sticks and stones and weed and bones

Uy-Romano nuptials

2012-02-07T22:15:00.000+08:00

Last Saturday, ate Donna, who is the sister of one of my closest friends, Yanee, got married at the Manila Cathedral.

It was my first time to be inside Manila Cathedral and I was just really amazed on how beautiful it was inside and outside.

The reception was held at One Esplanade and it was hosted by Chico and Delamar. The set up of the reception venue was really simple, but it was very very elegant. And the food was so delicious! Stuffed ourselves with ice cream, lechon and roast beef :)

I was so glad to see my kinky thesis partners Yanee and Dani!

I love and adore weddings! Seeing two people who are madly in love with each other tie the knot just makes me all happy inside :) I can't wait to get married and have my dream wedding come true! I already know which church I am going to get married in; it's the same church where my grandparents and parents got married :)

HAVE A BIRDIE.

2012-02-02T22:19:00.001+08:00

I can't believe we are already in to the second month of year 2012 and I can't believe I'm already 22! And in three years, I can finally say this famous line "I'm having my quarter life crisis." Kidding! Hopefully I won't have to say that when I turn 25.

Had a simple birthday celebration just like my 21st birthday. Brought lumpia and pancit to the office and the lumpia was gone in less than 30 minutes, crazy!!

I was touched when our COO went up to our floor just to greet me happy birthday :) Actually, he said I shouldn't be greeted happy birthday, but "Have a birdie" instead, haha! Got an awesome birthday gift from Primer, my ID! I waited for 8 months for this, now I can finally say I'm a real ka-Primer :)

Was busy running errands the whole day in the office then one of my boss told me that there was supplier that left a marketing collateral sample for me at the lobby guard. So I went down in a hurry because I thought it was the one I've been waiting for since Monday and to my surprise there was no sample waiting for me but instead I saw this:

It's so cute! My two favorite colors: pink and green! The card had no name on it, it just said happy birthday Alex. But I know this is from Andrew and Lisette, they just won't admit it :)

One of my bosses, ate Lisette, gave me this delicious Chocolate Nelusko cake from Goldilocks. It's a triple layer chocolate cake topped with praline nut. It's like heaven in your mouth, and it's not nakaka-umay!

Stuffed my mouth with a huge piece of cake. It was that delicious!

Had dinner with mommy at Lugang Cafe in Mall of Asia. I'm guessing Lugang Cafe is a new Chinese/Taiwanese restaurant in the Philippines. I love how Lugang Cafe was designed, it was very modern, and I love how it doesn't like the regular traditional Chinese restaurants. and They're food is delicious and very affordable! Can't wait to go back and try out the other dishes in their menu.

We ordered the following:

Taiwanese Stewed Minced Pork: the menu says this is their House Special, I agree it's delicious, but I don't find the taste that special.

Three Cup Chicken: this one's my favorite! The flavor stays in your mouth and after every bite it'll keep you wanting for more. Another one of their house special.

Taiwanese Salt and Pepper Shrimp: I didn't really like the shrimp because the meat lacked flavor, and the only flavor you'll get from the dish is from the crispy skin.

Golden Fried Rice with Shredded Pork: just like the regular Chinese Chao Fan, it's good but they served it after 20 minutes.

So here's my birthday outfit, nothing fancy. Top from bazaar, jeans from Forever 21 (Bought them for only Php 545! What a steal!), heels from Celine and accessories from Quiapo.

Everyone's birthday wish for me is to finally find that special someone this year. My 2012 Astrology forecast does say that "romantic relationships will flourish since you will be more open to express your feelings towards your loved one." Well... we'll see! But it's okay, no rush :) I'm just happy that I have been given another year to be with my family and friends. Thank you to the big boss above for the all the blessings he's been giving me for 22 years, I hope He won't get tired doing so :)

Fast forward to March

2012-01-30T23:58:00.001+08:00

Can we skip February and fast forward to March instead?? I know I should be happy that February is just around the corner and should be celebrating since it's my birthday month, but after what happened last year, February won't be the same to me again.

Last February, I began the month by celebrating my 21st birthday. It was also my first birthday as an employed person that's I why I took my family out to dinner at President's Tea House in MOA (you can check my 21st birthday post here). And on Valentine's day, we celebrated Daddy's 81st birthday. It was a simple celebration because he just wanted to eat at his favorite fast food place, KFC.

My birthday dinner was the first time I treated my family to a nice dinner, but little did I know, it was also the last time that my family and I would be our last dinner together that we're actually complete on the dining table, and Daddy's 81st birthday was the last time we were going to celebrate his birthday.

Daddy died on February 16, 2 days after his birthday. I remember how that day went and I am 100% sure I will never forget all the things that happened that day.

It's not even February yet and I'm already crying like a baby thinking about what's going to happen when those three days come. February 1 and 14 will just never be the same to me again.

I just want it to be March already so that I don't have to go through those three dates and remember what happened on those dates last year.

Last few days with kuya

2012-01-26T21:59:00.000+08:00

Sharing with you guys pictures with kuya during his last few days here in Manila..

I cried when we said our goodbyes at the airport, and even days before that even though we'll see each other on March in Taiwan. But I just hate saying goodbye, always makes me cry! I have attachment issues obviously, haha!

Cinderella nails

2012-01-23T23:24:00.000+08:00

I think it's every girl's problem when painting their own nails is for the nail polish to quickly dry. Another problem that I have when I paint my nails is that the nail polish bubbles a few minutes after application. I've had those problems with local nail polish brands like Caronia, Bobbi and Chic.

But it looks like I won't have those problems anymore, thanks to Etude House! Unlike the other brands, nail polish from Etude House dries 30 seconds after application, it doesn't bubble and it doesn't chip off easily.

The first bottle that I got was in baby clue color, similar to Cinderella's dress. I bought mine at the department store in SM Mall of Asia, and this bottle cost only Php 48, pretty cheap, right? The price of their nail polish ranges from Php 48 to 128.

And according to their website they also have matte nail polish for only Php 98! A lot cheaper than Orly and Sally Hansen. You can check out where to buy Etude House and a list of their products here.

Thanks to my best friend, Ginnil, for introducing me to Etude House! Can't wait to try their other products :)

New year, new place.

2012-01-22T13:26:00.002+08:00

I wish I was talking a new house here, like a rest house in Batangas or a condo in Makati, but no. I'm talking a new place in the office.

Since I started working with Primer, I was seated right in front of our AVP (because that was the place of the person I was replacing) and one of our Board of Directors. So much pressure sitting in front of them. ang hirap pumetiks! Haha I'm just kidding.

But last Monday, we had a new seating arrangement because the newbie brand managers needed to sit in front our AVP. So I moved to a bigger and better area; bigger because my desk and area is bigger, which means more space for me to make kalat! And better because the people around my new area are my JanSport, Tumi and Hedgren team :)

As of now it looks tidy and doesn't have clutter. Let's hope I keep my area looking this!

It's more fun maging kaPrimer!

2012-01-16T23:48:00.000+08:00

Our theme for this year's Primer AGT (Annual get together) was "fun" and like last year, it was held at World Trade Center in Pasay. All ka-Primer were asked to dress in their favorite character and was surprised to see that a lot of us really put effort into dressing up! Here's pictures of some of kaPrimers in costumes:

Stormtrooper

Majin Buu from Dragon Ball Z

Teletubbies

The Black Swan and Little Miss Piggy from Sesame Street

Would have taken pictures of others who were in robot costumes (like Bumble Bee, Gundam and Iron Man) and others who came in as Avatar, Barbie, Mortal Kombat, etc., but was too lazy! Anyways, our hosts this year were my office mates Lianne and Tin and the lovable Ramon Bautista!

This year was also my second time to perform in the AGT. I was part of the opening number and the theme of the opening was icons from 70's to the present, and the icon I portrayed was Nicki Minaj! I rapped and danced to the song Super Bass and I am proud to say that I did not choke or get bulol while rapping and I did not trip while dancing in 4 inch heels! But I will not upload the video of my performance because it's so embarrassing! :))

My team and I decided to go as the Armed Forces of the Philippines; I was the police, Andrew was the army and ate Lisette was the navy/ But ate Lisette and I kind of looked liked porn stars in our costumes, haha! I was complete, from the hat, to the cuffs, the gun and even the batuta! :))

Even though the program was kinda long and a little bit blah, and even though I didn't win in the raffle, I still had fun in this year's AGT! Specially because I was part of the opening and closing number :)

Had a few drinks after at Pier One with office mates and our sales team.

Looking forward to our next AGT! Hopefully I'll still be a kaPrimer at that time ;)

TWO ZERO ONE TWO!

2012-01-07T15:15:00.000+08:00

I can't believe its already 2012! It's gonna be the end of the world! NOT!

It's only been a week in to 2012 and already I'm going crazy!! Got sick the day before New Year and getting stressed at work trying to finish reports. But I was still able to ring in the New Year with a bang!

We had a simple Medya Noche on New Year's Eve, and a few drinks with the neighbors. I cried right after the clock struck 12 because I realized it's almost a year since daddy passed away and because I miss my sister so much.

Every year on New Year's Day is the Santos Clan New Year celebration-reunion. This has been a tradition since the 1940's, and this year it was held at our place. The food was great, especially the lechon, my ultimate favorite!

Not only was it our New Year celebration, but it was also our house blessing! My house/room was built back in March 2009, but it was only during our reunion that we had it blessed.

And another tradition that started just a few years ago is the bingo game. This is the one thing that we look forward to during our reunion, and of course the raffle! Money money!

After the reunion, we make it a point to go out for coffee or drinks, and this year we went to Laiya Grill in BF.

How did your first day of the new year go? :)

Goodbye, 2011!

2011-12-31T19:03:00.002+08:00

2011 was a great year for me! It was a year full of changes, a year full of opportunities. To cap of year 2011, just like what I did in 2010, here's the year end survey that summarizes how my 2011 went:

What were the things you did that you've never done before?

Dance in front of more than a thousand people. Commute from UP-Diliman to Manila. Was interviewed on the radio c/o Mellow 94.7 Organized an event and fashion show (which is the Hedgren Style Fair). Went to Subic! Watch a concert in Araneta. Went to CamSur and wake boarded. Opened up my first ever kiosk, the JanSport kiosk in Trinoma. Direct, shoot and produce a TV commercial. Cry because of an opportunity that was given to me. Turned down a great opportunity. Got drunk and wild in front of my office mates. It was so embarrassing! Touch a Ducati bike. Be part of Ad Congress. Eat in Yakimix. Watch Ely Buendia perform. Shop in Quiapo. Yell at a tindera because of her poor customer service.

Did you keep your New Year's resolution and will you make some this year?

I didn't make any New Year's resolution for 2011 because I knew I wouldn't be able to keep it. My New Year's resolution is to lessen my smoking and drinking and to go home early from work!

Did anyone close to you give birth?

Nope, not this year.

Did anyone close to you die?

Yes, my lolo Daddy Erning :( It was the saddest thing that happened in my life and until now I still can't believe that he is gone. I still haven't shared on my blog what happened to Daddy and it's because I am having a hard time moving on.

And another close person to me but I haven't met that died is my baby sister, Sara Ashley. She was born on September 6 and died on September 18.

What countries did you visit?

Like 2010, none.

What would you like to have in 2012 that you lacked in 2011?

Like my answer in 2010, a special someone, HAHA! And more money of course!

What date(s) from 2010 will remain etched in your memory and why?

January 30 - Spontaneous inuman/dinner at my Uncle's house but it wasn't like our regular family dinners. It felt different, but in a good way. It was the last time Daddy had a drink with his brothers and nephews

February 1 - My 21st birthday

February 14 - Daddy's birthday and the last time we celebrated it

February 16 - Daddy's death

February 21 - Libing ni Daddy

April 15 - My very first big event and fashion show which was the Hedgren Style Fair

April 16 - First concert of 2011! Watched The Script in Araneta.

April 20 - First time in Subic

April 30 - First time in CamSur and to wake board

June 1 - First time to set up a kiosk (JanSport kiosk in Trinoma)

August 18 - was offered a promotion, from Marketing Associate to Brand Associate (after only 8 months of working in Primer)

August 22 - shot my first ever TV commercial

September 18 - death of my baby sister, Sara Ashley

October 30 - Jason Mraz concert

December 20 - my kuya's homecoming!

What was your biggest achievement of the year?

I think my biggest achievement of 2011 was becoming a regular employee in Primer and being offered a promotion after only 8 months of work. I'm not being mayabang here, but not a lot of people get that opportunity that early :)

What was the best thing you bought?

1. Snake print bag from Tough Jeans (From Php 4990 to Php 800!). I love how there's a secret compartment inside the bag :)

2. Eagle Creek double-sided packing cube. It's so useful and I can't wait to buy it in other sizes!

3. Plane ticket to Ilocos

4. Heels from Celine. I've been eyeing this pair since August and I got them at half the SRP a few weeks ago!

Did you suffer any illness or injury?

Just the flu!

Whose behavior merited celebration?

ME! Because of all my achievements and because I was given so much opportunities. And of course my lola, for staying strong despite the fact that daddy is gone.

Whose behavior made you appalled or depressed?

My mom. Two years in a row. When will this woman ever change???

Where did most of your money go?

I honestly don't know. After working for Primer for one year, I wasn't able to save up any money. But my guess is that I spent most of my money on food and maybe clothes.

What did you get really excited about?

The Hedgren Style Fair and my brother's homecoming! And 13th month pay and Christmas bonus, hihi!

What songs will remind you of 2011?

Super Bass and Waka Waka.

Compared to this time last year, are you:

1. Happier or sadder?

Mixed. Happy that I've achieved so much, but sad because daddy is no longer with us.

2. Thinner or fatter?

Thinner I guess since a lot of people are telling that I've lost weight.

3. Richer or poorer?

Definitely richer, haha!

What do you wish you'd done more?

Spend more time with mommy.

What do you wish you'd done less?

Stay in the office til 9PM and spend a ton of money on food.

What was your favorite TV program?

For two years in a row: Pretty Little Liars and How I met Your Mother. And my new favorites: The Big Bang Theory, NCIS, Bones and Criminal Minds.

Do you hate anyone now that you didn't hate this time last year?

None :)

What was the best book you read?

Wasn't able to read any book this yer :(

What did you want and get?

A newly painted room and zebra print curtains!

What did you do on your birthday and what did you get?

On my 21st birthday, I had a selling event at UP-Diliman. Then went back to the office to have birthday merienda with my office mates then had dinner at MOA with my family :)

What one thing would have made your year immeasurable?

If daddy was still here with us.

How would you describe your fashion concept this year?

Same as last year, always wearing jeans and a shirt. But next year my goal is to be more feminine and to wear heels regularly!

Who/what kept you sane?

My familly, new friends (office mates) and my dog Gelo!

Which celebrity/public figure did you fancy the most?

JM de Guzman, Mateo Guidicelli, Kyle Amor and Bradley Cooper.

What political issue stirred you the most?

None.

Who was the best new person(s) you've met?

I would have to say my boss ate Lisette, ate R and ate Clytie, ate Raissa. Even though I met them in 2010, it wasn't until 2011 that I really met them (got to know them well). And our newest office mate, Andrew!

What was the nicest thing someone told you about yourself?

It came from our AVP, she told me that she sees so much potential in me and that she believes that I am ready to take on higher tasks and responsibilities :)

The most touching experience you've had this year?

None.

Quote a song that sums up your year.

I'm sexy and I know it. I was definitely more confident in 2011 :)

Was 2011 a good year for you?

Absolutely! Though it was a year full of changes, it was also a year full of opportunities.

What was your least favorite moment of the year?

Daddy's death.

What was your favorite moment of the year?

Seeing how happy mommy was when kuya arrived.

Where were you when 2011 began?

At home, having medya noche with my family and later on at the Santos clan reunion at my uncle's house.

Where will you be when 2011 ends?

At home with family :)

Did you lose anybody close to you in 2011?

Daddy.

Did you miss anybody in the past year?

My sister who is now in Guam and daddy. I miss them both so much :(

What was your favorite record(s) in 2011?

Maneater (The Bird and The Bee version), The Dog Days are Over, Super Bass and Waka Waka.

How many concerts did you see in 2011?

Two! The Script and Jason Mraz.

Did you drink alcohol in 2011?

Of course, haha!

Did you do drugs in 2011?

Nope.

Did you do anything you were ashamed of this year?

I can't really think of anything except for the fact that I got super drunk during my officemate's despedida!

How much money did you spend in 2011?

More than 150k, haha! I don't know what I spent it on!

What was your proudest moment of 2011?

When I was offered a promotion even though I've only worked for Primer for only 8 months at that time. I felt that our AVP believed in me and trusted me so much to give me that position. And even though it would mean my salary would increase, I declined it. I chose heart over mind. I am still happy with the position I have in Primer and salary, plus, I love the three brands I'm handling! :)

What was your embarrassing moment of 2011?

Getting crazy drunk with my office mates. This happened at Hani's despedida and I couldn't remember anything that happened that night!

If you could go back in time to any moment of 2011 and change something, what would it be?

I would want to go back to February 14, 2011 and arrive a lot earlier for Daddy's birthday dinner. If only I knew it was the last time we were going to celebrate his birthday.

How are you different now that the year is about to end?

I am a lot more confident and stronger, and more responsible.

What are your wishes for next year?

World peace and family peace :)

What are your plans for 2012?

I already have my trips planned for 2012 and I'm so excited! On January 25 to 29, I'll be in Ilocos. Some time in March I'll be in Taiwan and in July or August, I'll be in Taiwan!

My other plans for 2012 is to be more feminine: wear skirts, dresses, heels, and feminine tops regularly. I will start running again because I want to join marathons and of course to join TNF 100 in April! And of course to manage my time and money well :)

Bling bling!

2011-12-30T22:14:00.006+08:00

If you want to hoard on accessories and you're on a budget (like me!) then Quiapo is the place to be! I went there earlier and spent only 800 pesos on new accessories :)

Here's what I bought:

My favorites from the bunch is the circle necklace with tear drops, the wing and peacock rings and purple and green bangle :)

The accessories area/street is located near Quiapo church. I was only able to go to two stores since there were so many people in Quiapo earlier. It was my first time to "shop" in Quiapo and I can't wait to go back and shop for more accessories!

Christmas 2011

2011-12-29T21:28:00.008+08:00

First Christmas without Daddy. It's so different without him around but we know he's in a better place now and mommy and I are thankful that kuya is here to celebrate the Holidays with us :)

On Christmas Eve day, we had an early Noche Buena with our neighbors. Kuya grilled some salmon and chicken and man they were delicious!!

I love the fact that he's a great cook but I hate the fact that he's a better cook than me, haha!

The first thing we did on Christmas day was visit Daddy and Papa. We miss them both so much.

Then we spent the rest of Christmas day with the Dauigoy family in Batangas. We visited my aunt Heidi's house and the famous Grotto and the beach that overlooks the Taal lake.

That night, we celebrated mass in BF and ate dinner, drank and sang karaoke in Platinum!

Here's what I wore on Christmas day (pardon the picture, my kuya is a really bad photographer):

Polka dot top from bazaar, satin shorts and sling bag from SM, heels from Celine

How was your Christmas? :)

Pre-Christmas celebrations

2011-12-26T21:07:00.023+08:00

And another delayed post! Hihi sorry I was so busy the past two week with parties, my brother's homecoming and rehearsals that I haven't had time to blog about what I've been up to the past 12 days before Christmas.

Let's start with the 12th day before Christmas: the UTCI Christmas party. This year it was held The Buoy Restaurant in Manila and I was so lucky this year because I won Php 2,500 in the raffle and another Php 500 winning in Pinoy Henyo!

3k richer!

The UTCI babies (except for tita Roch, haha!)

On the 10th day before Christmas, the JanSport team was over at DLSU to launch the limited JanSport-DLSU Centennial bag. We had a booth set up during the day and a fashion show at night that launched the bag and the JanSport-DLSU brand ambassadors.

The JanSport-DLSU Centennial bag

DLSU student leaders and athletes

Intermission by my office mate and former LSDC street member, Andrew (his face is hilarious!)

JanSport-DLSU brand ambassadors

Want to share with you guys one of Johan's creative shot with the bag. I am just at awe with this picture!

You can buy the JanSport-DLSU Centennial bag at Bratpack Robinson's Ermita or at Bratpack Greenbelt 5!

9th day before Christmas, my family and I headed over to Laguna for my cousin Cheska's debut. I feel old now that my younger cousins are turning 18!! We had a blast dancing, eating and drinking! We brought along my grandparents (Dada's parents) who arrived the day before from Taipei. They had a blast strutting their stuff on the dance floor!

7th day before Christmas was the annual Chicas Christmas dinner and this year we had it at Chili's, Greenbelt 5. Every year I look forward to this event because we rarely get to see each other because of work or school. I love these girls so much and I'm so happy it's our 5th Christmas together! :)

6th day before Christmas was the day my kuya arrived. Mommy had no clue that kuya was coming home this Christmas and when she saw him walk in she cried and started slapping him! My brother was smart enough to capture the whole thing on video. :)

Kuya got me all my favorite sweets, and my favorite pencil!!

5th day before Christmas I took a day off from work because I was feeling under the weather. But I gathered all the strength left in me so I could spend time with kuya, mommy and my grandparents before they would fly off to Guam to visit my mom and sister. We had lunch at Yakimix and my goodness I looked like a pregnant woman after!

3rd day before Christmas we (the JanSport Philippines team) had a "photo shoot" for our Holiday greeting card. It was so fun sitting inside the big bag but it stank inside!

This year was probably the most hectic and crazy Christmas season I've experienced! Was only able to buy gifts last Wednesday when I took the day off. I swear, next year I'm going to buy Christmas presents as early as October/November! Don't copy me and buy your gifts early to prevent Christmas rush stress and headache :)

Every pack tells a story

2011-12-18T22:33:00.004+08:00

I've had my navy blue JanSport backpack for 9 years now and it's the only bag I've ever owned that has lasted for that long. I used that backpack everyday when I was in the 7th and 8th grade, and most especially when I was in college when I had to bring my laptop to school to cram projects and reports, hihi! And I also brought it with me whenever I would go on vacation; whenever it be out of the country, out of town, or overnight at a friend's place. No bias here, but JanSport is a bag brand that has been tried and tested and a brand that you can rely on!

I love my JanSport backpack and I'm thankful it didn't give up on me, but it's time to retire my 9 year old backpack because the stitches of the strap have come off (but I have the choice to repair it) and because I got a new JanSport backpack!

Last Wednesday was our company's Christmas party, and after the exchanging of gifts was done, my 2 bosses from JanSport handed me the backpack that I have had my eyes on since last summer! I've used it twice already since I got it, and I can't wait to take it with me wherever I go! :)

First time in Subic!

2011-12-13T22:13:00.002+08:00

This is a very late blog post. 8 months late! So it was my first time to go to Subic last April, during Holy Week., which was a perfect time for me to relax and unwind after the very stressful (but super fun) Hedgren Style Fair that happened the Friday before.

When I was about 6 years old, my mom and her cousins were supposed to go on a vacation in Subic, but then a week before their trip my mom had a dream that one of them drowned while they were in Subic so they cancelled their trip. Ever since then, I've been itching to go to Subic and find out what's so special about that place.

Every Holy week, Yanee and her siblings visit their dad in Subic so this year I decided to tag along. Here's what we did during our 5-day trip to Subic:

Day 2 we took a trip to the lovely Anvaya Cove. The place was so serene and relaxing. The sand was perfect, doesn't hurt your feet and the food was great!

Day 3 we went shopping in Duty Free and I put a big hole in my wallet, haha! Joined the procession that night that went around Subic and had dinner in Xtremely Xpresso Cafe after.

I forgot the name of this drink but it was super yummy!!! I wish Xtremely Xpresso would open up a branch here in Manila :)

Day 4 took a trip to Bataan to go swimming and eat some delicious food. After that we went to Subic Fiesta Carnival and rode Taga Disco! Your trip to Subic won't be complete if you don't go on that ride!

Before the ride

After the ride

Also met up with Migol at his house and had a few drinks!

Day 5 we celebrated Easter by going to mass early and lunch at Meat Plus. It was my first time to celebrate Easter without my family, but still it was worth it :)

Being in Subic made me feel like I was back in Cali because the houses in both places are so similar to each other! Subic is such a fun place to be. I would love to go back not only to shop in duty free (hihi!), but also to try out the dishes in their local restaurants. That would be my goal the next time I visit Subic :)

22nd Ad Congress

2011-12-05T21:51:00.004+08:00

I first heard of the Ad Congress back when I was in college and at that time (and up until now) it's my dream to be a delegate in the Ad Congress. Luckily, our company was one of the sponsor's for this year's Ad Congress. We set up our booth in front of the wake park and did some selling and had different brand activations.

Primer Beach!

18 of us left for CamSur by bus on the night of November 14. If ever you want to go to CamSur by bus, I suggest you take Isarog Lines, specifically the 26-seater with the lazy-boy seats. I slept like a baby the entire trip! I think the bus ticket costs Php800 pesos per trip. Make sure to bring a blanket of jacket because it gets cold inside the bus!

This is what I brought for my one week trip to CamSur! All Primer brands, haha! And I think I overpacked just a little.

We arrived in Naga 5AM the next day to a very cold weather. We weren't expecting the rain since it was really hot in Manila when we left. We didn't stay in any fancy hotel. We stayed in a house that was big enough for all of us and for all our stocks. The house wasn't at all glamorous and it was 20 minutes away from CWC, but we got the hang of it as the days went by.

Our first day in Naga was very laid-back. Bummed around the house, went to check out SM Naga (which looks like an Ayala Mall!) and our booth set up in CWC. At night, we decided to have a few drinks before we get too stressed out with the AdCong. We played a little where everyone has to tell a joke, and if you don't tell a joke, you have to remove 3 pieces of clothing!

Gloomy weather

Boooooooooooze

Aldo, one of our Visual Merchandisers was smart to use this box to cover himself up.

Our second day was the first day of Ad Congress and boy was it sticky hot!! I think we prayed too hot for the sun to come out. I think I drank four cans of coke in less than 2 hours just to fight the heat! Here's some of the different brand activations we had throughout the Ad Congress:

JanSport Super Sized Twister

Native photo booth stuffing

Eagle Creek packing challenge

Second day of Ad Congress, more people came to our booth since the AdCong committee were tweeting about the different activations we have and huge discount we have on different Primer brands. That night, we attended the Fox party and boy was it fun!!! Except for the part where my boss threw me into the pool. Okay, I admit it was fun getting thrown into the pool! And a little embarrassing, haha!

Bratpack Division Manager, Paulo Santos, being interviewed by Fox TV.

Winners of JanSport backpacks at the Fox party!

With Gov. L-Ray

Before I got thrown into the pool

After I got thrown into the pool! :)

Third day of Ad Congress I started a JanSport contest: most creative shot with the JanSport big bag wins a bag from JanSport! Here's the winning shot:

Here's our winner!

That night, we skipped the AdCong parties and went to a resort outside Naga to sing, swim and drink.
Fourth and last day of Ad Congress we got a wonderful sight in our booth: Marc Nelson's abs! We made him take his shirt off in front of us, haha! We were giving out O'neill (one of our new brands) rash guards to those who will wake board so we decided to give him one even though he wasn't going to wake board and asked to him to put it on, and he did!
We had a scrumptious lunch at the CWC clubhouse. I loved their chicken tenders! It doesn't get soggy or "makunat" even after 30 minutes! And their All Meat and Bicolano special is a must try!

That night, we had dinner at Triboo Grill. If you're in Naga, don't eat there, service is very poor, but their crispy tadyang is really good!!
On our last day in Bicol, some of us decided to head back to CWC and have fun under the sun. I tried wakeboarding but failed, haha! But at least a got a little better since the last time I did it. Thanks to RJ for lending me his gear!

With two of the best wake-skaters in town!

Bus r
back home was so fast! We arrived in Manila at around 4:30AM. Thought the trip was fast, did not like the bus seat since it wasn't Lazyboy, but I still slept the entire trip.

The Ad Congress was tiring but fun! I got to work with people I've never worked before, I was able to handle a JanSport project all by myself and was able to "network" and meet new people. Though it would have been better if we were able to attend the seminars since the topics are really helpful to us young people in the retail industry or in any industry. But hey, there's always a next time :)

A week in Bicol made me fall in love with the wonderful province! There's just so many things to do in Bicol. I promise I will take one week off from work and explore Bicol. Anyone want to join? :)

Tumi-Ducati launch

2011-11-13T21:46:00.007+08:00

It's been a while since I made a blog post. I've been so busy (or at least I think I have) and too lazy to blog. I swear, I'm gonna start blogging more often soon :)

Anyways, one of the brands I'm handling is Tumi. Tumi is the world's leading brand of luxury travel, business and and lifestyle accessories. Last 2006, it partnered with Ducati to create a line of bags that showcases the two prestigious brands' values: design excellence and technological innovation. Last November 8, 2011, Tumi Philippines launches the Ducati collection for the first time in the country. It was held at The Travel Club Shangri-la, one of Tumi's tops doors in the Philippines.

The event was simple; it was a "one-on-one" engagement with the media, Ducati VIP and The Travel Club VIP. This allowed the attendees to really get to know the collection and the brand, and it also enabled us to start a good relationship with the media and the VIP.

All throughout the event, I did nothing but eat, haha! I was tried from the set up and was lazy to mingle with the media and guests, so my office mates and I decided to eat and drink instead. Thanks Bizu for the delicious food! :)

The Tumi-Ducati collection is available at the Tumi store in Greenbelt 5 and The Travel Club Shangri-la.

10 years after the day that changed the world.

2011-09-11T21:01:00.003+08:00

Where were you on this day 10 years ago??

At 8:46 AM (New York time) on September 11, 2001, American Airlines Flight 11 hit the World Trade Center's North Tower. I remember on that day, my family and I were in our home in San Jose, California. It was around 7:00 AM, I just woke up and was eating breakfast when I turned on the TV and found out about the horrible news.

When we saw the news, we immediately tried to contact my dad who was in New York at that time on a business trip. We had a hard time trying to contact him, and when we did, we were glad to hear that he was in a safe place. The bad news is that he won't be able to fly back home since all flights have been cancelled because of the terror scare. He had to drive from New York to San Jose, which took him 5 days, just to get home.

I remember I didn't want to go to school that day. I wanted to stay home and watch CNN the whole day and be updated on what the hell is going on. When I got to school, all everyone could talk about was what had just happened in New York, Pennsylvania, and the Pentagon. None of us could believe that this could happen to America.

What hurt/affected me the most was seeing people jumping off the World Trade Centers just to escape the hell that they are in. What was evident on that day was that all Americans were together physically, emotionally and spiritually.

That event caused so many casualties and changed the life of many. And that event became one of the major reason why my brother joined the United States Marine Corps.

I know the events of 9/11 will always be remembered, and it is a day that no one will ever forget.

The Van Gogh is Bipolar experience

2011-07-18T23:44:00.000+08:00

Last June, Genevieve, the Marketing Manager of JanSport USA went to the Philippines for a market visit. On her last night in Manila, my boss, ate Clytie, decied to make her last night in Manila unforgettable and fun. After visiting the JanSport kiosk in Trinoma, we headed over to Van Gogh is Bipolar for dinner.

Van Gogh is Bipolar is one of the best, craziest, coolest and most artistic restaurants I've ever been to! It is owned by Jetro Rafael, a travel photographer, and is located along Maginhawa Street in Quezon City. The place is so calming an relaxing, and when you first step into the place, you get the feeling that you'll feel right at home.

The outside of Van Gogh is Bipolar

This ain't your ordinary restaurant where a waiter will go to your table and take your orders. Below is the Van Gogh is Bipolar house rules:

Also, you can wear one of the many quirky head pieces that can be found in the restaurant, or if you want to help serve the food, you wear the naughty apron below.

Kuya Roqs, Genevieve, ate Cly and I being silly with our head pieces

The food being served in the restaurant is all named after famous people who are also bipolar. My favorite out of all the food we ate was the Godfather III pasta, and the pumpkin soup!

President Roosevelt's meal - black organic rice and grilled Norwegian salmon belly

Grandfather pastas and President Clinton's meal (lamb chops)

While you guys wait for your food, you can write whatever you want to write on the red graffiti wall, or screw the table (use a screw driver to write on the table), or check out the black room to find out people's deepest darkest secrets.

Van Gogh is Bipolar is one of those places that I would love to go to every weekend but can't because it's too far away from home! (and also because I don't wanna get lost up North) And it's also a place where I would love to take my friends to and of course my future family!

I will visit you soon, Van Gogh is Bipolar. Lemme get my shit and schedule together.

Mommy's 74th birthday

2011-07-17T21:16:00.000+08:00

Last Saturday, Mommy celebrated her 74th birthday, her first birthday without daddy. Though it was raining that day, it didn't stop us from celebrating. We had a mini breakfast celebration with our neighbors, visited daddy's grave in the afternoon, had an early dinner at Pizza Hut, and went to mass after.

Mommy and her BFFs

Mmmmm.... Lasagna!

Sunday afternoon, we had some family and friends over for a mini celebration. Mommy cooked all the food, she makes the best dishes ever!

The North Face 100 in Camarines Sur

2011-06-27T21:02:00.004+08:00

Like the previous post, this is also another delayed work-related post. :P

Last April 30, I went to Camarines Sur for The North Face 100, or as most people would call it "TNF 100." The North Face 100 is the ultimate 100km trail running challenge. The event lasted for two days, with at least 500 participants joining the 100km, 50km, 22km and 11km run.

So the bus ride going to Cam Sur was the longes bus rides I've ever been on, 8 hours! I actually enjoyed the bus ride, I was able to sleep unlike my other office mates (haha!), I saw my first ever sunrise, and I was able to see some of the Quezon coast line.

Bicol sunrise. Beautiful!

So the 100km run started at 3am on April 30, wasn't able to witness the gun off since I was part of the 2nd batch that left Manila 10PM on April 29, and arrived at around 6:30AM. Didn't do much on my first day in Cam Sur. Set up the JanSport booth, played frizbee, waited for 100km and 50km runners to arrive, drank booze, tried to wakeboard and failed miserably, and swam!

The basecamp

View of Mt. Isarog from CWC. That mountain was part of the 100km trail

Euclid Kering, the 1st place finisher of the 100km run. Finished the race in 11 hours!

Eduardo Villanueva, the 2nd place finisher. He said his lucky charm is his 22 year old shoes.

Sir Jundel Llagas, the division manager of The North Face, and his interview with Sports Unlimited.

Wakeboarded at night! Just a tip, stretch before you wakeboard because you will not like what it will do to your body after.

The second day was the busiest day for me. Didn't sleep til 2am the night before because we were preparing for the awarding ceremony. Call time was 4am, but I woke up at 5, just in time for the 11km gun start.

Runners preparing for the 11km

Primer represent! Ryan, Kathy, Tara and Anne

Start of 11km run!

At 7am, there were still 100km runner crossing the finish line

Before the awarding ceremony. Gave away prizes!

Before awarding the 100km winners, sir Jacky Quintos, our COO, gave special recognition to Tatang Vic, the oldest participant in the 100km run (at 74 years old). He has been part of TNF 100 and a participant of the 100km run ever since it began in the Philippines three years ago. But it was only this year that he was able to finish the 100km run in 29 hours and 15 minutes, 45 minutes before the 30hour 100km cut off. He gave a speech and told everyone that age doesn't stop you from doing what you want to do.

On hour last hour in CamSur, we decided to have a few drinks and celebrate the success of the TNF 100. It felt to chill by the pool and drink ice cold beer and eat pizza after a very stressful but fun weekend.

Next year, I plan to join the 11km race, and still help out. Hope I get to see Tatang Vic also! Being part of the TNF 100 was a great experience for me; not only did I get to go to CamSur and wake board, I also found out how it was to organize a race and the kind of things and how much people you need for the entire thing! And also, I got to cross out one of the 25 things to do in the Philippines before fantasizing about exploring other countries! So far, I've done 7 out of the 25, can't wait to complete the list!

Anyways, can't wait for next year's race! I'm super excited to find out where the venue is going to be!

Hedgren Style Fair

2011-06-21T22:55:00.002+08:00

This blog post is two months overdue, hihi sorry!

Last April 15, the very first Hedgren Style Fair was held at Greenbelt 3, in Makati City. This was my first big project in Primer, and we went through a lot of problems just so we that our event can be as close to perfect, and I have to say, even though we didn't have an event coordinator/associate to help us out, the Hedgren Style Fair was a huge success! I was in charge of getting sponsors for the event, coordinating with our VM, multimedia and graphics, finding suppliers for our modules, tents, carpets, marketing and event collaterals, and all the nitty gritty stuff that we needed for the event.

Some of our promotional collaterals

Promoted our event in Mellow 94.7 last April 13, 2011

The Hedgren Style Fair is part of Hedgren's Style campaign, which is to incorporate Hedgren into its target market's every day life. It is a culminating activity of all the Style Clinic that Hedgren did around the metro.

The Hedgren Style Fair was in cooperation with The Travel Club and Fashion Institute of the Philippines It was a half day affair, with the fair starting at noon at the Greenbelt 3 lobby, and ended at six in the evening. In the fair, we had five walk to style stations: Grooming by Belle&Cat and Skin Centraal, Hair and make-up by Creations by Lourd Ramos Salon, Styling by FIP, Personality Development by Ms. Marina Benipayo, and of course, the Hedgren Bags station! The fair was jam packed the entire time it was open! I have to give credit to our host, Ms. Vanessa, for being so energetic, which attracted a lot of mall goers to stop by our fair! :) We had raffles and prizes for those who registered in the fair, like Timex watches, Nivea kits, gift certificates from Skin Centraal and Ensembles, and Fitflop slippers!

The fair inside Greenbelt 3

Some activities during the fair

Ms. Abbygale Arenas-de Leon teaching our real people models how to strut the runway

Pia Guanio and I

Pia practicing for the fashion show

Ms. Marina Benipayo and I

With our AVP, Ms. Di

The fashion show, which was hosted by the beautiful Angel Jacob, started at around 7pm. The event consisted of three fashion shows: Hedgren bags, real people and 7-day look.

The fashion show in Greenbelt 3 park

Nalgenekada, LOL! (Hahaha eeeew) Aj, Ish, Errol and I (Thanks for all the help! You guys are the best!)

Phoemela Baranda

Mika Lagdameo

Lisette de Guzman, Hedgren brand manager, being interviewed by Pia Guanio for 24 Oras Chika Minute

In the Hedgren bags fashion show, we showcased the different characteristics of Hedgren bags: Pockets, Prints, Classic, Textures, Function and Quality.

Pockets

Prints

Classic

Texture

Function

Quality

The second fashion show was the real people fashion show, where we invited women from companies where we've had our Style Clinics to strut their stuff on the runway.

Rhealyn Abaloyan of Philweb

Gale Salazar of Timex

Ame Rosete of Citigroup Business Process Solutions

Clarissa Segismundo of Microsoft Philippines

Mica Bautista of Primer Group of Companies

Joni Lim, of Primer Group of Companies (AVP of The Travel Club)

The last fashion show was the 7-day look, where we incoporate Hedgren bags in people's everyday look.

Coordinates Monday

Meetings Tuesday

Power Wednesday

Battle Thursday

Casual Friday

Sporty Saturday

Pia Guanio for Hedgren's Sporty Saturday!

Relaxed Sunday

Former Ms.Philippines Abbygale Arenas-de Leon for Hedgren's Relaxed Sunday!

The event officially ended at around 9PM, with sir Jacky Quintos (our COO) giving the ceremonial toast.

It was only after the event that I got a chance to eat the super delicious from La Mer catering! I loved their penne pasta and buffalo wings, delish! And of course, had photo op with my office mates, and the models!!

The guy in the white shirt was so cute! He talked to me in Tagalog but he was so barok, cute!!

Half of my production crew. Thank you all for your help! Really appreciate it. :)

All the girls want a piece of him! Haha!

I was so relieved after the last model walked down the runway. It meant that it was all over! All the hard work and tears I put into this event was really worth it. This event taught me a lot of things, I'll just bore you to death if I enumerate it here.

For sure, this won't be the last Hedgren Style Fair. ;)

Ramon Bautista in the house!

2011-06-02T22:20:00.003+08:00

Earlier at work, I was hurrying to get out of the office because I needed to go to the DTI to process some promo permits when I saw Ramon Bautista walking in to our floor. I stood still for about 10 seconds because I was really star struck since I'm a huge fan of Ramon Bautista!

Ramon was in our office for a shoot. He was the actor for the Primer new employee video something something (hahaha I'm really not sure what it's about). Luckily, the shoot was in our floor; it was a simple and there was no script! I'll try to get a copy of the video once it's done.

Of course I couldn't leave the office when getting a picture with Ramon, so I waited til he was done with the shoot. Ramon was very friendly and super funny! I hope he'll still remember me if ever I bump into him in the future! :)

It's not obvious in the picture, but Ramon is wearing the big JanSport back pack on his back!

My new mouse: Microsoft's Arc Touch Mouse

2011-04-17T22:12:00.005+08:00

It's been almost a month since my last blog post; been really busy with preparations for our recently concluded event, the Hedgren Style Fair. Our event was... WOW! One word isn't enough to describe how great our event was! I'll blog about it soon, I just have to get some pictures from kuya Rey Dan since my shots are not so great, hihi!

Anyways, one of the sponsors of the Hedgren Style Fair was Microsoft Philippines. They gave us some of their products to give out as prizes and one of the products that they gave us is the new Arc Touch Mouse. When I was watching the video of the Arc Touch, I knew that I needed to get my hands on one of them (and replace may crappy CD-R King mouse). But when I found out what the price was (which is Php 3490!), I said forget it! I'd rather buy a Silver Maroon 5 ticket over that mouse.

After the event last Friday, Rav from Microsoft talked to me and my boss, ate Lisette, and congratulated us because of how successful our event was. He was so happy with the result that he gave my boss one Arc Touch mouse, and my boss gave it to me!!! :)

I am using the mouse now, and it's very easy to use! I love its touch feature and that it's so easy to carry around and I don't have to worry about any wires! You have to plug this nano transmitter into the computer and the mouse needs two AAA batteries to run. To turn the mouse on, you have to "curve" it, and to turn it off, just simply flatten it! What's cool about this mouse is that you can use it on any surface, even on sand!

My mouse is awesome, and what's more awesome is that I got it for free! Thanks, Microsoft Philippines! :)

Carmex: my lips' best friend.

2011-03-20T23:29:00.008+08:00

Yesterday, I purchased one item I probably cannot live without: Carmex lip balm.

I first used Carmex in 2003, when I saw one of my friends using it. Actually, its jar is one of the reasons why I bought it. Before, the bowl part of the jar was made out of ceramic and the cap was made out of metal (see photo below). The other reason why I bought it is the cold tingling effect it gave my lips just seconds after I applied it, and it lasts for about 5 minutes!

(photo from Chuvaness)

The last time I bought Carmex was back in 2004 (when I was still in the US), and I was almost going to buy Burt's Bees lip balm the other since my lips have been dry and chapped for the longest time already, and if it weren't for Chuvaness's blog posts about Carmex (here and here), I wouldn't even have known that it's already here in the Philippines!! So yesterday while I was running some errands in Greenbelt, I decided to stop by First Aid (located in Greenbelt 3) to buy Carmex! I bought the jar type of Carmex, since they ran out of the ones in stick. And it also comes in tubes! But I don't think they sell it here.

And oh, I think this is my first "make-up" related post. Hihi.

Forever 21

2011-02-13T20:09:00.001+08:00

This is a very late post; been really with work that I haven't had much time to update my blog.

Two weeks ago, I turned 21. I didn't really feel like it was my birthday, it just felt like a normal day. I don't mean it in a bad way, I guess I was just really busy that day. From office, to UP Diliman, then back to the office, then MOA for my birthday dinner.

So here's what I did on my birthday:

Went to the office at 7am because we needed to go to UP Diliman for ingress for the TNF and JanSport sale. At first I was hesitant to go because I didn't want to wake up early, but then I also didn't want to miss the opportunity to go to UP Diliman and try their famous isaw. But I wasn't able to try their isaw because I had to leave early and go back to the office, I went back by myself! Our driver had to go back to Sucat, so I commuted from UPD to Manila, and I got to Manila safe! I'm one of those persons that if you leave behind somewhere North will get lost and die, haha! And I got to ride the LRT 3 (from Munoz to Quirino)!! :)

I had a small celebration in the office. Lola came to the office and brought pancit, lumpia and puto, and she met my officemates and bosses! Then my bosses bought me two boxes of pizza (which I didn't get a chance to eat since I was busy making sure everyone was eating, heehee!)

After work, I met my family at President's Tea House at MOA. It's so great that they have a branch in MOA so that we don't have to go all the way to Binondo!! Their food was great! Our bill was only aroun 2k, and we 6 dishes, plus drinks and dumplings, and we didn't even get to finish all the food since their servings were huge! :)

And now that I'm 21, I have 6 years left to get married. My family wants me to get married before I turn 27. :|

Eastpak Resistance Party - DJ leg

2011-02-02T23:06:00.003+08:00

Last January 21, 2011 was the second leg of Eastpak's Resistance party, which was the DJ leg. The event was held at Attica Bar and Lounge at A-Venue in Makati City, with the Zombets (Ornussa Cadness, Mia Ayesa and Sanya Smith) as the guest DJ's. I was part of the production and we were at the venue since 10 am for ingress. We encountered problems all throughout the ingress and even minutes before the event, but we managed to find a solution to all those problems.

The event was supposed to start at 8 pm, but because of heavy rain and traffic, it was pushed back to 10 pm. The event was wiiiiiiild! Overflowing food and drinks, and of course, great music courtesy of the Zombets! The entire time we were partying, I was also working, haha! I can't believe I managed to handle that! ;)

Visual merchandising and event set up

Bea (events associate) and her production team!

Anne (the visual merchandiser for the event) and I

The girls and sir Rusell

Gee and Ornussa

With sir Raoul! :)

With Gee, the brand representative of Eastpak (and Gravis!)

First month of year 2011.

2011-01-23T12:46:00.012+08:00

The Holidays are over, but to me, it seems like it hasn't ended yet.

Last January 7, Primer Group of Companies had its AGT (Annual Get Together) at the World Trade Center tent. Thousands of Primer employees attended as Primer also celebrated its 25th anniversary. It's my first AGT, and I was part of the Registration and I also performed! :) The Philippine All Star also performed, as well as Nyoy Volante.

Two weeks ago, I decided to get full bangs. Start the year with a bang, right? ;)

Santo Nino fiesta

Last Monday was The North Face's team bonding at Seaside, Macapagal. I was touched when Sir Jundell asked me to join them because even though I am no longer part of team TNF, I still feel like I am. (I was their Marketing Associate for a month while they were still looking for their MA).

Hello, 2011!

2011-01-09T20:11:00.006+08:00

Finally, 2011 has arrived! 2010 was a great year for me, and I hope 2011 will be the same, or even better!! (Better, meaning sana magkaroon na ako ng special someone, haha! KIDDING!!!)

On New Year's Eve, we had the usual Medya Noche and fireworks. I took out the Absolut and nobody wanted to drink with me so I drank by myself, hahaha how lonely! Anyways, my sister was so cute! She had so much fun with the lusis and the fountain! And we both jumped when the clock struck twelve! Hahaha I'm still hoping that I grow taller, you know.

On New Year's day, we had our yearly Santos Reunion. The usual, mass, kainan, bingo, hagisan ng pera, gift giving, and "after party." This year, I was one that read the first reading and responsorial psalm during the mass. It was my first time to have a part in our mass, and I won in bingo! Even though I only won 150 pesos, but still! And I still got money (pamasko) even though everyone in my family knows I already have a job, hahaha! And it was also my first time to get drunk in front of my cousins ans aunties. If you don't want to crawl your way into the restroom, do not drink 1800 Tequila with Absolut Vodka and GSM Blue! And because I was very drunk, was very generous and gave 500 pesos for our Starbucks. Man, I am never getting drunk again!

Lorenzo-Santos nuptial

2011-01-02T14:18:00.009+08:00

Last Thursday, December 30, 2010, my eldest cousin, ate Margoux, got married to her boyfriend of 12 years, kuya Norman. They tied the knot at Our Lady of the Most Holy Rosary Parish in Multinational Village, and the reception was at Microtel Mall of Asia. I was a secondary sponsor (veil), mama was a principal sponsor, Lala was a flower girl, and mommy was a proxy for one of the principal sponsors.

It was a simple, yet very fun wedding. As usual, I cried at their wedding and I really don't know why I cry at weddings! Now that the eldest and the second eldest cousins in our generation of the Santos clan are married, we're betting on who will get married next! Everyone's betting that one of the Tres Marias (me, Maan or Iris) will get married next!

Anyways, here's some pictures from the wedding:

Last post before the year ends.

2010-12-31T20:04:00.007+08:00

Only four more hours til 2011 arrives. 2010 was a great year for me, and I hope 2011 will be the same, or even better! Before 2010 ends, I'll answer this "survey" that I got from Meryl to see how my 2010 went.

What were the things you did that you've never done before?

Go to Mag:Net at High Street. Be a bridesmaid at a wedding. Cry at a wedding. Smoke weed. Be a dean's lister. Plan a trip for about 20 people. Go to Boracay with friends. Jetski. Jump off a cliff. Have a physical fight with my mom (sabunutan talaga!) Go to Davao. Zip line. Eat durian. Get drunk at home. Work! Have an ATM card. Withdraw from an ATM machine. Be a secondary sponsor at a wedding.

Did you keep your New Year's resolution and will you make some this year?

Unfortunately, I didn't. I said I'll quit smoking, but it's really hard to do so. This year, I won't make any.

Did anyone close to you give birth?

Yep! My cousin, ate Mae Mae.

Did anyone close to you die.

One of my uncles died on Christmas day, but I'm not really that close to him.

What countries did you visit?

None.

What would you like to have in 2011 that you lacked in 2010?

A special someone, maybe? HAHAHAHA

What date(s) from 2010 will remain etched in your memory and why?

February 13 - Mama and Lala came back.

February 14 - My lolo's 80th birthday

April 8 - Ate Mae and Kuya Zav's wedding

April 30 to May 5 - Boracay with OrgComm family!

May 7 - IRON MAN 2

May 24 - Tali beach with J-Crew, where I jumped off a cliff!

July 15 - The birth of my first pamangkin, Issey Aolani. :)

August 18 - First physical fight mama, the day before thesis submission!

September 4 - Davao trip!

October 9 - College graduation, and the day mama and I made up.

October 28 - The day I received the news that I was accepted at Primer Group of Companies!

November 15 - My first day of work at Primer.

November - 25 My first PR event, Tumi's Holiday and Spring collection launch.

November 29 - My first photo shoot.

December 30 - Ate Margoux and Kuya Norman's wedding

What was your biggest achievement of the year?

Being a Dean's lister, finishing college and receiving great comments on our thesis, and of course getting a job! :)

What was the best thing you bought?

Probably the new clothes and shoes that I bought myself a few weeks ago! The plane tickets to Boracay and Davao! And the Vuvuzuela I bought just a few days ago! :)

Did you suffer any illness or injury?

I got the flu during my second week at work, and my cough lasted for about a month!

Whose behavior merited celebration?

Me! I feel like I've grown up a lot during 2010. I think I became more mature and responsible.

Whose behavior made you appalled or depressed?

My mom and Jude.

Where did most of your money go?

Food! I can't stop eating, hahaha. And of course my vices, and on new clothes and shoes!

What did you really get excited about?

The return of mama and Lala to the Philippines. Ate Mae and Kuya Zav's wedding. Boracay with OrgComm family. The birth of baby Iel. Davao trip with Cee. College graduation, baby! First day of work. Ate Margoux and Kuya Norman's wedding.

What songs will remind you of 2010?

Chasing Pavements by Adelle, 2012 by Jay Sean, The Time by The Black Eyed Peas and Marry You by Bruno Mars.

Compared to this time last year, are you:

1. Happier or sadder?

I think happier, physically, mentally and spiritually. But emotionally, sadder.

2. Thinner or fatter?

Thinner. A lot of people have said that I lost weight and that I look anorexic, which I know I don't!

3. Richer or poorer?

Hahahahaha Richer! Because I am now earning, but poorer because I keep on spending my salary!

What do you wish you'd done more?

Go to church and spend time with family instead of sitting on my ass all day.

What do you wish you'd done less?

Smoke and drink.

What was your favorite TV program?

Glee, How I Met Your Mother and Pretty Little Liars.

Do you hate anyone now that you didn't hate this time last year?

None.

What was the best book you read?

Uhmmmm, thesis/RRL books? Haha!

What did you want and get?

A trip to Boracay with friends, A college diploma, and a job!

What did you do on your birthday and what did you get?

Drank at Beach house with a few friends then dinner at Sbarro with my grandparents. I was 20 years old, my last year as a teen!

What one thing would have made your year immeasurable?

To have that one wish come true, but I guess it never will. Four years is enough, it's time to move on.

How would you describe your fashion concept this year?

Very plain. I didn't have the money of time to buy new clothes, so I was always seen wearing jeans and a shirt.

Who/what kept you sane?

My friends and family, and food!

Which celebrity/public figure did you fancy the most?

Mark Salling.

What political issue stirred you the most?

2010 National Elections, even though I didn't vote.

Who was the best new person(s) you've met?

My officemates! :)

What was the nicest thing someone told you about yourself?

My friend Edren told me that I'm one of the nicest friends he has, and someone he can really trust, and that he considers me as one of his sisters. :)

The most touching experience you've had this year?

Being an intern for Open Heart Foundation and teaching at the schools they support. I always almost cry when I visit their schools because I feel bad for the children, and I realize how lucky I am and that I should be thankful for everything I have.

Quote a song that sums up your year.

No regrets, just love. (Teenage Dream by Katy Perry)

Was 2010 a good year for you?

Definitely yes!

What was your least favorite moment of the year?

Fighting with my mom and stressing over thesis.

What was your favorite moment of the year?

Summer vacation, Thesis submission and defense, Davao trip, college graduation and finding out that I got accepted at Primer!

Where were you when 2010 began?

At home, and after I went to my aunt's place to drink!

Where will you be when 2010 ends?

At home, with my family. :)

Did you lose anybody close to you in 2010?

I didn't really lose him, there's just a gap between us now.

Did you miss anybody in the past year?

Yes, my family in the US.

What was your favorite record(s) in 2010?

Bruno Mars', Rihanna's and Maroon 5's new albums, and Pretty Little Liars soundtrack.

How many concerts did you see in 2010?

None.

Did you drink alcohol in 2010?

YES!

Did you do a lot of drugs in 2010?

Nope, just twice. But prescribed drugs, yes!

Did you do anything you were ashamed of this year?

Yes.

How much money did you spend in 2010?

A lot! Next year, I'll total how much I'll spend!

What was your proudest moment of 2010?

Graduating from college. I'm the first to graduate in my family and I feel that my mom and grandparents are really proud with what I have accomplished, and of course getting a job!

What was your embarrassing moment of 2010?

I can't remember anything really embarrassing, but I had a lot of whoops moments.

If you could go back in time to any moment of 2010 and change something, what would it be?

August 18, 2010. I wish I would have just shut up so that mama and I wouldn't have fought.

How are you different now that the year is about to end?

I definitely became more responsible now that I'm working, and I value time more.

What are your wishes for the next year?

For my family and friends to be healthy and strong; to be a regular at Primer; and to have a special someone in my life. (HAHAHA KALOKA)

What are your plans for 2011?

To travel all over the Philippines, and maybe one Asian country! I don't really have any plans, I'll just go with the flow. Bring it on, 2011!

Holiday celebrations

2010-12-31T12:31:00.017+08:00

In my 20 years of existence, this Holiday season has got to be the most costly Holiday season for me. I spent my first paycheck all on gifts, parties/celebrations and of course I bought myself new clothes ans shoes. I swear on my next paycheck, I'm really going to refrain myself from spending too much.

Anyways, here's how I "celebrated" the Holidays:

December 18, 2010:

OrgComm Christmas party and Ivy's 20th birthday at Fraser Place, Makati city. Only a few people went, but we still had fun! The place Ivy rented out was really huge! 4 bedroom condo with a huge laundry room, bigger than my room, haha!

December 20, 2010:

Chica's Christmas dinner at Glorietta 5. We had dinner at Chef de Angelo and went to Bo's Coffee after. I almost didn't go because of work, but I still went even though I was really late, and the worst part is, I forgot my gifts for them!

December 21, 2010:

UTCI (Uniglobe Travelware Co. Inc. Christmas party). The newbies had a performance and danced to Jay Sean's 2012 (I will upload the video soon, haha!). And I joined the Karaoke Challenge and I got second place and one thousand pesos! I sang I Will Survive by Gloria Gaynor and everyone was surprised with my performance. My boss, Ms. Dinah, was one of the judges and she said she didn't expect that I would join the challenge since I hardly talk inside the office. And our COO, sir Jacky was also there and said to me: "One month ka pa lang pala sa Primer, paano pa kaya pag 6 months ka na?" HAHA! (Not a lot of pictures from the party, was too lazy!)

UTCI Merchandisers

My boss, Ms. Dinah

December 22, 2010:

My Highschool barkada and I went to Enchanted Kingdom! The last time I went there was back in 2005, also around December. Wow, five years! But I didn't really enjoy the rides that much. I guess I've grown up already and I'm more interested in the scarier rides, like the EKstreme tower ride! But I had fun being with my friends. I took a day off from work just so that I can be with them and it was worth it.

EKstreme tower ride!

December 25, 2010:

Christmas day! We had Noche Buena at our house, went to mass, then Tito Arthur's house, then I went to Muntinlupa for the Nopuente Christmas party!

First month at work.

2010-12-19T15:13:00.012+08:00

Time flies by so fast, I didn't realize I've been working for Primer for a month already! Being employed created a lot of change in my life, both good and bad. I became more responsible and less "petiks" and learned how important being on time really is.

Ever since I started working, I hardly check my phone or use the internet. I only get to spend time with my sister during weekends since she's usually asleep by the time I come home from work.

Work has been so much fun and stressful at the same time, but I don't really feel the stress since it's so fun at work and my office mates and I are always laughing our asses off.

So here's what I've been doing at Primer:

Tumi PR event held last November 25, 2010 at Greenbelt 5, hosted by Ms. Angel Jacob. I got to meet Rajo Laurel! :)

Hedgren photo shoot with Monsters Centaur Productions, with Jasmine Maierhofer as one of our models.

Hedgren Style Clinic at Concentrix Eastwood. Seminar about style and professional imaging by Ms. Abigail Arenas-de Leon (former Bb. Pilipinas-Universe).

Last day of store duty!

And also last Tuesday, some officemates and I went out for dinner/drinking session at Dencio's in Harbour Square, and I'm glad I joined them because I felt more closer to them and more at ease/comfortable with them. Can't wait for our Christmas party this coming Tuesday! :)

First item I bought with my first salary!

2010-12-08T22:23:00.009+08:00

Yesterday, I got my first ever salary. I promised myself that I will not spend it since Christmas is near, and I still have a lot of Christmas shopping to do, and Christmas parties to go to. But when I got to the office today, I was told that there was a sample sale going on at the 6th floor, so of course I had to check it out! I've only been in the room for less than a minute and I already found one thing I wanted to buy, and I did! :)

(For a bigger picture, click here!)

It's like I hit two birds with one stone; boat shoes and sneakers rolled into one! I was also going to buy these Sanuk shoes and Sanuk sandals, but I told myself I need to be responsible with my money and focus first on the things I need. Yay for maturity and responsibility! Haha!

25 things to do in the Philippines before fantasizing about exploring other countries.

2010-12-06T00:03:00.008+08:00

Got this amazing list from Inquirer's Lifestyle section!

1. Go white water rafting in Cagayan De Oro.

2. Visit Batanes.

3. See Mt. Mayon up close.

4. Swim with the whale sharks in Donsol.

5. Climb Mt. Pulag and be awed by its sea of clouds.

6. Dive, swim and explore Palawan's underground river.

7. Hike and let the view of Mt. Pinatubo's crater take your breath away.

8. Party in your bikini in Boracay.

9. Surf's up! Choose your wave-La Union, Zambales or Real, Quezon.

10. Missed out on the pristine beauty of Boracay 15 years ago? Visit Malapascua, Cebu.

11. Dive and see the rich marine life of Anilao, Batangas.

12. Travel back in time-go to Vigan.

13. Let Bohol wow you with its many offerings-the Chocolate Hills, the tarsiers, the Loboc River cruise, old churches and the beach.

14. Go high! Drive to the Mountain Province of Sagada. Check out the caves, the hanging coffins and enjoy the laid-back lifestyle.

15. Grab a Viaje del Sol map, visit Ugu Binyan's pottery studio, and eat Kusina Salud and unwind at Casa San Pablo.

16. Spend an entire week up north. Take a road trip from Manila to Vigan, Ilocos, Cagayan Valley, Aparri and Isabela.

17. Try wakeboarding in CamSur.

18. Check out Malate, Old Manila and all their secret spots.

19. There are many reasons to love Davao. Kublai's artworks, its proximity to the beach, the tasty pastil and juicy suha. And did I mention it's a smoke-free city?

20. Spend a weekedn roughing it in in Anawangin and Capones in Zambales.

21. Check out our coloroful fiestas and document them with your camera. Ati-atihan, Dinagyang, Masskara, Sinulog, Higantes, Panagbenga and more!

22. Pick your own strawberries at the Strawberry Fields in La Trinidad, Benguet.

23. Go to Pampanga for sisig.

24. If it's too hot in Manila, grab a few friends and take a quick trip to Tagaytay.

25. Enjoy a food trip in Iloilo. You'll never go hungry in this city.

So I've don 5 out of 25, and I will try my best to finish the whole list before I turn 30! Wish me luck! :)

Mama's 42nd birthday

2010-11-28T20:49:00.005+08:00

So my twin sister turned 42 today. Haha, I'm just kidding. We celebrated mama's 42nd birthday by hearing mass at the church near MOA, followed by lunch at Cabalen. I still prefer Dad's over Cabalen because they have more food selections, and I still have to try out Yakimix! We were supposed to eat there, but we mama chose Cabalen since grandpa is not really a fan of Japanese food.

So I haven't been updating my blog that much. Been busy lately with work, and next week's gonna be another busy week. I'll blog about what I've been doing lately, maybe next weekend. :)

"Working girl"

2010-11-21T10:57:00.009+08:00

First week at work was stressful, but I'm not complaining because there is no job in Earth that is not stressful. But I love my job, the company and the brands I'm handling! I still need to memorize everyone's name, and I still need to familiarize myself with the things I need to do!

Wore this outfit last Thursday when I visited our stores all over the Metro. It's something I don't usually wear, but since I'm a ~working girl~ now, I gotta look ~professional~. Going to different malls tempted me to go shopping, but I constrained myself and just bought one item, a black belt!

The moon looked really pretty last night. This was taken at around 1:30 AM. Too bad I wasn't able to take a picture of the moon last Friday, when it had a ring/halo around it.

And earlier, we set up our Christmas tree! I'm still not used to having a really small Christmas tree because ever since we were little, we've always had a big Christmas tree. But since we don't have enough space in our house right now, this one will do, and it's pink!!! :)

First day of work.

2010-11-16T21:26:00.006+08:00

Yesterday was my first day of work at Primer Group of Companies. I woke up at 5:30 am kasi madami pa akong che che bureche bago ako makaalis ng bahay, and because I also wanted to leave the house early because I know commuting will be a pain in the ass because of the bus coding shit the MMDA made! I wish you guys would've seen Coastal road/Roxas Boulevard yesterday, it was packed! Usually at 8am there's only about 100 people waiting for a bus, but yesterday it was like thrice that!

Anyways, I got to the office at 9am and waited in the HRD for about an hour for Ms. Cristy, the HR person assigned to me. Good thing I knew some people from the orientation so the wait wasn't that boring. Then at 10pm, Ms. Cristy accompanied me to the 5th floor, where our office is, and introduced me to my boss. Had a wonderful one hour talk with my boss and I'm because of what she told me, I'm really inspired to do my best in my job so I can get promoted in the future!

Then I was introduced to the other Marketing Associates in the company and spent the rest of the day with Vivian, the one that I will replace. She taught me the things that I needed to do and how to do it. To be honest, I'm really scared with all the things that I have to do. I didn't realize it was going to be that much, but I'm not complaining because I know there is never an easy job. I also got my email account set up, and maybe this week, I'll have my business cards printed! I spent my lunch break with Yanee and Cee and we had a wonderful lunch at Gravy Fix. The chicken was delicious!

At 5pm, my boss had another talk with me. She talked to me for about an hour and a half about my job description and how important my job is for them, but also for me. She also asked me which brands I'd like to handle and I was surprised that she let me choose because you know, most bosses really don't do that. I chose JanSport, Tumi and Hedgren. But next week, I'll also handle The North Face, Eagle Creek, Sea to Summit, Nalgene, and Salomon when the other Marketing Assoc. leaves, but I'd only have to handle them until February or March of next year when they hire another Marketing Assoc.

After the talk, I was introduced to everyone in the office. I think that was the highlight of my day. I felt like I was back in pre-school, like the new student who's shy and scared and not ready to face everyone yet. But I'm glad that happened and I hope I can become close to all of them!

First day of work was so fun, but also tiring, that's why I got a major headache when I was on my way home. Tomorrow is another big day for me; my first meeting with the BIG BOSS, and my first training!

Sorry for this long blog post, gusto ko lang i-share sa inyo ang isa sa pinaka importanteng araw sa buhay ko. :)

Grade school reunion.

2010-11-14T15:28:00.008+08:00

Ever since college started, I've been itching to go to Halloween parties and dress up as a totally different person. But every year my plans of going to a Halloween party are always cancelled because of a family event. This year, I was really sure that I was going to one (the one in Encore) because I didn't have a family event to go to. But at the beginning of October, my grade school friends got in touch with me all thanks to Facebook, and they were planning a mini reunion at the end of the month. And I couldn't say no because I haven't seen them for almost 11 years!

So last October 30, we all had dinner at Gerry's Grill over at Mall of Asia, and after went to Tagaytay to hang out and drink. Talk about spontaneous and unprepared! The girls weren't aware about the Tagaytay trip, but since there two of our friends brought cars, we decided to tag along. The trip to Tagaytay was totally worth it, even though we froze are asses off the entire time and we couldn't decide on a place to stay because I got to be with my friends whom I haven't seen for almost 11 years.

Our school was pretty small, so we only had like two sections and about 40-50 students in our batch that's why everyone was so close back then. One reunion is not enough for us, so next next weekend we'll have another one here at my house and I hope more people will come!

I'm ready to be a mommy.

2010-11-09T20:50:00.006+08:00

No, I am not pregnant, and I won't be until I am 30 years old. What I mean is that I am ready to become a mommy to my little sister. Since my mom is Japan, I'm the one watching over my sister, giving her her allowance, and checking the things that she needs for school.

Like earlier, I signed her permission slip so that she'll be able to join her class for their field trip on Friday. I seriously felt like a "mommy" when I signed it. I guess I have to get used to being a second mother to my little sister since in a few months, our mom will go back to the US. I guess it will also prepare for the future, you know, when I actually have kids, hahaha. Anyways, CAREER MUNA BAGO LOVE LIFE.K.

My grandparent's 46th wedding anniversary.

2010-11-08T18:42:00.003+08:00

Yesterday, we celebrated mommy and daddy's anniversary by hearing mass at St. Andrew's, and lunch at Shakey's.

The priest's homily was all about marriage and I actually listened! I rarely listen to homilies because sometimes what the priests are saying are all a bunch of bullshit or because I just don't care. I guess the reason why I listened is because my grandparents were celebrating their wedding anniversary, and because I know that in the next ten years, I might get married.

So after church, we went to SM to have lunch at SM. I wanted to go to Luk Foo instead because I was really craving for Chinese food, eh bawal kay lolo kasi mamantika daw food dun, kaya Shakey's nalang. Too bad Mama wasn't able to join us because she's currently Japan, but that means more food for us! After lunch, my sister and I went over to our aunt's house because we got measured for our gowns for our cousin's wedding, and we left mommy and daddy at SM so that they can go on a "date."

I wish that my grandparents will have more wedding anniversaries to celebrate, and when they reach 50 years, I'll throw a big party for them and have them renew their vows.

A gift with sentimental value.

2010-11-06T20:32:00.006+08:00

I know I'm not the only person in the world that gets emotional when they have to let go of something that has sentimental value to them. It's so weird how we get emotionally attached not only to people, but also to objects.

I only have a few things that have sentimental value to me, but there's this one item that has the most value to me, and it's the white gold cross necklace that mama and dada (stepdad) gave to me back in 2004 as a Christmas present. Ever since I got that necklace, I have never taken it off, even when I take a shower, go swimming or go to sleep. Well the necklace broke earlier and I really wanted to cry. Can you imagine that I was wearing that necklace for almost six years! That necklace was the best present I've ever gotten. It broke because my sister and I were playing earlier and she accidentally pulled it, and the chain broke.

Now I feel naked without my necklace. When I get my first pay check, I'll buy a chain that's similar to the one that broke so that I can still wear my cross necklace. For now, I'm wearing a letter "C" necklace.

Unemployed no more.

2010-11-05T21:17:00.005+08:00

I officially start work next week and I'm so excited about it! I was supposed to start on Monday, but since I won't be able to get my Transcript til Tuesday, I start on Wednesday. I haven't revealed to a lot of people where I will work, I guess I just want to keep it a secret til my first day of work, but I guess it's okay to reveal it already. I'll be working as a Marketing Associate for one of the companies of Primer Group of Companies, which is UCTI (Uniglobe Travelware Co., Inc.) I'll be handling brands like Jansport, The North Face, Eastpak, Hedgren, and their stores The Travel Club, R.O.X. and Bratpack. When I signed the contract last week, I was hoping I'll also handle Sanuk, FitFlop and DC Shoes, but they're under a different company.

Anyways, earlier, I went to the office for the orientation, and to my surprise, I saw two of my high school batch mates there and found out they'll also be working for Primer as marketing interns! I hope they'll be in the same department as me so that at least I know two people in the office.

I thought the orientation was the only thing I had to go to the office for, but they asked me to come back after lunch because I needed to sign some papers. When the HR person said papers, I thought she was talking about the contract, like I have to sign another copy. Boy was I wrong. When I came back after a lonely lunch at Agno, I had to fill up four forms: BDO application, Pag-Ibig, PhilHealth and TIN registration. I kept asking the guy sitting next to me questions on what I should put on the blank spaces, and good thing he didn't get annoyed with me! I wish my lola was there with me when I was filling up those forms, but I did feel like an adult filling up all of those forms by myself!

I really wanted this job because of the job description, the company and its working environment, and the benefits. I chose this job over the other one. The other one has a higher pay, but it's all the way in Mandaluyong and I don't like the job and the working environment. which had high pay. And I know I made the right decision. :)

Two weeks of shopping.

2010-10-30T14:00:00.000+08:00

I don't go shopping that much anymore. Before, whenever I would get a hold of money, I'd spend it all buying clothes. But I learned to be thrifty, and I also didn't have the time because of thesis.

Now that I've graduated, I have all the time to do anything, including shopping. Two weeks ago, I went to Megamall because they had a sale. I knew the lines at Forever 21 were going to be hella long, but I took the risk. There was a line for the fitting room and the cashier. Unfortunately, I only bought two things because there were no more size small. I bought two over sized tank tops, one in yellow and one in gray, and it was only Php159 each!

Two days ago, I went ukay shopping with my lola. I was going to buy two shoes, one gold flats and one gold open toed heels, because they were only Php80 each, but this bag caught my eye, and I chose this one over the too! I bought it for only Php150, yay! This is currently my favorite bag, and I'm afraid I'm going to be overusing it. :|

Yesterday, I went to SM with my mom and sister. Bought some accessories and some ingredients/seasonings because I want to do some cooking experiments.

Bought some hair ties because I keep losing mine, and I look bruha if I don't put my hair up.

I also bought a Caronia lime green nail polish. I love the color! It's not to strong, and not too ugly, it's kind of calming, for me. I like Caronia over the other local nail polish brands. It dries quickly, and the paint doesn't thicken as fast as the other brands.

I'm so excited to try these two!!! I miss eating buffalo wings and I hope these products will work. I'll blog about these when I use them, probably next week.

And my last purchase, these two necklaces from Maldita. Earlier this week, I saw this WTF necklace in Tumblr, and wanted one of my own. I didn't expect to find one quickly (or what's to close to it), so without hesitation, I bought it! It's actually really cheap, and I also bought a peace sign necklace, which is also cheap!

Now that I'm working and earning, I have to control myself from spending my money on things that I WANT, and instead, spend it on things that I NEED. I am slowly becoming an adult. Hooray for responsibilities and pay checks!

If you can't follow the rules, then you shouldn't run for politics.

2010-10-25T17:36:00.007+08:00

Last night, I received a message in Facebook from someone asking me to support a Kagawad candidate (Alice Bacani)'s advocacy. Being the person that I am who doesn't really give shit about things like that, I decided to delete the message. After I did that, I realized that what that person did was campaigning, and I know campaigning period is over (it ended October 23). So I immediately checked my email so that I can get a screencap of the email notification of the message and sent it to Boto Mo, Ipatrol Mo.

And so I replied to Alice Bacani's support group and told them that I am going to report them for what they did, and they replied and said they are not campaigning. Do they really think I'm that stupid?! So I replied again, and after my reply, I didn't receive anymore replies from them, and it looks like they deleted their Facebook account.

Too late guys, I already reported. And if they really aren't guilty, then they would give me a reply and they wouldn't delete their Facebook account.

I am not a registered voter, and even though I am not, I feel like by reporting this, I someone helped out the community, even though it wasn't my own community.

Oh, I got a screencap of their Facebook account before they deleted it.

New blog layout!

2010-10-23T10:29:00.004+08:00

After eight months, I finally changed my blog theme/layout. I used my own background image and altered the colors of the fonts in order to match the image. I still need to fix a few things though, like the sidebar gadget, I want to make it transparent, and the blog title, how do I make it centered?

I'm happy with what I made, I'll probably stick with this design for quite a long time.

30 interesting facts about myself.

2010-10-22T18:12:00.007+08:00

My initials are ACDC. I feel so cool.
My father died 5 days before my 2nd birthday, and he was burried on the day of my birthday. We had my birthday party at the cemetery.
I only learned how to drink medicine (the capsules and tablets) back in March.
When I was young, I loved drinking milk, but now, I throw up whenever I drink milk.
I am an athlete. Back in junior high school I was part of our school's basketball, volleyball and track & field team.
I can run a mile in 6 minutes (That was six years ago, I probably won't be able to do that now).
When I was 8, I was engulfed by a huge wave at Montara beach and my lola thought I drowned.
I am afraid of the sound of popping balloons.
I've had more girlfriends that boyfriends. 3-1.
I'm allergic to really really fake accessories. I get rashes and it sucks because I don't know which ones I am allergic to and aren't.
I'd never spend more than 1,000 pesos on a pair of pants, shorts, shirt or dress. Well, maybe for a dress, but it depends. Definitely on shoes.
When I was young, I was confined almost twice a year in the hospital. But that stopped when we moved to the US when I was ten.
I've never celebrated Valentine's day.
When my boyfriend and I were still together, he back stabbed me, stole money from me. He also hurt me physically and verbally.
I miss my ex-boyfriend's family. Especially his little brother. They were so nice to me.
I can burp really really loud.
I was in Hong Kong for only 20 minutes.
I may not seem smart, but I graduated Salutatorian in Junior High. And in grade school, I was top 2 of our batch.
When I was 12, I cut my foot open and the cut needed to be stitched up.
I am afraid of spiders, frogs and cockroaches.
When I was young I preferred Jollibee over McDonald's, but now, it's the other way around.
The only Hollywood artist I've seen in person is Hilary Duff. I was 20 steps away from and I wanted to pull her hair.
My first kiss was when I was 12. Lips lang.
There's a mole on my back. I got it when I was young when I fell off the swing. It was a scar at first, then it turned in to a mole.
One of my favorite fast food place is Great Khan's.
I love monkeys.
I love bacon.
I love lechon.
When I sleep, it looks like my eyes are still open.
I love riding roller coasters.

JC's 21st birthday

2010-10-21T16:27:00.005+08:00

JC only celebrates his birthday every two years, and this year I was a good girl. On his 17th birthday, I was really drunk, and on his 19th birthday I was high, which is why I missed most of the party because I was sleeping. Anyways, This year I kept my composure, still drank and was awake the whole time.

It was a simple gathering, with his family, girlfriend and friends present.

Grad party!

2010-10-16T08:01:00.007+08:00

Same day as my graduation and thanks to my lola for throwing me one! I only expected our handa to be lumpia and pancit, but she cooked more than that! And I didn't expect for a lot of guests to come. I am touched!

Ito yung party na finally pinayagan ako ni lola na mag painom, haha! The last time I did this was at my 17th birthday party and it really didn't go well. It's my first time to get drunk at home, and I'm looking forward to more parties at our house! :)

We've had the time of our lives.

2010-10-15T05:32:00.009+08:00

October 9, 2010

The day of my graduation. And also the day my mom and I finally made up (more of the story here).

I've been for this day to come since November 2009 because I thought I was going to graduate last June, but because of thesis, I was delayed by one term. But I feel like October was the perfect month for me to graduate. Most of my friends graduated the same as me, and I felt like June was just too early for me.

Anyways, here are some pictures from our graduation. I'm really going to miss college and being a student. Some of the things I liked doing back in college was sleeping during class, cutting classes to eat or drink with friends, stepping out of the class to smoke in Agno, and of course cramming.

Being in college has got to be one of the best experiences I've ever had.

So near, yet so far.

2010-10-15T04:48:00.006+08:00

10-6-10

Being in school for 13 hours was totally worth it. Although it was tiring, it was also a lot of fun. I got to be with my friends whom I haven't seen in a long time, and it was just great being in school again. That day we picked up our togas, attended the College Recognition Rites, Baccalaureate mass, had our class pictures taken, and had our grad practice. After the grad practice, we were just so excited for Saturday to come! We couldn't wait to be in our togas and to walk on stage even if it meant waiting in the PICC for 3 hours!

Communication Department

Best thesis mates ever!

My Chicas! I'm so lucky to have these girls in my life!

My OrgComm family. College wouldn't have been awesome if it weren't for them!

10-10-10

2010-10-12T19:14:00.007+08:00

Everyone was talking about this day and how it should be special and that you should do something special on this day because it's like a lucky day.

I didn't intend on doing special on that day because I wanted to rest since I was pretty tired and wasted from the party the night before. Turns out, that day became significant to me, despite the fact that I had a hangover.

My mom and I had a fight back in August, on the 18th to be exact, and we didn't talk to each other for almost 2 months. About 2 weeks before graduation, I can feel that there's no more tension between us and that we want to make up. So the day of my graduation, after the ceremony, I met up with mama on stage and I hugged her and I said sorry to her and thanked her for everything. I know that it may not be my fault why we fought, but sometimes you just have to lower your pride and give way in order for things to be okay.

So last Sunday, which was 10-10-10, I planned to stay at home and sleep and try to get rid of my headache. But my sister said that she and mama were going to MOA, and I decided to join them. It's the first time that I went out with mama and my sister after our 2 months of not talking to each other.

It was just a simple trip to MOA. Mama went to watch Eat, Pray, Love, while Lala and I killed time playing at San Miguel by the bay, walking around the mall and eating mirienda at Krispy Kreme. Then after, we met up with mama and had a simple dinner at Jollibee. Doing things like these makes me really happy, and I wish we could do this more often.

I hope to never fight again with mama. That was too much, and this family doesn't need any more fighting.

Oh yeah, I saw a lot of friends that day! I saw Tristan and DJ, Ginnil, Mon, Charles, Alo and Wyet and their baby Sean Andrei!

And I will blog soon about my graduation! Wait for it! ;)

My letter to the Mason family.

2010-10-10T11:56:00.002+08:00

Hey everyone.

So I finally graduated yesterday! I'll upload the pictures soon for you guys to see.

I just want to thank you all because if it weren't for you guys and the support you have given me financially, spiritually and emotionally, I wouldn't have been able to graduate from college. The help and support you gave really means a lot to me and I don't know how I will ever repay you guys. I know that I am only your daughter, granddaughter and niece by marriage, but you guys never let me feel that way. You treated me as if I was your own blood, your own daughter, your own granddaughter, and your own niece. I am so lucky to have you guys in my life and to have a family like you.

I love and miss you all and I can't wait to see you all!

Again, thank you for everything.

Love,

Caryl

Why college graduation is a big deal for me.

2010-10-08T18:58:00.006+08:00

So tomorrow's the big day, my college graduation.

Graduating from college is a big deal for me, and also for my family because I am the first grandchild to graduate from college. In fact, I am the first one in our family to graduate from college. Since my mom got pregnant when she was only a teen, her and my papa weren't able to finish college. My maternal grandparents also weren't able to finish college because of financial problems. I don't know about my paternal grandparents, I'm not really close with them. Even though I have a kuya, I graduated ahead of him because he decided to join the Marines after high school and started college just 2 years ago. And as for my step grandparents, I'm also their first grandchild to graduate from college.

I should have done a good job in college, but I slacked off. I wanted to be Summa Cum Laude, but I didn't make it. My CGPA is like 2.8 something. I hope when I take my MA, I'll do a better job.

I'm so nervous! I hope I don't trip while marching or while walking on the stage to get my diploma. I wish all my family can watch the graduation ceremony, but we're only allowed to bring 2 guests. BOO.

My life according to Britney Spears.

2010-10-02T11:49:00.007+08:00

Using only song names from ONE BAND or ARTIST, answer these questions. Try not to repeat a song title. It's a lot harder than you think! Repost as "My life according to (name of band or artist)". Tag your music loving friends!

Are you a male or a female: Not a Girl, Not Yet a Woman.

Describe yourself: My Prerogative.

How do you feel: Lucky.

Describe where you currently live: Don't Go Knocking On My Door.

If you could go anywhere, where would you go: Where Are You Now.

Your favorite form of transportation: Oops I Did it Again (Referring to the space ship in the music video.)

Your best friends are: Crazy.

Your fear: Toxic.

What is the best advice you have to give: What U See (Is What You Get)

How would you like to die: Me Against the Music.

My soul's present condition: Stronger.

A message to someone you love: Born to Make You Happy.

Your Motto: What It's Like to be Me.

I chose Britney Spears because I consider her as one of my music icons. I grew up listening to Britney, Spice Girls and Nsync, and out of those three, Britney is my favorite. That's why I was so ecstatic to find out that the season2 episode 2 of Glee was about Britney Spears! If you guys haven't seen it, you should see it now!!!

Tres Marias.

2010-09-23T22:05:00.004+08:00

Ever since we were little, Maan, Iris and I have been called by our family as Tres Marias. My grandmother said it was because we were the only cousins that were born in the same year, that were girls. Something like that. When we were little, we were inseparable. We always had to do everything together, and when we were together, it sometimes meant trouble.

(If you hadn't already noticed, we're the ones that are hugging.)

Things changed when I moved to California. We spoke less often, and when I moved back four years after, we weren't as close as we used to be. We tried to hang out as much as we can but our location is what is hindering us from doing so. Maan and I lived 10 minutes away from each other, but Iris lived all the way in Laguna. Whenever there's a family reunion and we're complete, we try our best to make the most out of the time we have together.

Last Sunday, we gathered for our very first pamangkin's baptism. It was also a celebration for the new generation in our family. And it was also the first time Maan and Iris introduced their boyfriends to the whole clan. Wow, I can't believe how grown up we are now. Next thing you know, we'll also be having our own family.

(Ryan, Iris, me, Maan and Jom)

I won't deny that I was jealous of them. Three years ago, I introduced my boyfriend to some family members, but not the entire clan. I can't wait for that day to come when I will introduce to my clan my boyfriend, or maybe my future husband. But right now, I guess I should focus on finding a job. After I find one, then maybe I'm ready to love again.

A very successful thesis defense

2010-09-04T10:22:00.007+08:00

Last Wednesday (September 1), was the thesis defense for Organizational Communication majors. There were only 9 groups, and we were the 4th ones to defend.

My thesis mates, Dani, Yanee and I were really nervous for our defense because during the mock defense with our thesis adviser, he asked us a lot of questions, really hard questions! And the groups that went before us were really grilled by the panel, and their defense lasted for almost an hour!

We expected the worst, but to our surprise, the panelists liked our thesis! See, our thesis consists of a PR plan, new corporate signature, corporate identity manual and a new PR kit for Open Heart Foundation. Our panelists were proud because we were able to finish our thesis in 3 months, and that we did a really great job with the output. All our hard work really paid off! We didn't expect to get positive comments from them because we weren't at all confident.

Now we just have to wait until September 8 for grade consultation, and October 9 for graduation! Congrats to all of us!

What an experience.

2010-07-26T20:38:00.003+08:00

Today Yanee, Dani and I went with Vismar, someone from our thesis org to this public school in Malate. We spent about an hour and a half in a prep class, helping the kids draw objects that start with a letter K, and spent recess with them.

At first I was hesitant to go near them because I could tell that some of them haven't showered already, and I kind of have this "fear" of getting dirty. The kids were really wild and kept running around the room. The teacher explained to us why they were like that because they're all seeking for attention because of the lack of attention that they should be getting at home. Most of these children live on the streets and beg for money at night.

What almost made me cry was when it was during recess time, this girl had no baon because her mom doesn't have money yet to buy food. Everyone else was eating while she was just standing in the middle watching everyone else eat. So I stood next to her, and she immediately hugged me. At that point I really wanted to cry, but I had to contain myself so that the kids wouldn't see me. If Yanee, Dani and I didn't tell the other kids to share their baon with the little girl, then she wouldn't have anything to eat.

I shared this experience with my sister and told her that we are lucky that we have the opportunity to study at prestigious private schools, and that we have baon everyday, while other kids only get the chance to study and have to beg for money just so that they have something to eat.

2010-07-24T08:50:00.006+08:00

First day of ojt felt exactly like first day of school. Both you and your parents are excited, you meet new friends, and it's such a hassle trying to get to school because of the heavy traffic! Last Thursday was my first day of ojt and the company is all the way in Binondo, near 168 mall. One of the most horrible experience ever in commuting. I had to transfer four times just to get to the office.

Mama and lola packed me lunch and made me bring this huge and heavy thermos!

My new friend, Mocha!

View from the 18th floor. Look! There's fog, or smog, haha!

Why must all good things must come to an end?

2010-07-20T23:52:00.004+08:00

Yesterday, I was in a very happy mood. I finally got accepted at a company for Practicum, I went "shopping" and only spent 140 pesos, and I found out I made it on the Dean's List for 3rd term SY 2009-2010. I was hoping that all the good vibes would continue throughout the week, but it didn't.

I only had 3 hours of sleep (3-6am) and I had a fever earlier. I don't know how I got it because I was feeling perfectly fine yesterday. I thought I might have had food poisoning because my stomach hurt really bad last night and I kept going #2. After drinking some medicine, I felt a little better and went back to sleep. I woke up at 12 because I had to get ready for school, for thesis consultation. I ended up not going to school because my body was really aching, so at that time I thought I had the flu.

I thought all the bad luck would end there, but nooooo. I talked on the phone earlier with Yanee and she gave me some really really bad news. Our thesis mentor told them that if I won't be able to have my practicum this term, I will be dropped from the thesis and will have to start over. I COULD NOT STOP CRYING FOR LIKE 2 HOURS. All my hard work for nothing! Never in my life was I angry, sad, confused, irritated and shattered at the same time. It was really heartbreaking to hear that from Yanee.

But now, I'm happy and laughing, and that's what I usually do during times like these; just laugh it off. I'll be talking with the mentor tomorrow and I hope everything will go well. I can't afford to fail, again. It's gonna affect me financially and emotionally.

On the other hand, Mama loves me today! She bought be a magazine, 2 bottles of Gatorade, a donut and a pack of Sky Flakes because I was sicky. Hahaha I wish I was sick everyday! And she said the sweetest thing to me earlier, "Sasama ako sayo bukas susugurin ko yang prof mo na yan! Bwiset siya kamo!" Isn't she adorable??

Finally made it on the Dean's List!

2010-07-20T00:07:00.004+08:00

So remember I said here that I don't think I made it on the list? Well, I was wrong. I made it! Last term was my last chance to make it on the list, and I actually did it. The past terms were the "almost made it" terms. Always point something short.

The reason why being on the Dean's List is so important to me is because it's the only academic "award" I'll ever receive in college. My dream of graduating as a cum laude is far from happening, kahit honorable mention di aabot CGPA ko eh :))

When I get the certificate for this, I'll frame it and hang it up right next to my graduation pictures and diplomas!

I'm bummed mama won't give me the reward I want, which is lechon or liempo from Baliwag :(

I am not choosy, I think.

2010-07-11T21:21:00.003+08:00

I rarely see my friends from high school, and whenever we do get a chance to see each other, they always ask me the same thing: "Sino na boyfriend mo ngayon?" HEH.

It's not only my high school friends who ask me that question, also some college friends and my relatives. FINE. Sige, kayo na nga in a relationship. Sorry naman wala ako. It just kind of gets irritating because they ask the same thing over and over again. I won't hide from you guys if ever I do have one, I'm not like that. And what's more irritating is that when I say no, sometimes they say, "Ang choosy mo kasi eh."

You guys might think I am because I've been single for two years, but I'm really not. Well, maybe I am, but it's for the good. My last relationship was really bad, and I don't want to go through the same thing again. I'm just protecting myself; I don't want to get hurt that bad anymore.

If possible, I want my next boyfriend to be the one that I'll marry, have a family and be with for the rest of my life. Yeah I know, baduy, but I have this principle/saying/belief that I shouldn't waste my time being in a relationship with someone whom I don't see myself with for the rest of my life.

K. BRB. LASLAS MUNA.

First interview ever!

2010-07-07T12:16:00.001+08:00

So yesterday was my interview with Corporate Image Dimension. Mama took me to their office because I am really not familiar with the streets of Makati, and I didn't want to get lost! I was so nervous for this interview because this is the first interview I've ever had.

The interview went really well! The staff were nice and the interviewer was happy to find out that my course is really in line with what their company does. But unfortunately, I won't be taking the job because they are going to put me under the PR department. I am required to be in a graphic design or creatives department because that's what our thesis is. I'm so bummed! I really like the company. Maybe after I graduate, I'll work for them.

As of now, I'm still searching for graphic design companies, advertising agencies, or any company that has a graphic design or creatives department. PLEASE HELP!

Happy 4th of July!

2010-07-04T12:32:00.003+08:00

Yep, today is American independence day. Well, it's tomorrow since it's still the 3rd in the USA.

I miss celebrating 4th of July. Back in California, my family and I would have a barbecue, have family and friends over, eat, drink and have so much fun. The last time I celebrated was July 2003, and I haven't celebrated it since I moved back to the Philippines.

Man I miss those barbecues, and of course my family and friends. Hopefully I can visit Cali next summer!

"My" room

2010-07-02T15:55:00.004+08:00

I was looking through Tumblr earlier and I saw a thumbnail of a pink room, so I clicked it to make it bigger, and to my surprise, not only was it a pink room, but it was a pink room with zebra print and my name on the wall!

It's just amazing to find something or someone in the internet that has the same taste and preference as me, and also the name! I wish my room was like this. Hopefully when I buy my own house, I'll decorate my daughter's room similar to this.

JAGER ♥

2010-07-01T23:30:00.006+08:00

No, I'm not talking about the green color, diesel flavor alcoholic drink. I'm talking about my girls, Jec, Ginnil, Erose and Remar. We took the first letter of our names that's why it became JAGER.

We've been friends since high school, and ever since college started we haven't had much time with each other, and when we do get a chance to be together, we always make sure that we have fun and make the most out of it. We decided to meet last Tuesday since there were no classes the next day because of Noynoy's inauguration. We met up at UST and had an early dinner at Frio Mixx. After dinner, the original plan was to "food trip" along P.Noval street, but instead we had a few drinks over at U-Jam. We don't see each other regularly, so what the heck! We promised we would only have one bottle each, but then one bottle turned into two, then three.

Dream come true picture with the UST sign!

Non-stop fun, laughter and chikahan, and we also played the I NEVER game. It was our first time to ever play that game, and so many things were revealed! I felt so relaxed and stressed-free when I was with my girls. I can be myself around them, act like a total fool and they wouldn't give a shit. I wish we'd have more time together, but we have to prioritize our studies. I had a total blast with them, and I can't wait til we see each other again!

Ginnil with Rap and Marts

Ginnil, Rella, Sandy and Jay

Job Expo

2010-07-01T10:30:00.005+08:00

Last Tuesday, I went to the DLSU Job Expo. It was my second time to go to those things, but it was my first time to actually submit resumes, and the best part of it all was getting an on the spot interview with Nestle. I didn't expect for that to happen because my friends and I only went to their booth to submit our resumes and I know there's a .01% of me being hired by Nestle. And so as we were waiting to register, I asked one of the ladies from Nestle if they hire interns for graphic design, and to my surprise, the lady was also surprised and so she asked me to stay for a while because she wanted to talk to me. So we went aside and she started asking me some questions, and after a few minutes, she asked me to go with her to the Yuchengco lobby for an interview! I was so nervous because it was really impromptu and I didn't know what I was going to say! Those 30 minutes was the most exciting and yet most nerve wracking 30 minutes of my life.

After the interview, we went to the laptop station and she asked me to send her right away the works that I have done. I was really nervous about that because I didn't have the works in my USB, but good thing I don't delete the inbox and sent items in my e-mail! I forwarded her my portfolio and the corporate identity manual of Razon's. I hope I get this internship because not only do I badly need a company for Practicum, it would really be an honor to work for Nestle. My family and I grew up with Nestle, from Nido to Nescafe, Milo, Chuckie and Nestea! And to our favorite chocolate, Kit Kat! Let's just all hope for the best :)

Oh, we got these stamps and when put together, creates JEJEJEJE =))

Congrats to the graduates!

2010-06-29T11:34:00.010+08:00

Last Saturday, Tracy, Ea and Nadine celebrated their graduation over at Fiamma Bar. Even though it was a small venue for all of us, everyone still had fun and no one went home sober, except for me! I don't know why but for some reason I controlled myself from drinking too much, and I am really proud of myself. It was an epic grad party, and there are tons of photos to prove it! Our grad party in October will be wilder! NO ONE WILL GO HOME SOBER.

(First 3 pics are with the graduates!)

I really like this photo of me and AJ :> CLINGY!

Toy Story 3!

2010-06-19T15:19:00.003+08:00

Yesterday, mama, Lala and I watched Toy Story 3 in 3D! But guys, don't watch it 3D, not worth it coz there's not a lot of 3D effects.

Can you believe that the first Toy Story movie came out 15 years ago??? And I remember I watched it with mama and kuya and I also remember I pooped in my underwear inside the movie house! The best childhood movie experience ever.

I grew up with Toy Story being a family favorite. Watching Toy Story 3 made me want to be a kid again, and it also made me cry. I think I was the only one crying in the movie house. The movie made me realize that even though we grow up and no matter how much we mature, we can never let go of our childhood. For me, this movie tops the past Toy Story movies. WATCH IT WATCH IT WATCH IT! :)

Lala's first day at St.Paul!

2010-06-07T22:48:00.006+08:00

And the legacy lives on as my little sister is officially a Paulinian! First my lola, then mama, then me, and now our little angel, Angela. I was so excited for this day that I couldn't sleep last night! She was also excited and I didn't have a hard time waking her up this morning, haha! And when we picked her up from school, she told us how they spent the day and that she loves her new school :)

That boy next to Lala asked my sister if she had a crush on him. KAPAL! But my sister said no, GOOD JOB!

"I love you more then no one." AAWWW SWEET!

Yeah, I used to do this before. Tamad magpalit! :))

Santacruzan 2010

2010-06-03T23:12:00.010+08:00

May 31, 2010

It was an honor to be part of Don Galo's Santacruzan. I was the Reina De Las Flores, which means Queen of the Flowers. I arrived late because the hair stylist was so slow! And good thing it did not rain that day! My partner was my classmate and friend from grade school, Erwin Chua :)

I ♥ my high school friends!

2010-06-02T23:39:00.009+08:00

Last Sunday, my high school friends and I went swimming at JC's condo. It was super fun even though we were only there for like 3 hours. The last time we did this was February 2007. I miss spending time with them. We rarely get to see each other and have this much fun together because of school and work. I can't wait for all of us to graduate and hopefully have more time for each other.

They're like my second family; I consider them all as my siblings :)

Tattoo boyzzzzz

Superman!

Bob Marley?

Nagsama ang mga matatalino!

J-Crew at Tali Beach ♥

2010-06-01T21:24:00.015+08:00

Awesome overnight stay at Tali Beach with the Jejecrew! Cliff diving, card games, TOP 3, usual crazy night with my OrgComm family! Hahaha then the next day we went to Munting Buhangin. The beach at Munting Buhangin is awesome! No rocks, weeds or anything dirty. But the waves were very strong, and I loved it! Dinner at Dencio's Tagaytay after, then chilled at Starbucks :)

Level 2 of cliff diving! Nabading kami ni Mark eh :|

Kaya level 1 nalang :))

HANGGANG SA DULO NG KARAGATAN

The J-Crew! Watch our show on TV5!

It felt so good, but it felt so wrong.

2010-05-23T13:23:00.002+08:00

I did something last night, and I feel bad that I did it, but I also feel good that I did it because I haven't done that for like two years. I just hope karma doesn't strike me hahahaha.

I am so weird.

So, gusto mo ba maging isang HITMAN?

2010-05-19T22:45:00.005+08:00

Looking for hired killer

Maybe you guys want the job. Sakto naghahanap din ako ng trabaho para may pera pang inom. LOL. Sa tingin niyo ba papasa ako?