Kringkle Star

Happy New Year!

2010-01-01T05:14:00.001+08:00

While looking for a nice New Year's message that I can plagiarize,

I found this quote...

"New Year's Resolution: To telerate fools more gladly, provided this does not encourage to take up more of my time."-James Agate Quote

Happy New Year everyone!

Have you made your New Year's resolution?

The Luminous Mysteries of the Rosary

2009-11-10T16:52:00.000+08:00

The Luminous Mysteries of the Rosary

Rosarium Virginis Mariae, Pope John Paul II's Apostolic Letter which introduced the Luminous Mysteries in October 2002.

Five mysteries, the Mysteries of Light (or the Luminous Mysteries), have been added to the Rosary. They focus on the public ministry of Jesus Christ. They are:

The Baptism in the Jordan

"Here, as Christ descends into the waters, the innocent one who became 'sin' for our sake (cf. 2Cor 5:21), the heavens open wide and the voice of the Father declares him the beloved Son (cf. Mt 3:17 and parallels), while the Spirit descends on him to invest him with the mission which he is to carry out."

The Wedding at Cana

"The first of the signs, given at Cana (cf. Jn 2:1- 12), when Christ changes water into wine and opens the hearts of the disciples to faith, thanks to the intervention of Mary, the first among believers."

The Proclamation of the Kingdom

"The preaching by which Jesus proclaims the coming of the Kingdom of God, calls to conversion (cf. Mk 1:15) and forgives the sins of all who draw near to him in humble trust (cf. Mk 2:3-13; Lk 7:47- 48): the inauguration of that ministry of mercy which he continues to exercise until the end of the world, particularly through the Sacrament of Reconciliation which he has entrusted to his Church (cf. Jn 20:22-23)."

The Transfiguration

"The mystery of light par excellence is the Transfiguration, traditionally believed to have taken place on Mount Tabor. The glory of the Godhead shines forth from the face of Christ as the Father commands the astonished Apostles to 'listen to him' (cf. Lk 9:35 and parallels) and to prepare to experience with him the agony of the Passion, so as to come with him to the joy of the Resurrection and a life transfigured by the Holy Spirit."

The Institution of the Eucharist

"Christ offers his body and blood as food under the signs of bread and wine, and testifies 'to the end' his love for humanity (Jn 13:1), for whose salvation he will offer himself in sacrifice."

Finally.....my car is now at the casa!!!!

2009-10-23T04:48:00.001+08:00

I am so elated...even delighted

I think this is a wonderful advanced birthday gift...

My car is now in the casa for it's tune-up and interior cleaning...FINALLY...FINALLY...FINALLY...

Grabe! I've been trying to "fight my way" into getting an appointment for my car's regular tune-up. The one in Shaw Boulevard doesn't want to accept my car insisting that they do not accept cars that had been affected by the flood despite the fact that I have been telling her over and over na "HINDI NABAHA ANG KOTSE KO!!!! MAGPAPA-TUNE-UP LANG AKO!!!"

Had to go to the Admin to have my "right to have my car tuned-up" exercised. So finally, today is the day...Brought it to the Pasig branch instead...

Hopefully, I get to see my car when I come back next week.

Mababaw may it seem but I really realized that I love my car after Ondoy.

You see I had to leave my car unattended at the nearby Fastfood chain because there was no way it can swim back to our compound because of the flood.

Took this photo of the parking lot from my car on that fateful Saturday morning...the gutter later on got submerged.

The flood water went as high as 80cm the day before.

The photos below were taken at 5AM the following morning...flood water was still at 60cm!

There was no way my car can "swim" in this high water...neither can any other vehicle!

It was only the following day did I get to see her again...But we had to wait until around noon...when the water has somehow subsided.

She immediately got a well-deserved bath!

She was safe. The interiors got wet a little because the rain would come in whenever I opened the window that fateful Saturday morning. But she kept me safe...she provided me refuge...and I am just glad she's safe.

One more year and she'll be rightfully called mine....my longest ever....

Having a great day surrounded "effy" peeps

2009-10-16T16:52:00.002+08:00

I am having a good day.
I am surrounded by "EffY" peeps.
Got a lot of things done in the shortest possible time...
...License errand...
...bank errand...
...car maintenance errand...
...tire replacement errand...

Panalo!
Nawa'y dumami ang lahi niyo nga "effy" peeps.
We need a lot more of you in this time and age!

Randomness

2009-08-25T16:30:00.000+08:00

Tired Brains...have a lot on my head lately...brains feel tired. Must be all the thinking and the planning (not to mention the worrying and computing)...

Well, things will be better. I know.

Reading Blogs...I love reading Daphne Osena's blog. It feels so real. http://daphneosena.livejournal.com/

Love the randomness...so looking forward when things can just be as random as they can be.

Entire nation brings Aquino to final rest

2009-08-05T08:23:00.001+08:00

FONDLY REMEMBERED
Entire nation brings Aquino to final rest

By Dona Pazzibugan, Kristine L. Alave
Philippine Daily Inquirer
First Posted 01:25:00 08/05/2009

Philippines—One by one, friends, family members, employees of former President Corazon Aquino paid tribute to her through anecdotes, painting a picture of a woman who eschewed the trappings and temptations of her office and who was steadfast in her faith and service to the people.

During the three-hour necrological service at Manila Cathedral Tuesday, 19 people gave their heartfelt tributes, most of them ending up sobbing along with the audience.

Ms Aquino’s four daughters especially the youngest, Kris, openly cried upon hearing the tributes. Her only son Sen. Benigno “Noynoy” Aquino III was able to hold back from sobbing.

The senator spoke last, summarizing previous speakers’ testimonials.

He recounted how his mother insisted on going to Fort Bonifacio during the Marines standoff in February 2006, at the height of the protests against President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo over allegations that she cheated during the 2004 elections.

The senator said he was opposed to the idea of his mother joining the chaos in Fort Bonifacio, where tanks and heavily armed soldiers were on standby.

But his mother won in the end. Noynoy recalled her saying: “It is my obligation to go there. It is my obligation to prevent bloodshed.”

When he and the former President arrived near the gates of the military camp, they found the people agitated.

“When she arrived, she took out her rosary and started praying. The people calmed down,” the senator said.

He told the crowd at the cathedral that he chose this story because it encapsulated everything about his mother.

“This was the loving Cory, who’s ready to do what is right despite the consequences and who has full faith in God. She believed in doing whatever we can and letting God do the rest,” Noynoy said in Filipino.

Swipe at political mess

The senator took a swipe at the political situation, saying there seemed to be no change in the country. The former President had been a vocal critic of Ms Arroyo.

“When I see the state this country is in—there are people who follow the law, who strive to study to be better, who are true to their fellowmen and are still asking ‘Why are we still in need?’ It hurts,” Noynoy said.

“There are those who fought before us. But we are still here, fighting,” he added.

There’s hope

On behalf of his family, Noynoy thanked the people who gathered in the streets to bid her mother farewell when her casket was transferred on Monday to the cathedral from the La Salle Green Hills stadium in Mandaluyong City.

He apologized to those who were waiting for hours to get a glimpse of the former President’s remains.

The senator said he was struck by how children, who did not see the 1986 EDSA People Power Revolution and her mother’s presidency, expressed gratitude to his late mother.

“These were elementary children. They said ‘Thank You, Tita Cory,’” he said. This is proof that there is still “hope” for the country, according to Aquino’s only son.

Fought good fight

At the end of his speech, the senator said of his mother: “I really truly believed without an iota of doubt that you fought the good fight, finished the course, and undoubtedly kept the faith.”

Former employees and friends of the late President said they were struck by her humility and simplicity, even while she was the leader of the country.

Exceptional leader

Quezon City Mayor Sonny Belmonte, who was appointed by Aquino to head the Government Service Insurance System and other government corporations, said Aquino never asked special treatment for her or for her family.

“I realized I was serving an exceptional leader,” he said.

Aquino’s brother, Jose “Peping” Cojuangco, said his sister forbade her siblings to build businesses or try to recover their wealth seized by the Marcoses while she was President.

Aquino was also adamantly opposed to the idea that she run for another term in 1992, Cojuangco said. When he offered this idea to her, his sister replied: “My role is to restore freedom and democracy. If I turn over it to my successor, then I’ll be playing that role.”

Anger extinguished

Makati Rep. Teddy Boy Locsin, who served as Aquino’s speechwriter, said working for Aquino extinguished his anger and desire for revenge.

When she told him over the phone that she took up Marcos’ challenge for a snap presidential election, Locsin said he realized then that Aquino “was the answer to my prayers.”

Working for the country’s first woman leader brought out the best in him, Locsin said. When he was at her deathbed, he felt like a “knight at the bedside of a dying sovereign.”

“I know I was lucky to have served a woman who never did wrong ... If you bring me before her again, I’ll be happy,” he said.

From ardent critic to fan

Philippine Daily Inquirer columnist Conrado de Quiros said he was not a fan of Aquino—at first. “I wasn’t an ardent fan of Cory. I was an ardent critic of Cory,” he said.

Subsequent encounters with Aquino—which started from a phone call from her expressing her thanks for an article he wrote—changed De Quiros’ mind. He also recounted how the former President visited his mother’s wake and was struck by her loquacious nature and grace.

In Aquino, De Quiros said he remembered the biblical phrase: “The exalted shall be humbled and the humbled exalted.

“In life and in death, Cory has been—pardon my French—one damn good person,” De Quiros said.

Businessman Ramon del Rosario Jr. said the business community was revitalized when Aquino rose to power in 1986.

He noted that one of Aquino’s legacies was her honesty and transparency in governance—traits that the business community should follow.

“There is no greater tribute to her than abiding by her values of integrity, courage, transparency, morality and love of country,” Del Rosario said.

Del Rosario, who was part of the Philippine contingent who went to the United States just a few months after Aquino was inaugurated, recalled the euphoria of the event. “I would say simply, she made us proud of being Filipino again,” he said.

Best friend forever

Aquino’s sister-in-law, Ma. Aurora Lichauco, made the audience chuckle when she said that she considered Aquino her “BFF—best friend forever.”

“I look forward to seeing you again, although I hope not too soon,” she said.

Although the two women were different in temperament—Lichauco said she was outgoing while Aquino was “stoic”—they shared secrets, happiness and difficulties.

In her eulogy, Lichauco recounted how she and Aquino would visit Ninoy at the stockade and share the humiliation of long waits and body searches.

But sometimes, the two of them would just laugh at the “absurdity” of it all, Lichauco said.

Designer Paul Cabral, who was introduced to Aquino by daughter Kris in 2003, said the former President was so down to earth that when she wanted him to make a dress for her, she went to see him.

“There is warmth and kindness in her. What people say about her is true,” he said.

Paintings

The former President gave him gifts for birthdays and special occasions, even giving him one of her paintings.

“While you became a loyal patron, I became an admirer,” Cabral said.

Makati Mayor Jejomar Binay said he lost a confidante in Aquino. He said he would miss her telling him that he was “one of [her] favorite mayors.” Aquino appointed Binay acting mayor of Makati after Edsa I.

Binay said he was indebted and grateful to Aquino when she expressed support for him when he was suspended by the Sandiganbayan in May 2007.

Other speakers

Others who spoke were La Salle president Br. Armin Luistro, her longtime private secretary Margaret Juico, Gina de Venecia, longtime friend Nonie Uy, former Environment Secretary Fulgencio Factoran Jr., Sister Remy Centeno, longtime friend Merceditas Tuason, close-in security Mel Mamaril and Rosalinda Hortaleza.

Manila Cathedral, which could seat 2,000 people, was packed full. Organizers had to add plastic seats to accommodate people.

Well-wishers who lined outside the cathedral for several hours did not complain as they contented themselves watching the necrological services from two huge screens put up on both sides of the cathedral.

Marcos children pay last respects to Aquino

2009-08-05T08:19:00.003+08:00

INQUIRER.net
First Posted 14:29:00 08/04/2009

Philippines – (UPDATE 2) The children of former president Ferdinand Marcos visited Tuesday the wake of the woman who ousted their father 23 years ago in a bloodless popular revolt.

Congressman Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr., his wife Lisa, and Imee Marcos arrived at the Manila Cathedral at 2:29 p.m. to pay their respects to former president Corazon Aquino.

The Marcoses were escorted inside the church and were met by Aquino’s grandchildren and later by Ballsy Aquino-Cruz, the former president’s eldest child.

Pinky Aquino-Abellada said of the Marcoses’ visit: “I want to thank them for coming. I can sense the sincerity. Personally, I can feel it.”

Abellada also commented on the proposal that her mother’s birthday, January 25, be declared a national holiday.

"Our goal right now is to give mom a proper burial. Super simple yan, mejo mahihiya pa 'yun [that’s super simple, she will even be embarrassed] but I'm sure she's smiling up there," said Abellada.

The Marcoses stayed for about 20 minutes and was mobbed by the media after they left, taking them about 10 minutes to get to their service car.

They refused to give a statement when asked for one but in a separate text to INQUIRER.net, Congressman Marcos said, “Nakikiramay lang kami [We were condoling with the family].”

People outside the Manila Cathedral shouted at the Marcoses, saying “Bati na kayo, ha [So now you’ve buried the hatchet].”

Aquino who has been dubbed as the icon of democracy led the uprising in 1986 that dismantled the 20-year Marcos rule and sent the Marcoses into exile in Hawaii where the former strongman died.

She has accused Marcos of being responsible for the assassination of her husband, Senator Benigno Aquino Jr., in Aug. 21, 1983 when he returned to the country, and of massive graft and corruption.

She ran against Marcos in a snap presidential election under the opposition banner after more than one million people signed a petition for her to run.

Former First Lady Imelda Marcos and the children have since returned to the country and have since resumed their political activities, with Marcos Jr. now congressman and Imee Marcos, a former congresswoman herself.

Marjorie Gorospe, Lira D. Fernandez

http://newsinfo.inquirer.net/breakingnews/nation/view/20090804-218722/Marcos-children-pay-last-respects-to-Aquino

A very inspiring story: Ang Galing Galing Naman!!!

2009-04-07T09:21:00.000+08:00

Bar topnotcher learned hard work from parents
By Edu Punay Updated April 05, 2009 12:00 AM

Deodato and Rebecca Lardizabal, proud parents of Bar topnothcer Judy Lardizabal, show off their daughter's graduation pictures and medals. Jonjon Vicencio

The journey of Judy Lardizabal to the top of last year’s Bar examination was fueled by hard work and perseverance, traits she learned from her parents.

Her parents have always believed that their daughter would go a long way since they sent her to college through their earnings as a tricycle driver and a market vendor.

“She was able to finish her studies because of all our hard work,” Judy’s father Deodato said in an interview with radio station dzMM.

Deodato said he was driving a tricycle while his wife Rebecca was selling goods at a public market in Cavite to support Judy, who finished BS in Social Work, cum laude, at the University of the Philippines-Diliman before entering the San Sebastian College of Law.

Judy is second of three children, the eldest of them also a UP graduate currently working as a restaurant manager in Germany, while the youngest already has a family and is employed as a construction worker.

Natural intelligence

Apart from hard work and determination, Judy is known for her natural intelligence.

San Sebastian Law Dean Willard Reano said Judy’s besting 1,309 other successful examinees did not really come a surprise.

“She was the best student we had. She really deserves it,” Reano said in a phone interview, adding that Judy is a student “whose natural intelligence is supported by her diligence.”

“She was also very analytical. She was always on top. I’m sure these were the qualities that made her number 1,” he said.

Judy topped the 2008 Bar exams with an average score of 85.7 percent, the first Bar topnotcher from SSC.

Judy could not be reached for an interview as of press time.

Dean Reano said they would celebrate Judy’s success with a testimonial dinner “because not everybody gets number 1.”

He also said Judy was known for making history in their college.

She was the first student who scored 100 percent in the taxation exam of Professor Francisco Sababan, a national reviewer, who reportedly even treated Judy out as he was surprised because his class was known to have a passing rate of only 15 percent.

Judy was valedictorian of her class at the SSC College of Law.

Balancing act

Another successful Bar examinee is The Philippine STAR’s western Visayas correspondent, Ronilo Pamonag.

Ronilo, whose father is a retired judge and brother is a CPA-lawyer, said he is very happy to have passed the Bar exams, touted as one of the most difficult in the world.

Ronilo took up AB English at the University of San Agustin, where he graduated in 2001.

He immediately worked as a reporter for a local newspaper after graduation then entered the University of San Agustin College of Law in 2003.

He resigned from his full-time job in 2004 to focus on his studies, then started writing for The STAR in April 2005.

Ronilo said balancing his law studies and his duties as a journalist was not an easy task but he managed to do so with the support of his family, friends and employers.

72.5 passing rate

A total of 1,310 law graduates were declared new lawyers by the Supreme Court (SC) Friday after passing last year’s Bar exams.

The new lawyers will take their oath at 2 p.m. on April 28 at the Philippine International Convention Center.

The Bar passers represent only 20.58 percent of a total of 6,364 law graduates from 109 law schools who took and completed the exams during four Sundays of September last year in Manila.

This showed a 2.4-percent drop in the passing rate compared to 2007 when 1,289 out of 5,626 hopefuls, or 22.91 percent, passed.

Associate Justice Dante Tinga, who chairs the 2008 Bar committee of the Supreme Court, announced that they decided to adjust the passing grade from the traditional 75 percent to 72.5 percent. Last year the passing grade was lowered to 70 percent.

“To be fair to everybody, the Supreme Court deemed it best to reduce the passing average to 72.5 percent,” said Tinga in a press conference.

He said the passing rate would have been less than 20 percent if the passing grade was not adjusted.

Following Bar topnotcher Judy Lardizabal is Mylene Amerol-Macumbal of the Mindanao State University, who got 85.65 percent rating.

The third and fourth places were occupied by Ateneo de Manila College of Law graduates Oliver Baclay Jr. and Majesty Eve Jala with 85.6 and 85.55 percent, respectively.

Ma. Elizabeth Liceralde and Michael Macapagal, both of the University of the Philippines College of Law, placed fifth and sixth, respectively, with 85.4 percent and 84.15 percent.

In seventh place, Denise Dy tied with April Love Regis with 84 percent. Both are from ADMU. They were followed by another schoolmate, Christine Joy Tan in eighth place with 83.8 percent.

Jacob Jihan of San Beda College and Shirley Velasquez of UP were in ninth place with 83.75 percent.

Vanessa Raymundo of San Beda College was in 10th place with 83.7 percent.

Extraordinary prominence

Of the 97 Bar topnotchers so far, some rose to extraordinary prominence after joining politics and government.

Three Bar first placers made history as presidents of the Philippines.

One became a vice president while several others became senators, congressmen, chief justices or associate justices, or were appointed to important government posts.

Manuel Roxas, grandfather of Sen. Mar Roxas of Capiz, made history in 1913 when he topped the 1913 exam with a grade of 92 percent.

Roxas, a UP law graduate, was the first president of an independent Philippine Republic.

Roxas was elected president on April 23, 1946. The Philippines achieved its independence from the United Sates on July 4, 1946. Prior to his election to the presidency, Roxas was also House Speaker and Senate President.

Following Roxas’ footsteps was Diosdado Macapagal, father of President Arroyo. He was elected as ninth president of the Philippines in 1961.

Macapagal, a graduate of the University of Sto. Tomas, topped the Bar in 1936.

Macapagal, however, failed in his reelection bid in 1965, losing to Ferdinand Marcos, who topped the Bar in 1939 with a rating of 92.35 percent. He graduated cum laude from the UP College of Law. He was also a former congressman and Senate president.

As a law student in UP, Marcos was indicted and convicted for the murder of Julio Nalundasan, who twice defeated his father for a seat in the then National Assembly.

He reviewed for the Bar in detention. He appealed and defended his case before the Supreme Court, and won an acquittal.

http://www.philstar.com/Article.aspx?articleId=455422

For Women with A Child or Two: Please share if this chart worked for you

2009-02-06T16:30:00.000+08:00

When I was conceiving Gayle back in 2007, I came across this website while surfing the net on information on how to determine my baby's gender.

You see, one of my most "hated" discussion back then was when people around me will start guessing my baby's gender. For some reason, I just feel so pissed. It must be the hormones.

Anyway, if you've had a child or two, tell me if this ancient Chinese chart of predicting your baby's gender is correct. I just want to do a "backyard" survey.

It did worked for us. =)

Jet Li's Health Tips

2009-01-27T10:06:00.001+08:00

Health tips from Reader’s Digest (latest edition with Jet Li on the cover as Asian of the Year 2009):

• Take 10,000 steps a day.

• Eat breakfast without fail.

• Never skip meals.

• Savour each bite/don’t eat while doing something else.

• Stop eating before you are full.

• Eat slowly/put your fork down between bites.

• Enjoy your favorite foods in moderation.

• Avoid shopping on an empty stomach.

• Target easy wins — e.g., have a diet soft drink instead of a regular one.

• Keep to a shopping list.

• Have five small healthy meals a day instead of three large ones.

• Keep a sense of humor.

• Always leave something on your plate.

• Eat with cutlery, not your fingers.

• Get most of your calories before noon.

Lay-Offs and More Lay-Offs Each Day

2009-01-27T09:44:00.002+08:00

Every morning, I would check my office email, personal email and read the on-line newspapers: inquirer.net and philstar.

And lately, there are a lot of grim news on lay-offs...and more lay-offs...

Intel.
Philips.

Of course, as an intelligent investor would say, buy low...
So this is also the time when mergers acquisitions are happening:

Pfizer buying Wyeth.

These Financial headlines give me goosebumps.

I know how it feels to be faced with so much uncertainties.
I've been in such a situation before.
The difference? The economy was not that gloomy yet. I knew I had options.
But what is happening now.

Lay-offs left and right.

Offices and plants shutting down.

I really feel bad.

Some may think that I am in a "comfortable industry" now.
An industry that proves to be resilient despite the economic times.

But I believe that everything is connected with everything.
It will all come around in full circle.

A better way to put it is, I am lucky to be in an industry that may get hit towards the tail-end of the slump if it doesn't pick-up soon.

It's so depressing.

The last time things went into such gloom was in 1997. During the Asian Crisis.
But I was still in college then.
Money came in easy.

Now that I am managing my finances and I earn my money, I can feel the slump.

I hope the great turn-around will happen soon.

Everyone deserves a good life.

On looking young and feeling young

2009-01-24T07:44:00.000+08:00

I was at the salon yesterday to rejuvinate my long-time neglected hair.

Aside from having a "new" look that makes you feel good, what's nice about going to salons are the selection of magazines that they have-from the latest issues to back issues; from parenting magazines to adult reading...name it they have it.

I chanced upon a Smart Parenting Magazine with Carmina Villaroel and her daughter Cassy on the cover. Browsed through it and read the article on Mina (naks close). Well, the content is just what you expect from such an interview but what strucked me was when she said that she tries not to look like a mom and there is a conscious effort on her part to make sure she looks good.

Wow! She just verbalized what I've been thinking since I became a mom to Gayle! Dapat kahit Mommy na, hindi pa rin mukhang Mommy! Dapat maalaga pa rin sa katawan!

Healthy diet. Healthy lifestyle.

Of course, easier said than done with the kind of environment that we all live in now.

Everything is fast. Everything is on the move. Everything can just cause you stress. (Do I hear anyone saying Motherhood = Stress?!)

The key word here is "CONSCIOUS EFFORT". It's important that one puts in effort in trying to live a healthy lifestyle.

So with that "conscious thought" in my mind, I woke up this morning and pushed myself to go the the gym. Congratulations to me because this is I believe the first consecutive weekends that I've been to the gym since I don't remember when. I am so lazy to go to the gym!

So hopefully, I'd stick to my "conscious effort" mantra because it's really important for one to feel good about oneself...so remind me not to sweat the small stuff and to chill!

Life is too short to be spent thinking about a good management principle to apply in managing the maids!

A New Year's Wish

2008-12-27T12:40:00.000+08:00

Sharing with you a fun New Year's greetings I got from my email today:

After serious & cautious consideration . . .

Your contract of friendship has been renewed for the New Year 2009!

It was a very hard decision to make. So try not to screw it up!!!

My Wish for YOU in 2009

May peace break into your house and may thieves come to steal your debts. May the pockets of your jeans become a magnet of $100 bills. May love stick to your face like Vaseline and may laughter assault your lips! May your clothes smell of success like smoking tires and may happiness slap you across the face and may your tears be that of joy. May the problems you had forget your home address!

In simple words . . . May 2009 be the best year of your life!!!

Fruitcake by Eraserheads: The Book

2008-12-27T07:06:00.002+08:00

There's a fruitcake for everybody
There's a fruitcake for everyone
There are b-sides to every story
If you decide to have some fun

Take a bite
It's alright
There's some brandy and star margarine to make it bright
Take a bite
It's alright
A little lovin' and some fruit to bake
Life is a piece of cake

So goes the song "Fruitcake" by the Eraserheads.

But did you know that there's now a book with the same title and auther available?

Yes, there is.

Yes, the E-heads don't only sing but they also write (well, most of the writings were done by Ely Buendia and edited by Jessica Zafra).

The book was a Christmas gift from Tey, who introduced me to the Twilight series a few months ago (Thank you, Tey Tey). I love receiving books (aside from calendars and notebooks ) If the book came from my "influencer" Tey, it must be worth reading.

So I started reading the books a few days ago.

There is no synopsis at the back of the book thus I don't know what's it is about but again, if it's from Tey, it must be worth reading.

Reading one chapter leads to the next until I finally finish the book this AM (took a few days not because the book was not engaging but because Gayle wanted to play with me most of the time).

It was indeed such an engaging book!

A very light read. A "fun" book for me.

It reminded me of how simple things really are and what Christmas is all about.

I am going to keep the book until the time when Gayle can already appreciate a good story.

I will share it to my little girl because Christmas is really for everybody...so goes the song...

P.S. Look who's reading the book now...my husband who is "not so much into books". Naintriga rin siya. =)

Merry Christmas!

2008-12-22T09:53:00.004+08:00

San Lo's Famous Empanadas

2008-12-20T04:58:00.004+08:00

I recently discovered "San Lo's Famous Empanadas".

Bought a box of 6 yesterday at the Ground Floor of Rockwell with the intent of giving it to a family friend today.

A lot of people were buying so it must be good even if I haven't try it yet. However, meet-up will not happen today so instead of keeping it in the ref for the next 5 days, I decided to warm it and have it for breakfast (Rockwell is just a stone-throw away from here).

I got the "Chicken Empanada" because Chicken is the safest variant. Everyone loves chicken.

Here's my food tasting evaluation: (5 Yummy Star as the highest and 1 as the lowest)

a. Packaging: 4 Yummy Stars

Packaging is very elegant but they should have added contact details though.

b. Product Presentation: 4 Yummy Stars

I love "flaky" empanadas. Because that's how empanadas should be.

c. Taste: 5 Yummy Stars

One of the best empanadas I've tasted. Just the right mix of flavor and texture.

d. Texture: 5 Yummy Stars

I love the way the flakes felt in my mouth as well as the "chunky" chicken. You really know it's the real thing that you're getting.

e. Price: 4 Yummy Stars

It's PhP 390 for a box of 6 Empanadas.

A bit pricey (but it's from San Lo and rent at Rockwell is not cheap) but it's worth every centavo.

f. Purchase Intent: 5 Yummy Stars

I'll definely go back for more...for myself and as a gift.

"May The Force Be With You"

2008-12-18T13:08:00.000+08:00

I have a very good friend who's dear and very special to me.

She's more than like a sister to me.

We went through a lot of ups and downs of life together.

Though she lives far down south and we no longer see each other as often, but we are so in-touch-thanks to SMS and social networking sites-it is as if we're just together.

Today, she texted me about something that bothered her and openly shared the information. I know it bothered her because she's one of the most soft-spoken and patient person that I know (well, she might not agree but yes, you're "patient", friend...compared to me...hahahaha).

I know she doesn't need a blog that will serve a testimonial as to the true great person that she is.

But it's been a long time since I've told her how much I appreciate her friendship and her support. And now is a great time.

Friendship,

I texted you that I will "blog" about you today not telling you what I'll write.

I just want to let you know that I truly admire your strength and patience as you go through this phase of your life ("di ko kakayanin ito"-ito yung quote for the day ko....

This is just a minor set-back.

I know it's nothing to you but again, it's there. Difficult to ignore.

But you're a kind-hearted person.

You always lend an ear and a helping hand to anyone no matter how mundane the situation is.

Don't allow these "incidents" pull you down.

No one can ever put a good man down.

I know I've asked you this question a lot of times but "what is with you that keeps some people interested?"

But I do know the answer...

You have something that they don't.

You are blessed with the "GOOD" Life. (I won't enumerate it na for "blind item" purpose...hahaha)

Let them drool.

Don't spend energy (and piso) thinking about them.

Don't fight back.

You're not like that. Don't stoop down to that level, girl. Ibang level tayo.

My (unsolicited) advice to you is to let it go. DEADMAHIN.

Yes, it's easier said than done (because I might not be able to do it).

But it's the best for you and I know you'll listen.

These are the things that make our lives "colorful". Without these elements, our good life will be too good to be true. They add topics for us to talk about and to "blog" about. So ust let them be.

Imagine, "s/he" spends that much effort and energy thinking about you? It's not easy to come up with those well-written thoughts ah...so top of mind ka niya. Sosyal ka, girl!

Just be the person that you are.

I feel so blessed to have found a great friend like you and I don't like you being "affected".

Love you, Girl and I admire you.

I am just a PM or a text away. Tell me kung kukuha na tayo ng mga back-ups natin from the States.

As we have always said to each other, "May the force be with you."

What song is playing on your iPod now....

2008-12-15T17:33:00.000+08:00

Daniel Powter's "Bad Day" is playing on my iPod now...

It's been a "bad" day.

Not an all-time low but it's simply is not a good day...(it's a matter of perspective you know...half-fill; half-full concept)

How do you know you're having a bad day?

...when you have a nice sexy shoes that was given to you but doesn't fit well

...when you finish work surprisingly early but have to wait for almost an hour for the car to come

...when you have to walk miles just to reach your car because of the urban legend known as "Christmas traffic" not to mention you now have to walk using your "uncomfortably" sexy shoes

...when you're so excited to finally reach home to see your little baby but some wacko hit the side of your car

So if you're having a bad day just like me...sing with me...

(but remember, tomorrow's a new day and it's going to be a "great day" tomorrow!!!!)

Where is the moment we needed the most
You kick up the leaves and the magic is lost
They tell me your blue skies fade to gray
They tell me your passion's gone away
And I don't need no carryin' on

You stand in the line just to hit a new low
You're faking a smile with the coffee to go
You tell me your life's been way off line
You're falling to pieces every time
And I don't need no carryin' on

Cause you had a bad day
You're taking one down
You sing a sad song just to turn it around
You say you don't know
You tell me don't lie
You work at a smile and you go for a ride
You had a bad day
The camera don't lie
You're coming back down and you really don't mind
You had a bad day
You had a bad day

Will you need a blue sky holiday
The point is they laugh at what you say
And I don't need no carryin' on

You had a bad day
You're taking one down
You sing a sad song just to turn it around
You say you don't know
You tell me don't lie
You work at a smile and you go for a ride
You had a bad day
The camera don't lie
You're coming back down and you really don't mind
You had a bad day
(Oh... holiday...)

Sometimes the system goes on the blink
And the whole thing turns out wrong
You might not make it back and you know
That you could be well oh that strong
And I'm not wrong

So where is the passion when you need it the most
Oh you and I
You kick up the leaves and the magic is lost

Cause you had a bad day
You're taking one down
You sing a sad song just to turn it around
You say you don't know
You tell me don't lie
You work at a smile and you go for a ride
You had a bad day
You've seen what you like
And how does it feel for one more time
You had a bad day
You had a bad day

Had a bad day
Had a bad day
Had a bad day
Had a bad day
Had a bad day

Ambassador Appliances: What great customer service can do

2008-12-14T16:43:00.000+08:00

Yesterday, Garry and I decided to go to Glorietta to buy an SLR.

We've been planning to buy one since I don't know when but when you have an "uber techie" husband, expect for the "evaluation" process to take longer than the usual.

He finally made up his mind when I told him that all I want is an SLR that works like a point-and-shoot. Nothing too fancy. As long as it serves its purpose, I will be delighted. Well, it's not for me to use. It will be used to take pictures that includes me and Gayle in them.

So yesterday was the day.

We first went to SM Appliances to check if there is already stocks of the SLR that we wanted. Unfortunately, there was no stocks. Aww men! I can't earn my "SM ADVANTAGE" points!

So we went to Park Square to check out the stores there.

The second store that we entered in Park Square was Ambassador Appliances.

Indeed, thou shall not judge the book by its cover because when you enter Ambassador Appliances, you will not think that they sell new stuff becuase it simply looked like a warehouse! My initial thought balloon read, "this is a very expensive warehouse space"! Everything was disarranged. You see computer print-outs of the items that they sell and the corresponding pricepoints. The display cabinets do not showcase any items but are used to store boxes! What is this place!

While Garry was trying to get the attention of the owner, I read in one of the print-outs that they do sell the camera that we wanted...at a lower price! The good news is, we get the better version by just adding 8K! Wow! This must be some place. So I told Garry to check-out the "upgraded" version.

So when Garry asked for the camera, the owner said that they have it and how we would like to pay. Whoa! We haven't seen the merchandise yet, how sure is she that we're really buying. Garry then asked if they accept credit cards. She asked for what card, asked us to give her the card. Asked us what payment term we want and Viola! She swiped the card.

So I told Garry not to sign yet.

He has to check the merchandise.

So he went through his routine. Checked the camera.

And signed the bill.

We have a new SLR.

But the story doesn't end there.

This afternoon, before we went out for the Barney show in Megamall, Garry said that he found a "dead pixel" in the LCD of the SLR.

A dead what?!

A dead pixel or to be more correct, you say "hot pixel". This is a pixel on the lcd that is always "lighted" thus when you take a photo of a black material, there is a spec that has a white light.

What?! The camera we got is damaged?!

OA. It's not. There are just some LCDs that really have "dead pixels" in them. But still, it's not perfect. We have to have it changed. That one small spec will forever bother me. OC!

I asked Garry to call Ambassador Appliances to inform them about it.

The owner was not there that afternoon and we were informed that she will be coming in late in the afternoon and we were asked to call back.

When we came back from Megamall, we called the store again and we were informed that the owner was not there but we just bring the SLR to them to check without giving any commitment that they will change it.

So we drove down to Glorietta again, braving the payday weekend traffic.

While in the car, I told Garry that he should not settle for anything less than a new camera to be given to him immediately because it is our right as consumers to exchange our merchandise within 7 days of purchase. Ask Mar Roxas!

I decided not to join Garry when he exchange the camera because I might not be a pleasant customer should they decline to change the item.

So while I was doing my shopping, Garry went back to Ambassador Appliances.

And after 15mins, I got a text from him saying that they're given him a new camera.

Now that's what I call great customer service.

So I texted back and said, "That's great. I will blog about this para dumami pa ang mga customers nila kahit na mukhang bodega ang store nila."

Even if I am dead tired from my long day of "relaxation", I logged on to my blog to "blog about Ambassador Appliances".

Establishments should always respect their customer's right. It is through great customer service that they get more businesses. And usually, it is with the most difficult client do you get more business...just like me.

Because of this experience, I have them in my endorsement list for the next years to come.

Here are the top 3 reasons why you should check out Ambassador Appliances for your gadget requirements:

a. They sell their products at a really low price-lower than the SRP.

Tip: Ask if you can pay using your credit card and if they have payment schemes available.

b. They give you options. You'll find in their store "crudely printed" sales sheet comparing the specs of each item.

Tip: Ask them what's the advantage and disadvantage of a specific product if you're not sure which one to get. They tell it to you.

c. They have great customer service.

Tip: Read the blog if you want to know what I mean.

Where to find Ambassador Appliances:

Park Square
Ground Level, Park Square 1
Ayala Center
Makati City
Tel. (63 2) 893-0668

Shangri-la Plaza Mall
2nd Level
EDSA cor. Shaw Blvd.
Mandaluyong City
Tel. 633-9592, 633-5224

Survivor Philippines

2008-12-13T02:44:00.000+08:00

I am not a TV person. Hardly do I watch it. I didn't even have a TV in my room before when I was still single and I still don't have one now that I am married.

I have heard about the local franchise of the reality show "Survivor" months before it was shown. Not much details except that it's going to be hosted by Paolo Bediones.

When the show started airing last September, my boss mentioned that the show was "nicely done" and Paolo was great. So that intrigued me. Watched the third episode of the show that night. The show's timeslot was late in my standards (I like to sleep on or before 10PM hehe) but for the sake of "knowing what's out there", I waited.

The first episode that I've seen didn't impress me.

I was looking for those scenic shoots and amazing sites I've seen in the limited exposure that I've had with the original "Survivor".

So I didn't watch again until I was sent to Cebu last month.

I have this bad habit of not being able to sleep on my first night in a new hotel room. The TV set is my best friend. I watched all of the late night shows on both Channel 2 and 7 (buti na lang, nasa Pinas lang ako, memories of my Shanghai stint came rushing back. An overdose of CNN!)

I got to watch both the local franchise of "Fear Factor" and "Survivor".

Fear Factor: too beautiful Participantes. too many behind the scenes chismis and intriga. Ginawa siyang "Pinoy Big Brother" Argentina edition ng ABS-CBN.

Survivor Philippines: Wow! It's more interesting now with just a few contestants left.

But still it didn't got me hooked on the show.

It was in one agency review when our media partner Starcom showed us the list of top-rating shows. In that list, Survivor Philippines ranked #2. And that really intrigued me. What is the fuzz all about?

I got to watch a few episodes of the last 2 weeks staying up late just to get to know the buzz.

My vote immediately went to JC Tiuseco who eventually won the title of "The First Pinoy Sole Survivor". I find the remaining castaways strategies and moves too predictable. Everyone was too careful with what they do and what they say. Probably thinking more of what's ahead of them after the show.

Paolo Bediones is really the "it" man for such a reality show. I've worked with him in a project before and he's really good at what he does.

For me, Survivor Philippines is a good local adaptation of the franchise.

Not (yet) as good as the original one but not bad.

Should there be a second season (which is almost as sure as the sun rises in the east because of it's rating success), I will watch it...when it reaches it's last 2 weeks para hindi ako mapuyat nang 3 buwan sa kahihintay!

Pepper Lunch, anyone?

2008-12-12T10:32:00.000+08:00

I first heard of Pepper Lunch from my mom a few months back. She calls it "the new restaurant in Rockwell serving really delicious meals". I asked her about the price and she goes, "a meal costs around PhP 200. Kain tayo dun minsan."

My mom loves eating out and when she loves a certain restaurant, she's a TRUE LOYAL-she frequents that place. Mahina na ang 3x a month.

I never had the chance to go out with my mom recently as things are really going haywire especially at work.

I've seen "Pepper Lunch" from afar a lot of times but never really had the patience to join the queue.

Last December 7, Garry and I went to Rockwell to "reward" ourselves for going yaya-less for the past 4 days. He said he wanted to try the place I mentioned to him in passing before.

He asked me to line-up while he went to the movie house to buy tickets.

It was around 7pm then and the line was OK. Not as bad when I first saw the restaurant.

Actually, the wait was not long. Just enough for you to study their menu and make up your mind of what to order (on second thoughts, it must be quite a wait because when we reached the front, I already know what I want which usually takes a long time).

The menu doesn't explain much about the product they serve.

It just says the name and the price.

My thought at that time was, they have such ugly "food shots" a good food stylist and photography will definitely make a difference. The food looks raw.

We ordered the Spicy Tuna Salad (heard from a lady in-line that the salad here is good), the Steak and the Chicken Pepper Rice.

Total Bill (nice POS, by the way. You see the details of your transaction realtime!)

We didn't have to wait long before our first order came out.

Spicy Tuna Salad: It's a Shake Shake Salad (Funny how the waiter had to give me instructions when he gave me the salad. Hmm...this is not the first Shake Shake Salad. We have this at McDonald's )

I personally find this salad good. Sauce coverage was good. Taste was just right.

Main Entree: This is where the real surprise came in.

The food placed on our table were raw meat-as seen on the menu (speaking of truth in advertising huh). Then, the waiter gave instructions of how it should be cooked. Actually, there was a step-by-step instruction on the paper that wrapped the plate but it was indeed a good idea to have the waiter explain it because by the time you figure out what to do, the plate is no longer sizzling.

The Verdict: Let's just put it this way...

The time we took to "cook" our meal was longer than the time the cooked food stayed on our plates...IT WAS SO YUMMY!!!!

You can taste the meat and of course the pepper!

Not a place for the faint hearted and for the kids though.

But its defintely a place to go when you want to reward yourself a hearty affordable meals.

I should thank my mom for introducing this place to us and I can do that by bringing her there one of these days.

A Working Mother's Heart

2008-12-11T15:32:00.000+08:00

At work, you think of the children you have left at home. At home, you think of the work you've left unfinished. Such a struggle is unleashed within yourself. Your heart is rent. --Golda Meir

Now it can be told...

2008-12-07T18:05:00.000+08:00

I feel like I've just won the top prizes in both the Survivor and the Fear Factor tonight!!!

Tonight, Yaya came back from her sick leave (yes, she has SL benefits!). She's been out since Wednesday night. And it was....

A Tiring Experience (honest ako, ito ang una kong nilagay kasi talagang pagod na pagod ako! Am just human to complain! ): Since we didn't expect Yaya to be on SL (sa office lang nangyayari ang "planned SL") we were not prepared.

Of all the days to happen, it just had to happend on a work day! So I had to file a VL last Thursday to take care of Gayle but still had to go to work for 3 hours for some important meetings.

Then last Friday, we really had to map out a really good schedule to make sure someone keeps an eye on her since we left her with our all-around who Mommy dutifully trained last Thursday (complete with a written instructions and a mobile phone)

BUT!!!! it was also....

A Fulfilling Experience: We bonded like anything!

We brought Gayle everywhere with us...

I have a dental appointment last Saturday set months ago and since yaya was still not in, we brought Gayle with us to Binondo!

She had her first taste of authentic Chinese food at Quicksnack....

Then, went for her "first visit" to the dentist....

and even joined us to the "car showroom".

Bonding di ba?!

But today, we didn't bring her out na because I was worried she might have colds!

What the experience had taught me?

Well, let me share them with you so that you can also survive like me (I hope it will not happen to you but it's still best to be prepared):

a. Only the paranoid survives. Always have a back-up:

Back-up plan...back-up yaya...back-up mobile phone...everything that you can back-up, i-back-up mo na....pati back-up car kasi coding kami nung Thursday!

Our all-around maid had been with us since Gayle was born.

Although Yaya has always been on duty and when she's on day-off, it's Garry and I who takes over, I still had her go through a medical examination. I am a firm believer of Intel's Andrew Grove "Success breeds complacency. Complacency breeds failure. Only the paranoid survive" Kaya kahit na matagal na si Yaya sa amin, one can never be complacent.

So when the "emergency came this week", we were prepared with our back-up "yaya".

b. Always have written instructions: Although my all-around is intelligent enough to understand verbal instructions, it's still best to write the instructions in a piece of paper in a language that she can read and understand.

It's a new job for her and just like any rookie, things can be shaky on day 1.

c. Partnership: Garry and I both have busy work schedule but because we know we want to make this work, we decided that we will resolve this "little dilema" on our own.

Though we live in the same compound with my mom, she learned about Yaya only last night because I told her we will not be able to attend the wedding today.

No one will ever help you but yourself. Self-reliance is important.

d. Prioritize: It's very important for you to have a clear head and know what's important. When the going gets tough, the tough gets going.

My job is important.

But my family is even more important

e. Train your babies early on: My friend Aileen lent me the book "Babywise" and trust me...read it, understand it and live it.

In times like these, you'll need a very cooperative and very disciplined baby and Gayle turns out to be one.

We were able to leave the house on shift because we know her sleeping and feeding schedule.

f. Don't forget to reward yourself:

At work, you get bonuses.

At home, you must also get bonuses.

When yaya stepped into the house today, Garry and I went out to have dinner at Pepper Lunch ordering Steak and watched the movie, "Twilight" ( I love you Edward!).

The past 4 days had been one of the most fulfilling days (if not the most) of my life.

I have just proven to myself that I can do it.

During dinner earlier, I was telling Garry that after the 4-day "trial" period, we are now ready to fly abroad...just the three of us!!!! I better start planning this before Garry changes his mind!

Oh, one more thing...I am having an LSS (Last Song Syndrome): "Head, Shoulder, Knees and Toes"...

A Call from East West Bank Call Center

2008-12-02T20:41:00.003+08:00

While registering a new credit card on-line to view statements on line,
The phone beside me rang at around 8:15pm.
Hmm...must be my mother-in-law as our home phone hardly rings.
I picked it up as my husband was watching on-line videos with my daughter.

There was a lull moment then...

The person on the other end of the line introduced himself as "someone from East West Bank Call Center".

He verified if I was Christina Lao and he said that because of my good credit standing, they will be giving me a new GOLD MASTERCARD.

My first instinct was, "WHERE IN THE WORLD DID YOU GET MY HOME NUMBER AND THE INFORMATION ON MY FINANCIAL STANDING". Too personal.

His reply to me was: "FROM HSBC".

I asked him back, "Is HSBC affiliated with EAST WEST BANK"? Was there a recent merger or acquisition? So recent that it was not published on paper which is quite odd given the "hugeness" of HSBC.

He said that they are not affiliated.
They got my information and financial details through the "BANK TO BANK REFERRAL PROGRAM".

Whoa! This is really weird now!

Since when did industry competitors share the same market?
Is the market so small now that industry players need to "merge" their database?
It doesn't sound right.

Then he went on, "I would like to get more information about you."

My reply was "If you got my information from HSBC, you should have gotten the entire information sheet. I am not interested to get a new card at this point." (Taray!)

So after hanging up, I called the HSBC Call Center at 85-800.
I was just put on hold for a few minutes. Not bad for a busy credit card call center.

A certain Cassandra picked up the phone.
She listened to my concern and took note of it.
She mentioned that she will raise the concern tomorrow as they have not been advised of any "bank to bank referral program".
She even verified if I obtained my credit card through an agent.
Nope, I got it through on-line application-I am sure of this because I did that application to get the watch that they were giving away (Cheap! hehehe).

So after informing her about my concern, I felt that she was already ending the call without giving me concrete next steps. So I just have to know what will happen and how I'll get my answer.

You know what she said?

That I call back the call center by Thursday or Friday and they'll give me feedback.

Wow! That really world-class service!!!!
Why should I call them?
They are responsible to give me a feedback!

Well, I am aware that majority of the call centers are not capable of doing outbound calls. But still...FLEXIBILITY is now a corporate buzzword (next to "RECESSION").

Anyway, I just had to email my complaint (which now includes the call center's way of handling my call) to hsbc@hsbc.com.ph which according to Cassandra "goes directly to the bank".

In their website, it says there that they will reply in 2 days.

We'll see about that.

But I would still want to find out if competitors now share database!

Remind me to use 5kg dumbells next time...

2008-11-22T10:10:00.002+08:00

I've been really wanting to shed my pregnancy weight.
I weighed 127lbs when I learned that I was pregnant.
I went as high as 160lbs when I was pregnant.
I was at around 140lbs after giving birth to a 6.5lbs baby...
Now, after more than 15 months, I am down (still) at 130lbs.
An ideal weight for me should be umm...110lbs. hehehe.
20lbs more to go.

Well, I really have to watch what I eat and do exercises.

I am such a lazy girl!

I go to the gym...yes...umm...at least once every 2 months?
So many excuses.

Today, I went back to the gym after a loooong time...I don't even remember when the last time I was at the gym!

My whole body feels really good.
What a good work-out can do.

But do remind me to use 5kg dumbells the next time...
I think I've been using 4kg dumbells for several years now...
Excuses again!!!

But of course, remind me first to go to the gym more religiously!

What's Your Favorite Christmas Song?

2008-11-04T20:28:00.002+08:00

I am so much into the Christmas season already.

I've decorated our home as early as mid-September and even bought a Poinsettia from Tagaytay (hoping it will "survive" up to December")

And today, I am uploading Christmas Songs into my iPod Touch.

Christmas is my favorite holiday more than any other season.
I even look forward more to Christmas than my birthdays.

You see, you get to get away with a lot of things during Christmas...people always say "Pasko naman eh". =)

And more than receiving gifts during this season, I actually look forward to sharing my blessings for the year.

So as I write this blog, my all-time favorite Christmas song is playing in the background...

"My Grown Up Christmas List"

Do you remember me
I sat upon your knee
I wrote to you
With childhood fantasies

Well, I'm all grown up now
And still need help somehow
I'm not a child
But my heart still can dream

So here's my lifelong wish
My grown up christmas list
Not for myself
But for a world in need

No more lives torn apart
That wars would never start
and wars would never start
And time would heal all hearts
And everyone would have a friend
And right would always win
And love would never end
This is my grown up christmas list

As children we believed
The grandest sight to see
Was something lovely
Wrapped beneath our tree

Well heaven only knows
That packages and bows
Can never heal
A hurting human soul

No more lives torn apart
That wars would never start
And time would heal all hearts
And everyone would have a friend
And right would always win
And love would never end
This is my grown up christmas list

What is this illusion called the innocence of youth
Maybe only in our blind belief can we ever find the truth
(there'd be)

No more lives torn apart
That wars would never start
And time would heal all hearts
And everyone would have a friend
And right would always win
And love would never end, oh
This is my grown up christmas list
This is my only life long wish
This is my grown up christmas list

What's your favorite Christmas song?

Blog!

2008-10-30T16:16:00.004+08:00

I just started this new blog today.
Actually, this is not my first blog.
I've done a few in the past but I've never posted them publicly.

Well, I've always have this "hang-ups" of sharing my random thoughts with people around me. So how much more difficult it is to open up to people who you've never met at all!

What made me change my mind and go public?!

Honestly, I have not change my mind a 100%.
I will continue to maintain the 3 "personal" blogs that I currently have and add this one.
Still believe that I need to have my personal space in this "social networking" era and simultaneously keeping up with the changing times. =)

So what will I be "blogging" about?

Actually, it will just be about anything and everything that my beautiful mind comes up with.

It's a good outlet for me to release my stress and tension.
It's a wonderful medium for my creative outputs. =)