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Wednesday, February 28, 2007
More Like It
Kaya?
| Your Personality is Very Rare (INFP) |
 Only about 5% of all people have your personality, including 6% of all women and 4% of all menYou are Introverted, Intuitive, Feeling, and Perceiving. |
http://www.blogthings.com/howrareisyourpersonalityquiz/">How Rare Is Your Personality?
Thursday, February 22, 2007
Catch Up
Better do something about this "headache". Wasn't able to go to work today because I got a really nasty migraine with matching fever and cough. Totally uncomfortable. The perfect chance to use my Caritas health card.
All I can say is that Caritas sucks. With the exception of their nice doctor and personable receptionist, the said health card is useless to me, until August 2007. What a scam. And I pay more than PhP 5,000 quarterly for this card!
So instead of taking the tests there, I silently told myself to get another checkup at Philamlife. Everything went so smooth there that I was unprepared for the bogus-ness that I was to experience this morning.
I have to hurry up and get well! I still have lots to do!
Like finish the list I started last night. So,for the sake of finishing what I started, here's more of what I did these past two weeks:
1. Bought my own tarot card deck and told the fortune of 3 of my sisters. Despite reading the cards with the aid of the booklet, they seemed quite satisfied. If only I could take it seriously... then I could already pitch my booth in eastwood. heheh.
2. Moderated at a conference. Of course, I was so stiff and stilted but then, keri pa rin daw. It's a step to my resolution of sharing more at discussions and conferences. I mean, I have the same rights of self-expression as those who hog the microphone and talk nonsense. I remember that there was a lady who we thought would share something significant during q&a only to find out that all she really wanted to do was catch up with the other moderator and hug her! Whatever.
3. I miss being in theater. I realized that when I got to spend some time with my theater friends. I miss theater. Sigh.
I forget the rest... It's all memory now.
Bring on more memories, I say.
All I can say is that Caritas sucks. With the exception of their nice doctor and personable receptionist, the said health card is useless to me, until August 2007. What a scam. And I pay more than PhP 5,000 quarterly for this card!
So instead of taking the tests there, I silently told myself to get another checkup at Philamlife. Everything went so smooth there that I was unprepared for the bogus-ness that I was to experience this morning.
I have to hurry up and get well! I still have lots to do!
Like finish the list I started last night. So,for the sake of finishing what I started, here's more of what I did these past two weeks:
1. Bought my own tarot card deck and told the fortune of 3 of my sisters. Despite reading the cards with the aid of the booklet, they seemed quite satisfied. If only I could take it seriously... then I could already pitch my booth in eastwood. heheh.
2. Moderated at a conference. Of course, I was so stiff and stilted but then, keri pa rin daw. It's a step to my resolution of sharing more at discussions and conferences. I mean, I have the same rights of self-expression as those who hog the microphone and talk nonsense. I remember that there was a lady who we thought would share something significant during q&a only to find out that all she really wanted to do was catch up with the other moderator and hug her! Whatever.
3. I miss being in theater. I realized that when I got to spend some time with my theater friends. I miss theater. Sigh.
I forget the rest... It's all memory now.
Bring on more memories, I say.
Wednesday, February 21, 2007
While You Were Busy With Your Life
My days were quite full these past few weeks that even though I would have liiked to unload my thoughts on things that have been happening... I couldn't get around it. Thank goodness for now.
On the onset,it seems that nothing's changed since I last wrote. Am still sick and preoccupied by my hypertensive state. Only now, I am a bit okay although with no sense of smell. Wish this bug goes away soon. Nay--- Now na.
But between that and now, a lot of groovy things have taken place:
1. Went on a video documentary shoot for cubism in the philippines, with focus on murals and public art. These things are the highlight of my work because I get to meet different types of people and learn from all of them. One time, it could be the old lady and her family who live inside a still existing water tank; a couple of hours later, it will be over adobo sandiwiches with Odette Alcantara and her wonderful family.
The conversations were all eye-openers and inspiring. I will not forget the passionate arguments of Tita Odette (naks,close) for the environment, art and Manansala (who is her close friend), kindred spirits and how important it was to be a cultural worker. If she is still fired up with the richness of Philippine culture, I have no right to be all jaded and negat.
Then I talked with an officer from UCPB who takes care of the bank's art collection, who told me that I looked quite stressed and tired. I welcomed her candidness as I know that people are usually more "polite" to call attention to something obvious but unfortunate. She told me that I should smile more often. I am taking her advice and even reprogramming my thoughts to be more positive.
2. Passed my Japanese midterms. Honto, totemo muzukashii desu. I also realized that ... watashino sensei ga suki ja arimasen. Even though I did okay, she made me feel pretty daft.
3.Watched 2 plays: TP's "The Pretenders" and Rinkogun's "Philippine Bedtime Stories". Of the two I liked the latter because somehow the direction was exciting. I am a fan of TP and its actors but this play didnt really capture the epic emotional and physical landscape of the novel. And the peekaboo just boggled my mind.
Am looking forward to seeing more plays. Next: PETA's "Belong Puti".
4. Gone back to watching movies at the cinemas alone. This is a secret luxury of mine which started when I was 12 or 13 years old, when because I was tired of tending to our boutique at the Broadway Centrum, I would sneak into the cinemas alone. Even if my allowance was limited in college, I would rather walk to the cinemas (buti na lang may sta.lucia na non) and get my fix whenever needed.
The two times I watched alone, I just needed to see Kate Winslet. She is one of my new favorite actors. She is very good in whatever role she plays. Saw"Little Children" and "The Holiday".
5. Being told "I wish I could spend more time with you..." by a young, not bad-looking guy. Siyempre,binigyan ko na agad ng malisya. Never mind if he really meant, "may kailangan pa kami sa iyo."
Such a long post. I'm becoming more and more sleepy.Must. Get.Sleep. More tomorrow.
On the onset,it seems that nothing's changed since I last wrote. Am still sick and preoccupied by my hypertensive state. Only now, I am a bit okay although with no sense of smell. Wish this bug goes away soon. Nay--- Now na.
But between that and now, a lot of groovy things have taken place:
1. Went on a video documentary shoot for cubism in the philippines, with focus on murals and public art. These things are the highlight of my work because I get to meet different types of people and learn from all of them. One time, it could be the old lady and her family who live inside a still existing water tank; a couple of hours later, it will be over adobo sandiwiches with Odette Alcantara and her wonderful family.
The conversations were all eye-openers and inspiring. I will not forget the passionate arguments of Tita Odette (naks,close) for the environment, art and Manansala (who is her close friend), kindred spirits and how important it was to be a cultural worker. If she is still fired up with the richness of Philippine culture, I have no right to be all jaded and negat.
Then I talked with an officer from UCPB who takes care of the bank's art collection, who told me that I looked quite stressed and tired. I welcomed her candidness as I know that people are usually more "polite" to call attention to something obvious but unfortunate. She told me that I should smile more often. I am taking her advice and even reprogramming my thoughts to be more positive.
2. Passed my Japanese midterms. Honto, totemo muzukashii desu. I also realized that ... watashino sensei ga suki ja arimasen. Even though I did okay, she made me feel pretty daft.
3.Watched 2 plays: TP's "The Pretenders" and Rinkogun's "Philippine Bedtime Stories". Of the two I liked the latter because somehow the direction was exciting. I am a fan of TP and its actors but this play didnt really capture the epic emotional and physical landscape of the novel. And the peekaboo just boggled my mind.
Am looking forward to seeing more plays. Next: PETA's "Belong Puti".
4. Gone back to watching movies at the cinemas alone. This is a secret luxury of mine which started when I was 12 or 13 years old, when because I was tired of tending to our boutique at the Broadway Centrum, I would sneak into the cinemas alone. Even if my allowance was limited in college, I would rather walk to the cinemas (buti na lang may sta.lucia na non) and get my fix whenever needed.
The two times I watched alone, I just needed to see Kate Winslet. She is one of my new favorite actors. She is very good in whatever role she plays. Saw"Little Children" and "The Holiday".
5. Being told "I wish I could spend more time with you..." by a young, not bad-looking guy. Siyempre,binigyan ko na agad ng malisya. Never mind if he really meant, "may kailangan pa kami sa iyo."
Such a long post. I'm becoming more and more sleepy.Must. Get.Sleep. More tomorrow.
While You Were Busy With Your Life
My days were quite full these past few weeks that even though I would have liiked to unload my thoughts on things that have been happening... I couldn't get around it. Thank goodness for now.
On the onset,it seems that nothing's changed since I last wrote. Am still sick and preoccupied by my hypertensive state. Only now, I am a bit okay although with no sense of smell. Wish this bug goes away soon. Nay--- Now na.
But between that and now, a lot of groovy things have taken place:
1. Went on a video documentary shoot for cubism in the philippines, with focus on murals and public art. These things are the highlight of my work because I get to meet different types of people and learn from all of them. One time, it could be the old lady and her family who live inside a still existing water tank; a couple of hours later, it will be over adobo sandiwiches with Odette Alcantara and her wonderful family.
The conversations were all eye-openers and inspiring. I will not forget the passionate arguments of Tita Odette (naks,close) for the environment, art and Manansala (who is her close friend), kindred spirits and how important it was to be a cultural worker. If she is still fired up with the richness of Philippine culture, I have no right to be all jaded and negat.
Then I talked with an officer from UCPB who takes care of the bank's art collection, who told me that I looked quite stressed and tired. I welcomed her candidness as I know that people are usually more "polite" to call attention to something obvious but unfortunate. She told me that I should smile more often. I am taking her advice and even reprogramming my thoughts to be more positive.
2. Passed my Japanese midterms. Honto, totemo muzukashii desu. I also realized that ... watashino sensei ga suki ja arimasen. Even though I did okay, she made me feel pretty daft.
3.Watched 2 plays: TP's "The Pretenders" and Rinkogun's "Philippine Bedtime Stories". Of the two I liked the latter because somehow the direction was exciting. I am a fan of TP and its actors but this play didnt really capture the epic emotional and physical landscape of the novel. And the peekaboo just boggled my mind.
Am looking forward to seeing more plays. Next: PETA's "Belong Puti".
4. Gone back to watching movies at the cinemas alone. This is a secret luxury of mine which started when I was 12 or 13 years old, when because I was tired of tending to our boutique at the Broadway Centrum, I would sneak into the cinemas alone. Even if my allowance was limited in college, I would rather walk to the cinemas (buti na lang may sta.lucia na non) and get my fix whenever needed.
The two times I watched alone, I just needed to see Kate Winslet. She is one of my new favorite actors. She is very good in whatever role she plays. Saw"Little Children" and "The Holiday".
5. Being told "I wish I could spend more time with you..." by a young, not bad-looking guy. Siyempre,binigyan ko na agad ng malisya. Never mind if he really meant, "may kailangan pa kami sa iyo."
Such a long post. I'm becoming more and more sleepy.Must. Get.Sleep. More tomorrow.
On the onset,it seems that nothing's changed since I last wrote. Am still sick and preoccupied by my hypertensive state. Only now, I am a bit okay although with no sense of smell. Wish this bug goes away soon. Nay--- Now na.
But between that and now, a lot of groovy things have taken place:
1. Went on a video documentary shoot for cubism in the philippines, with focus on murals and public art. These things are the highlight of my work because I get to meet different types of people and learn from all of them. One time, it could be the old lady and her family who live inside a still existing water tank; a couple of hours later, it will be over adobo sandiwiches with Odette Alcantara and her wonderful family.
The conversations were all eye-openers and inspiring. I will not forget the passionate arguments of Tita Odette (naks,close) for the environment, art and Manansala (who is her close friend), kindred spirits and how important it was to be a cultural worker. If she is still fired up with the richness of Philippine culture, I have no right to be all jaded and negat.
Then I talked with an officer from UCPB who takes care of the bank's art collection, who told me that I looked quite stressed and tired. I welcomed her candidness as I know that people are usually more "polite" to call attention to something obvious but unfortunate. She told me that I should smile more often. I am taking her advice and even reprogramming my thoughts to be more positive.
2. Passed my Japanese midterms. Honto, totemo muzukashii desu. I also realized that ... watashino sensei ga suki ja arimasen. Even though I did okay, she made me feel pretty daft.
3.Watched 2 plays: TP's "The Pretenders" and Rinkogun's "Philippine Bedtime Stories". Of the two I liked the latter because somehow the direction was exciting. I am a fan of TP and its actors but this play didnt really capture the epic emotional and physical landscape of the novel. And the peekaboo just boggled my mind.
Am looking forward to seeing more plays. Next: PETA's "Belong Puti".
4. Gone back to watching movies at the cinemas alone. This is a secret luxury of mine which started when I was 12 or 13 years old, when because I was tired of tending to our boutique at the Broadway Centrum, I would sneak into the cinemas alone. Even if my allowance was limited in college, I would rather walk to the cinemas (buti na lang may sta.lucia na non) and get my fix whenever needed.
The two times I watched alone, I just needed to see Kate Winslet. She is one of my new favorite actors. She is very good in whatever role she plays. Saw"Little Children" and "The Holiday".
5. Being told "I wish I could spend more time with you..." by a young, not bad-looking guy. Siyempre,binigyan ko na agad ng malisya. Never mind if he really meant, "may kailangan pa kami sa iyo."
Such a long post. I'm becoming more and more sleepy.Must. Get.Sleep. More tomorrow.
Wednesday, January 31, 2007
Be Careful What You Wish For
And so, I got my wish granted. Got a day off work. Because I was sick. And it sucks! Because it's true.
So much for movie marathoning Babel and Little Children. Last Friday I got down with something I could not diagnose. It felt like I was having a highblood episode and flu sabay! Til today, I am still out of whack. Every breath I take feels just like a heavy load. Add to that, there's a bothersome "phantom" knot in my throat. I won't label it na lang with my propensity for "prophesizing".
I wish to get better. Sigh.
-------------
And I hate my passport photo. I am totally not cute. In fact, I look horrendous and haggard. Boo hoo.
I refuse to be kowtowed to the standards of Photoline. I will go where they are Photoshop-happy and get me a worthy passport photo. Yung titingnan ng visa officer, then they go "hmmm... cute..." APPROVED!
Thursday, January 25, 2007
Monday, January 22, 2007
Congratulations Donna!
Received news last night that Donna Miranda, contemporary dancer and choreographer, won the Jury's Prize at the Yokohama SoloXDuo Contemporary Dance Competition in Japan.
Subarashii!!!
Donna-san, omedetou gozaimasu!
All the Livelong Day
If I want to sleep on time and soundly, I have to do creatively manage my time and blog whenever I can. Which doesn't mean to say I have nothing else better to do, I just need to sort out some things outside of my head. Hehehe. Does that sound defensive?
-----
On the MRT this morning I smelled someone/ thing who/which smelled like a pooch. Akala ko ba no dogs/ pets allowed? Wala lang. Just venting because I was smack in the middle of a packed male coach and guys, there is a reason why soap and deodorant were invented and are heavily marketed. Use them. Please.
There may be male angst about the injustice of having females have designated coaches for themselves, but I will always prefer to be in a co-ed coach than have to share space with "princesses".
Wednesday, January 10, 2007
Another Year
Well, belated happy new year. Ten days into what was supposed to be a fresh start, and everything seems to be the way it was.
Usually, I make myself a gratitude list at the end of each year. Makes one look back fondly on things one has done. But this time, I wasn't able to do this. Bummer. See, I got sick with the 3-day flu and was feeling lethargic all through the holidays (and if the sore-throated people I've met after the yasumi were any indication, the virus was having a ball going around).
Despite being late (yet again), I best list these things because to tell the truth, I couldn't get excited over 2007. By the time the clock ticks 12midnight, I am the one leading the jumping jacks, honking the car's horns, screaming my lungs off. Last New Year's Eve, I was inside the house singing over the Magic Sing, coughing through Air Supply and hoping that I don't develop lung cancer from all the toxic fumes of the fireworks.
So, here goes... I am grateful for:
1. My family. They keep me grounded and feel unconditionally loved. Thank goodness for their health and safety.
2. My work. It enables me to do the things I would like to do, like encourage my book lust, indulge in DVD marathons, and be generous to the people I love and care for. I like that my work keeps me in touch with artists and cultural workers who I have deep respect for, and that I have the opportunity to help them, even if it's just a word of encouragement.
3. My friends. As time goes by, my friends have become precious and few-er. I can literally count them in one hand, okay two... pero that includes my sisters! These friends are people I've grown up with and who I share common values. We might not see each other often, but then coming together is always something to look forward to.
4. Our projects. This year, our office projects were all well-attended. Sometimes, it's a bane but better that than it bombing. I am thankful.
5. Traveling to Singapore --alone. I have long wanted to go to the Singapore Arts Festival so when I got the chance, it was a super treat. It gave me a preview of what it is to live alone. Not really that bad, but I got into the habit of talking to myself, and expecting my other self to answer. Hmmm...
6. My health. Being diagnosed hypertensive gave me renewed perspective on work-life balance. I was beginning to take too many things seriously but at the same time, I was over-indulging myself with food and allowing myself to be inactive (which I thought was the same as relaxed). Recipe for high blood. With the wake-up call, I enrolled myself in a gym membership and am on my way to a healthier, more active lifestyle. I still have to work on stress management, though.
7. Our little neighbors. Having children around is good for one's health. Especially if they're not yours! Treat of treats without the stress.
Well, that's all on my mind right now. I couldn't even make it up to ten. Sigh. With that out of the way, hope that clears up my cobwebs so I can move onto the new year.
Usually, I make myself a gratitude list at the end of each year. Makes one look back fondly on things one has done. But this time, I wasn't able to do this. Bummer. See, I got sick with the 3-day flu and was feeling lethargic all through the holidays (and if the sore-throated people I've met after the yasumi were any indication, the virus was having a ball going around).
Despite being late (yet again), I best list these things because to tell the truth, I couldn't get excited over 2007. By the time the clock ticks 12midnight, I am the one leading the jumping jacks, honking the car's horns, screaming my lungs off. Last New Year's Eve, I was inside the house singing over the Magic Sing, coughing through Air Supply and hoping that I don't develop lung cancer from all the toxic fumes of the fireworks.
So, here goes... I am grateful for:
1. My family. They keep me grounded and feel unconditionally loved. Thank goodness for their health and safety.
2. My work. It enables me to do the things I would like to do, like encourage my book lust, indulge in DVD marathons, and be generous to the people I love and care for. I like that my work keeps me in touch with artists and cultural workers who I have deep respect for, and that I have the opportunity to help them, even if it's just a word of encouragement.
3. My friends. As time goes by, my friends have become precious and few-er. I can literally count them in one hand, okay two... pero that includes my sisters! These friends are people I've grown up with and who I share common values. We might not see each other often, but then coming together is always something to look forward to.
4. Our projects. This year, our office projects were all well-attended. Sometimes, it's a bane but better that than it bombing. I am thankful.
5. Traveling to Singapore --alone. I have long wanted to go to the Singapore Arts Festival so when I got the chance, it was a super treat. It gave me a preview of what it is to live alone. Not really that bad, but I got into the habit of talking to myself, and expecting my other self to answer. Hmmm...
6. My health. Being diagnosed hypertensive gave me renewed perspective on work-life balance. I was beginning to take too many things seriously but at the same time, I was over-indulging myself with food and allowing myself to be inactive (which I thought was the same as relaxed). Recipe for high blood. With the wake-up call, I enrolled myself in a gym membership and am on my way to a healthier, more active lifestyle. I still have to work on stress management, though.
7. Our little neighbors. Having children around is good for one's health. Especially if they're not yours! Treat of treats without the stress.
Well, that's all on my mind right now. I couldn't even make it up to ten. Sigh. With that out of the way, hope that clears up my cobwebs so I can move onto the new year.
Friday, December 22, 2006
"A lovely thing about Christmas is that it's compulsory, like a thunderstorm, and we all go through it together." - Garrison Keillor
The inevitable is about to happen. Despite trying to hold off all Christmas-y activities -- at least those which I could control -- I am succumbing to the holiday spirit. Tonight, I am still cool but tomorrow, I think I will be a shopping dervish as I have not yet bought my Christmas gifts.
With my Atengs (Rose, Lai and Trisa) at Fish & Co, a Singaporean company who serves great Fish and Chips (a British staple). I ordered a NY Fish and Chips?! How's that for identity crisis?
Yup, I will cram again. I might give my friends and family pdvds at this point :P I wish I don't get all grouchy and PMS-y while on my tiangge rounds.
Meanwhile, I attended at least three get togethers/ Christmas parties these past few days. Of course, we had our office Christmas party. T'was very simple but still meaningful because we were all together.
Actually, I have been very conscious to pace myself this season. As much as I can, I do not go around so much and spread myself thin. So when I kinda double-booked myself this Wednesday, I was tempted to blow off one of my scheduled dates. Good thing I did not!
Early evening, I met with my sisses from college at the Fish & Co at Greenbelt 3. It was an enjoyable dinner with a lot of laughs as we reminisced on our brods (which I really have no connection to, hehehe), our tambayan, how it was in those simple days of yore, when we all wore our wimples and I had my whip. Waaaapaaaaak! Now, my sorority sisters are no longer sisses, but ... atengs! Which is a blessing, considering what they call the number 1 & 2 --- BOSSANG! Hahahahahahahahahah!!!
With my Atengs (Rose, Lai and Trisa) at Fish & Co, a Singaporean company who serves great Fish and Chips (a British staple). I ordered a NY Fish and Chips?! How's that for identity crisis?
All good, though. Whatever keeps up the spirit of sisterhood. Was so happy I met up with my sis.. I mean, my atengs. Two are lawyers, one sis was a communications expert for a political party. I felt smart by association. After promises of having a part 2, I was off to my next par-tay!
Next stop was the PETA Christmas Party. Ok, I was late, and sadly, I wasn't able to watch the always hilarious but profound program this year. It was a UN/ Ms. Universe pageant, complete with question and answer portion, country costumes and talent portion. I went wearing a perfunctory kimono robe but I was so tempted to relive my Ms. UN days in high school.
Kung hindi niyo po natatanong, ako po'y naging Ms. UN sa aming high school. Dahil hindi uso ang mga beauty pageant sa St Paul, ito ang naging pageant namin. Almost all of the contestants were pretty, talented, smart --- the whole package. Ako lang ang deviant, I think. Most of them, were probably voted by their classmates. I. Volunteered. How's that for kapalmuks? From then, I became Ms. Brazil. Then Ms. UN!
Ok, I digress.
I always love going to PETA because it always feels like home. I wish I could be more active in productions, or else, in workshops. I know I would like to assist in workshops for less fortunate children. Sigh.
With Ian Segarra (G. Cambodia), one of today's promising young actors, I think, and Liza Magtoto,
one of the bestest women playwrights and my super *hug* friend
Now, with Gail (Ms. Korea), my Fukuoka roomie and soul sister, along with another of my longest friends in PETA, Wylie (Mr. South Africa).
Another shot, this time with Gie, another close friend and super versatile actor.
I met a lot of old friends again at the party and hoped that we could all be together again longer than the "hi, merry christmas" pleasantries.
Such is Christmas. A time for remembering and touching base with the people who've made your life interesting and full.
Tuesday, December 12, 2006
Intermission at 4
Such is life. One minute, you are running around like a headless chicken; next minute, you’re trying you’re damnedest to look busy.
This time last year I was “host” of the company Christmas party, as well as gatekeeper to the hyaku-sen-en club. Now, I am just head-“mangungulit”. And I hate to be pushy.
I am known to be quite self-contained. I’d rather do things on my own and if I can’t, I still try my very best to be the least intrusive.
Alas, when you’re in the work that I am, you cannot just rely on yourself. You’re pretty much at the mercy of other individuals.
Don’t mind me. I’m just venting because there are some people I have called that were not really cooperative. Sigh.
This time last year I was “host” of the company Christmas party, as well as gatekeeper to the hyaku-sen-en club. Now, I am just head-“mangungulit”. And I hate to be pushy.
I am known to be quite self-contained. I’d rather do things on my own and if I can’t, I still try my very best to be the least intrusive.
Alas, when you’re in the work that I am, you cannot just rely on yourself. You’re pretty much at the mercy of other individuals.
Don’t mind me. I’m just venting because there are some people I have called that were not really cooperative. Sigh.
Wednesday, December 6, 2006
Christmas is Coming! and Kwon Sang Woo is Coming to Town
Kwon Sang Woo is coming to town to get some face time with Filipino fans on December 18!!! Yeeehhhaaaa!Now, if only I can haul my ass to Glorietta after work and buy me some Face Shop items... Hmmm... if only I'd have known, I would've spent my moolah there instead of the Body Shop.
Dear Santa (aka Ben Chan),
Can Kwon Sang Woo pass by our village and make a special appearance at our foot spa place? We promise to carry all Korean, Face Shop products if you do!
___________________________
I'm feeling Christmas-y more this year than the past years and am trying to think of a way to make this occasion special. We're not a very show-y family. And although my parents, especially my mom, have been goading us ever since we can remember to come up with a Christmas program, we have never warmed up to the idea. The only way they could convince all of us to take to the mike, is to make it into a singing contest. Whoever has the lowest score treats Starbucks frapuccinos to all those who joined. Thank goodness for Wow Magic Sing!
Christmas should be about family and togetherness and fun times. Not exchanging gifts you bought at the mall or the tiangge... although, siyempre masaya yun. In the past, that was the highlight of Christmas for us. The change of heart (mine, at least) may be because I don't have to wait for Christmas to get the things I want anymore. Maybe.
Did I mention I was able to buy a new DVD player? Woohoo! Desperate Housewives, here we come!
I haven't done any shopping yet and am dreading the cram again. I look forward to shopping, but on the day of my buying trip, I get overwhelmed and shop a storm just to get it over with. I end up buying stuff which are more expensive. Sigh.
You are Weasel
Found this bit on I. M. Weasel on Wikipedia:
I.M. Weasel is highly intelligent, and is skilled in most if not all known professions, anything from electronics and engineering to medicine and philosophy; he is also incredibly charming and well-versed in the social graces, and will often have a pretty girl at his side (a recurring character, usually dressed as a nurse). Weasel's only real flaw is a secret desire to suck the yolk from eggs (though such behavior is actually a characteristic of the mongoose family, which is of a different order of mammals than weasels). He is usually the only successful character in a given episode. The standard image of Weasel wears no clothing, though he will often don outfits appropriate to his activities (such as a lab coat when working as a doctor or scientist). He is prone to declaring "I am Weasel!" before leaping into a situation.
I.M. Weasel is highly intelligent, and is skilled in most if not all known professions, anything from electronics and engineering to medicine and philosophy; he is also incredibly charming and well-versed in the social graces, and will often have a pretty girl at his side (a recurring character, usually dressed as a nurse). Weasel's only real flaw is a secret desire to suck the yolk from eggs (though such behavior is actually a characteristic of the mongoose family, which is of a different order of mammals than weasels). He is usually the only successful character in a given episode. The standard image of Weasel wears no clothing, though he will often don outfits appropriate to his activities (such as a lab coat when working as a doctor or scientist). He is prone to declaring "I am Weasel!" before leaping into a situation.Whenever I see Weasel, I cringe. Apparently cartoons are drawn from real life and Weasel has just jumped out of Cartoon Network and into my life.
There is no escaping his pronouncements on virtuosity. He's all puffed up inside despite his cadaverous exterior. He knows it all but masks it in an effacing manner. Asks you for your opinion, and nudges it aside, coz his is still best. Arrrrgggghhhh...
When I get my Masters degree (which will not be in Theology, mind you), I will show this Weasel...
Does this make me I. R. Baboon? :P
Saturday, December 2, 2006
Tolerance and Paper Cranes
You learn something new everyday. I attended a peace forum ( http://archive.inq7.net/view.php?db=1&story_id=35246 ) where Filipino Muslim women and a Japanese hibakusha or atomic bomb survivor shared their experience in keeping the peace in their communities, and even though I could barely imagine what they went through, I could sympathize with their cause.
However, I must say that I am cynical with all these peace talks or forums or exchanges, as I feel that they have little impact, especially in Muslim Filipino affairs.
The common man on the street would think that a Filipino Muslim (or Moro, as they call themselves now --- whatever happened to the negative connotation?) would be prone to violence. Some have been quick to associate them with the Abu Sayyaf, pirates of the South, or else hard-nosed salesmen --- i have been warned many times to be careful dealing with pearl merchants in Greenhills. Muslims have a bad rep all right, aggravated by the US-spread terrorism scare, but the impression is hardly inaccurate, don't you think?
Just last week, the news was of the Muslim Congresswoman who went wild crazy with her bread knife lurching dangerously at their caterer who was not able to correctly inform her that the pansit she ate contained pork. Not exactly a peaceful way to express one's faith, is it?
A Moro woman explained that indeed this is very unfortnate. How the caterer can be so insensitive to the Muslim woman's faith... and how rash the Muslim woman was with her reaction. In one breath, one woman, pronounced Islam as a religion of peace and how there were a lot of misconceptions about it and how these people to people interactions foster a general understanding and appreciation of each culture's unique features, and then say during the open forum that... "mabuti na lang at nasa Manila yung caterer, dahil kng nangyari yan sa Marawi... mapapatay siya." Ah. Okay.
Apparently, there are still a lot of things to do in this issue. Poverty has been pointed as the culprit, along with ignorance and apathy. How people just dont care. How prejudice and discrimination prevail despite the efforts... Probably because people are more concerned with their soap-box pronouncements rather than living as an example...more than talking the talk, they have to walk the walk. For people to go past the stereotype, you have to make an effort to show them that you are not the stereotype.
How can you reconcile such a rich culture amidst rich natural resources be mired in conflict and poverty? How? Everybody concerned, I think, must go beyond dances and paper cranes.
Sigh. What do you think about this issue?
However, I must say that I am cynical with all these peace talks or forums or exchanges, as I feel that they have little impact, especially in Muslim Filipino affairs.
The common man on the street would think that a Filipino Muslim (or Moro, as they call themselves now --- whatever happened to the negative connotation?) would be prone to violence. Some have been quick to associate them with the Abu Sayyaf, pirates of the South, or else hard-nosed salesmen --- i have been warned many times to be careful dealing with pearl merchants in Greenhills. Muslims have a bad rep all right, aggravated by the US-spread terrorism scare, but the impression is hardly inaccurate, don't you think?
Just last week, the news was of the Muslim Congresswoman who went wild crazy with her bread knife lurching dangerously at their caterer who was not able to correctly inform her that the pansit she ate contained pork. Not exactly a peaceful way to express one's faith, is it?
A Moro woman explained that indeed this is very unfortnate. How the caterer can be so insensitive to the Muslim woman's faith... and how rash the Muslim woman was with her reaction. In one breath, one woman, pronounced Islam as a religion of peace and how there were a lot of misconceptions about it and how these people to people interactions foster a general understanding and appreciation of each culture's unique features, and then say during the open forum that... "mabuti na lang at nasa Manila yung caterer, dahil kng nangyari yan sa Marawi... mapapatay siya." Ah. Okay.
Apparently, there are still a lot of things to do in this issue. Poverty has been pointed as the culprit, along with ignorance and apathy. How people just dont care. How prejudice and discrimination prevail despite the efforts... Probably because people are more concerned with their soap-box pronouncements rather than living as an example...more than talking the talk, they have to walk the walk. For people to go past the stereotype, you have to make an effort to show them that you are not the stereotype.
How can you reconcile such a rich culture amidst rich natural resources be mired in conflict and poverty? How? Everybody concerned, I think, must go beyond dances and paper cranes.
Sigh. What do you think about this issue?
Thursday, November 30, 2006
E-enka-Enka Kasi Eh
I will never live this down. The officer from Philamlife is making sure I don't. I will go down in Philamlife history as the person who brought a whole gaggle of okama in a venue supposedly dedicated to classical music! Aaaccck!
Well, not me exactly...it was the old Japanese boys' club who were running the show. But since I was the person who contacted Philamlife and it was like a Filipino to Filipino kind of relating... Aaaaccck! I have learned my lesson to always... always cover my back.
That is what we get for being such Winnie the Poohs. Sticking our hands in hunnee jars, which may also be bee homes as well. Oh well.
Well, not me exactly...it was the old Japanese boys' club who were running the show. But since I was the person who contacted Philamlife and it was like a Filipino to Filipino kind of relating... Aaaaccck! I have learned my lesson to always... always cover my back.
That is what we get for being such Winnie the Poohs. Sticking our hands in hunnee jars, which may also be bee homes as well. Oh well.
Friday, November 24, 2006
A Brush with National Artists
The "enlightening" experience of attending the Arturo Luz exhibition opening last Wednesday was almost upstaged by the sorry state of our family car/ fx, Hot Mama.
Before Hot Mama, allow me to gush over the event that was the Luz exhibition at the CCP.
Because I was starved for any kind of action and excitement, I have made a pact with myself to do one new thing a day, or else to go to an event or something every other day (coz I go to the gym and work out the rest of the days after work). Last Wednesday, I didnt have gym so I scoured through the invites and decided to watch a screening of Ibsen's cinema version of "Enemy of the People".
Why not? It was a free event (movie!) with COCKTAILS! hehehe. Seems like an intelligent, cosmopolitan way to spend a Wednesday night. So, I was all gungho for Ibsen, when CCP called up to invite us to the Arturo Luz opening. This opening is part of a series of Luz openings which started at the NCCA, then at Galerie Joaquin, National Museum, the CCP , the Ayala Museum then the Ateneo Art Gallery.
I was also invited to the NCCA opening but I didn't want to see my sister who is working there (I am not on speaking terms with her at the moment --- yes, she stays at the same house as I am), so I had to forego plans to soak in some abstract art for another day. Anyway, the NCCA exhibit will probably be until the end of the month.
Cultural immersion aside, I was very curious why Arturo Luz, a naturally aloof ("mailap") artist has agreed to the social whirl-a-gig of these openings. And the kicker to CCP's pitch was the acrobatic stint on Luz's paper clip sculpture installation.
Before Hot Mama, allow me to gush over the event that was the Luz exhibition at the CCP.
Because I was starved for any kind of action and excitement, I have made a pact with myself to do one new thing a day, or else to go to an event or something every other day (coz I go to the gym and work out the rest of the days after work). Last Wednesday, I didnt have gym so I scoured through the invites and decided to watch a screening of Ibsen's cinema version of "Enemy of the People".
Why not? It was a free event (movie!) with COCKTAILS! hehehe. Seems like an intelligent, cosmopolitan way to spend a Wednesday night. So, I was all gungho for Ibsen, when CCP called up to invite us to the Arturo Luz opening. This opening is part of a series of Luz openings which started at the NCCA, then at Galerie Joaquin, National Museum, the CCP , the Ayala Museum then the Ateneo Art Gallery.
I was also invited to the NCCA opening but I didn't want to see my sister who is working there (I am not on speaking terms with her at the moment --- yes, she stays at the same house as I am), so I had to forego plans to soak in some abstract art for another day. Anyway, the NCCA exhibit will probably be until the end of the month.
Cultural immersion aside, I was very curious why Arturo Luz, a naturally aloof ("mailap") artist has agreed to the social whirl-a-gig of these openings. And the kicker to CCP's pitch was the acrobatic stint on Luz's paper clip sculpture installation.
The concept for the CCP openings was exciting. There will be six events in one night to take place in different areas in the CCP --- all paying homage and performing around Luz's works. The first performance was a dance performance choreographed by Gerald Madrid and executed by Tiffany Mangulabnan and PJ Rebullida, using Luz's "Black Form, White Space" at the Little Theater Lobby as inspiration. It was okay but not really spectacular. The dancers were competent but the choreography was a bit tired. Not bad but nothing to write about... so....
Next piece was an improvisation by the Tanghalang Pilipino Actors Company played in front of the more lively pieces done by Luz. I think I saw this piece in the performance....
Bagong Taon by Arturo Luz. (1997)
Improvisation as an exercise is well and good. Entertaining even. But this was a performance! In honor of a National Artist. There should have been more effort exerted by the director of this bit.
These set of Luz's paintings were of human images and experiences, which thankfully were not so abstract that I was able to understand and appreciate.
However, TP was not able to fully capture the vitality of these works. What I got from the performances were an amalgamation of grunts, howls and screams to provide the soundtrack to the jumbled frantic contortions of the ensemble. Tsk tsk tsk.
I can let this transgression pass though. I am still a TP fan. It's just that I don't think it was a good idea to just wing it for a Luz opening. Yun lang.
Third on the list was the prints/imprints exhibit opening of works by Luz as well as recent works by other artists inspired or influenced by Luz.
Now, this was where it got very abstract. I saw Luz's prints --- black on black! and entitled, Kyoto # 1, 2... what the? Did that mean that he found Kyoto dark? Better brush up on my art appreciation/ history. Most of the time, I think abstractionists are people who just want a shortcut to be called artists. Because a few well-placed scribbles on canvas may just be construed as art. O di ba? Bongga!
But Luz is different. He is a master. E di ba, National Artist siya? He is deliberate with his strokes, even exacting. Can't say I blame the artists who look up to him and his career. Of the other artists featured alongside Luz, I liked Alcazaren's "Personages" the most. It was this bold wall painting in red, black and white. I can almost see it as a wall in my future home --- in my living room/ family room. Hahahaah!
And because my boss was antsy already to leave, I geared up and put on my game face and started introducing him to people. Kebs na kung kilala nila ako o hindi... as if! I mean, these happenings are primed for networking! That night, I was able to hobnob, as in chika, with man, Arturo Luz himself! Pero that was not the first time cos I first met him at his home. O di ba? His beautiful calm abode which looked very familiar --- parang PETA Theater Center!
National Artists Ramon Obusan and Ben Cabrera were there. Cultural heads were also present at nag-chikahan din kami --- does "hi ma'am/sir! kamusta na kayo?" count?
Wasn't able to stay for the acrobatic finale. It was getting late and I wanted to go home and eat and put my feet up!
Imagine my irritation when coming home, I picked up Hot Mama from the Shangri-la parking lot, where I left her, and she won't start up! Just a pathetic click. And then nothing!
What a way to end the night. Just when you're up, something just might bring you down.
Monday, November 20, 2006
Nesting
Settling in a predictable routine is reassuring and calming. I have worked out at the gym thrice last week (and hope to get my membership' worth the following months); completed my backlog -- even tidied up my workspace!; and successfully opened a workshop last Saturday. If only I were able to attend my Nihongo classes...
This is a good time to catch up on things that should be straightened out. Like long overdue applications -- for travel and learning. Thank goodness for resourceful friends who have pointed my way to brighter paths! Mwah! Now to go back to the drawing, er... writing, uhm, board and update the good old resume.
Despite my months-long travail over my pigsty of a room, I have not really done the right thing and vacuumed the dustbunnies away. Busy ako. There's not too much of a motivation to push me off my lazy arse and rearrange the layout. Since my yapping last month, I have changed my linens and kinda cleared the floor of my plastic and paper bags. Out of frustration, "Manang" has also kinda cleared my closet and put more unwearable stuff in. I would really really like to organize --- as in clear, sort, store and send away stuff. Better to usher in the new year with a clean room and a clear mind. Oh well, we'll see what happens.
This weekend, we went to the last day of the furniture sale at Megamall. We have been craving a major living room change and even attributed the frequent ghostly vibes to the very dark interiors of this room. There were a lot of wood furniture, which have the same design in mind --- zen/ asian. I guess, it is the in thing these days. Oh well, good enough for us coz we bought us a new couch! Now there is no turning back on fixing the homestead...
This is a good time to catch up on things that should be straightened out. Like long overdue applications -- for travel and learning. Thank goodness for resourceful friends who have pointed my way to brighter paths! Mwah! Now to go back to the drawing, er... writing, uhm, board and update the good old resume.
Despite my months-long travail over my pigsty of a room, I have not really done the right thing and vacuumed the dustbunnies away. Busy ako. There's not too much of a motivation to push me off my lazy arse and rearrange the layout. Since my yapping last month, I have changed my linens and kinda cleared the floor of my plastic and paper bags. Out of frustration, "Manang" has also kinda cleared my closet and put more unwearable stuff in. I would really really like to organize --- as in clear, sort, store and send away stuff. Better to usher in the new year with a clean room and a clear mind. Oh well, we'll see what happens.
This weekend, we went to the last day of the furniture sale at Megamall. We have been craving a major living room change and even attributed the frequent ghostly vibes to the very dark interiors of this room. There were a lot of wood furniture, which have the same design in mind --- zen/ asian. I guess, it is the in thing these days. Oh well, good enough for us coz we bought us a new couch! Now there is no turning back on fixing the homestead...
Friday, November 3, 2006
Song in My Mind
You know when you hear a song and you could swear the composer/ singer read your mind... I love love love this song!
KEANE LYRICS
Somewhere Only We Know
I walked across an empty land
I knew the pathway like the back of my hand
I felt the earth beneath my feet
Sat by the river and it made me complete
Oh simple thing where have you gone
I'm getting old and I need something to rely on
So tell me when you're gonna let me in
I'm getting tired and I need somewhere to begin
I came across a fallen tree
I felt the branches of it looking at me
Is this the place we used to love?
Is this the place that I've been dreaming of?
Oh simple thing where have you gone
I'm getting old and I need something to rely on
So tell me when you're gonna let me in
I'm getting tired and I need somewhere to begin
And if you have a minute why don't we go
Talk about it somewhere only we know?
This could be the end of everything
So why don't we go
Somewhere only we know?
[break]
Oh simple thing where have you gone
I'm getting old and I need something to rely on
So tell me when you're gonna let me in
I'm getting tired and I need somewhere to begin
So if you have a minute why don't we go
Talk about it somewhere only we know?
This could be the end of everything
So why don't we go
So why don't we go
This could be the end of everything
So why don't we go
Somewhere only we know?
Thursday, November 2, 2006
Break Na Tayo
When I mentioned to a supplier that I will take a leave tomorrow, he mentioned, "bakit? ang hina mo naman? parang ilang araw ka lang nagtrabaho, mag-be-break ka na?!" I had the mind to put down the receiver on him (well, i did pero sabi ko, "o sigesige na!") and vow never to get his services again. Not a very bad idea. Malapit na siya.
Try working for one whole week (and some) straight. I woke up this morning thinking it was a Sunday. I was that out of the loop. Even if I can work straight up for weeks, I wouldn't. Hmmmm... I think I'll hold our payment for a couple days...(rubs hands together).
I was just thinking of things I could do now that I am going on leave tomorrow.
1. Nihongo wo benkyoshimasu. Because it really sucks when you're the only one who can't get it. We have class again on Saturday and I really hope I don't stare blankly when sensei chirps her questions. I hope I get to chirp back.
2. Once and for all, clean my room. I have been meaning to tidy up cos it has become a dumping ground of sorts for all things paper and plastic. I should really clean and organize my closet before I buy anything. I have loads of clothes already. Gotta make space.
3. Have things that need to be fixed fixed. Like my DVD player. I just bought new movies and series and I could not even view them! I need to see an appliance doctor who can service cheap. If worst comes to worse, then I would have no choice but to kaimasu. Also, I need to get some trousers altered. Got the pants two months ago, and they're still in the shopping bag.
4. Read! Meandered at the Book Sale and National Book Store sale bins and got myself new reads. Gotta find time to read 'em. Before those books, I gotta finish the "Life of Pi".
5. Get seriously massaged before the red time seeps through. It has been soooooo long since I've last gotten myself rubbed and kneaded.
Only 5 items to do? I'm surprised. I usually have a long list ... Anyway, whether the things I meant to do gets done, remains to be seen.
Try working for one whole week (and some) straight. I woke up this morning thinking it was a Sunday. I was that out of the loop. Even if I can work straight up for weeks, I wouldn't. Hmmmm... I think I'll hold our payment for a couple days...(rubs hands together).
I was just thinking of things I could do now that I am going on leave tomorrow.
1. Nihongo wo benkyoshimasu. Because it really sucks when you're the only one who can't get it. We have class again on Saturday and I really hope I don't stare blankly when sensei chirps her questions. I hope I get to chirp back.
2. Once and for all, clean my room. I have been meaning to tidy up cos it has become a dumping ground of sorts for all things paper and plastic. I should really clean and organize my closet before I buy anything. I have loads of clothes already. Gotta make space.
3. Have things that need to be fixed fixed. Like my DVD player. I just bought new movies and series and I could not even view them! I need to see an appliance doctor who can service cheap. If worst comes to worse, then I would have no choice but to kaimasu. Also, I need to get some trousers altered. Got the pants two months ago, and they're still in the shopping bag.
4. Read! Meandered at the Book Sale and National Book Store sale bins and got myself new reads. Gotta find time to read 'em. Before those books, I gotta finish the "Life of Pi".
5. Get seriously massaged before the red time seeps through. It has been soooooo long since I've last gotten myself rubbed and kneaded.
Only 5 items to do? I'm surprised. I usually have a long list ... Anyway, whether the things I meant to do gets done, remains to be seen.
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