all my affection, only direction I choose. Always believed I was solidly grounded, all my assumptions come tumbling down…”

Ochie and Neil, two of my best friends, thanks for always being there for me. Thanks for the time. Thanks for always listening to all my burdens and help me carry them in your own little possible ways. I know I can weather this storm… I love you guys…

Date Scribed: August 15, 2006 (3:00 am)

Jam-packed!

2006-08-16T02:39:00.000-07:00

After attending the Sunday mass, I went out to see Anai and Mars who just arrived the other day and will also be working here for 2 years. I’ve known Mars from my previous work so she’s not new to me anymore. I accompanied them to Mydin, the cheapest store here in KL just like Uniwide in Philippines, to buy their things like kitchen utensils and stuffs. After that, we headed straight back home on their new rented unit in Menara Jaya Condo somewhere in Petaling Jaya. Lucky for them to finally get this nice unit. It’s spacious, nice, and so clean. Apart from that, all if not most of the furnitures are brand new! But since they still don’t have T.V yet we have decided to go out and see the on-going PC fare.

Yesterday, August 13, 2006, was the last day of PC Fare held in KLCC. As expected, it was jam-packed and crowded! Anai bought her new baby!. She’ll probably post it on her blog so just check hers to find it out. I was supposed to buy pendrive and accessories for my digicam but I can no longer stand the crowd! I’ll just buy them some other time.

That’s all for now…

Date Scribed: August 14, 2006

BonVoyage dude!

2006-08-10T22:32:00.000-07:00

BonVoyage dude!

Yesterday was the last day of my officemate Ronnel. He was the most senior (by experience not by age) Filipino consultant here in Maybank. He was the most knowledgeable among us when it comes to our system as he was already using this same system even on his previous work in Philippines. He was very keen and effective player. After a long 2 years of working, his contract here has finally ended.

Actually, I haven’t had the opportunity to work with him in a project or something as I just started a few months back and still haven’t given more challenging projects yet. But time to time, I was able to pick-up something from him. He was always available to answer all my stupid questions hehe. He provided me guidance to lead me to the right direction and helped me on my tasks on his own little way.

Yesterday, merienda time, we (all Filipino consultants) have decided to gather and have a small chitchat all together at Starbucks. Just in time, our Malaysian employer visited us in our office and surprisingly treated all of us hehe. We are about 10 Filipinos left here minus Ronnel so we’re now only 9. I am the newest member so they always teased me that I am the luckiest because I am still doing petty tasks as of this moment hehe. God is really good to me! Anyways, it was a fun afternoon merienda with them.

For the short span of time working with him, I have already learned something from him. Dude, thanks for everything. Good luck on your new undertaking and God Bless you and your family. Keep it touch.

You might be wondering where he will be going, well he just found a new permanent job in New Zealand! Isn’t that cool! Wish you all the best dude.

Cheers!

Date Scribed: August 10, 2006

Different people from different walks of life

2006-08-08T19:10:00.000-07:00

Living by yourself away from your family is not that easy. How much more living outside your home country? with the absence of your family, relatives, and friends… It’s tough to survive in such but it will definitely make you stronger in whatever aspects of life.

I’ve been somewhat independent before when I was still in Philippines. For more than a year, I rented a unit by myself but I used to spend weekends with my family. When I was in US, I was also away from my family but I was with my friends which I also considered my family as well. So it wasn’t that hard for me really. But this time around, it’s really hard and different. I struggled on my first month looking for emotional stability, looking for someone who can talk to and spend the rest of the days with. But I am ok now and manage to survive hehe.

One of the factors that helped me overcome my homesick is the friendly and gracious people that I’ve met along my way. Malaysia is a multi-racial country so expect that there are lots of people from different races: of course the Locals (Malay and Malay-Portuguese), Chinese, Indian, Europeans, Americans, Arabs, and Asians. I was surprised that they even have more foreigners/tourists here compare to my homeland. Everywhere you go you will find different skins. And it’s beautiful…

When you’re new to certain places and don’t know much, you will try to find someone whom you can talk to… a friend so to speak for an obvious reason. And I think it’s already innate to us Filipinos to mingle with others and make friends. I’ve already met some Filipinos who are also working here…introduced by some friends, or friends of friends, and likes. But I have also met people from different races under different circumstances. Just in the condo where I live, I met new friends and acquaintances mostly Chinese guys and gals, Indians, and Arabs. Even in the net where I found new chat mates either still living here or been here in Malaysia. It’s funny, but then again, it’s beautiful…

To all these new acquaintances, new mates, and new friends that I’ve met along my journey here, thank you for sharing your life, cultures, and experiences to me. Thanks for giving me pieces of advices and for always keeping in touch with me. And most especially thanks for the joy that you’ve given me. Friends forever. Cheers!

Date Scribed: August 9, 2006

Regular Exercise: Making it as a Habit

2006-08-04T01:04:00.000-07:00

Would anyone imagine me doing regular exercise? Haha. To those who know me personally, maybe I am freaking you out… but come on, give me a break! I am now enjoying doing that for real. I am really into it right now. Hehe

I actually started doing this stuff a month ago. It was just another damn boring Saturday afternoon where I don’t know what to do in my pathetic life until I finally convinced myself to give it a shot. There’s a small gym in the condo with pretty much good equipments especially for beginners like me. I went there alone and tried it once. Gladly, I enjoyed it and decided to do it on a regular basis. I am now doing it 5 times a week every night.

So far the result is quite astonishing for me. I feel active and energetic so I am trying to make it as a habit. But hopefully, 6 months from now, I will be able to achieve whatever goals I set to myself.

Cheers!

Date Scribed: August 4, 2006

Despair and Sorrow

2006-08-04T00:26:00.000-07:00

Coincidentally, 3 people close to my heart are now suffering from heartaches, sadness, despair, and sorrow but this section is purposely written solely for my biological brother Ramon.

Before I flew to Malaysia, I think he was in a happy relationship with his girlfriend. We never had a chance to talk about his love life. Actually, we never talked about our personal lives at all. We have two very different worlds. He has his own life and I have mine. Admittedly, we are not that close as what supposed to be like brothers do. Maybe because of what happened on us from the past… Maybe because of the jealousy between the two of us, or most likely because of the big fight we had from the past that led to an awful incident. I guess, I will never ever forget that incident which almost led us to a disastrous affair with a sharp object but I have already forgiven him. After all, he’s still my brother.

Anyway, I’ve found out from my mom that they were no longer together. The girl decided to end their relationship. For what reason, I don’t know… All I know is that (this is just hearsay), my brother had a “filthy affair” with a “Japayuki” girl where he just met in the neighborhood. I am not sure if this is true as I never confirmed this with him nor confronted him about this. If that’s real, then he became unfaithful to his girlfriend then. But as I’ve said, this was merely so far hearsay for me because I don’t believe until I found it out by myself. My mom told me that my brother is sincerely asking for forgiveness and wanting to win her back but the girl refused to talk and wanted him to stop all this shit.

Frankly speaking, I was not that close with his girl. I just don’t know, maybe it’s my personality to be sometimes rude and snob especially to any persons engage to my siblings. Like in my sister’s ex-bf’s case, I was not also close to her boyfriend. I was so rude to the extent that I always hang up whenever he phoned the house. I became so rude even to my sister that I didn’t allow her to talk much on the phone with him. I was the worst brother you could ever imagine, really! In fact, it took years before I accepted him in our family. It took years, before he was able to step inside our home. But sadly, they didn’t end up together. Going back to my brother’s girlfriend, I know that she loved my brother very much. She gave everything to him. She supported him all the way. She even spoiled him with everything… On the other hand, I know my brother loved her too.

Honestly, I don’t know what to advise to my brother. I know he’s man enough to handle this kind of situation. I know he can surpass all the challenges and trials that come along his way. He’s the best fighter in our family. Bro, if you need our help, just let us know and we will surely be there for you. My mom told me that he once cried in front of her. Crying in front of your mom is the gracious thing a man can do. With that, I am so proud of you.

Date Scribed: August 2, 2006

My New Baby!

2006-08-03T21:58:00.000-07:00

Finally, I have my new baby! Hehe

There was a factory sale last Friday, July 28, 2006, somewhere in Petaling Jaya. I went there with my officemates. Honesty, I didn’t plan to buy one that time. We went there just to see the gadgets and I also joined with them on Friday night just for a change as I normally just stayed at home every Friday night hehe.

It strikes me the moment I saw this Sony T9 black camera. There was a connection and I know that it was really the one meant for me (haha funny). Seriously, I really like this cam and I am now happy to have my new baby with me.

Welcome to the family! Haha.

Date Scribed: July 31, 2006

Memoirs From My 6-month Onshore

2006-07-25T23:41:00.000-07:00

Friends, a simple word uttered everyday to almost every person imaginable. I used to think that friends were the people that you could laugh and talk to. Now I know that they aren't that, they're the people that touch your heart. You could spend hours with them doing nothing at all and it can be the best time of your life, just because it was with them. They're the people you can share your secrets with, cry with, laugh with, and just have fun with. They don't judge you or make you change. They accept you exactly as you are. They look at you and they see a great person, one they love spending time with. You all share something in common and are tied together by memories, tears, laughs and smiles.

From July 2005 to January 2006, I had the privilege to go to Arizona USA to work closely with our clients. But the most fun part of my onshore was the experience of traveling to different places with my close friends. I had so many memoirs to keep in my 6 months of stay there.

Guys, we’ve been through lots of laughter, happiness, hardships, and even tears and sorrow. But all of these experiences strengthen my relationship with my friends and made us a better person. My stay wouldn’t have been memorable without all of you guys. Every event happened to us remains and will remain vivid in my mind and in my heart. No words could describe my happiness. Thanks for the memories…

Friendship is the strangest but greatest thing in the world. I find my time with my friends, the best times of my life. My friends are my heart, my soul, my fun, my laughter, tears, love and my life.

A Man With A Golden Voice

2006-07-25T23:35:00.001-07:00

This section is intended to personally thank one of my dear buddies/friends in Accenture.

His name is Ryan. He was one of the first few people that I mingled with during my first day in the firm. Yes, we were both new hires then. From the very beginning I know that this guy will be one of my close friends not just because we were batchmates, but most probably because we kinda have the same interests, same likes, and in same wavelength. To name a few, he loves music, he loves “chismis” gossips, he’s a funny yet clever guy, he loves engaging to extra-curricular activities, and a lot more. We have a lot of things in common so to speak. Ok Ryan, you now have all the reasons to deny that haha! (Intellectual competence not included, fine? hehe).

Since then, he became one of my close friends in the firm. We never run out of something to talk about. We always have chitchat session everyday, yes as in everyday together with our closest friends. There’s really no dull moment with this guy. (naks!)

As I’ve mentioned a while ago, he loves music. He loves to sing. Music is his passion. And modesty aside, he’s really a great singer. For me, he sounded like Brian McKnight with a different twist of his own (naks again! Hehe). Seriously, he sings like a professional singer. He’s a very talented guy. Before Anai moved here in Malaysia, I asked him to record some of my favorite songs and compile it for me. He didn’t disappoint me. Anai gave me the CD with the compilation of some of my favorite songs sang by Ryan with his own rendition. It was superb! I can actually send this to recording studios as demo! Hehe.

Here is the list of the songs in his unreleased album:

Lately
Wildflower
Dance with My Father
One Last Cry
Goon Too Soon
All Is Fair In Love
Superstar

Thanks Ryan! I owe you a lot! I am a fan of your golden voice. Just keep on singing until the music ends...

A Trip to Putrajaya

2006-07-25T20:11:00.000-07:00

Good news, I already have task! Finally, they gave me a ticket to work on last Wednesday afternoon. Bad news, I am still not yet done… Anyways, I still have a week to provide them the report. But this is not the reason why I wrote hehe.

Last Sunday, I went out to see Anai and the rest of our friends from Singapore (Khris, Gracia and Hazel) who were here for a weekend vacation. We were also accompanied by Milay, Efren and his girlfriend. We were all former Triumph employees and now working abroad.

Anai is my former teammate and a good friend. She was one of the divas in Triumph as she loves to sing ALOT. She’s also very jolly and witty that’s why we jived easily. We regularly go to Big Chill with Ryan during lunch time not just to buy drinks but also to chat about everything together. I really miss those days hehe.

She arrived here in Malaysia last Saturday night. The next day, we decided to meet up at starbucks in KLCC around 10am. I purposely went there a ‘lil earlier to do window shopping because there’s an ongoing mega sale here in all malls for the whole month. Oh well, Anai was also late so I have enough time to rove the place hehe. I also went to Petronas tower but unfortunately there were no more tickets available at that time. The tickets were just limited and it’s first come first serve basis. So I just decided to sit outside where I met an American couple and had a ‘lil chit chat.

The rest of the group was already waiting for us in KL Sentral. From there, we still need to travel at least 30 minutes by train just to go to the destination place (Putrajaya). But since we were late hehe, they’ve decided to go ahead and just meet straight off to Putra Jaya, So Anai and I traveled from KLCC to KL Sentral station then transferred to another transit, the South East Asia’s fastest train as they claim, from KL Sentral to Putra Jaya station. We just keep on talking the whole time. It was a long ride but seemed too short because we didn’t run out of topic to talk and laugh about hehe. The rest of the group was already waiting in the coach when we reached the destination. Then we were introduced to Efren’s girlfriend who happens to be a friend and a former officemate of one of my close friends in college, Laarni (small world! Hehe).

We were like 15 tourists in the coach from different countries. They let us discovered the different architectural designs and structures of Putrajaya. We went to Melawati Palace, Prime Minister’s Office, Putra Mosque, Ministry of Finance, Ministry of Justice, and a lot more… The place has a lot to offer, a nice, clean and serene place. Unfortunately, we don’t have much time to tour the place as some of my friends still need to travel 5 hrs back to Singapore that night. Not to mention that we were also so tired walking the whole afternoon hehe. We were like 5 minutes late when the coach arrived Putrajaya station. So we still waited for about 30 minutes before the next train leaves. It was around 4 pm when we reached the KL Sentral, where we all parted ways and bid goodbyes to each other. I personally had so much fun touring the place with them. I will miss them and hoping to see them soon.

Anai and I headed back to Masjid Jamek to attend the Sunday mass but we were an hour earlier when we went to St. John Church so we just decided to buy a sim card first and go to department store to buy stuffs. I brought her in Mydin, the most economical department store here comparable to Uniwide in Philippines hehe. After that, we went straight away to the church and waited until the mass starts.

After mass, just a few blocks away from the church, we had our dinner at Burger King. We stayed there for about an hour or two talking everything that’s happening back home and reminiscing the old days with our dear friends. After that, we both decided to go home and rest as we still have work the next morning, her first day in her new work.

It was a very tiring day but was also one of the blissful Sundays I have here in Malaysia so far.

Bon Voyage

2006-07-21T23:04:00.000-07:00

Anai, one of my friends in my previous work, will arrive here in Malaysia tonight. She was my former teammate in our beloved team hehe. Yes, she already resigned too and will be working as Analyst in StandardCharted Bank. I am planning to see her tomorrow morning with the rest of our friends from Singapore, our former officemates, who were here for vacation. Meeting place, Petronas! Wishing you all the best on your career.

Today is also my mom’s flight back to Philippines. Welcome back Mama! I hope I was there to welcome you… I haven’t seen my parents for more than two years, my sister for a year, and my brother for few months now. I really miss my family so much. I hope to see you soon. I love you...

That's all folks for today...

Solace and Serenity

Koh Samui : A Night to Remember

Killing time

Loving the Phad Thai...

Whatta AWESUM Night!

Sawasdee

LOooOooNg HiAtUs AGAIN and again and again

A Trip to Memory Lane (AMA Microsystems)

Another restless days...

Long HIATUS

You will never be forgotten...

The Maybankers

My 27th Birthday - Pix

My 27th Birthday

Dinner - Party with Eric and Charmain

Cloud nine...

Things that kept me busy...

Jars of Clay - Silence

Eternity...

Plain White Ts - Hey There Delilah - Official (HQ)

Damien Rice - Cannonball

Moving On...

Welcome to KL Hardus!

Shukran Gazillan! (Thank You Very Much!)

After a long HIATUS...

Trip to Philippines

I'm Back...

Singapore - Indonesia Trip

Routinary Days

Redbox with friends

What a wonderful week it was!

Bon Voyage dude!

Happy Birthday Sis!

Cozy night @ Skybar (Traders Hotel)

Feeling Ecstatic!

Blood Diamond

Restless and Bored...

Stress Test

My Beloved Sistah!

My Music

A Day full of FUN!

Oh, What A Day It Was!

Elated yet Ruined

Am Back Again!

Night Out @ Thai Club

Lakwatsa with Marla, Anna, and Allan

Australian Open

ITAC Outing

A New Aussie Friend

MY First Vacation

Blessed 2006

New Year’s Party

New Year's Dinner

Christmas 2006

Purpose In Life

ABC Tagging Game

Double Birthday Blast!

No Place to Go

California Fitness

The Champions

Food Poisoning

Relaxing Weekend

Catching up with my High School Friends

Happy Birthday Bro!

My Night Life Experience @ KL

First Acquaintance at Starhill

My First Facial Treatment in Malaysia

Yolly’s Birthday and Jenette’s Farewell Party

So Long my Friend

I think I gained Weight *sigh*

Taman Negara Trip

Ryan – Welcome to Malaysia (Truly Asia)

Acrid Haze shrouds Malaysia

Feel Elated - Part 2

My 26th Birthday!

Giordano SALE!

Request Rejected

I Feel Elated

Guilty from What I've Done

Ecstatic Feeling

I think I gained Weight sigh