On My First Official Commercial Shoot

Well, well, well... What do we have here...

On my April 4 blog entry, I wrote... "Sa susunod, TV commercial na 'to!", pertaining to my perceived aftermath of my fabulous print ad model career. PLDT got me to 'star' in their PLDT NDD P10.00 per call promo ad, which came out in all the leading broadsheets. And I honestly believed that that won't be my last moment of fame.

Last November 11, I appeared in a testimonial like commercial for PLDT Budget Card. My script went something like this...

"One time, gamit ko tong phone sa boarding house... Enter ang landlady, GALIT! Eh naka-PLDT Budget Card naman ako, no. Tatlong piso lang tumawag sa abroad. Mahal pa ang softdrinks!"

Hahaha! PLDT paid me a hefty ten thousand worth of SM Gift Certificates! I bought a new comforter, a couple of nice blouses, new fluffy pillows, and the rest I gave to Tikboy, my messenger, and Mama, who bought groceries.

Being in front of the camera is awfully nerve-wracking! My hats off to the Jerichos and Judy Anns of this world!! It's so tough talaga to act. You have to: 1) memorize your lines (you CANNOT make a mistake or you'll start from the very beginning!), 2) act natural while maintaining good eye contact with the camera, 3) stay alive under the extreme heat from the lights! Good grief! Buti na lang I psyched myself well. Just had a few takes and the agency reps were quite pleased, they even said I can do commercial acting for a living. Yeah, boy!

Type ko mag-Coke commercial...

On A THOR-rific Surprise!

HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO BESPWEN RIKA!!!

It's been a while since I last did an extravagant surprise for my bespwen. I remember some few years back when I filled their gate with balloons and put a large streamer over her car with my birthday greeting on it!

This year's surprise is a tad more extravagant. I had R&B sensation and host of Wave 89.1's Duets with Thor, THOR (of course) go to her office to sing her her favorite song "Without You". After Thor's romantic rendition, he gave her a bouquet of red roses and my cake-like (layered kasi) gift which contained a fancy bag, gold hoop earrings and a baby blue striped top-pang-fashionista.

My messenger Tikboy was the one who accompanied Thor and he told me "mangiyak-ngiyak" daw sa gulat at tuwa si Bespwen! Once again, I rule the "big birthday surprises" department. Sabi pa ni Bespwen, "ang lupet" ko daw.

Hearing how happy I made her just feels so freakin' great! Cheers on your 29th, B! Mahal na mahal kita.

On The Craziest Event We've Ever Handled!

This kid won Best In Halloween costume during our recently-concluded NO TRICKS ALL TREATS, A HALLOWEEN CELEBRATION AT THE ROBINSONS MALLS. I was assigned at Robinsons Galleria, where supposedly, all the cranky and obnoxious moms and dads will be.

I was at the office at around 3:20 in the morning on the day of the 29th. We dispatched the 6 teams to the different malls and all vans were outta MB Aguirre at around 5am. We didn't have that much problems entering the mall. The riot was during the registration and the Trick or Treat parade! All the stage moms wanted to be with their kids as we went around the mall. Grrr... They were all so stubborn, even more hard-headed than their kids!!! After the exhausting parade, everything was smooth sailing. We had an interactive magic show, a performance from kids celebrities such as Igi Boy, Basti and Kristel of Goin Bulilit, pretty Ella of Starstruck Kids and Gabby Roxas and Bea Binene of Bahay Mo Ba To and Lovely Day. The kids were very easy to manage and actually made great co-hosts! After their performance, we had fun games for the kids. Then, it was time to judge the Best In Halloween Costume. Costumes ranged from warriors, to teleserye characters, to princesses and enchanted creatures.

I just had a meeting with Robinsons today and despite the chaos, they said we did a pretty darn good job! Yehey! And to top it off, we have another event lined up with them on the 17th. Woohoo! Our invasion of Robinsons Land begins...

On A Pair To Watch Out For

Who knows... they might be the "it" couple of the 30th century!

The baby wrapped like a shawarma is Baby SAMANTHA MUTUC, the first-born of my Account Executive CS and his hubby (my brother's best bud way back grade school) Bombing. -- Picture 2

Donning an all-white get up naman is Baby SANTINO JULIO T. ALMOSA, my adorable inaanak! He is the son of my sweet K.A. and her beloved Guam-based hubby Duskee! -- Picture 1

They're both beautiful babies! They have their parents to thank for it! (naks!) And having said that, I'm sure they'll both grow up to be fine young citizens of this nation (hehe.) Magpapaka-matchmaker ako and make sure they meet up when the right time comes. Yehey! Another good karma for me! I just hope their parents don't kill me for setting them up this early.

On Fab Find # 9: Bangkok

These gold hoops are a bit heavy yet H-O-TTTT! Even Exenia thought so, when she noticed it during lunch. When I wear the chunky gold bangle, will take a pic of it too!

Cuz, I love these talaga!!!

On brainbeam's Halloween Extravaganza

Peek-a-boo!!!

This Halloween, brainbeam's embarking on another first! It's our first time to do a simultaneous event, 6 malls to be exact! Our company was tasked to be the implementing agency of the NO TRICKS ALL TREATS HALLOWEEN CELEBRATION AT THE ROBINSONS MALLS. On October 29 (that's this Sunday!), kids aged 5-12 will be treated to a day of fun and freebies!

The kids, some 300 of them, will be going from tenant to tenant for the Trick or Treat parade. There's also a magic show, fun games, a celebrity kid show (Goin Bulilit and Starstruck Kids) and a mini fashion show to determine who among the contenders will win Best in Halloween costume!

Preparations are almost done. We have our final coordination meeting tomorrow with all the 6 teams. Our office is filled with small bayong loot bags, pumpkins, 5-feet tall witches (and they're scary I tell ya!), game materials, scarecrow's straw hats and other Halloween paraphernalia.

I really pray we do a kick-ass job on Sunday so that Robinsons can trust us again to do another project. I wanna do the Christmas event! I'm keeping my fingers crossed that there will really be NO TRICKS on this day and just ALL TREATS and smiles from our target audience.

Advance Happy Halloween everybody! Mwa-ha-ha-ha-ha!!!

On His First Trip Abroad

Baby Packy is my third child. His Kuya Milo (a brown dog) and Ate Chloe (a pink dolphin), his younger sister Carrie (a pink bear), and the twins (identical brown dogs) Felina and Felisha were all happy for the little guy! He's the smallest of the bunch so it was easy for me to fit him inside by luggage and bring him anywhere.

He had a grand time at the temples and was jumping for joy when he rode the elephant. Look at him, super tired from going shopping around Chatuchak. He'll be your tour guide as I show you more highlights from my trip. In the meantime, gotta give him his daily dose of Milo...

On One Golden Experience

Sa wat dee! My Thailand trip ranks a perfect 10 on the fun-o-meter! I had a blast with Cuz and our adventure-filled 5-day vacation is one for the books.

Bangkok is SO much like Manila... from the main roads, to the way the locals look and dress, the traffic, the modes of transportation and the warm and sunny smiles of the Thai people.

Cuz and I went temple-hopping and the structures were just breathtaking. The intricate designs and the materials used were very creatively executed. I simply could not stop taking pictures!!!

My brand-new red maleta's 'powers' were tested to the hilt. It was able to successfully hold almost all of my pasalubongs. It's shopping heaven there, I tell ya. And I did not miss the Philippines that much because whenever we'd ride around town, it just seemed like I was in Taft, or Nagtahan, or the Skyway! Ahh... just thinking about Chatuchak, their popular weekend bazaar (as big as the whole BF Homes, mind you) and the goodies I bought there... plus the mouth-watering food, the elephants and the temples makes me kilig all over.

My Top 10 Fab Finds:
1) My chunky gold bangle (from India pa daw)
2) Black watch
3) A complete set of pearls (ring, pendant, earrings)
4) A black shirt with a bejeweled crown embossed on it
5) A thin black belt (that they can cut to your desired length)
6) A Nothing But Water-like bathing suit (just gotta lose the weight!)
7) Pink and Green shawls
8) Funky creme & brown mailman's bag
9) Gold hoop earrings (super, super fab!)
10) Five (5) nice blouses that all cost below 250 baht

So what are you waiting for? Call the Kenstar Travel Agency now and book that flight to Bangkok!

Good one again, Cuz! Next stop... QUEENSLAND!!!

On Yet Another 'Amazing Race'

After my last trip out of the country, Cuz and I are scheduled to meet in Thailand this Friday. Oohhh... how sosyal! It'll surely be another one helluva 'race'. Race against time... (Must finish shoppin'!) Race against the military tanks (hahaha, mala-Saving Private Ryan?) ... Race against slip disk pains and heatstroke (but am still bringing a light jacket).

Cuz and I emailed all day counterchecking our THINGS TO BRING. I am bringing Geebee, my Gameboy so that I have company during my 3-hour trip. Cuz thought I was funny because I am still bringing shampoo. I hate hotel shampoo. They make my hair extra dry and lifeless. Don't wanna destroy my damn curls!!! I am just soooooo omega excited! Am planning to pack tonight.

Will post pics from out trip. In the meantime... pag-tiyagaan niyo muna ang mapa ng Thailand.

On How Successful Women Should View Marriage

In a brief conversation, a man, speaking to a woman, was out to pursue the question, "What kind of man are you looking for?"

She sat quietly for a moment before looking him in the eye and asked, "Do you really want to know?"Reluctantly, he said, "Yes" as she began to expound..."

As a woman in this day and age, I am in a position to ask a man what he can do for me that I can't do for myself.

I pay my own bills.

I take care of my household without the help of any man- or woman for that matter. I am in the position to ask, 'What can you bring to the table?'"

The man looked at her. Clearly he thought that she was referring to money.She quickly corrected his thought and stated, "

I am not referring to money... I need something more. I need a man who is striving for perfection in every aspect of life."

He sat back in his chair, folded his arms, and asked her to explain.She said,

"I am looking for someone who is striving for perfection Mentally. I need conversation and mental stimulation. I don't need a simple-minded man.

I am looking for someone who is striving for perfection Spiritually because I don't need to be unequally yoked... Believers mixed with unbelievers is a recipe for disaster.

I need a man who is striving for perfection Financially because I don't need a financial... burden.

I am looking for someone who is Sensitive enough to understand what I go through as a woman, but Strong enough to keep me grounded.

I am looking for someone who I can Respect. In order to be submissive, I must respect him. I cannot be submissive to a man who isn't taking care of his business. I have no problem being submissive... He just has to be worthy.

God made woman to be a helpmate for man. At this point, I can't help a man if he can't help himself."

When she finished her spill, she looked at him. He sat there with a puzzled look on his face, and exclaimed, "You're asking for a whole lot!"

To which she gracefully replied..."Only if you think I'm not WORTH a lot."

Got this from KC Concepcion's Multiply blog. Very nice.

On Starting Anew

It's as if I was in a coma for so long and Prince Charming finally kissed me on the lips to wake me up from my deep slumber.

I'm back! And I've never felt SO good. Life has been nothing but generous to me... Business has been action-packed. My projects are all finally over and I can sit back, relax, and wait for the dough to start pouring in. I have an upcoming trip to Bangkok with Cuz... something that has had me awake and restless for the past few nights. I'm just soooooooooo excited to leave!!! And then there's this undeniable twinkle in my eye that only love and passion can provide. ;) I've been so blessed.

And hopefully, now that I'm 'awake', I can get to write more entries again. Ahhh...

This was taken during my recent Bohol vacation. That was just THE most perfect day...

On My UltraElectroMagneticJam Day

Kudos to Jam 88.3 for a great album! Well done! Loved almost all of the Eraserheads classics on this helluva revival CD. Indeed a tribute to the great ones, whose songs once served as our background music every summer when my cousins and I would play mahjong the minute the clock struck 1. Those times were awesome...

==

This morning when I woke up, I suddenly had the chills and this awful pain in my stomach. It was unexplainable, until it dawned on me that my late grandma (a.k.a. Mang) paid me a visit. After Mama 'spoke' to her, while stroking my back, I cried non-stop. Then after a few minutes, I was back to normal. The pain was gone. It was Mang's birthday last 16 January and I wasn't able to drop by the cemetery. I am so guilty because lately I haven't been praying for her as often as I used to. CS was kind enough to accompany me earlier. I brought white flowers for her and Lopang (my grandpa). I miss her so much and I sure wish she could be with us now to enjoy all these 'successes' I am reaping. I'll take her to trips with us, for sure! But I know that she is happy, wherever she is now. I love you, Mang. And thank you for still looking after me.

==

We are cooking up two mall tours aside from the already sure projects with have with MAGGI, PBA and PLDT. I feel so damn good! The stress is crazy, but expected. Preparation time is always the most hectic. Am looking forward to another smashing year for the agency and I hope I can help more people with these projects. Life is good...

On Rewarding Myself

I will be back here in no time and I'm super duper excited!!! I'm treating Cui and Dexter to Singapore and we leave on the 28th. Last year was a tremendous year for the agency and I am proud to say the rewards have been overflowing. I can't wait for them to see this place! And the Night Safari... and taste all the yummy food there.

Cuz, see you super soon!!!

On Starting The Year Right

Majestic Boracay... Certainly my favorite piece of paradise. Cuz and I were there last January 3 to once again relax for 3 whole days before heading back to the harsh reality of work and deadlines. I took this picture using my N70 and the sepia setting added much drama to this already beautiful scene.

The weather was just right. It drizzled at night but that didn't dampen our spirits. We had an awesome time and to pay tribute to that wonderful vacation, I'd like to turn back time a bit and reminisce on the things I experienced there...

1. I will never forget that moment when Cuz and I were walking along this new strip along "D Mall" and by the time we got to the end of the road, I was the ONLY person wearing a bikini! Everyone was already in regular clothes and I felt like Paris Hilton in a room full of nuns. People gave me 'the stare'. So that's how a goldfish feels like!

2. I will never forget the sumptuous dinner we had on our last night there. Mouth watering crabs and grilled fish. It was to die for! Every time I remember that meal, I could feel saliva starting to well up inside my mouth. It was that f*%&$# good!!!

3. I will never forget my weird sunburn, especially since I still have it. Didn't take off my super short shorts the first time we went sun bathing. And in just a few minutes, the mark registered already. Darn! Then come Day 2, I dropped the shorts and just wore my skimpy string bikini. That left a mark too. You can now say I am tri-colored. Hahaha!

There are a hundred and one reasons why I will never forget my latest trip to Bora. But what was most special was the fact that I once again got to spend time with Cuzzy Wuzzy. We intend on going to Bohol next year and I'm sure that'll be a blast too.

Thanks for the wacky time there, Cuz! See you on the 28th!!!

On One Orgasmic Experience!

He was standing just a few feet away from CS and I. I can't believe that I was just blogging about this guy a few months ago... and last night... ooohhhh... last night was indeed the best 1-hour of my life.

At around 5:30pm yesterday, CS and I headed off to Greenbelt 3 to catch a glimpse of our prince charming. By the time we got there, there was already a line of equally excited women dying to see our dreamboat. The Greenbelt 3 Fountain Area was transformed into a small concert venue, complete with trees lined up with Christmas lights and a white tent over our heads. There was a bit of a riot at the entrance because of some dazed security personnel but CS and I were able to successfully squirm our way in. Once seated, I almost screamed at this one security guy who kept asking CS and I to move seats. GRRR!!!

A little before eight... my heart was racing so fast I couldn't see straight. Then, at around 810, he came out from his tent and OHMIGAWD, was he HOOOOOOOT!!!

Constantine was mesmerizing! We simply could not take our eyes off him. Tikboy was such an angel to have lined up at 6am just to get our tickets!!! It was SO worth it!!! His deep set eyes and soft lips were just a sight to behold. I was screaming that whole 1 hour and CS and I would alternately shout "I love you, Constantine" at the top of our lungs. There was this one lucky bitch from the audience who was able to take home his towel! So disappointing that he didn't throw it our way. Our seats were awesome! It was a few feet away from his tent so imagine our disbelief when we saw him up close. I swear, I almost fainted (and one lady actually did!). His musical director was Jay Durias of South Border. He was awesome! Loved his songs and his voice! I've never been so in love!!! OHMIGAWD!!!

Sana ako na lang yung microphone niya... sana ako na lang yung blazer niya... hell, sana ako na lang girlfriend niya!!! When he took off his blazer, the crowd went wild. I almost fell from my chair (and note that I was STANDING on it, not sitting on it). I love you, Constantine! I love you forever!!! It was one of the best, most exciting nights of my life.

On These 25 Precious Tickets

On our way home from our PLDT meeting, CS and I passed by Greenbelt 3 and I screamed upon seeing this huge streamer hanging from the building facade. CONSTANTINE was staring right at us!

We quickly got the number to call for inquiry on the event. His concert was set for November 17... and that's... 24 minutes from now!!! After talking to an Ayala Center representative, we learned that since we have no Ayala Discount Card, we just need to present a P500 single proof of purchase to the Greenbelt 3 Customer Service to get free tickets. While CS was on the phone, I was still driving. Before reaching Magallanes, we both decided to go for it and go back to G3 to purchase something worth P500! Despite the traffic, unbelievable price of gas0line and the hassle, we headed back.

Once we got to the Greenbelt Customer Service counter, we were informed that they will still be releasing the tickets tomorrow at 11am!!! CS and I then rushed to Music 1 to buy two CDs (MYMP's double CD and the Memories of Love Live Concert CD) and almost kissed our P500 receipt from M1.

Here's the thing. We have tons of stuff to do at the office so tomorrow, we asked Tikboy (my trusty messenger) to be at Greenbelt by 6am to FALL IN LINE. Only 25 TICKETS will be released!!! I am so keeping my fingers crossed! Constantine is such a dreamboat and we will see him tomorrow no matter what!

Tikboy is our biggest bullet. Wish us luck!

On What Lies Ahead

This has been my company's best year yet. I am immensely grateful for the 'overflowing' blessings (that's how Chilie put it earlier today) we have received. We started 2005 with really good projects, and it poured non-stop from there. I had a meeting with my clients from PLDT this afternoon and they guaranteed me projects until December. Whew! Just when I thought things will slow down, God surprises me again with this! Yey!

But then just a few minutes ago, I received an email from one of my other clients informing me that they're awarding this project we bidded for to another agency. My heart sank. We really prepared for that bid! But like I always say, "hindi siguro 'meant'". God has his reasons and I am still blessed in other ways. Admittedly, I'm starting to get a bit tense for next year. I now have 5 employees under payroll so I have to work extra hard to ensure that we're all set for 2006.

The only thing that calms me is prayers. GOD WILL PROVIDE... as He has always done in the past three and a half years of brainbeam's existence. GOD WILL PROVIDE, MAY. GOD WILL PROVIDE.

On Finally Taking That BIG Step

After almost a decade of being 'blindly' in love with BIG, I finally let go. I finally released this chain that's been tugging me deeper and deeper into this black hole. I am free... and it feels fuckin' great!

History was made last Oct 29 when I finally had the nerve to tell him that having him in my life is causing me more pain and harm that good. I have reached the end of my rope and my eyes were opened to the truth that I have made up all these 'dreams' of us getting back together. It was never bound to happen. And it never will. Because now, more than ever, I am determined to not let him walk all over me. It was a long, sweet journey of highs and lows. This roller coaster of a ride has reached its destination. I'm proud to come out of this a winner. I am at peace with myself and I am grateful for friends and family for being supportive and loving and showing me that life doesn't end here. It's just a new, fresh beginning for me. And I can't wait to start!

On Missing My Gay Magnet

Best friend Nel has been out of the country for a few months already. Almost too long I'm starting to go ballistic here. Rumor has it that he will be back by November but according to his last e-mail, he wants to pack his Pinoy bags and settle there for good.

I terribly miss him and just seeing this picture makes me wanna cry! I miss his stupid jokes and how he sheds light on my melodramatic scenarios. I'm sending this giant hug into the void and hope it reaches him. Till we see each other again.

HUMMING WHAT TUNE? Don't Know Why by Norah Jones

On What I Have Been Up To

Work has taken over my life. My calendar for the year is all filled up that I can't even squeeze in a much needed vacation to Singapore. MILO, MAGGI, PLDT, PBA and STANDARD CHARTERED have kept us all on our feet. We wake up at 5:00am only to go home at 11:00pm, still with tons of work left. The greatest reward though is that this has been our best year ever and I got to travel and help a lot in the house, which is what really matters.

I missed blogging and talking about my day. But even my passion for blogging had to be set aside because of the many things we have to settle here in the agency. Anyway, I am eating dinner as I write this... yummy Chao Fan, tofu and kangkong with bagoong from Chowking (this is the ultimate combo, I tell ya!). After which I have to go back to work. I haven't slept since yesterday so imagine how sore my eyes feel. Anyway, who's complaining? I'm blessed and I'm lovin' every second of this...

On Some BIG Weight On My Shoulders

I just want to send this out to the world...

For almost a decade now, I can say I have only been TRULY in love with one person. I have had several relationships after our short (but sweet) love story, but he's really the one guy I can never seem to forget. I simply cannot get over him. I have never, up to now, really moved on. I keep thinking it's a pathetic, sick cycle. One moment I choose to ignore my feelings for him, the next moment, I realize I can't live without him. Then the next moment, I abhor him after he does something horrible or something that would make me feel mounds of jealousy. Then again, I fall into a trap and wish we were back together. This has been going on for years and I still have no clue as to when this will finally end. And HOW it will end, for that matter.

THIS IS SO FRUSTRATING!!! My mind is driving me crazy. The past week has been a surge of various emotions, as I have spent almost everyday with this person. He sucks the life out of me, really. I can't explain the power he has over my being. He knows how to switch the right buttons. His effect on me is unexplainable, I can't even begin to describe the kilig, pain, confusion and happiness.

I am so blessed. God has been immensely generous, especially with the rewards I am reaping at work. My family is in excellent condition and I have the support of dear friends and relatives. I am contented. But now, with this latest turn of events, he rocked my already stable, smooth-saling boat. And the weird part about it is that there is nothing in this world that I want now, more than anything, but to be with this person again. Lord, I pray for clarity, that I may be able to make the right decisions from hereon. I trust you have something planned for me. Please guide me each step of the way.

On That Deadly Fontejon Charm

On That Deadly Fontejon Charm
Originally uploaded by blue curls.

Tito Arns, Tito Erns, Toch and Pepoting... my mom's brothers and the coolest guys on the block!

TITO ARNS is the grooviest. He works for a 'call center', but in the QA department. He's the most hip, I must say... knows the latest dance moves and updated on what teens are into nowadays. Ninong! Hehe. TITO ERNS is the funniest. He currently resides in Texas with Tita Aning and their youngest, Erick. He makes FANTASTIC chicharong bituka. Everybody was sad when they left again late last month, especially since there's no other person who can prepare chicharong bituka like he does. Hahaha! TOCH (short for Tito Chit) is the youngest and most serious. He's very simple and kind-hearted. I really pray things will work out for him. PEPOTING is the coolest! Hahaha! We don't even call him Tito anymore (pero Tito Pemps talaga siya). He's my agency's treasurer and my ever dependable adviser. Super OC, like Monica in FRIENDS. Loves to clean... to the point of sweeping some of our neighbors' houses. Such a great character!

Our family is a riot and with these guys around, you're always in for a good time. But most importantly, they are all very loyal, hardworking and loving. At sige na nga... deadly ang charms. Hahaha!

On More Of My Favorite HK Pics

Here's the Lovers in Paris, este, Lantao pala. I was so proud of them for being strong enough, still, to climb the countless numbers of steps to the great, big Buddha. Way to go, Mumski and Panda!

On My Favorite HK pics

On My Favorite HK pics
Originally uploaded by blue curls.

Small, medium and large! Hahaha! This was taken at Ocean Park and boy, was it THE perfect representation of Dex, Cui and I. Cute!

Dex could be mistaken for a giant Philippine Airlines pillow.

On HK's Staple Food

On HK's Staple Food
Originally uploaded by blue curls.

There was this little resto near our hotel (don't know the name, can't read Chinese) which served awesome, mouth watering noodles of EVERY kind. Their egg noodles were thin, tasty and the servings were enough to feed a land of giants. Here's Cui showing off his braised beef noodles, a far cry from what Chowking serves, I tell you. Mama and Papa on the other hand were both engrossed on my beef noodles. Check out their chopsticks on my bowl!!!

We ate at that restaurant twice. They had one food attendant who spoke a little English, so it was at least easier to order. I SO felt the language barrier there. Lost in translation kaming lahat! I had noodles, noodles and more noodles that whole stay in HK. Think I only ate rice there twice. Their servings are soooooooo big. Sa bagay, maglakad ka ba naman wherever you go, talagang kailangan ko ng isang bandehadong kanin to be satisfied. At eto pa... they don't serve water in the restaurants there, just tea. And I hate tea! So bloated kaming lahat kaka-Coke. Sad!

That's why when we got home, pass muna sa Chowking and Henlin... Hahaha! It just brings back too many noodle memories.

On My Brothers' First International Flight

On My Brothers' First International Flight
Originally uploaded by blue curls.

Look at those smiles!

Cui and Dex were just as excited as Mama and Papa. The three of us were seated several rows behind them and Papa kept going back and forth from their place to ours just to check up on his baby boys.

We took pictures from almost every angle. It was such a fun plane ride. We didn't even sleep. Kwentuhan galore talaga! We loved the food that PAL served while listening to the NINA Live CD over the headphones. We watched in anticipation as the Hongkong lights welcomed us. We were ready to shop, shop, shop!!!

==

A SPECIAL BIRTHDAY SHOUTOUT TO DEX! I LOVE YOU!!!

On My Immediate Urge To Blog

On My Immediate Urge To Blog
Originally uploaded by blue curls.

Guilty as charged!

I haven't blogged in ages and I feel like throwing up just thinking about it! I missed this! Just a quick rundown...

Our HK family vacation was a tremendous success! Although I wasn't able to shop as much, the sights we visited were awesome! I particularly loved our trip to Lantao to see the biiiig Buddha sitting on top of this mountain. Will post pictures soon.

When I got home, I was back to being a workaholic. In fact, just came from Iloilo over the weekend for an event. Projects keep coming. I had a a bid briefing this morning in Nestle and I'm looking forward to working on the concept. Hopefully we bag it!

It's been a downpour of blessings and I couldn't thank Him enough for being so generous and loving and for always looking after me and my family and the agency.

More stories soon. Lemme just get back to doing my events plan for a PLDT Launch...

On Working With A Fantastic Team

Tomorrow will be the tenth day of the MILO ENERJAM school tour. I can't imagine working with anybody else but these eight wonderful people, who gave much life and COLOR to a concept I never imagined would turn out to be as amazing and as fantastic. It's crazy-happy!

My hats off to Mona (Spike), Menchu (Split), Rain and Rej (Spike), Babes (Kicksta), Brian and Lester (Toughneck), Michael (G), Genesis and Francis (Stretch) and Don (Shoot). You will most certainly reach places, with your persistence, strong will, kind hearts and beautiful spirits. Here's to the next 90 schools! Way to go!

On Our Countdown To The Big Family Trip

DESTINATION: HONGKONG

Location:
Eastern Asia, bordering the South China Sea and China

Geographic coordinates:
22 15 N, 114 10 E

Map references:
Southeast Asia

Climate:
tropical monsoon; cool and humid in winter, hot and rainy from spring through summer, warm and sunny in fall

Population:
6,898,686 (July 2005 est.)

Age structure:
0-14 years: 13.8% (male 498,771/female 454,252)
15-64 years: 73.5% (male 2,479,656 (keeping my fingers crossed that at least half of the 26+ guys are cute)/female 2,591,170)
65 years and over: 12.7% (male 404,308/female 470,529) (2005 est.)

Industries:
Textiles, clothing, tourism, banking, shipping, electronics, plastics, toys, watches, clocks

Days till boarding: 3!!!

On Riding In Cars With Boys

Where is Dexter going?
A. To a Kuba Klub meeting at Sinangag Express
B. To Don Bosco Mandaluyong
C. To bring me to an ingress

Definitely not A because this is not his Volks. B is not the answer either because this car has no sticker. He won't be able to park inside his school. C? Nope! My ingress materials won't fit in there.

So Dex... where are you going?

On A Super Long Overdue Birthday Shoutout!

25 July 2005
Happy birthday, Papa! I love you with all my heart. I am proud to be your little girl and words will never be enough to express how truly blessed I am to be your daughter.

On Making Bawi and Making A Life-Changing Decision...

On Making Bawi and Making A Life-Changing Decision...
Originally uploaded by blue curls.

I missed blogging immensely! Just got off the phone with Francis, the guy responsible for my blog-addiction. Because of our busy schedules, we both haven't blogged in ages!!! Hahaha! Anyway, we might do a racket together. Hope it's something interesting.

Anyway, for my fellow Assumptionists, here's what that area in front of the caf looks like now. It's such a fresh look for the college. As in green all over, and there's even a mini pond somewhere near this. I visited the college to meet with Mrs. Villafania, our former Dean of Student Affairs, who's now with the grade school department. She helped me get in Assumption for the MILO ENERJAM School Tour. Anyway, we got into talking and I told her how truly happy I am with work now and the rewards I am reaping. She encouraged me to reach out and fulfill my social responsibility... which I did. Being a 'woman of faith and action', I donated to the Assumption College Scholarship Fund and actually sent someone to school. My donation covered the child's 1-year tuition and I couldn't be happier. I encourage you guys reading my blog to also help any way you can because education is indeed the key to a person's success. And for us people who are extra blessed, a little help will go a long way. I thank God for giving me this chance to be of service to others. I feel great!

On Having No Decent Sleep Since Friday

My eye luggages can make millions if Samsonite were to market it!

I have been up everyday since Friday at 4am because of our ongoing MILO ENERJAM school tour and our PLDT Budget Card re-launch at the Department of Foreign Affairs, in line with their anniversary celebration. MILO will run until December. The DFA event is for a whole month!

My weekend was no different. Last Saturday, I had a Lectors and Commentators meeting after the 7am mass, then I was lector last Sunday at 6am.

On top of these events, we are also preparing for two more PLDT mall tours, which will take up most of my weekends. Plus... an Infocom school tour, the second installment of the PBA 30th Anniversary Mall Tour this time at the Robinson's Malls and a Maggi 10-venue event (which runs from 7-11pm naman, weekends also).

Not to mention our regular content management requirements for PBA and PLDT! Just enumerating all these took the life outta me!!! But, who's complaining? Business is booming!!! And I am thrilled! Puyat, but thrilled! Hehe. Besides, our much-awaited family trip to Hongkong is already scheduled for the 4th till the 7th of August. So deadma na ang puyat at pagod. It's all worth it naman, especially when I see the huge smiles on my family's faces.

Anyway, gotta rush. It's the fourth day of our school tour. Sana weekend na para makatulog ako mala-Sleeping Beauty!

On Hitting the Brakes

Move two inches... hit the brakes... move an inch... hit the brakes... move two inches... hit the brakes again...

Damn protests in Makati!!! This was my pace yesterday when I got stuck in this huge traffic jam near Rustan's on my way home from a meeting. Some 200+ people paraded with their red flags as if there was no tomorrow. And the police weren't much help either! They just stood there watching while I got stuck in this major chaos! I know they have every right to conduct these rallies but please... I am so sick of this! Can't these people just be patient and wait for a proper impeachment trial?! If they want exercise, they can just go malling at Glorietta! Malamig pa. GRRRRRR!!!

On My Greatest Blessings

Happy anniversary to the coolest parents anyone could ever have! I love you, Mama and Papa. You are our inspiration and strength. We guarantee you... the best is yet to come! Enjoy!!!

On An Action Packed, Energized Start

Shoot, Spike, Kicksta, Toughneck, Smash, G, Split and Stretch... the MILO ENERJAM kids! They are brainbeam's creations and the stars of our big MILO school tour.

Our kick-off event at Veritas was a smashing success! I actually felt like crying when I saw the dancers come out to perform. It was an awesome show! The kids from Veritas Parochial School were screaming their lungs out and the teachers and some parents who were there had an equally fantastic time. The school principal even promised that they would continue to play the MILO ENERJAM jingle during their morning exercises. That was music to our ears. Our client, Batman was very satisfied and congratulated the agency on a job well done. All glory to God who gave us this opportunity. He gave me such a wonderful team composed of Front Row, Ace Promo, our host Chico, the amazing ENERJAM dancers and of course, Bru, CS, Paet and Tikboy. I am excited to do the rest of the tour! Great things do start from small beginnings.

On Stitch's ThinkBit For The Day

"Hmmm... I smell trouble. Saw Lilo all dreamy eyed and distracted this afternoon when this certain someone called her! Who could that be?! Could this be the one?"

On My Lack of Talent

Probably one of my biggest frustrations is not learning how to play the violin. I have a neighbor, Ate Candy, who's just so brilliant playing this instrument. She even teaches at the Yamaha Music School in BF. I expressed to her once my desire to learn how to play and she was very encouraging. I want to play in church or be like one of those girls in "The Corrs". Unfortunately, music really isn't my thing. I had piano lessons before with Dexter and Cuz but after recital 1, we all gave up. In church, as a lector, we are now required to sing "The Word of the Lord", after the reading. I was the first to protest to our priest because I DO NOT sing in public (and I don't intend to!). Hay naku, make me dance all day and I wouldn't care. But I am just not musically-inclined. Oh well... it's never too late to take violin lessons... If only I had the time to do it...

On That Forever Kind of Love

On That Forever Kind of Love
Originally uploaded by blue curls.

B and Wibi celebrated their 7th year anniversary yesterday. Congratulations! Type ko na talaga maging 'maid of honor'...

Thank you for never making me feel OP whenever we are out. Thank you, Bespwen for 'lending' me your Wibi during my graduation ball (haha!) and thank you, Bespwen's Wibi for taking good care of my precious Japanese hottie (woohoo!).

Here's to 77 x 7 x 7 years more together!

On Championship # 17

On Championship # 17
Originally uploaded by blue curls.

Congratulations to my all-time favorite team SAN MIGUEL BEER for their 17th win as a franchise in the Philippine Basketball Association's 30-year history.

I texted my friend and one of SMB's star players Dondon Hontiveros
last night telling him how FINALLY, he wins his much deserved 1st championship with SMB. I am closest to the players of SMB like Olsen
and Danny I (who won the MVP of the Championships) and of course their team manager Samboy, that's why I was teary eyed last night when they were holding their championship trophy. Itaas niyo!!!

Cheers!!!

On Playtime Then and Now

On Playtime Then and Now
Originally uploaded by blue curls.

This is Cupid Carlo, pouting lips and all, as if kissing the screen of my brother's cel phone, while playing one of the games loaded in the said gadget. Kids nowadays are just so tech-y. During my time, my brothers and cousins and I would play patintero, langit-lupa, taguan, luksong tinik, Chinese garter, 10-20 and all types of other kayle games till the Angelus rings off at church at 6pm. We'd get inside the house all messed up but with huge grins on our faces. We all have peklats to prove it. Hahaha!

Now, it's a whole different story. Give a kid a corner with a
Playstation, Gameboy or a mobile phone even, and they're all set and done for the day. Honestly, it's so boring! Kids don't know how to have real fun anymore! The only gadget that I found interesting back then was the Game and Watch (Hello, Parachute and Octopus!)! But even that was fun for just a short while.

I wish I'd see more kids playing outside our house, screaming their lungs out after being tagged the 'it' in Monkey-Monkey. My childhood was a blast! And I have nothing but fond memories of those days.

Someday, I'll tell my pamangkins (note: NOT kids) about it and probably play their 'mother' in 10-20. Sana lang, I still have the stamina to do it!

On Welcoming Someone To Our Family

On Welcoming Someone To Our Family
Originally uploaded by blue curls.

I've always had difficulty accepting the girls my two younger brothers like. It's primarily because as their 'second mom', I'm over protective and choosy of the type of girl I would want them to end up with.

In Xenia's case, it was no different. I pretty much gave her a hard time in the first few months that she and Mike got together. It wasn't personal. I just don't like my brothers to have girlfriends, hehe.

But she proved to be very sincere and my whole clan adores her. She is very kind to my parents, very close to Cui and loyal and loving to my brother. I can truly see how she makes him happy. Most of all, although she admitted being scared of me at first, she treats me like a big sister and is always willing to help me out in anything. Eventually, we all loved her, and saw what Mike saw in her... her beautiful and caring spirit.

Happy birthday to our dearest Xen! Hope you liked our gift!

* Xen's birthday was yesterday.

On A Special Arrival

Cuz is here! Cuz is really here!

I am looking forward to our big shopping trip to check out some more 'pieces' of 'ideas' we can gather for C3. Last night, we celebrated her arrival from Pleasantville, together with Xen's birthday. I missed Cuz tremendously!

She brought along our fabulous C3 pieces and my shiny new digicam, Shoot. Suh-weet!!!

On This Lady I Look Up To

On This Lady I Look Up To
Originally uploaded by blue curls.

I am a HUGE fan of Oprah. I feel like jumping for joy too everytime she comes out for her grand entrance. She is such a sincere person, an attentive listener, so honest and most importantly, knows and is proud of her roots and tries to give back to the world the many wonderful blessings she has.

I love it that she boldly talks about things that people are afraid to even discuss out loud like that show where she featured new moms who do not feel like they have this 'maternal instinct' in them. I loved her confrontations with the high school bullies and that episode about people who lost their loved ones because of their neglect.

Of course, who wouldn't enjoy Oprah's Favorite Things! I would die to be on that show and it is my ultimate dream to see her in person and hug her. I admire her for her beliefs, persistence, ideals and her passion for her work, people and life.

I marvel at the things she has and she is indeed gifted. God touched her and gave some sort of power that luckily, she uses for the common good. I hope the world produces more people like her. So that this planet would be a much better place to live in.

==

This was one of the Oprah Winfrey Show's first logos.

On A Special Birthday Greeting

On A Special Birthday Greeting
Originally uploaded by blue curls.

Happy birthday, Eds!

On Acquiring A Different Look V

On Acquiring A Different Look V
Originally uploaded by blue curls.

Or go back to my 'kulot' do? Hahaha!

To vote: Type your name, space, the number of your choice, space, your gender preference, then send to 007. First ten texters win a trip to Taal Volcano via lancha. Good luck!

On Acquiring A Different Look IV

On Acquiring A New Look IV
Originally uploaded by blue curls.

This one?

On Acquiring A Different Look III

On Acquiring A New Look III
Originally uploaded by blue curls.

How about this one?

On Acquiring A Different Look II

On Acquiring A New Look II
Originally uploaded by blue curls.

Or this?

On Acquiring A Different Look

On Acquiring A Different Look
Originally uploaded by blue curls.

Which look do you like best? This one?

On Wanting To Sing "How Much Is That Cutie In The Window?"

On Wanting To Sing "How Much Is That Cutie In The Window?"
Originally uploaded by blue curls.

This song bit is dedicated to my dear little angel, Patricia Ann (a.k.a. {Pating})

To the tune of the chorus of 'How Much Is That Doggie In The Window'

How much is that Cutie in the window?
The one with the glamorous hair.
How much is that Cutie in the window?
She's simply delightful, I swear!

On His Sweet Victory

On His Sweet Victory
Originally uploaded by blue curls.

As EXPECTED, Roger soared high to win his 3rd consecutive Wimbledon title and 5th Grandslam belt that firmly put him on his Number 1 world ranking. He played flawless tennis and Roddick looked like an amateur out there. Not even his huge serves could save him! Roger took home the trophy in straight sets, 6-2, 7-6, 6-4. You could really see how special the win was for him. He was sobbing right after the match and kept saying he still couldn't believe that he won 3 straight, a record that my all-time favorite player Pete Sampras also holds.

It was an exciting match! A sweet victory indeed!

==

Kudos to my favorite Williams sister, Venus, for beating Davenport (who I never really liked) and also winning her third Wimbledon title. She won in 2000 and 2001. That was a classic match and Venus couldn't stop jumping for joy. I would do the same, if I were her, after going thru injury and being ranked just 14. She was awesome!