Thinking About Tomorrow

Surprise!

2011-06-19T12:14:00.002+08:00

Just checking in. It's been over a year since I last posted. I celebrated another birthday last week!
And in a few weeks.....

:)

Birthdays and other things....

2010-06-14T15:20:00.003+08:00

This week I celebrated my 31st birthday. 31 years...where did time go? I feel like everything just passed me by. I had plans about my life, plans about where'd I'd be at this age. I had plans of making it big in the corporate world. But I am not in control. I thank God for giving me an accepting heart - to trust in His plans, to accept them, and to enjoy them!

This birthday is very much different because this year, I celebrated my birthday with my hubby and my daughter. It was touching to receive a card honoring your hard work as a parent. I cried when I saw my daughter's name on the card (written by Hubby, of course). It feels good to be appreciated :)

On another note, summer has finally arrived here in the Middle East. It's soooo hot outside. Last month, I could still go out and walk to the supermarket. Now, I can't even step out the door. The air is so hot and heavy and thick. I miss winter.

To top it all, we're moving apartments and I have two weeks left to pack everything! Aaaarggghhh. These are the moments when I wish I have a nanny who can look after my baby.

Sorry if my thoughts are scattered as I write this post. I have a few minutes to myself so I decided to blog for a while. The next posts would have more substance (hopefully). Just wanted to express myself so I turned to blogger. :)

Have to say goodbye for now and must attend to the task at hand - boxes and bubble wrap, here I come!

On being a Mom

2010-04-08T20:05:00.005+08:00

My friends would always tease me that I am the perfect Mommy. Girls dream of their wedding day, I dream of becoming a Mom. I praise God that my husband and I have been blessed with our little angel. My life has changed.

I enjoy being a Mom but I have to admit that there are days that I just want to scream my head off and leave. I never realized that taking care of a baby would be a full time job. Yes, I have waited for this moment but I was imagining raising my baby in Manila where help is easy to find. Living abroad, taking care of a baby, taking care of a husband, and running the household....it just isn't easy. But when these moments kick in, when I just want to cry, I look at our little Pi-so (that's chick for Ilonggo, she's our little chick!) and when she looks at me with her big eyes and gives me that beautiful smile, my heart melts and I whisper "I'm sorry" for thinking about giving up.

Being a mom now, I have new found respect for housewives everywhere. Working moms, stay at home moms - all mothers! It doesn't matter if you have a nanny or a housemaid to help you out. I think it's all the same. When I look at Sofia, I still get teary-eyed sometimes - to be responsible for a person's life, this little baby that depends on you so much - it is a gift from God and I am forever humbled that He has entrusted me with this precious gift.

hello 2010!

2010-02-24T17:10:00.007+08:00

It has been ages since I last blogged. I have been so occupied with my wife and mommy duties that I completely forgot about this blog. Plus, I have been busy uploading pictures in Facebook too!

I missed blogging and writing down my thoughts. I rarely find time to sit down in front of my laptop as the little angel is awake during the day longer than when she was a newborn. She turned 4 months this month. 4 Months! Time flies. I can't believe that I have been taking care of a baby for 4 months now, and still breastfeeding! Whew!

Here's a most recent picture of my little angel. Her smile just warms my heart. =)

I will try to regularly post once again, at least to update my family and friends about what's happening in our family =)

Super late post but anyway, Happy New Year everyone! Here's to 2010! This is OUR year!

Happy Birthday, Pangski!

2009-12-02T04:20:00.008+08:00

Today, we celebrated hubby's birthday as a family (yipee!). It has been a great year. We thank the Lord for all the blessings....most especially for our little angel.

Here's the birthday cake that Sofia and I surprised Cesar with!

Look-alike niya yan!

And here's our little angel....she's growing up so fast!

I want some cake, Mommy!

meet our little angel

2009-10-21T12:13:00.003+08:00

i'm still alive!

2009-07-04T19:14:00.002+08:00

I have been in hibernation for the past 2 months, mainly because we couldn't get internet in our new apartment here in Bah. So here's a quick post just to let everyone know that I'm still breathing and hopefully, by month's end, I'll be online!

God bless everyone! See you soon! =)

Happy Easter!

2009-04-13T09:47:00.005+08:00

It has been quiet on my side of the world. I put off blogging for a while as I ponder about God, life, love, and family. Plus, there was sooo much to do, packing up again (yes, we're moving again), going home to Manila, leaving hubby behind in Bah :( , numerous errands, and finding out that we're pregnant!

We thank God for this wonderful blessing and we just can't wait to hold our little bundle of joy in our arms - 6 months to go!

Happy Easter everyone! Let's celebrate Jesus' resurrection and thank Him for giving us the hope of eternal life!

'nuff said.

2009-02-26T16:30:00.002+08:00

The Five Love Languages

My primary love language is probably
Quality Time
with a secondary love language being
Acts of Service

Complete set of results

Quality Time:		9
Acts of Service:		6
Physical Touch:		6
Words of Affirmation:		6
Receiving Gifts:		3

Unhappiness in relationships, according to Dr. Gary Chapman, is often due to the fact that we speak different love languages. Sometimes we don't understand our partner's requirements, or even our own. We all have a "love tank" that needs to be filled in order for us to express love to others, but there are different means by which our tank can be filled, and there are different ways that we can express love to others.

Take the quiz

my first sand storm

2009-02-11T14:32:00.003+08:00

Everything looks "orange-y". Very strong cold wind. I wanted to go out but hubby insisted I stay indoors. Oh well, I hope there are some great movies I can watch. Looks like this will be a long day!

pre-hearts' day

2009-02-04T12:37:00.002+08:00

For Valentine's Day, Sweetcorn gave me something that glitters.....

Nope, it's not jewelry, but it is gold - 10 grams, no less!

How practical! Something I can (wear) carry around and something that grows in value. That's my hubby - always thinking of the future.

Advanced Happy V-Day to everyone!

new year, new adventures

2009-01-28T14:36:00.006+08:00

Hello, world! I have been hibernating the past months. Been so busy fixing up the world and battling government issues....ha!

Seriously, I have had limited internet connection the past months. Plus, I have been taking care of so many things in Manila (banking, sss, insurances, etc.) and before I knew it, it's time to fly to the Middle East. But I will be back in a month's time, so my dear friends (especially you Tet), we have to meet up!

2009 marks the year of Peppercorn! We have a whole new country to explore, new adventures to experience, new friends to make, and more importantly, a really cool apartment to live in!

I am now here in the Kingdom with my Sweetcorn and one word to describe this place: FREEZING. I have to wear layers and layers of clothing to keep warm. I have to enjoy this cold weather though because summer's coming and once it gets hot, it's really, really hot.

We have been staying mostly indoors since I got here, fixing up the place and unpacking the boxes that came from London. And just like before, I leave you with some BEFORE photos:

The AFTER pictures are posted here. Check them out!

Happy Holidays!

2008-12-24T20:12:00.001+08:00

fast forward: day 20

2008-10-20T08:46:00.005+08:00

Everything's packed! Yahoo!

I was a bit overwhelmed. There was so much to pack. We really had to prioritize and in the end, decided to let go of some things. It costs so much more to ship than to buy those things anyway. We packed the piano last. I guess, we're really ready to go.

I feel a bit sad, leaving our first home. But I know that God will take care of us. We're excited to find out what He has in store for us - in Bahrain.

We thank Him for giving us the opportunity to live in the UK. It was fun.

Now, a new adventure awaits!

day 1

2008-10-01T02:03:00.007+08:00

I have to start packing. Seriously. I only have 20 days to sort and pack everything. One big shipment to Manila. And another big shipment to a another country - our soon to be home for the next 3 years ;). I don't even have boxes and bubble wraps! And to top it all, I got sick. I'm still not used to cold weather.

I am in panic mode. I decided to start my "sorting" today but I was so not in the mood. Instead, I ended up spending the whole day cooking!

There's the slow cooker beef brisket....

Sweetcorn's favorite : Baked Beef and Potato Casserole

I took a break after these 2 dishes but I still didn't feel like going through our things and listing down which goes where. And so I ended up cooking 2 more dishes! Whew!

And so, I made seafood bihon....

and finally, some Butternut Squash in Coconut Milk (fondly called Ginataang Kalabasa)

So there. I seriously have to start packing. We have enough food to last us the whole week!

T.W.M.A.

2008-09-18T06:23:00.004+08:00

What's going on?

2008-09-18T06:05:00.002+08:00

It's funny how life (how God) throws surprises your way. Barely 6 months in the UK, my passport on hold by the Immigration Office - making me unable to work, unable to travel - then wham!

Sometimes I still get overwhelmed - making grown up decisions sure is hard! Especially if you're married then you have to think of your partner too. Decisions will not only impact you, but his/her life as well.

I don't know what God has in store for me - for us. All I know right now is that I'm putting my faith in Him and I'm offering everything to Him.

May His will be done.

Missing Manila

2008-09-09T06:26:00.001+08:00

Umaga na, sumisikat ang araw
Muling lumipas ang isang gabi
Ayoko nang dumating pa ang bukas
Pagka't tayo'y magkakalayo

Pagdating ng araw at di na makita
Ala-ala ko sa'yo
Isang awit na galing sa puso
Alay ko sa'yo

Marami nang dinanas sa buhay,
Marami na ring minahal
Ngunit ibang-iba ang nararamdaman
Kapag kapiling ka na...

Pagdating ng bukas, maaring wala ka
At wala na ring iba
(Ikaw pa rin sinta)
Ito lamang ang tatandaan:
Mahal pa rin kita...
Mahal pa rin kita...

two-gether!

2008-08-17T05:09:00.002+08:00

Credits

This month marks our 2nd year anniversary. Yey!

I'm so happy to be stuck with you, Sweetcorn!

This song says it all....

Saving Grace by Pete Murray

I got you
You know I heard you say
You blossomed into a beautiful day
Your sunlight keeps shining in my face
I would see it even in deep out of space

And all in time
I know I will see you again and again
And every night I'm going to hold you and hold you and then
Before the light I will rescue and then we'll begin
To start it all over again

I love it
And how you clear my way
Guide me into a brand new day
In your eyes you know I've found my place
You see you - you are my saving grace

And all in time
I going to see you again and again
And every night I'm going to hold you and hold you and then
Before the light I will rescue and then we'll begin
To start it all over again

Don't ever want to miss you
Don't ever want to forget you
The way you are….today

And all in time
I going to see you again and again
And every night I'm going to hold you and hold you and then
Before the light I will rescue and then we'll begin
To start it all over again

cutting down

2008-07-23T17:20:00.006+08:00

Living in the UK means bigger expenses, especially for the "pamper" stuff like hair cuts, pedicures, massages, etc. And so, in an attempt to save some money, I volunteered to play barber and give hair cutting a try. After all, I can't imagine shelling out almost 10 pounds for something we could get for less than 2 back home. But then again, we have to make some adjustments, I guess - these things we just have to accept. Especially after how my hairdressing attempt turned out....

Before

He said, just cut it short... and so I did. I must say, I loved every minute of it! I couldn't stop laughing. It took me almost 2 hours to finish.

After

He's not so happy about the outcome, huh? You see, I made a few mistakes (hahahaha) and since I don't want my husband to look like he's got hair humps and bumps on his head, not to mention a really weird zigzag design, I decided to take it all off. A way out for me, I guess =)

In a few months, when it's time for another haircut, I'll volunteer to...well...pay the bill. =)

hello, world!

2008-07-02T15:36:00.006+08:00

4 weeks in the UK and I'm still a bit overwhelmed about everything that's happening. So this is what it's like being "married". Don't get me wrong, I would strongly recommend marriage. I just realized that it's hard work as well as pure fun. I feel like I've grown up the past weeks. I'm actually taking on adult tasks! Hahaha.

I have learned that caring for someone is really...what's the word? a BLESSING? an ACT OF LOVE? I can't find the right description but basically, caring for someone makes me feel closer to God.

I miss Manila and I miss my family and friends. But I know that God has big plans for me and sweetcorn. We're both excited!

I haven't blogged much because I've been busy fixing up our place. Just to give you a sneak preview, here are some before and after shots:

BEFORE

AFTER

BEFORE

AFTER

I'm putting the finishing touches then we're ready for that housewarming! Like what I said, marriage is hard work! ;)

Got to go! I'll be checking in again soon with stories of our UK adventure!

off to a great adventure!

2008-06-06T22:59:00.005+08:00

In the spirit of Ate Shawie's latest movie, I packed my bags, and now I'm here in London.

I got my visa last May 30 then I was off to London last June 3! I'm sorry if I didn't get to say goodbye to you, my dear friends. As it turns out, this will be a short trip for me. I'll be back in November...so basically, I'm just taking a vacation.

God answered our prayers. I just wanted to spend my birthday with Sweetcorn. Thank you for small miracles.

Now life begins! =)

P.S. my globe number's on roaming so I'll expect birthday greetings =)

What makes me HAPPY?

2008-05-10T08:07:00.000+08:00

This!!!!! =)

Link: PlayMyGame

Macau Mania

2008-04-21T17:34:00.015+08:00

Macau trip with my family. Lotsa food, lotsa fun. I can't help but compare Manila with Macau. Oh, how I wish we could seriously improve our public transportation system! I'm still tired as I had very little sleep the past 5 days. So here are the pictures. Let them tell the story....

On our way!

Checking in at Casa Real....

Touring the city...

The Venetian no less...

Crossing the border for some shopping in China...

We got caught in the rain, I think it was signal no. 8 (Neoguri Typhoon). No buses, no taxis. It was quite an experience. Nobody could really speak English (how sad). Good thing there were so many Filipinos in Macau, ready to help, ready to "rescue" us.

That's about it. More pictures at my multiply site!

Happy Easter!

2008-03-23T20:41:00.014+08:00

Sharing with you some pictures during the Annual LV Easter Egg Hunt! I felt so old, seriously. Not so long ago, I would get all excited, ready with my big basket for some egg hunting! Now, I helped with the program....and everyone's calling me "Ate".

But just like old times, it was fun! =)

Celebrating after the event...is there something on my face? ;)

:(

2008-03-15T16:16:00.003+08:00

If I had me a bag of good wishes

There's no mystery to what I would do

I would use all my magical powers

And try to get next to you

I would bring you a field of flowers

As your lucky star would do

With my heart I would paint you a rainbow

If I could get next to you

Late at night when I close my eyes

Make believin' that you are here

Dreamin' of the things we do

If I could get next to you

post analysis

2008-03-15T14:01:00.003+08:00

I attended a wedding yesterday, the first after my own. I was a bit hesitant, attending the church ceremony only because I was pretty sure that I won't be able to control my emotions. Ta-da! As soon as Alex walked in, tears started. I cried when Alex and Mike exchanged vows, I cried when they exchanged rings, heck, I even cried during the offertory (touched by the songs, fyi).

As I knelt down to pray, I couldn't help but cry (again!). But this time, they were tears of sadness...and perhaps tears of frustration. I called out to our Lord - I need to be with my husband. More than ever, I felt so alone. Two people joined together as one - nothing could be more beautiful than that. But here I am in Manila and my husband is in London. Though I'm surrounded by friends and family here, I long to be with him.

I couldn't help but re-live the emotions and feelings I felt during my not-so-long-ago wedding...I realized I didn't cry. I guess I was too happy to cry, not even to cry tears of joy.

How I wish I'd feel that way again...

More pictures!

2008-03-14T15:03:00.003+08:00

Sharing with everyone pictures shown during our wedding reception. Some growing up pictures, and lots of together pictures! Feel the love! =)

View them
here.

cooking 101

2008-03-07T18:41:00.004+08:00

The past month was spent taking cooking lessons from my MIL. I enjoyed visiting my in laws in San Juan. Cooking lessons --- a lot of my hubby's favorites, a few "must-know" recipes --- and much time spent talking about the future, my Sweetcorn, and life in the UK.

Here's sharing with everyone my first attempt at making a banana cake. Our oven broke down and I had to use an oven toaster -- hence, the small round cake. I had to use the small round pyrex bakeware. It was the only thing that could fit the small oven. I had to bake 6 cakes when it could've been just one big pan of banana cake.

In any case, I must say that it went pretty well. So watch out London! When you say pot luck, we'll bring the dessert! =)

2008-02-24T23:22:00.004+08:00

Create Fake Magazine Covers with your own picture at MagMyPic.com

Got the link from Mich!

missing Rica...

2008-02-24T23:04:00.004+08:00

Had dinner at Friday's to celebrate Farrah's birthday....

First we were five, now we're four =(

Who's leaving next? We're all growing up so fast....

Love is....

2008-02-24T23:02:00.002+08:00

.... believing that we'll be together soon!

hmmm....

2008-02-15T18:45:00.001+08:00

Why are you different

Why are you that way

If you don't get in line

We'll lock you away

It's a typical situation
In these typical times
We can't do a thing about it
Too many choices

LOs and Life

2008-02-15T00:35:00.007+08:00

And because I'm depressed, I started scrapping again. Darn it. It's almost 1am and I have a really early meeting tomorrow but I don't care. I finished 6 layouts today. Now I feel so much better!

My 3-week recovery period is over and I realized that I didn't blog as much, nor scrapped. Now here I am staying up late doing all these things. Oh well. 3 weeks is such a short time anyway. I spent most of that time reflecting about life, about the future, and taking inventory of all the things I have stored over the years. I was shocked to discover that I have accumulated so much stuff (read: trash). I'm thinking of selling some of my things but it's so hard to let go sometimes. Maybe I'll give it until the end of this year. I realized too that I have over 20 books that I haven't read yet. Tsk, tsk. Plus, I have some missing CDs and DVDs. But that's okay. I have some that I'm pretty sure I didn't buy. So that writes off the missing discs. =)

It's a good thing I opened all my boxes and checked out my things. I'm moving soon and I was able to set aside the things I'll bring along. Or maybe I'll just leave everything behind. Let's see. But one good thing about my clean up - I found a lot of pictures, letters, souvenirs! I felt sentimental going through some old letters, looking at photos and old scrapbooks. God is good. I've had a good life. And I know that I'll have a happy life with my hubby too. I feel so blessed. =)

Oh, and I also found my lists! A list of things I want to accomplish before my 30th birthday which is coming real soon (my goodness!). A list of the places I'm hoping to visit. My recipe notebook. And some other lists about dreams, hopes, and wishes. I'll share them with you some other time.

For now, I have to sign off. I really need to get some sleep. So good night, dear friends. Sweet dreams!

* Good news * Ramiele made it to AI!!!! Yey!!!! I'm not so depressed anymore.... =)

i'm so sad...

2008-02-14T21:26:00.004+08:00

What a bummer. Team Philippines lost the Race. I can't believe it. I'm so sad.

They were so good! How could this have happened????

I'm really depressed. Aaargh. I hate it. Aaaargh.

* picture from the Amazing Race Asia website

2008-02-14T17:09:00.001+08:00

'nuff said.

2008-02-14T15:58:00.001+08:00

'nuff said.

2008-01-31T08:54:00.000+08:00

highly recommended

2008-01-23T23:18:00.000+08:00

Who is the judge?
The judge is God.
Why is he God?
Because he decides who wins or loses. Not my opponent.
Who is your opponent?
He does not exist.
Why does he not exist?
Because he is a mere dissenting voice of the truth I speak!

I looove movies about teachers and students and their quest for success. The Great Debaters is a must-see film! After watching the movie, I googled Melvin Tolson. I admire him. I sometimes wish I could go back in time and be there to witness it all. I would have loved to make a difference.

Maybe it's not too late?

checking it twice

2008-01-23T20:36:00.000+08:00

Being home, recovering from an operation, has its quirks. I have been able to catch up on some of the movies/series I missed the past year. First up, The Bucket List. I've never heard of this movie so I decided to give it a try. Besides, with Jack Nicholson and Morgan Freeman, why would I go wrong?

picture from Yahoo! Movies

I ended up crying after watching the movie. I actually keep a bucket list. A list of must-see places before I kick the bucket. A list of must-do things before I die. I re-visited the list and as expected, I have a loooong way to go. Hopefully, I still have a looong life to live.

But should God decide otherwise, I'm happy. I have lived long enough to find the joy in my life!

author's note:

this is what happens when you're drugged, operated on, then drugged again! you end up watching movies about death!

missing bugs

2008-01-23T15:23:00.000+08:00

The week my husband left for the UK, I felt really sick. This normally happens after Sweetcorn and I exchange tearful goodbyes (ha! think OFW goodbyes) at the airport. I jokingly call it my "missing bugs" syndrome. But the pain remained, and a week later, I developed stomach cramps. Later on, I would always throw up. After 3 nights of no sleep because of the pain, I went to see a doctor in a small clinic near my office. My suspicions were confirmed. I have UTI. And so I bought the prescribed medicines, hoping that this sickness would just go away. After 3 days of medication, I'm still crying from the pain and I decided to go to the emergency room of Medical City just so I can ask for some strong painkilllers. I just want to get a good night's rest!

Saturday, January 19, 2:oo am - My brother brought me to the ER. Tests, blood samples, medicines, etc. Apparently, I don't have UTI, contrary to what was diagnosed. They were quite alarmed because the right side of my body was painful. It could be a lot of things (i.e. apendicitis) the doctor said.

4:00 am - City Sonogram to check/validate what's wrong with me

6:00 am - The ER doctor informed me that I have acute cholecystitis a.k.a. gall bladder stones. I was to be operated on immediately

9:00 am - I was transferred to a private room

10:00 am - I was informed that I will be in surgery at 1:00pm. I was cleared for surgery by 3 doctors, I think.

11:00 pm - Two male nurses picked me up from the private room and transferred me to the Operating Room waiting area. I changed into the hospital gown they provided.

12:00 nn - Counting the minutes...

1:00 pm - My eyes are closing, the anaesthesia taking effect

5:00 pm - I wake up, it's done. I was wheeled back to my room.

And that's how my weekend was.

It all happened so fast. I have secretly dreamed of this moment, of being a part of it all - doctors, surgery, etc. - all the Grey's Anatomy episodes I've watched probably rubbing off on me. But when it finally happened, it was all a blur.

Now, I'm back at home, recovering from the operation. I tried to do some errands but I ended up feeling nauseous. So I'm just lying down, trying to catch up on a lot of reading, and checking in online too. My surgeon gave me the stone they took out as souvenir. It's awfully big. I'm just glad they managed to pull it out.

I'm glad it's over but I'm sad because my hubby wasn't there to see me through this ordeal. I really hate long distance relationships.

I'm sure no surgery can pull out the missing bugs slowly settling in on me...

face off

2008-01-16T00:57:00.000+08:00

Little Bez and Big Bez!

Sooooo cute!

2008-01-12T22:33:00.000+08:00

I just love this picture. I can't wait to have my own sweet little girl. *Hint*Hint*

Hahaha. But seriously, I'm just feeling happy today (though I'm missing sweetcorn). This will be our year!

Happy New Year everyone! God Bless!

more pictures!

2008-01-10T01:06:00.000+08:00

Oh, happy day!

Ready to go....

Stuffed hippo for flower girls, souvenir for guests, my wedding cord (by beautiful bonds ), arrhae silver coins.........

Yes, we do!!!!

The entourage....

Finally, we can party!

Finally over!

the video!

2008-01-05T23:57:00.000+08:00

Sharing with everyone our wedding on-site AVP by John Ong. Enjoy!

woohoo!!!!

2008-01-02T17:25:00.000+08:00

the groom...

the rings...
the bride...

....and yes, we made it!

Happy Holidays!

2007-12-25T09:02:00.000+08:00

Friends and Family,

Thank you for all the love and support you have shown us in 2007. We are excited to start a new adventure together --- married life! We wish you all the best and may God continue to shower us with His blessings. Let's keep the faith!

Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!

one week to go!!!!

2007-12-19T06:40:00.001+08:00

...........and I will be a Mrs! Uh-oh.....Is this for real????

Happy Birthday, Mahal!

2007-12-01T00:10:00.000+08:00

back to the 80s!

2007-11-28T16:16:00.000+08:00

This year's Christmas party theme is "back to the 80s!". I was born in 1979 and I don't remember much about the eighties except my brother's mobile days (I would wake up to the music of Spandau Ballet), the EDSA revolution, and moving houses from Makati to Pasig.

We decided to dress alike. I think people thought we dressed as the "Bituing Walang Ningning" singers. Hahahahaha.... =)

oh, to be a bride!

2007-11-28T15:48:00.000+08:00

We held a bridal shower for Rachel (a.k.a. Eng) last week - - - the naughty ;) kind.

It was fun. I got home around 3am. I should've stayed overnight.

the bride with the special guest

Yahoo! Right on target! Well, almost...

I need that fat willy! (oops!)

Surrounded by love and laughter....

Cheers to all the brides in the world! It's such a nice feeling... =)

...now the shower part

2007-11-18T20:44:00.001+08:00

Yesterday, I really felt that it's sooo real. I am getting married! My friends threw a surprise bridal shower for me. I thought it was just one of our usual get-togethers at Michelle's house. After dinner, we went to the living room and surprise, surprise - it's my first Bridal Shower! I received some funny and interesting gifts... Check them out:

I'm friend #4 getting married in this group. We all met during the Summer of 1997 and we all served in Youth for Christ (Central Sector). Now after ten years, the friendship and bonding is still stronger than ever. I thank God that I have good friends who truly love and care for me. We met and grew in faith together, serving the Lord. I am truly blessed.

I'm starting to feel sentimental... =)

Enough of that...where's the DVD player? I have a "documentary" to watch! Hahaha....

showers and christmas

2007-11-18T20:26:00.000+08:00

Every year, we really get into the Christmas spirit! The house will be once again, filled with Santa Clauses and colorful presents. My sister and I would prepare candy bags for nieces, nephews, godsons, goddaughters, and for those "impromptu" visits by friends and family during the season. It helps to be prepared. We usually put the goodies in gift boxes that we buy from SM or Surplus. Unfortunately, this year, one box costs Php 100! That's a bit too much, especially with the wedding expenses we need to pay. And so, trying to be oh-so-creative, I found some cute Christmas socks (Php 6.00@) and some clay xmas ornaments (Php 13.00@). With the use of a glue gun....ta-da!!! we'll have some cute goodie bags this year.....And the packaging only costs Php 20! For the older ones, we'll just buy some banig boxes in Quiapo and glue the cute ornaments. Here's a picture of the materials. I'll post some finished products soon.

Christmas is soooo near. It seems like only yesterday when I celebrated my first Christmas with Sweetcorn. Time flies so fast....and this will be my LAST Christmas as a Single girl! Huhuhu....

wedding update

2007-11-13T23:01:00.000+08:00

The excitement is building up.....hahahaha....Yeah, right! I can't wait to experience "getting cold feet" (Joke!)

Tomorrow night, I will be able to take pictures of the little girl gowns! To be honest, I'm more excited about how the kids will look like more than how I will look like on the Big Day. They're just oh-so-cute!!!! I can't wait to have kids of my own someday =)

Now, for the 3 flower girls...look what I found! Instead of the usual teddy bears, I bought these cute hippos - and it's the perfect color too!

And below are pictures sent by my florist. We'll follow the color motif, of course. These are just samples...

So there you go! Flowers make me happy. And thinking of my wedding makes me happy.

Goodbye, cold feet! =)

the left or the right????

2007-11-13T21:56:00.000+08:00

You Are 40% Left Brained, 60% Right Brained

The left side of your brain controls verbal ability, attention to detail, and reasoning.
Left brained people are good at communication and persuading others.
If you're left brained, you are likely good at math and logic.
Your left brain prefers dogs, reading, and quiet.

The right side of your brain is all about creativity and flexibility.
Daring and intuitive, right brained people see the world in their unique way.
If you're right brained, you likely have a talent for creative writing and art.
Your right brain prefers day dreaming, philosophy, and sports.

Got this from Bonggamom and I took the test! I think my right brain is functioning MORE now, with the wedding planning going on in my head.

How 'bout you? Are You Right or Left Brained?

you've got mail!

2007-11-06T22:37:00.000+08:00

I enjoyed this little exercise - the last time I went to a post office was back in college. I remember paying around Php 5 to send mail within Metro Manila. Now, it's Php 23! (okay fine, I admit, the envelope I bought weighed a lot - exceeded the lowest price range) But still, without my cute mail envelope, it would cost around Php 17! In any case, I had fun. I felt excited. Really, really cool. I had fun with the butterfly stamps.

Now, here's praying they don't screw up my mail!

yllets time

2007-11-05T00:20:00.000+08:00

Baby Shower for Kath's Baby number 3. Number 3, people. Third baby girl. Oh my goodness, I'm getting old. Where did the time go?

the countdown begins!

2007-11-04T23:02:00.000+08:00

I have been quite busy with a lot of wedding preparations. Now, I'm finding out that preparing for a wedding for a whole year can be quite nerve-racking. And people would probably think otherwise. Sometimes I wish we just eloped, hence, not too much pressure on the Big Day. In any case, I had fun taking care of things, the excitement and build up, and I can't wait to see everything happen right before my eyes. Though I have to admit that I see my wedding day now more as an event (much like the events I do for the company I worked for in the past). I know, I know, I shouldn't think that way but really, I can't help but feel that I'm the Project Manager of the Picazo-Sulit Big Day. Maybe I should get a headset? Hmmm.... =) But don't get me wrong. I am still excited. Though the bride in me is still contained somewhere deep inside. I'm more excited about the fact that in less than two months, I will become a wife to the man of my dreams. Uh-oh.... (Monica style, please) I'm going to live with a boy!

Here's sharing with everyone what I have been up to lately....

The personalized guestbook:

Each table will be given a guestbook page. Each guestbook page was specially designed by me. Basically, they're the same pages that will be shown in the AVP. I just re-arranged the designs to give space for people to write their messages. The close up page shown above is one of my favorites!

The invitations with some do-it-yourself labels:

The invitations are here (kisses to my bestfriend for shouldering the cost). I love my sticker maker!!!!! Makes life so much easier! And everything looks professionally done. You should get one =) I'm actually excited to show this cute little gadget to Sweetcorn's nieces and nephews. I'm sure we'll have a great time making stickers together.

The gifts for the entourage:

Credit goes to my sister for the very creative gift wrap. She made the beaded tag holder herself. Everything looks so classy! =)

So there, check in once in a while for more updates. Maybe next week, I can show you the gowns!

Gotta sleep! Goodnight world!

getting ready for halloween!

2007-10-21T20:27:00.000+08:00

I love kids, therefore, I love being involved in kid activities. Next week will be Las Villas' halloween celebration! I can't wait! My Sunday was spent with my brother and sister, buying goodies to give away to cute little "monsters" and "witches" on October 31.

Now, for my own costume...hmmm.....

Go tell 'em Johnny

2007-10-15T12:06:00.001+08:00

Sorry if the topics have been heavy lately. Last for the month I promise =). I like this video and I just wanted to share it with everyone. Ladies and gentlemen, Mr. Johnny Cash...

Newsflash - Ron Paul's bad side

2007-10-10T15:36:00.001+08:00

The enemy has discovered a horrible truth about Ron Paul! Just when I thought I knew the guy. If you find out any more dirt about him please let me know. Look at that video...

urgent!

2007-10-07T08:38:00.000+08:00

I dedicate this to the one whose birthday is on October 5 =P

I’ve had many friends laugh at me and say that I’m comedy, paranoid, uninformed, or whatever. All because I’m promoting this “nobody” named Ron Paul.

Now I know most of you get your information from CNN or Fox so I can’t blame you. They said he’s a nuisance candidate. They don’t even show him. In fact you’d be surprised if I told you that after every Republican debate [held by Fox or CNN or NBC, etc.], he’s won the post-debate poll! Oh you don’t believe me? Just type into Google “Ron Paul wins poll after debate”.

But not surprisingly, the mainstream news would talk about the results for like 20 seconds, and then go on about Hillary or Giuliani or Obama and how wonderful they are, and they’re the great hope of the nation. And most of you believe it. Yes, they put some hotshot newscaster in a fancy suit to say anything and most of you’d probably believe it. If tomorrow they said Iran had WMD’s, I bet most of you’d probably believe it.

Now I’m really sorry if I have to hit Hillary fans, but I just hate her. She is soooooo slick at making herself look like the good leader.

Here’s one example. On TV she keeps criticizing Bush about the Iraq war. Looks good ey? But then you go look at her voting record, and my God… she voted for invading Iraq, she’s consistently voted against the complete withdrawal, she is for the war! And it gets worse when you read her quotes about Iran. So there’s a hint… you make her president and she’ll take you straight into Iran.

Speaking of voting records, they’re usually a good indicator of a congressman’s/ senator’s true colors. And have you seen Hillary’s voting record?? Disgusting! It’s so aligned with Bush’s policies; you’d conclude that they’re allies. There are some issues where she differs though… like abortion. There was a proposed law that would make it a crime if someone attacked a pregnant woman and killed her fetus. She voted against that law. There’s the true Hillary for you.

Believe me there’s so much more… like you’ll find written books actually quoting her using the “F” word on her staff, and I don’t mean just once or twice. Yup, that’s who she really is.
And have I mentioned her cocaine-smuggling husband? There has been much sworn-testimony of people connected to Clinton incriminating him. And then a number of unnatural deaths happened to people surrounding Bill Clinton’s accusation. Do you know who Sharlene Wilson is? Look her up. And please don’t just snicker and say I’m making this up. In fact his brother Roger Clinton went to prison for drug trafficking and was recorded saying he “Gotta get some for my brother”.

Here’s something I stumbled upon…

Posted: November 18, 1999
1:00 a.m. Eastern
© 1999 WorldNetDaily.com

A New York Post survey of readers sampling nearly 20,000 people ranks Bill Clinton second to Adolf Hitler as the most evil person of the millennium.
Hitler received 8.67 percent, or 1,664 votes, and Clinton received 8.47 percent, or 1,625, placing him well above mass-murdering Soviet leader Josef Stalin, who got 6.69 percent, or 1,284 votes.
What makes the president's appearance on the survey more astonishing is respondents had to write his name in, while Hitler, Stalin, Pol Pot, Dr. Josef Mengele and others were listed on the survey. First lady Hillary Clinton came in sixth on the survey, with 3.99 percent and 765 votes -- all write-ins.

That isn’t me talking, my friends. That’s a NY Post survey. Even if it weren’t true, those 2 aren’t just there for no reason.

This is what’s so amazing about all you Hillary fans. Most of you don’t know anything about her, and you love her! Now I know ignorance is bliss, and you’d rather just live your happy life and let BBC or CNN feed you the information while watching Jack Bauer torture people on “24”. Plus you probably don’t believe me. So go ahead and vote for her. Heck, just vote for Hillary, or Giuliani, or Mitt Romney, or Obama, it doesn’t matter! You’re going to keep paying for that war, and then pay some more when they go into Iran, and then see oil triple and the dollar disappear.

Or there is an alternative. You start getting truly informed! I challenge everyone reading this to go research their candidate. And then PLEASE PLEASE research on Ron Paul. Look at who he is, look at his supporters, and look at what he stands for. Even if you just go to small sites or go see small YouTube clips about him. Search “Ron Paul” on YouTube and you’ll see what I mean. Then search “Rudy Giuliani” and see what kind of videos you get about him… just notice the big difference. And Giuliani is supposedly the leading choice of republicans? What a big fraud.

And just remember one thing – the biggest illusion is that no one knows him and no one supports him. That’s a complete lie! Look him up please =).

the x files

2007-09-17T07:30:00.000+08:00

I have taken on a new project that I fear I won't be able to finish in time. Scrapping just takes too much of your time. But it keeps me relaxed and happy too.

We originally didn't plan on showing an AVP of pictures past and present during the wedding. My photographer will be doing something like that too, but I think he will show pictures of the wedding preparations up to the church ceremony. But when I think about it, it would be a grave sin to not show a short AVP, considering that I love pictures - I think I have too much of them - plus I have a huge collection of scrapbooks and other thingies that I keep when I feel like walking down memory lane.

And so, combining both together, I have tasked myself to present the pictures in a more creative way. I can never call myself creative so all of my layouts are well, not too creative I guess. I try ;) Here's a preview....

This is little Peppermint....

My graduation picture...Look how thin I was! Aaaargggh.

Little Sweetcorn......

Sweetcorn with his niece....cute, huh?

So there.

Mich!, I need your help! And Tet , when I'm done, I'll think of the story board. Then, bahala ka na! ;)

Wish me luck. I have 1 and 1/2 months to finish this!
Note: Kits used are from Tracy's Scraps and Lindsay Jane Designs

for the love of coffee

2007-09-10T16:11:00.000+08:00

Coffeespark serves as a medium for people to air their problems, situations, or feelings. Either for sharing, advice, discussion or just to vent. It could be a family problem, a technical computer problem, a cheating boyfriend, work issues, girlfriend issues, or just maybe about life in general.

Here's a cool site that I encourage you to check out and join!

Coffeespark.

This is the work of my genius friend Jobert and Antonette, whom I am yet to meet.

I didn't use to like coffee. I'm a chocoholic and ice cream lover through and through. But when I read through some testimonials my friends wrote about me, they all mentioned that they can't wait to have coffee with me. Then I realized that many of my treasured moments and conversations with friends and family transpire over a cup of hot/cold coffee. Secrets are shared, problems discussed, and sparks of ideas come flying through. And so, I confess to being a coffee addict! I even dream of running my own coffee shop someday. =)

So take a look at the site and join our community. Share this cup of coffee with me!

rainy days and mondays

2007-09-10T12:39:00.000+08:00

I never felt magic crazy as this
I never saw moons knew the meaning of the sea
I never held emotion in the palm of my hand
Or felt sweet breezes in the top of a tree
But now YOU'RE here
Brighten my northern sky...

Today is a happy day for me. Once again, the countdown begins! In two weeks' time, Sweetcorn will be here and it will be another Peppercorn week!

I met up with some friends last week and my good friend, Tet commented that almost all of my blog posts are "mushy". I didn't mind, really until Sweetcorn mentioned that his mom (my future mother-in-law) is reading my blog too! I went through all the pages and my goodness! I have to agree...I am mushy =) So this is love..... =P I feel a bit embarassed actually. If you talk to me in person though, you will discover that I'm serious and business-like and very proper.... ha! =P I just have so many things on my mind with the wedding 3 months away from happening. Plus, I am in a long distance relationship, so forgive my mushiness. I will start posting about movie and song reviews, politics, etc. Yeah, right. =P

But seriously, talking about politics, please try to visit Alex Jones's websites and try to read through all the issues presented there. Sweetcorn is passionately promoting his sites and I'm with him one hundred percent.

And since I am wearing my thinking cap now, I have been busy watching murder shows and news about crimes and deaths (Go Soco!). I would like to share with everyone how very much affected I am about the DinDin Palma case. I pray every night for all the murder victims and their families that they find peace and justice. I know DinDin's older brother and my friend Buns and I went to the wake service. She's a very pretty angel. I know that God's taking good care of her now.

So there... This post ended on quite a heavy note. =(

I think I prefer being mushy.... ;)

sores and some

2007-09-05T18:41:00.000+08:00

For the first time in my life, I am speechless --- literally speaking. I have been nursing mouth sores since Saturday, at the same time, I'm feeling feverish all the time. Talk about stress! 112 days until the wedding and I still cannot picture how everything will go.

Aaaaargggh.

*Note: Having mouth sores makes it difficult to eat - instant diet! Hehe. =P

oh happy day!

2007-08-28T23:55:00.000+08:00

The problem with long weekends is that I get extremely lazy to go back to work. Traffic was terrible so I decided to pass time by watching Hairspray. I looooved it! I love musicals, can't get enough of them. Plus, the lesson/message imparted by the movie was something that I applaud. Integration! Thank God, things are different now.

On the way home, the roads were still congested. I had to take detours only to end up being stuck in yet another traffic jam. I was feeling so tired and sleepy and my body ached.

But nothing beats coming home to a dozen roses sent by your honey! I love surprises (though I sort of figured it out). Still, it was a very sweet gesture. From London, with love!

Happy Anniversary Ang! One year! We made it! Yey!

TagaTaro

2007-08-25T11:47:00.000+08:00

I get a warm, good feeling everytime I remember highschool days in CSR. A week ago, I found out that a good highschool kabarkada is in town with her hubby - visiting Manila again after more than a decade! A few calls, a lot of texting and finally we were set to meet up in Bonifacio High Street.

As expected, the night was spent just laughing and updating about what's happening in each other's lives. Life abroad is so much different from living in the Philippines and I'm so happy that though people leave they feel so much happier when they're back home. This actually got me thinking about what my future would look like - leaving Manila and working abroad. I guess I'm lucky because my fiancee agrees that we'd settle down here in the Philippines.

I had so much fun last night and for the first time again this year, I went home at around 4am, feeling tired, sleepy, but oh-so-happy and thankful to God that I have good friends in my life.

wedding woohoo!

2007-08-20T21:41:00.000+08:00

August 19, 2007 marked the wedding of my very good friend, Rica Tale to Jon Hizon. Rica and I - together with Farrah, Mage, and Mich share 10 years of friendship (and still counting!).

Another wedding in the group. Got me feeling so stressed out about my upcoming wedding (same reception venue as Rica's). I was busy taking down notes, observing the event, and at the same time, helping with the wedding (coordinator in the making). Oh, and as always, I cried. I loooove weddings!

Congratulations to Rica and Jon. I am so happy that they are so happy together. Love is a wonderful thing, indeed!

passing through...

2007-08-14T22:15:00.000+08:00

4 months before the wedding and I feel so stressed out and nervous. I don't even get to blog! We made a little Wedding Website, or I think they call it a Wedsite....Check it out!

4 months to go! aaaarrrgh. It seems that everything's in place. Maybe that's why I'm feeling nervous. Or maybe I'm getting anxious because Sweetcorn's not here.

Arrrgggh.

letting go is hard to do...

2007-08-12T00:59:00.000+08:00

Today, I cleaned and fixed up my room again. Okay, I know I do it almost every other week. I just can't help it. This is how I de-stress. Haha.

I did some inventory of all the stuff I've collected over the years. It's just timing since I will soon be moving out, living on my own with my hubby! I had no idea I have acquired so much. I have this habit of buying items on sale, always thinking I can use them one day. Holding office in Duty Free Philippines for almost 3 years can do that to you. I also tend to keep items given as gifts. Reviewing my list after the cleanup, I was really, really surprised. I have a flat iron, coffee maker, crayola wooden stools (for my future kids), plenty decor items (for my future house), notebooks, bar items, etc. etc. I thought I'd be happy seeing all these things but really, I'm just overwhelmed.

And so I tried to set aside some items, put them up for sale - at least the money would go to the wedding fund. Unfortunately, everytime I try to put them in the "for sale" box, I swear I couldn't do it. I ended up just setting aside old and new clothes, and some bags that I can let go of.

I just resolved to not buy any future stuff anymore. Let's see me try! =)

bluer than blue

2007-07-29T00:24:00.000+08:00

I am missing him so much. =(

wedding woes

2007-07-13T21:26:00.000+08:00

Today, I received a wedding invitation from a good friend. While going over it, I got to think of my upcoming wedding and.....

...... tan-ta-ran-tan....

Panic attacks came!

Is this the right thing to do?
Is he really the one?
Why am I doing this?
Am I ready?
Oh my goodness...I'm going to live with a boy!

So, I sat down, took deep breaths, and called up my lovey. Unfortunately, he didn't pick up. Like what I always say, LDRs (long distance relationships) really really suck. He's probably busy at work, while here I am lying down on my bed on a Friday night.

I think I'll just go out tonight. Hmmm....maybe I can check out Alchemy, a ten-minute walk from my house.

And here's praying that I get rid of these attacks. I'm getting stressed out again thinking of the wedding because I'm here and he's there. I hate LDRs =(

crazy little thing called family

2007-07-09T22:13:00.000+08:00

I got home from work around 9 pm, feeling hungry and so tired. I dressed up, cooked dinner (the infamous pasta again!) as requested by my sister, and finally, I was ready to sit down and relax with my yummy yoghurt!

But like what I always say...my family is crazy...and my brothers really enjoy playing practical jokes on me.

Aaaarggh...

They better behave on my wedding!

cooking 101

2007-07-08T10:04:00.001+08:00

This lazy Sunday, I made my first official attempt at cooking. Got to be prepared for I will be a wife soon =)

The last time I spent hours in the kitchen was in the 90's (hahaha...God, I'm old), when I'd help my mom with the cooking, or do some cooking myself. Then college came along, then work. And now, it's like I'm starting from scratch. Well here are the pictures!

I burned the hash browns and uhmm...they didn't look like hash browns. I think I put them in the fryer too soon. But the pasta was perfect! It's such a simple recipe, I know. Small steps.... =)

My siblings loved it and that's all that matters. =)

of engineers and rockstars

2007-07-07T22:26:00.000+08:00

As I was cleaning out my closet, I came across all my old CDs....and many copies of a certain album that used to have a special place in my heart. Popping the CD in my laptop, I took a ride down memory lane - looking back at the experiences I have been through, the band, the vocalist, and the music.

It's funny because now that I think about it, there is some sort of consistency when we choose the people we want to partner with. The vocalist took up some Engineering too. And my Sweetcorn is one of the best Engineers in this lifetime. The vocalist - obviously was in a band. My Sweetcorn plays the piano sooo well. You have to listen to him play. He's so good. I'm so proud. =)

And so...what does this mean? My love for music is evident for I choose to be with people who share the same passion with me. Now, I have no explanation for the Engineering side. I have recently acquired a growing interest and appreciation for buildings and structures mainly because I like to project an image that I know everything about them. Especially when I talk to Sweetcorn. Hahaha.

When I listened to the album, and took that reminiscing road, I can't help but smile. God has His reasons why things happen. It's all in His plan. I thank Him for my life. And I thank Him in advance for my life ahead with Sweetcorn.

Oh, and I thank Him too for music. I'm singing a different tune now. And I'm the happiest I've ever been.

* thanks to Karl and Mimi for the picture!

better off

2007-06-28T14:56:00.000+08:00

I have always prided myself in being able to maintain good relationships with people. I believe it is a gift I received from God. But what I have to learn to control, really, is my emotions. I sometimes get attached to these relationships. I am so emotional sometimes that my judgement tends to go uhhmmm...astray.

Though it breaks my heart, I have to say goodbye to some people that I thought, that I believed, that I prayed, would be lifetime friends. People whose opinions I valued and have helped me become the person I am now.

I guess things aren't always what they seem. There's more than meets the eye.

I am saddened and my heart is breaking.

I know we had some good times
It's sad but now we gotta say goodbye
I guess we're better off separated....

=(

multiply

2007-06-25T23:05:00.000+08:00

For more pictures, please check out Bukingdom.

Enjoy!

wishing and hoping

2007-06-25T21:25:00.000+08:00

I am nursing a really bad headache.

I guess this is the time of the month again when I start feeling tired. To amuse myself, I went through the blogs of my friends, checked out latest photos, and updated myself on what's been going on in these days. But I couldn't concentrate. Instead I find myself thinking, thinking, thinking. God, I'm tired.

I wish I could fly away and go to the places that I have dreamed of going to. I wish I could hide away from all the pressures that I encounter everyday. I wish I could just close my eyes, sleep for a really long time, and wake up to a life of dreams turned to realities. I wish I have someone to hold me.

i got a c =(

2007-06-25T20:47:00.000+08:00

....and really, I thought, I've been around. Guess I'm so wrong. Top 3 places I must visit:
1) Palawan
2) Bohol
3) Zamboanga

=)

My Lakbayan grade is C!

How much of the Philippines have you visited? Find out at Lakbayan!

happy birthday to me!

2007-06-11T19:47:00.001+08:00

Today, I celebrated my birthday with the people I love.

It's not so bad being 28 after all....

Thank you Lord for another year! I am so blessed.

* Thanks to Ziya for our outfits!

HAPPY BIRTHDAY!

2007-06-10T23:43:00.000+08:00

Dear Pepper,

Happydappy birthday!!!

And my best gift for you...

Angga.

Love
sweet corn

celebrating me

2007-06-10T22:08:00.000+08:00

In two hours, I will be celebrating my 28th birthday. Happy birthday to me!!! Here are some things that I am so thankful for:

1) my personal relationship with Him
2) 28 years of love from my family
3) love and support of my friends and bestfriends
4) 6 years of good job experiences
5) good health
6) my upcoming wedding
7) my marriage to my best friend =)

I still have so many things to list down but unfortunately, I have to return this laptop soon. I'll leave it at that first. And I'm sorry I haven't been posting lately. I'm still saving up for a laptop.

Happy birthday to my Papa too! We celebrate the same birthday. I am so sure that God is taking very good care of him. I love you, Papa!

missing and some

2007-06-04T02:01:00.000+08:00

Here I am missing Sweetcorn. Here's a picture of my Engineer at work. I can't say it enough, LDRs really suck. How I wish we were together. I am recovering from separation sickness once again. Oh well.

Anyways, next week, I'll turn 28. I think I'm getting into some sort of depression. Hahaha. And as is tradition, I had a hair cut. Fine, I know I shouldn't have, with the upcoming wedding and all that. But I feel good about it and it really helps ----- it's soooo hot lately. I'm not super excited about celebrating my birthday. The last party I had, Sweetcorn was here. Now, he's in far away London.

Yup, here's the depression again...

same time this year

2007-06-04T01:40:00.000+08:00

It feels so good to be loved. Thank you Lord for Sweetcorn.

the merry month of may

2007-05-27T21:38:00.001+08:00

trampoline exercises!
dinner with friends

dinner at Urda

dinner with my family

so happy together =)

favorite airport stop: Shakey's

the traditional pictorial spot =)

and here's my favorite picture:

I miss him so much =(

=(

2007-05-27T20:10:00.001+08:00

I promised Sweetcorn I won't cry again. But here I am blogging and crying at the same time. I thought that if I look at the pictures I took the past week, I would be happy. Instead, I'm feeling so depressed and sad. It's sooooo hard to say goodbye to the person you love the most. Yes, there is the promise of a life together, but really, long distance relationships suck. It's getting harder and harder to say goodbye.

I miss him so much....

happiness!

2007-05-20T06:26:00.000+08:00

Sweetcorn's here! Sweetcorn's here! Sweetcorn's here!

I'm so happy!

the seven deadly sins

2007-05-15T21:21:00.000+08:00

Finally, some down time! Tagged by Bongga Mom. There's a twist because she based her list on the Seven Deadly Sins. Here's my own version. This also answers Mich's tag. Read on!

1) Lust - I like research. Anything that can help me in improving my "skills". Hahaha. =)

2) Gluttony - I like all things sweet. I'd be so full after a meal but I'd always have room for dessert.

3) Greed - I hide chocolates from my siblings just so I can enjoy it all by myself. Mainly because of number 2. Talk about double whammy. Sweetcorn witnessed this and he found it funny. Ah....an accomplice!

4) Sloth - Sometimes, I'd call in sick but really, I just want to spend the day at home, cleaning my room and fixing my albums. Now, that's being productively lazy.... =)

5) Wrath - Sarcasm is the key word here. There are times I can get really mad I don’t know myself anymore. I say things that I regret later on. Sometimes, I think I have to ease up on the OC-ness. Poor Sweetcorn. Thank God, he's such a patient person.

6) Envy - I've worked hard all my life and I support my family. I sometimes find myself envying people - they can afford to spend and splurge on so many things, while I do a mental balance sheet in my head. If I didn't pay for some household expenses like tuition and utilities, I'm pretty sure I could've travelled and completed at least a quarter of my "100 places to visit before I die" list.

7) Pride - Sometimes I never back down in a discussion. I’m always right! And for some reason, I can manage to twist situations around and end up being right. But I think that's a talent that all women share.

So there you go. I completed the list. Now, I pass this on to you! I'm tagging everyone!

Sorry, I gotta go. Sweetcorn's arriving and I have so many things to take care of.

Ciao!

it all comes down to nothing

2007-05-04T13:31:00.000+08:00

I feel a bit sad today. How I wish I have a time machine and I'd go back to being a little girl again. So many responsibilities. So many things to do. It's so hard being an adult.

I heard about some bad news last night and I can't help but be affected. What to do, what to do?

Nothing, really. I pray that things will work out for everyone involved.

I keep hoping for you
Keep hoping for you
What else can I do
But keep hoping for you?

You can kill a lot of time
if you really wanna put your mind to it.
Or leave it all behind
and never really have to go through it
We can kill a lot of time
and never really have to go through it

What else can I do
But keep waiting for you?

300

2007-05-02T22:46:00.000+08:00

I'm not here to do a review on the movie 300. Didn't even get to watch the Spapapartans. Haha. This, ladies and gentlemen, is my 300th post (yey!). And to celebrate, I would like to re-publish a post I wrote back in 2003 when I first started this blog.

100 things about me (circa April 2003)

1. I'm 23 years old and I have no idea where my life is headed.
2. Will I ever get married? Will I have kids?
3. Uh-oh, I just realized my boyfriend might read this post....
4. Hahaha! Talk about pressure! But he doesn't know about this blog
5. and besides, if I'm really honest...it's too soon to tell..
6. Our relationship just turned 3 (years) last month. No big celebration.
7. I think we're drifting apart. But for some weird reason, I don't feel so sad.
8. Okay I don't want to talk about that. Let's talk about me! This is my first ME post.
9. I love the color yellow. It's such a happy color. Warm and happy. That's me.
10. So obviously, I don't like negative vibes around me. Which is a bit hard to avoid sometimes.
11. I love my family. I love my friends.
12. I used to feel burdened everytime my friends would run to me. I have my own problems too!
13. But I realized that God has given me a gift. So now, I welcome anyone who needs me! I'd drive to wherever you are, if you need a friend. I welcome all opportunities to do good and show some lovin'.
14. I think I give good advice. And it's such a good feeling when people listen to me.
15. Good influence, I hope.
16. Let's talk about career now. I love my job. I think I'll be promoted this year.
17. And I don't want that. Really. If I move to Brand, I will be forced to go out at night.
18. We are selling lifestyles here. I work for a company that distributes wines and spirits.
19. We carry good brands. But the thing is, I don't drink. I don't smoke. I don't enjoy going out to party. Yet, I'm in this business.
20. Maybe I want to spread some good influence here too, huh? That's my life goal, actually.
21. For people to see God in me. Oh, I love my God. I am grateful and thankful. I love my God.
22. Which leads me to say that I love going to Church Services. I love praises, worships, the songs!
23. I'm active in Church. Giving talks, organizing outreach programs. But I wish I could do more. Sometimes, I don't get involved as much as I want to.
24. No time? Not really. I just like to sleep. All the late nights watching my boyfriend's band play. Then up early the next day for work. Is this the life I want?
25. Oh yes, he plays in a band. Well, he's the vocalist. Really good band. You should check them out.
26. What else, what else??? Hmmm...I know!! I love dinosaurs! Fine, it's weird. But really, they fascinate me.
27. But please don't ask me names of dinos because all I can remember is T-Rex and Long Neck - and that's from Land Before Time! Hahahaha!
28. Which reveals that I love cartoons. I have a collection of cartoon DVDs. For the future, for my kids.
29. Yes, I stock up on soooo many future stuff. I hope I can use them one day. I like thinking about the future.
30. And I like saving money. I like investments. I wish I could understand how the stock market works. I play it safe. I just buy pension plans and education plans.
31. Again, for the future. For my kids. I can't wait to be a mom! I love kids!
32. Sometimes when I think about having kids, I think I'm the type who'll quit her job and just take care of the house and the kids.
33. That could be fun. I'd finally have the chance to cook. I have been collecting recipes since highschool. I can't wait to have a family. Let's see where God will lead me in this department.
34. I just realized, 100 is a long way to go! What else can I say?
35. Oh, speaking about not working, I pray that would be possible in the future. I pay for my brothers' tuition so I don't know if I can afford not working.
36. That's funny, what I just said. They will graduate, right? So there's an end to all the tuition fees (yey!).
37. I worked when I was in college. I got paid Php 25 ($.50) per hour! I had to work so I'd have allowance.
38. My father was very sick and couldn't provide for us. My mom's a housewife.
39. My father passed away 3 years ago. I am so very proud of him. I miss him. =(
40. He was the greatest Cardiologist in the Philippines. He was head of some World Cardiology thing organization.
41. Oh, did I mention he graduated from Harvard? And on scholarship too!
42. Why didn't I become a doctor? I have no idea. I just don't like blood and medicine I guess.
43. I don't even take vitamins. Eeeewww.
44. I love driving. I love long drives. It's my quality time alone with God. I get to talk to Him.
45. I love music. I'd like to say I like alternative music (my boyfriend's band is all alternative) but really, I have to admit that I'm a sucker for love songs.
46. Oh, I loooove lyrics! Sometimes, the melody's not so nice, but if the lyrics are good, I'd appreciate the song.
47. Which opens up a whole new topic: Writing. My biggest frustration. Next to playing the piano.
48. I used to write a lot, in highschool and in UP. But well, I don't know. I need to take real training I guess.
49. My thoughts are just disorganized sometimes and I need to know how to write them all down in a proper way, with the proper flow.
50. Maybe one day, I can compile all my journal entries. Let's see.
51. Since I mentioned the piano, yes, that's my next frustration. Mental note: My kids should know how to play at least one musical instrument.
52. I played the piano when I was a kid. Now, I can read the notes but not really play them. Oh well.
53. Food! Let's talk about favorite food. Do we say foods? I find that word funny. I'll stick to saying food.
54. I love ice cream! Between chocolate and ice cream...hmmm....I have to think about that.
55. Dark chocolates are my favorite. The milk ones are okay. But dark's the best!
56. Veggies, I love them. I didn't use to like them, really. But in college, vegetables come cheap and since I don't have allowance money, that's the only thing I can afford. Which is good right?
57. Healthy living. How I wish! I think I gained 20 pounds since I started working. I have got to start working out!
58. The best workout for me is swimming, jogging, and recently, badminton! I play badminton every Sunday, I swim on weekends, and I try to jog every night.
59. I don't get to jog as often as I want because at around 7pm, I have discovered that the maids take the dogs out for a stroll. Hence, they keep on barking at me! And I'm not too fond of animals.
60. Wow, this is really long. What else can I say?
61. Oh, pictures! I love pictures. I love documenting everything that happens in my life.
62. I make scrapbooks. I have one for each phase in my life. One for elementary days, one for highschool, one for college.
63. I have to start working on my Work Scrapbook.
64. And of course I make Love Scrapbooks! Hahahaha. Mushy.
65. Yup, I'm very emotional and sentimental. I cry a lot. Even when I watch movies. Or I hear a certain song. I'm such a crybaby.
66. A friend told me once, I must not work in HR because I might end up hiring everyone, especially when I hear their sad stories! Hahaha....I agree with her, though.
67. But though I'm emotional, I can be tough too...really! I have always enjoyed being in charge. Taking the lead.
68. Though one day, I hope that someone would really take care of me. It gets tiring sometimes when you're always making decisions.
69. I want to be treated like a princess. I want to be spoiled. Oh, Lord. I hope my future husband will spoil me rotten. =)
70. I believe I am a good partner. I am faithful. I have seen brokenness in so many families (even my own) and I have prayed to God to break the curse.
71. I will have a different life. I will have a happy family life. I claim it in His name.
72. Okay, I'll write short sentences now.
73. I love coffee. Well, not really coffee the drink. More of what it represents.
74. Coffee represents good conversations with good friends.
75. My birthday is two months away. I was born June 11, just before Independence Day.
76. And that's why I'm so independent now. Duh. No connection. Haha.
77. I enjoy organizing stuff. I think I clean my room every weekend.
78. I like looking at the things I have acquired (again, future stuff).
79. I like taking inventory of what I have now. Yup, I'm weird sometimes.
80. I love clearbooks and filing and IDs.
81. I just like things to be in proper order, I guess.
82. Oh, I love flowers! Wild flowers. I never receive flowers! =(
83. I'm very simple. It's soooo easy to make me happy.
84. Okay, I admit it. I'm also a romantic. Super!
85. I believe that I'm a good daughter to my mom, and a good sister to my siblings.
86. Someday, I will save up enough money and I will buy my dream house!
87. Well, maybe my husband should pay for it? Hahaha.
88. I think I have to save money first for eye laser treatment. I hear it's quite expensive.
89. Well, that's just a wild idea. I love wearing glasses.
90. I like looking nerdy. Well, I am a nerd. =)
91. I love the smell of clean laundry. I love the rain! I want to dance in the rain!
92. I like hugging and cuddling. I love pillows. And stuffed toys. Again, I never receive stuffed toys!
93. I just want a simple life in the future with my husband and kids. Maybe 2 kids. Or 3.
94. And our own house. My dream house! With the family room, library, attic....etc. etc.
95. I know that God will grant me my heart's desires. I'm so excited!
96. Did I mention that I love to travel?
97. I dream of going around the world...to visit the places I only read about in books.
98. I'll go around the Philippines first.
99. But one thing's for sure...
100. One day soon, I'll be in Paris with the man of my dreams =)

labor of love

2007-05-02T01:28:00.000+08:00

May 1 is Labor Day Celebration in the Philippines and I spent all day "laboring" on soooo many things...

5:00am - 9:00am - talked to Sweetcorn, work out in Makati, good breakfast
9:00am - 12:00nn - went to Divi to buy souvenir packaging for the wedding
12:00nn - 4:00pm - went to Quiapo to buy more souvenir stuff
4:00pm - 6:00pm - went to Tiendesitas to check out barongs
7:00pm - 10:00pm - time to work on the wedding souvenirs!

Though it was a tiring day, I'm so happy because I have accomplished a lot. I'm actually rushing to do things now because in two weeks' time, Sweetcorn will be here and we will give my (soon-to-be) mother-in-law updates on the wedding. I am so excited to show her everything!

Carrying 100 bottles earlier on my own, I found myself wishing that Sweetcorn was here, helping me with the preparations. I felt sad once again, thinking about our situation. But after talking to him, all sadness and tiredness just faded away hearing how excited he is about everything and how appreciative of all my efforts. Thinking about it, he's lucky because I always consult him and asks for his comments (though he would probably say I lead the conversation and he ends up agreeing with what I say!). Well, we all know that guys have great ideas about weddings....but let's not ask them ;)

It's been a long day! Goodnight. I just wanted to post this because the next post marks my 300th and I think I know what to publish....

Goodnight friends! See you on my next post!

wedding update

2007-04-27T17:08:00.000+08:00

Sweetcorn and I have been discussing where we'll go after the wedding....So little time, so many things to do, so many places to visit....Airlines are offering cheap rates. Maybe we should go to a beach? Maybe a little city tour? I don't know yet. All I know is, our honeymoon will be different because it will be spent with family. Some quality family time. I'm so excited! December is still far away. But somehow, it doesn't seem that way. Time for my OC planning skills....

wellness program

2007-04-27T10:58:00.000+08:00

A little update on the "healthier me" program. I started a new routine. 630am workouts on a trampolene! Urban rebounding! Lots of water and healthy food. I prepare my own salads. I am now counting calories!

I'm having fun!

Sweetcorn is in on this too. Let's see how this goes...

shifting gears

2007-04-27T10:46:00.000+08:00

It's funny how God reassures us sometimes. When you're feeling down, questioning situations and events in your life, you suddenly feel God's hand on your shoulder, comforting you, and you feel Him drawing you into His embrace.

This happened to me this morning, on my way to Manila. I was thinking of engagements and weddings, after having read Tet's Wedding Fair post in her blog. I started thinking of how far we are in the wedding preparations, felt excited about Sweetcorn coming home in 3 weeks to help me out. Then suddenly, I felt so depressed thinking about our current situation, being so far apart. This day actually marks our 8th month of "togetherness". And instead of being happy about it, I just felt sad, really, really sad. I thought of the wedding and life after that. Sweetcorn will head back to London, and I will be left here in Manila again. So what's the point right? I was feeling frustrated and suffocated. Talk about jitters, huh?

So I turned on the radio to distract myself. And what do I hear? A favorite song, a song that sort of played a role in my relationship with Sweetcorn....and I couldn't help but smile. God's hand working here, I thought to myself. He just reminded me that I should live by faith, trusting Him that He will grant my heart's desires. He reassured me that with a little more patience and loads of faith, Sweetcorn and I will be together soon, maybe sooner than I even hoped for.

Maybe it's through a song, maybe through a friend, or maybe through an event. Whatever the means, I feel it so strongly when God sends me His messages. And I was once again humbled, ashamed actually, that I have doubted Him.

So here's a shout out to everyone. Have faith always. Pray always. God will never forsake us. If we can't see God's hand, trust His heart.

Every time he looks my way
Heaven gets a little closer
and every time I feel that way
I wanna be with him....

surviving hell week

2007-04-21T20:58:00.000+08:00

The past two weeks were just terrible. Adjustments, new rules, new revelations. I am so drained. And the only reason I smile is because of this picture:

My first picture with Sweetcorn in HongKong. Since no one was around to take our picture, we improvised, stacking my bag and his book. I guess the camera wasn't positioned high enough, huh? In any case, I love this picture. Makes me think of happy thoughts!

sharing scraps

2007-04-15T06:00:00.000+08:00

Feeling uninspired lately, especially at work, I decided to be happy by doing what I enjoy most - pictures! I finally finished printing our Hong Kong pictures. Next task is to buy an album this weekend similar to all the "trips" albums. Here's sharing with you my LO for the album cover.

Now, I'm happy! =)

sigh

2007-04-11T21:55:00.000+08:00

So this is love, Mmmmmm

So this is love
So this is what makes life divine
I'm all aglow, Mmmmmm
And now I know
The key to all heaven is mine
My heart has wings, Mmmmmm
And I can fly
I'll touch ev'ry star in the sky
So this is the miracle that I've been dreaming of
Mmmmmm
Mmmmmm
So this is love...

pictures...pictures!

2007-04-11T19:45:00.000+08:00

Here's sharing with everyone our Disneyland photos!

Picture taking with the Disney Gang.......

The Disney Magical Parade....

After riding the Space Mountain.....

.....so to make me smile again, we took pictures! yey!

Sleeping Beauty's Castle.....with beautiful fireworks in the evening........

The Lion King Show....

Getting ready to watch the 4D Show.....

So tired........

And finally, the long day is over! Fun, fun, fun =)

together again.....

2007-04-10T10:57:00.000+08:00

And though I'm feeling sad that he's back in London, and I'm back in Manila, I am still floating in happiness! When I picked him up at the airport, Cesar gave me Alex (a stuffed chick with a sling bag). He asked me to read the card inside the bag. Surprise, surprise! Inside the bag is a small easter card, and attached to it - my engagement ring! So there goes the proposal..... =)

Have a happy week everyone!