O Christmas Tree!

I got my very first REAL Christmas Tree set up in the apt for the first Christmas having the apt to myself. Actually, it was a very nice surprise of Joaquin to give it to me (and pick it out, lift it into the cart, tip the guy who trimmed it, carried it to the car, tied it with twine, untied it, carried it upstairs, set up the tree stand, put up the tree, water it.. lol) so its OUR Christmas tree which we'll decorate before my parents come. ;) THANKS, BOOG!

The apt smell sooo good. Its about 6 feet and full! I like it. I need a tree skirt and lights. I'll try to take a before and after pic.

Hear them Roar

People are mad at me and it drives me insane! And if they aren't mad at me yet, they WILL BE!! Whether is getting the wrong idea or interpretation of a situation or someone else hyping up the situation or being relied on to do something... it sucks! I hate causing drama or conflict or even not-so-nice thoughts.. I'm not that type of girl. I don't get a high off of any of that, especially when its such a STUPID thing. Maybe the voices in my head are making it bigger than it seems. GrrRRr...

Everyone, Just be freakin' HAPPY!! I'm happy, nothing is wrong.. la la la la la.

This is what happens when you're someone who hates disappointing people and wants everyone (those cared about only of course) and their moms to be happy. WTF, maaan?!

"..some days I sit & wish I was a kid again"

I'm SUUUPER stressed! Its like one of those stressful weeks where the only thing that can relieve some of the stress is to have a good ass cry. Ok so I'll sit here and cry by myself?! No!! =P

A lot of caca is running through my head. There's so much to do at work, stupid little things in my personal life, and errands to do before my parents come (I'm excited they are coming, but its other things that make me anxious), oh, and there is Christmas shopping. I always enjoy Christmas shopping because I love love love giving (when I have the money, of course). But these days, I don't even want to step into a store. So I did all my shopping online and I think half-assed (more like with the "let me get this over with" attitude).

This is my first Christmas where the apt is mine, but I haven't decorated it -- at all: no stocking, no wreath, not even a dancing santa or a christmas welcome mat. I thought about a tree and would REALLY want one, but I just get un-motivated and lazy.

I'm all over the place... at least my head/thoughts are. BLEH.

Ending on a good note: 14 days til my parents arrive.. and with my sister and her family who live in the Philippines.. my 20-member immediate family is complete again :-)

Growing Pains

I think for the first time, while walking down the hallway to my apartment door, I became overwhelmed by the thought that I was going home to MY apt where I live on my own, and support all the bills and responsibilities that come along with it. I don't know if it was a sense of pride or whatever that overwhelmed me, but at 23, its definitely a weird and new feeling.

Granted, there are tougher days than most b/c you have more expenses being on your own. I'm actually enjoying the space I'm paying for now: I hang out and lounge on my couch (not only the bed), and I appreciate the kitchen on days I attempt to cook (still working on it). Of course, these moments only come on some weekends. On weekdays I'm busy being tired and catching up with chores and making tomorrow's lunch.

I found myself thinking "How come I was able to get better Christmas gifts last year?" since this year I seem to be struggling.. and I found my answer: Its cuz last Christmas I was living with my parents. Its SOOO sweet not to think about mortgage payments and maintenance. Some people just don't know how good they have it...

My hair is getting too heavy. I know this b/c I seem to be shedding more. What to do what to do.. Long hair is beautiful, but short hair is different (and definitely more manageable). But I gotta think of the facts -- my hair is too thick that it might just poof up like a chia pet if I get a bob cut.

Happy Turkey Day!

It's Pris' bday TODAY! Everyone say "HAPPY BIRTHDAY, Pris!!" =P

Its been awhile since I've posted. A lot of birthdays were celebrated this month, including mine. Thanks to everyone who I saw this whole month!! Pics have been posted, and I think I come out with a better smile in pics when I am drunk -- note to self: no sober pics. =P

I'm 23 now (in two years, I'll be in the "mid-twenties" range. yikes). Should I be investing or something? lol. whatever. I'm still enjoying life, I'll worry about that in December =X

November is almost over and it passed by quick, looking like a blur now.
I remember going out for drinks, dancing, paintball. All 3 were fun, especially paintball. Pris and I tried to show no fear when we saw 4873205348 guys ready with their gear and guns. It's all good though, we had Jowak and my nephew Jordan. We survived! I shot my teammate close-range in the head. oops! he stood up as I was firing away. The ref said I shot someone in the butt. Nice. I caught a couple of nasty-looking bruises and a suuuper sore body the next day, but I would do it again. I actually was more scared than I wanted to admit. At least I conquered that fear... neeext! (still working on the thought of sky diving)

Hope you all eat lots of turkey and whatever else fills your belly!

Late Birthday Pics

Verrrry late pics @ Cantela

Happy Halloween!

We celebrated Halloween earlier @ Annie's bday party at "Q".

Costume ideas were so random. In a matter of hours, our costume ideas changed:
-Cowboy & Cowgirl
-Wife beater & Battered wife (using all those gory props/cuts/gashes/makeup)
-Gothic couple (but still using those gory props/cuts/gashes/makeup)
-A couple of hours before the party, we became gothic vampires (bought silver fangs)
-Fangs were cool, but never stuck, so back to plain f'd up gothic couple
-Then my neck slash peeled off due to sweat and movement, so I just became a gothic girl

Jackie's pics

I had fun - the cranberry & vodka was good to me that night ;)

Babble Babble

Wow.. haven't been in this place for awhile!

How is it that I manage to waste a shit load of time in front of this PC when I've just come home from work from spending a shit load of time in front of that PC?!

I have a new goal: try not to use the "F" word. Thanks to my Jackie Cackie, I'm using that word too much. =P

I notice I've been becoming more and more attached to my snooze button -- that has to stop. Then again, if I wake up normal time and get to the train before 7:30am, I noticed that I'm in sardine-land, where some people smell and I'm hoping no stranger takes pleasure in rubbing up on me (ack!).

Bday is coming.. what the hell to do?!!?

Things I wanted to do and finally have done (w/in the past month or so):
1) Went to a museum
2) Walked through a street fair
3) Tasted Serendipidy's "frozen hot chocolate"
4) Walked through central park
5) Hung out in Times Square on a Saturday night
6) Did something sporadic
7) Walking more
8) Waking up much later on a work day
9) Laugh a lot more
10) Went to Coney Island
11) Eat lots of crap without guilt (for the moment)
12) Went back to Disney World

Things I will end up doing:
1) Take Salsa classes
2) Muay Thai (? - damn I'm scared)
3) Go to another museum
4) Go back to exercising somewhat
5) Go to the Halloween parade in the village
6) Dressing up for halloween (?)
7) Go see a Broadway show after work
8) Gray's Papaya
9) Colombian hotdog

Things I'm doing now and want to stop:
1) Eating late
2) Eating junk late
3) Cursing
4) Not exercising
5) Feeling tired a lot

Upcoming:
1) Annie's party
2) Halloween
3) November bdays (a whole lot of them!)
4) Andrew's Christening
5) Kuya Charlton's bday
6) Parents arrive!!
7) Shopping

Coney Island

I went to Coney Island for the first time ever Sunday. It was a lot of fun, mainly b/c I did everything that I wanted to do in the most beautiful weather in my favorite season:

-eat a lot without a care in the world what those bacon cheese hot dogs and bacon cheese fries will do to my tummy =P
-walk through almost the entire beach by the water (sneakers and all)
-laugh until I couldn't stand or breathe
-walk the boardwalk back
-Go Carts!!
-Frozen Mochi Ice
-"Drunk, Sober" Girl
-more laughing until I couldn't stand or breathe

MJFD

"Building Trust"

That's the motto of this website that I came across.
And in this website, did you know my name, age, address, phone number, and birthday information can be given out for free?

And for less than $50 you can receive a Background report w/ personal information about me?

Yep, they're really building trust...

That sucks!

Disappearing Act

It seems like I dropped off the face of this earth.. well, at least my mind did.

I'm doing a lot of cleaning/organizing @ home -- someone called that "psychological cleansing". Sure.

"The Happiest Celebration on Earth"

Finally, Florida Pics

So in a nutshell...
Sat = landed in Ft. Lauderdale, picked up the rental, was pleasantly surprised w/ it, drove 3 hrs to Orland
Sat night = Downtown Disney's Pleasure Island, went "club" hopping, comedy show, played ice hockey, went to bed ready for Disney
Sun = Disney's MGM, Epcot, Magic Kingdom - Mickey!!!
Sun night = drove back 4 hours to Miami... suuuper tired
Midnight = HAPPY BIRTHDAY JACKIE!
Mon = Where's the sun? =( Hung out w/ Jackie's cousins (eating & shopping)
Tues = Flight back. POOOPED

Los vamos pa Miami!

Hey, its been awhile since I've posted.

Nothing and everything has happened.

I have to pack! Jackie is taking me to Miami! We needed this mini break -- a break from work, routine, and everyday thoughts.

YES, WE'LL BE GOOD OUT THERE! sheesh ;-) See you Wednesday! Ciao!

Tired as F*ck, but I'm Going to Miami

I had an out of body experience today.

I left work at 7pm, got home at 9!! Stupid stupid stupid trains. And being the genius I am, from staring at a PC screen for 11 hours, I decided to read my book throughout the whole train-mishap ordeal. I think I read close to 100 pgs (normally I'll read less than 20 b/c I'd get home by then). I think that's why I can't see straight. Halfway through trying to get home, my brain did a complete shut down (this is where I began to feel like my brain and body were two totally separate entities): I didn't know where I was, what train I had to board next, what music I was listening to, who was next/in front of/behind me, what stop I got off on (good thing it was my stop), and then I think I forgot to chew my dinner since I inhaled it anyway. To top it off, I have to be in early in the office again.

So now I'm asking myself "WTF am I doing in front of the PC after all that crap!?!?" This is why I'm not normal.

I go to work dressed like its October b/c that's the temperature in the office (I have the sniffles now, thank you very much to that f-in' high powered A/C vent over my desk!!). So naturally, the subways, and yes, sometimes train cars, are 150 degrees... while I have a sweater on!

wow. I'm pooped.

On a positive, positive note, Jackie is taking me to Miami for her Bday. She's paid for my trip there, and we're staying w/ her family. Sweeeeet. I'm looking forward to road trips, half a day at South Beach, Colombian and Cuban food, and the beach!

Extreme Sports

Wow. What a weekend I had upstate in the Catskills where my brother lives. We went Mountain Biking... and I mean the REAL DEAL Moutain Biking. There is no flat land, just 3-inch high tree roots, LOTS of rocks/gravel, dirt, trees 1 foot away from you, thorn bushes, and what I like to call mini boulders. It was in a forest, so you could only imagine the raw terrain.

I survived though! All two hours of it (from 9am to 11am) Just call me Mrs. Armstrong.. NOT! I wish! Although, I am proud I was the only girl in my family who went. Granted we all had to dismount our bikes at a couple of insane inclines and these "stairs" nature made out of tree roots and rocks (rocks I'd like to call boulders, but whatever). My nephew ran into a bush, and I looked closer, it was a thorn bush!! He had to pull a couple off his arms and face, but he was good to go. lol. I have to admit, my stamina out-lasted Jordan's. =D I have to give him credit though b/c he made it dehydrated, but I was the one still energized after, ready for trail #2.

There were a couple of moments were I had to say a small prayer b/c I swore I was going to get thrown off. Especially when my hands left the handle bars for a split second due to the speed and terrain. There were pot holes that were ridiculous -- you either had to know how to dodge them using your rear brakes ever-so-slightly or just eat them. I just didn't want to go home in a stretcher b/c looking around you, that was possible if you fell the wrong way or direction (we're in the mountains, ya know). Changing your bike gears were important. I only learned the importance of them yesterday. What was funny was that when there was an incline, you could faintly hear all of us clicking our gears to 1 (lowest gears are used for inclines for easier pedaling). Every time I picked up speed, all I kept yelling was "SPACE!!!!!". I didn't want whoever was behind me to come too close b/c I could slow down at moment's notice since the turns and twists are all blind, and I might underestimate the group of rocks (mini-boulders) ahead.

Since trail #1 was straight out of an extreme sports magazine, trail #2 was more relaxing and more to enjoy scenery. We (this trip included the kids) biked 7 miles to New Paltz and I love that town! Its a small, quaint, college town. There are some spots where the view is crazy! You were looking at a mountain right in front of you. Definitely more breath-taking than the Poconos. I will definitely go back there and just explore. For a moment I felt like I was not in NY while biking and being in the town.

So in total I biked 15 miles that day. I would've biked 7 more miles back from New Paltz, but my butt was soooooooooooo sore (I feel like I was shot in my butt) and my arms and back and legs are sore. I even have blisters on both my thumbs and a black and blue on my calf (how did that happen?) But boy, did it feel good! I've used muscles I never knew I had before. Living w/ my brother and his lifestyle of semi-extreme sports will make anyone's body look incredible. No wonder he is in the best shape of his life. I've agreed to do the 15-mile bike tour on October w/ him and his wife. Now I need to find shorts w/ padding. I can't even sit on a soft couch w/out wincing. Enough about my butt...

He's introduced me to: skiing, snowboarding, rock climbing, moutain biking. what's next? Sky diving? Let's Go!!

Everyone has to experience what life has to offer at least once, right? ;-P

Since we didn't want to bring cameras to the rough trail in fear of crushing it when we'd fall, these are some online pics that resembled a mountain bike trail (the trail we went to had more trees and more inclines than I wanted)

HOTT!!

It's so damn hot out! I wouldn't mind so much if I was headed towards the beach rather than work. Speaking of beach, I'm burned, which will eventually turn into a tan (yes!). I cooked my front more than my back.. whoops! But now I'm itchy. I can't wait for the redness to go away. I decided to cook b/c I doubt I will have the opportunity to go back to the beach. Now the color of my thighs won't scare me =P

Oh and speaking of heat, it is the 3rd time in two weeks I've sat through a NON-air conditioned train car. I've just sat there and endured the stuffiness of it all w/out any complaints b/c (1) I have my book AND a seat right by the door (2) I'm too lazy to get up (3) No air = less ppl = better for me (4) Its SOOOOO cold at work that I think my blood turns into ice anyway and I use that to cool myself off in that hot train car. I really try not to think about it otherwise b/c, like any normal human being, I'd go nuts and maybe hyper-ventilate.

So tomorrow is 95 degrees and Wed is 96.. But the office will still be 30 degrees. I would like very much to go to the beach, but since that definitely won't happen due to 'increased activity' at the office, I will just work late so that when I get out, it'll be 89 as opposed to 95! =/

Kitchen Chaos

**with edit**

I was bored, so for some reason I went into the kitchen and decided to 'experiment' w/ Baked Ziti using turkey sausage (healthier, duh)... What a mess!

Again, I overheated the pan while I was still cutting up the sausage into neat slanted slices. Anyway, threw in full-proof flavoring: chopped onions and garlic, salt and pepper. I accidentally put too much black pepper. Then I put in the sausage and what a disaster b/c the shape didn't stay, so now it really looks like ground turkey. Completely forgot about the sauce and mushrooms (which I still had to chop and wash) so I added it late and didn't know if I was supposed to let it simmer. whatever. I went about this w/out a timer and w/out a recipe book. There is a quote that says we're supposed to cook w/out inhibitions - like just take a 'live and learn' attitude. Well that's what I did and it was definitely a 5-year old scene in there. I think I also over-cooked the pasta (which I never do). Anyway, its in the oven. Looking like a mess.

I was also frantically looking for Bay leaves for the marinara sauce. I couldn't find them, but I managed to destroy the neat assembly of the pantry shelf.

I THINK I take out the Ziti from the oven in 30 mins. At this point, I don't care b/c I don't think I'll be eating my own cooking .lol. =P Like I said before, if I keep cooking bad, I'll eventually cook good.

[edit...30 mins. later]
Hmm.. I'm pleasantly surprised. I served myself seconds. I'm not sure if I really like it or I'm just plain surprised that its edible. Oh well, whatever it is, it can only be a good sign if I don't get a tummy ache today =/

Complaining & Babbling

I feel like I have so much to write and complain about, and its going to be all over the place, so here it goes:

I am deaf in my left ear. At least sounds are muffled, I hear myself chewing, and when I drink soda I hear the bubbles fizz in my mouth. It's like I'm closing my ear w/ my fingers 24/7. This BLows!!! I need to find an ear doctor. Great. Another errand to add.

I passed up what looked like a great turnout and fun day on Sunday w/ my SWE girls (and guys). Its OK, my sister and her baby really needed the family, and so I was there. Although the baby seemed to only cry in my arms, at least I felt useful in changing his diapers and clothes.

I have a canker sore in my gums. Poop! This is what I read: "Pain decreases in 7 to 10 days, with complete healing in 1 to 3 weeks. They may develop in response to a mouth injury such as dental procedures or aggressive tooth cleaning [I stabbed my gums w/ my toothbrush my accident]...They can be triggered by emotional stress [well then....]. It makes eating HURT!! And you know how much I love eating!!

I need to do laundry. Its so HUMID outside it makes every body part feel completely nasty.

Stinky surprised me today w/ food in the fridge! Now THAT's what I want to come home to: food. And to think, I was secretly cursing under my breath going home b/c he said he couldn't go food shopping. soowweee

I have to cook.. something. shiet. A whole chicken is defrosted, so no excuses. shiet.

I want to go to at least one restaurant during restaurant week.
I want to finally bring my 4892705 articles of clothing to the dry cleaners.

Any more complaints? Wait, I'm thinking...

*OUCH!!*

That's all my feet can say!!!! I'm cursing the man who invented sexy pointy-toe stilletos. There are gorgeous shoes out there, but I rather keep my feet =/

2 glasses of wine for a feather-weight is pure bliss... niiiice.

Annoying Day #2

I don't want to blog, but I'm so tired that I can't get up from in front of my PC, so I might as well babble about another annoying day.

Stress levels are slowly climbing. I'm chasing so much work and slapping the middle of my forehead too many times once I've remembered what I forgot to ask/do/confirm. I'm supposed to be more proactive in something, but I'm too busy chasing other stuff, I forgot the whole proactive thing. I just have to organize myself, that's all. If anyone knows me well, they know I usually keep my desk close to immaculate. Its not that case this week. It looks like a tornado came by. Its OK. I need a little stress sometimes.

I need to wake up and get with the program!

I had a bad lunch! I don't know how to cook beans! Its OK. I'll learn. Keep cooking bad beans and eventually I'll learn to cook good ones. ;-)

I finished my Boar's Head Oven Roasted Turkey :-(

I need a gooooooood drink.... I'm already getting happy thinking about it >=P

Annoying Day

Today was the most annoying day (not a bad day, just annoying) I've had in a long time.

1) First off, my work day did not start off so well. There needs to be rapport between BAs and SQMs - that's all I have to say.
2) One developer was having a bad day and decided to take out some frustrations w/ hostility towards me. Not cool, buddy. I can't let the attitude affect me b/c its his own attitude that won't get him anywhere. whatever. I got the info I needed.. dirt off my shoulders
3) Semi-choked on my sandwich, burned my tongue w/ hot tea
4) Train ride home: Someone sitting next to me was laughing obnoxiously out loud w/ his friend while I was reading my book. I decided the loud music from my iPod would drown them out, and I rather tune out the music while reading than having to try to tune them out. Then they left, so I stopped playing my music and went back to my book. Turns out, my new neighbor had bad sinuses or something b/c he had the severe case of dry sniffles. Back to my book AND loud music to drown out his sniffles. Announcement came that the express is running local to Queens from Manhattan. Nice. At least I have my book.
5) Came home and someone posted a comment on my blog that irked me sooo much and I wasn't sure of the connotation. Deleted it. Apparently, I neglect my "Present" section and I now know I should update it b/c comments seem to come from the content there. erf.
6) A co-worker my age is leaving the company to pursue Law school. I'm jealous. I NEED to decide about grad school before I definitely become unmotivated. I have this INSANE curiousity about law school, but I just don't want to pay for it or study for it or quit my job for it... Nice approach to a goal, Jam =/ All this uncertainty is annoying! Maybe its annoying b/c the end result will be me standing still. Mm.
7) Thanks to Agatha, here is an interesting CNN News article for you Comp Sci grads

Other than my annoying day, I came home to find a surprise in the fridge: Boars Head Oven Roasted Turkey (current favorite), milk, whole wheat wraps, and eggs. yess! Had myself a turkey wrap w/ a tall glass of milk. For lunch tomorrow, rice and beans w/ a fried egg on top (learned it from Jackie's mom)

Summer update

Quick update:

1) Taking mini vacations upstate in Catskills (brother's house w/ his wife and 2 kids). The whole family of 12+ members goes up there for a weekend and enjoys "the country".
2) Went to a drive-in movie the other night. What a nice experience. My brother has a pick-up and we put a futton mattress and pillows/blankets in the back and watched the movie from there.
3) I'm learning how to cook thanks to my sister-in-law. Before every meal, you'll find me in the kitchen observing/learning/chopping/sautee-ing/stirring..
4) Work just got busy -- just makes time go faster, but makes my stress levels jump
5) Let's see where I am w/ my summer goals so far:
[From previous post]
>>Think seriously about Grad school - still not sure
>>Read more books - yep, still on track w/ this goal
>>Work out better (??) - yeah, let me re-think this - still rethinking =P
>>Road Trip!! - aiming for August for Montreal, Canada?
>>FINALLY put together the guest room/office - soooooo slowly
>>FINALLY clean out the "storage/junk" closet - CHECK!!.. DONE!!
>>Keep cooking (I've gotten this much better) - ever-so-slowly kicking ass in the kitchen
>>Save money - ummmm... errrr....

London Bombing

sad news.

July 4th Weekend

I had one of the most eventful 4th of July weekends. And I didn't even get to see fireworks.

Friday = went out w/ Jackie. Got all glammed up to go to a club in Chelsea, then decided the entrance fee (or music we heard) wasn't worth it, so went to a diner to have the best chicken ceasar salad. Got home @ 3am.

Saturday = Since my sister is not feeling well (she will sue the stupid doctor) went to her house w/ Jordan to help out in any way we could. Got invited to Park Side w/ Jackie's family and had a delicious Italian meal. Drove around w/ Jackie and our coffee coolatas. Was dead tired at night.

Sunday = Went to sister's after Church. Learned how to cook by staying in the kitchen. Jackie passed her physical and she is on her way to the NYPD Academy. Don't mess w/ me b/c Officer "Ontanader-rader" is my best friend, and she has a gun =P Went to Long Beach's BridgeView to celebrate. It is a beautiful reception hall-turned-club-at-night (indoor and outdoor) and it reminded me of one of those clubs you see on TV. Amber performed (wow) and I didn't know until I saw her standing on stage singing. She gained weight. Had a great time, had a good hair day, lost all feeling in my feet wearing my 5 inch gold heels, and came home around 4am. POOPED!

Monday = back to sister's, stayed in the kitchen some more. Ate like a beast. Fireworks were cancelled at Valley Stream, so we went back to Queens @ 9pm and got some Italian Ices from the Lemon Ice King on Corona, then slept like a baby.

Tuesday = took off b/c I knew I would need it from the hectic weekend. Hung out w/ Karen - Got some Dim Sum @ Chinatown (YUM), and then headed to Little Italy for dessert.

Back to work tomorrow. *sigh*

Mimi's Bridal Shower

Here is Mimi's Surprise Bridal Shower pics - big party w/ lots of food:

No hablo español

I tried ordering Jordan's dinner from a Colombian restaurant that delivers. Turns out they do not speak English. However, I don't just give up (not that kind of a girl), and thus the broken conversation from 3 years of taking Spanish 1 went something like this:

Me: Hable ingles?
Her: No hablo ingles
Me: Does someone there speak english
Her: No hablo ingles
Me: Can I place an order for delivery?
Her: No hablo ingles
Me: ummm.. errr.. [this is when I decided to blurt out the order and see what she says].. Una chuleta de pollo empanizada [Menu says its Breaded Chicken Cutlet]
Her: Una?
Me: Si.
Her: algo mas? [anything else?]
Me: No
Her: [in spanish she asked for my address - I understand this much]
Me: [since I remember #s well] ochenta y siete, cero, ocho [87-08] Justice Avenue.... JJJJ-UUUU-
Her: Si, si, apartamento?
Me: [pause - thinking "what's 10 what's 10"] ... diez .... J [shit, I forgot how to say J in spanish]
Her: jota?
Me: Si! [excited she understood J and remembered jota meant 'j']
Her: numero de telefono?
Me: [slowly but surely] seis-siete-dos-seis-cuatro [you get the point, I said my phone number]
Her: [something, something].. quince minutos
Me: Gracias.
Me: BABE! You're food will be here in 15 minutes!

=) hehehe.. aren't you proud of me? Glad I listened all those 3 years being in the same spanish class level =P

Welcome Andrew Philip!

A big welcome to my newborn nephew (nephew #7 - another boy!) Andrew Philip. Born June 8, 2005, 5:29AM, 7lbs., 7oz. 18.5 inches. Chubby cheeks, double chin, lots of soft black hair, and beautiful eyes - the chubby everything definitely runs in the family=)

Take a look at ALL the beautiful chubbiness!!

Bad Weather

So the Dali Lama said something along the lines of "Great Success and Great Love require taking Great Risks". I want to believe and live by that in all aspects. Sometimes I feel like I'm at cross roads staring up a a huge sign that says that theory of the Dali Lama. Great Risks, huh?

On another note (back to reality for a moment), I had great weekend therapy. Just recently I've been feeling down, more like shitty (damn female hormones! - I think) and two people in my life took notice and took me out for surprise and spontaneity. I appreciated every moment, despite the sun burn and minor food poisoning somewhere along the way =) I guess some of the best weekends go by way too quicky.

I finished working out. Finally, after over 2 weeks of being a bum, I feel better being drenched in sweat. Mimi is going to be a teacher in East NY! I'm actively reading my favorite kinds of books. I'm being inquisitive about things.

I see lightening. [There goes the thunder] I think this weather is trying to show me that silver lining in those rain clouds.

BACON!

For some strange reason, I seem to always be in the mood for bacon (w/ brown rice). When I eat it, it's like I'm tasting it for the first time. I can have like 5 in one sitting. Isn't that a lot? Isn't too much bacon (or anything for that matter) bad for you? Are my arteries clogged now? Uhh, will my abs of steal (hahahaha) go away b/c of excessive bacon?

What a dumb post, lol, but just thought I should share =P

Back to Work

It's back to work. I mean I never physically left work, but my brain sure did! It all started w/ my sickness that lasted for 2 weeks (damnit!) and then having to go to Jury selection for two days WHILE sick didn't help. I started a fresh week this week and I know when my brain and body are "back to work" when I start leaving the office 7pm. There's so many exciting new projects that I was asked to be a part of and tackle the requirements. I'm actually starting to feel like a real Business Analyst, although it leaves my brain fried at the end of the day. I guess this is why I haven't updated my blogs lately since I can only sit in front of my PC for a limited amount of time - and that's usually to check email.

One of my former classmates and his gf are going to Italy this year and my emails to them are complete novels. I only write that much when I'm passionate about something, and my trip to Italy w/ Aggie made me want to share everything under the sun - tips, suggestions, etc. I can't wait to go back. After the Philippines, I want to make the next big trip w/ Jordan to Italy and then fly to Paris for a few days.

Since I won't be doing any major traveling this year, I decided to start doing other things w/ my life, such as:
>>Think seriously about Grad school - if i'm not going to be a filthy rich stay-at-home mom, then I need Plan B =P
>>Read more books (already started)
>>Work out better (??) - yeah, let me re-think this =P
>>Road Trip!! (I'm thinking Rhode Island, Maine, or Boston for a B&B)
>>FINALLY put together the guest room/office
>>FINALLY clean out the "storage/junk" closet
>>Keep cooking (I've gotten this much better)
>>Save money

Memorial Day Weekend

Friday = rested my sick booty

Saturday = Lily's Graduation party at Tango Mambo: Congrats Lily!!! You looked beautiful! I have some pics, but my camera died on me, so I'll just wait for Lily and Mimi's pics to post them =)

Sunday = I swallowed my first fishbone ever. It was a drama around the dining table during the family Memorial weekend BBQ. I'm trying to get more into cooking. I'm learning from the females in the family and I'm actually motivated this much more. Hey, it's a start.

Weather is GORGEOUS!

Hearbroken.

I miss my parents SO much its killing me.

Glad I could give them this before they left (thanks for taking the pics, Jackie). There were more pages, but these are the ones that seem to be the best.

Sickies

I'm sick. Called out today from work b/c of the weird "cold" I have -- its in my chest, my head, my nose. I'm surprised I even called out b/c I don't like doing that. I'm like my mom, I worry too much about work. I spoke to my mgr this morning and she even said I work too intensely, like her, that I could've had a relapse the other time I got sick and was SUPPOSED to call out from work but didn't b/c I'm crazy like that. She's like my mom though, b/c she tells me what to eat, take, drink, and I listen to her b/c obviously I don't know what to do w/ myself. I'm feeling a little better though. I just need to keep resting. I have this STRONG urge in me to take advantage of the day-off and.... clean the floors =/ I know, I'm NUTS! I keep daydreaming about the damn vaccuum cleaner. But I won't do that and exert too much energy b/c I might just not get better. Then I want to work out, but forget about that idea. *sigh* Being sick sucks!!

Graduation #2

Attended Jackie's graduation in St. John's University yesterday. It brought on this weird wave of emotions. First of all, I am so proud of her and every student walking to that 'graduation march' the band plays. Its not easy deciding to go to college, finding someone/somehow to pay for it, and going through the experience and stress. Its just as hard as the real world except w/ limited money and a different kind of stress. I give them so much credit. Even though they might not do anything w/ their diploma or go a different path, they still completed something they started.

I was choking back tears when I saw her marching. *sniffles*. She came a long way academically (passing Math) and even personally (umm.. she lost approx. 100 lbs!) I saw so many high school faces (students from St. John's Prep sometimes go to St. John's University), and it was so weird seeing them. I felt old, too, even though I went through it only a year ago. Man.. times, things, and people change, but the memories definitely last forever b/c I remembered my easier years as a high school student.

I'm definitely obsessed w/ "We Belong Together" by Mariah Carey b/c its been on repeat only 50 times =P

Surprise!

And that Jackie was about her Surprise Graduation get-together/party the girls and I threw her. She didn't expect it =) Thanks for everyone's effort on such a tight schedule -- much appreciated!

Lots of laughs, junk food, and drinks (well, not for me, shell, wendy: we were driving)

Even though I came out horrible in them, here are the pics of last night.

Cooking 101

Tried... but I can't cook to save my life. And I'm SUUUPER mad at one of the cats who constantly pees on the bedroom carpet. The ridiculous part is that you can't yell at them and give them a good "pow-pow" and expect everything to be fine.. cuz she does it again! GrrRRrrrRrr.... We're trying something new, lets hope it works (even though if it means more work for us)

OK, enough venting, back to the topic of my lack of skill in the kitchen. My poor future-kids. They will eat sauce-less pasta w/ and dry and over seasoned chicken. Yep, that's my specialty. However, I can hook you up w/ one mean bowl of salad w/ a great dressing =(

I thought this description was on point:

Your Birthdate: November 13

Being born on the 13th day of the month should help make you a better manager and organizer, but it may also give you a tendency to dominate people a bit. You may be more responsible and self-disciplined than you realize. Sincere and honest, you are a serious, hard working individual. Your feeling are likely to seem somewhat repressed at times. You are apt to be much more practical, rational, and conscious of details. Your intolerance and insistence on complete accuracy can be irritating to some.

What Does Your Birth Date Mean?

Before I leave...

Happy Mommy's day Weekend!

This is my first Mother's day w/out the Queen of Mommies :-( I'm very sad, but very happy at the same time that the family traditions continue -- just as she would want it to. She already knew of the plans of going upstate to my brother's for a sleepover.

I didn't bring my camera to this year's EBall, but here are Agatha's pictures from her camera (hope you don't mind Aggie).

And here are the ones I particularly like b/c it reminds me of last Eball -
1. Aggie, Me, Kim -- P.S. The bling is blingin' xP


2. Aggie, Me, Jenny -- just like the framed wallet pic Jenny gave us for a graduation present, except a year later (hmm, and I look older and more tired, that's what working does to you =P)


3. College Roomies -- so, where and when's our next trip? Paris? Spain? ;-)

Updates

Work
Things at work have calmed down a little, but not so much where I'm bored. There's always something to do and learn, especially work to catch up on. My boss is going on vacation and I'm a little anxious b/c I don't want to make the wrong decisions or forget to do something while she's gone. But I have faith in myself (I hope), and even though things don't work out, it's called 'living and learning'.

I've also noticed there's a lot of "politics" in the Corporate World. I'm very naive to certain things and wish adults can act as adults. But I wake up and realize there's a concept of the 'Real World' out there and I'm not talking about the MTV show. Its OK, I have a mgr that I can always talk to and seek advice, and I have the ability to learn from every situation. Besides, I come home and I can vent to Jordan about it and he'll make me feel better.

Btw, today was bring your kids to work day and those 'little people' are sooo adorable. It makes me want to 'borrow' one and return them when I'm tired :-P

Life
My home development has slowed down to this crawling speed. At least I got to set up the office desk. Now I just need to hammer some nails into the wall and hang up Jordan's "Sopranos" and "John Gotti" frames, and put up the James Brown and Justin Timberlake singing/moving dolls somewhere. It'll be the "fun" room. Too bad things are moving so slow. Its ok, it'll eventually happen.

Bills suck!

Got Jordan to agree to moving into the city ONLY if its in the residential upper West Side. :-P The man hates congestion - I don't blame him. Doubt the move, but I just like knowing the fact he'll move to the city if it comes true.

Family
Everytime I see my brother's 30-minute iMovie of my parents/family, I ALWAYS WITHOUT FAIL cry like a little baby. I could take it, until the end where clips of my parents and the background song start playing. Then its a waterfall of tears from there. damnit.

Ok, I'm kinda tired of typing. peace.

Saturday Morning

Despite the cloudy, dreariness of today, I got a nice surprise from Jordan. He made me his "specialty" breakfast. Then last night, he had a surprise for me, and it turned out to be Mets tickets. But we didn't go cuz of the weather. Its ok, its the thought that counts since I've been dying to go to one b/c they've been playing well. He's been full of surprises lately and I love it. Last week he blind folded me and took me somewhere -- it turned out to be the place where we hung out on our first date. It was in Malba, Whitestone (by the Whitestone bridge) where we overlooked the water then house-watched. I love house-watching there -- just driving around and envisioning what could be in those 3,4,5 million dollar homes, who is in there, what they did for a living, and seeing their 5-car garages =P One day.... Like Jordan said, we're young. But remember, money isn't happiness... but they sure are puurrrrty houses!! Enough mushy stuff. peace.

Ignorance is NOT Bliss

Today, I did some retail therapy.. YESSSS!!

Anyway, in one of the dressing rooms I overheard an employee saying something like "You know, Chinese and Filipinos.. they do feet". I'm staring at her like "is this bitch for real?". First of all, that is one of the most ignorant comments I've heard in a long time. No wonder I don't go out. =P Then I'm thinking to myself, in all the years living in NYC, not once did I come across a Filipinio "doing feet". Even if I did, that is still a stupid comment. The bitch probably just group Filipinos and Chinese together b/c "all asians are the same". No we are not all the same. That's why we don't speak the same language. Its like those ignorant ppl saying "Colombians, Mexicans, they're all the same". No Bitch. Yeah, if Filipinos are all the same as other asians, why are 95% of Filipino last names Spanish? Hmm.. could that be b/c our ancestors are Spanish decendants, and when I say "Spanish", I mean from Spain, not from Puerto Rico, Dominican Republic, Mexico. B/c the PROPER country of the Spanish ppl are from Spain. (And Filipinos ARE Asian -- tell me why I get another comment "oh I don't consider Filipinos asian". WTF?! Then why is the country part of Asia? Did you know India is in Asia?!? I'm not going to get into that. If I'm wrong about Filipinos being Asian, then by all means, I'm welcoming any corrections.) How would she like it if someone said "yeah, all black people are ghetto". Obviously that's not true, so don't go opening your stupid ass mouth and say some shit you obviously pulled out of your ass. Yes, I seem upset, but I'm more disgusted than anything. I don't know what's worst, hearing her say ignorant comments, or watching the asian guy she was talking to NOT correct her stupid ass. Thank God I just laughed it off while standing in line.

P.S. Got GREAT Shoes!!! =P

Lets Go Mets!

Mets Rule, Yankees Drool
6 in a row, baby!

Even when Mets are at their worst, they still rule =P

Quickie

**Edited**
Here's a "Quickie" (Before DSL Connection goes stupid):

- Super busy @ work. Come home late, no time to get on home PC
- Lovin' Family time
- Picked out Bridesmaid dress for Shell's wedding
- Pictures from Lily and Karen's Bday @ Strike in L.I. (Added captions 4/16)
- Missing parents
- Stop decorating the apt, but slowly started fixing the mess behind the beauty
- There's more, I'm sure, but I gotta shower.

Bye.

Starting Over / Milestone #100

HAPPY EASTER!

Easter Sunday Mass homily was great. My favorite priest said a lot of things that made sense. He mentioned how Easter is Jesus' Resurrection, it's a new beginning, starting over. Made me think about where I am right now - I'm starting over...

My parents left, my childhood is really a memory and I have to be a "full-time" adult, living w/ my fiance and surviving. The relationship is starting over b/c its a new environment, new setting (at least for him), new compromises, new solutions. The condo is becoming a home. I'm doing so much decorating, involving so much thought into the process. It's really coming together beautifully, yet it is still under decorative construction.


Milestone #100: Click Here to Enter My Newly Renovated "Before & After" Home. ENJOY.

P.S. The look on my family's face for the initial and unofficial house warming was Priceless =)

Miss Independent

Being independent, you learn a lot about yourself. I learned that a part of my parents have been carved into me.

I can see my Dad's handyman skills when I've successfully assembled a treadmill, coffee table, bar stools, and wall unit by myself (Jordan was around to "tighten" things here and there lol). I also see my Dad in myself when I clean military style and according to Jordan, give orders like I'm a Drill Seargent (which I am NOT, and I always ask, not command) =P. My next goal: putting up blinds (fyi - not as easy at it looks).

I can see my Mom in me everytime I open the medicine cabinet, sink cabinet, and checkbook: Everything is organized and properly stocked. I'm an organize freak, and I see where I get it from. I am actually proud of myself when I open the bathroom cabinets.

I haven't been blogging b/c furnishing a home, "surviving" (yes, I am beginning to cook, and its actually edible and good-tasting stuff), and working is exhausting. There's just so much more work left to do around the house. So basically, work at work and work AT home have been filling up my time -- nothing else new w/ me -- except the FABULOUS furniture shopping being done w/ my brother! ;)

The Man

THERE'S NO MAN QUITE LIKE MY DAD

Final Thoughts? For Now?

Lately, I haven't been in the mood to blog. It makes me think if my blogging phase is over (already? but it just started). I bet you if I started in college, I would make my archives blow up. Maybe there are just so many changes happening around me that I neither have the time nor interest to blog -- maybe b/c my daily life is involved in all these changes.

For one, I cut my hair that now I miss my long hair and will never cut it this short again. I like it a lot, I think I look older and slightly more sophisticated, but I miss the girly-ness/innocence/playfulness of long hair. Yep, I'm growing it back.

My apt is emptying out. I refuse to post more pictures b/c the next step will be to see the finished product. I'm deciding on my living room flooring now, geez, I feel old just saying that.

I think I'm in denial that my parents are leaving for good in 5 days. Sometimes I think they're just clearing up the apt and going on a long vacation. How will I survive? (I'm sure I'll be fine, but still...) *sniffles*

I'm going to live w/ someone I love, that it makes me nervous and excited at the same time to see how it pans out. Welcome to a grown ass relationship, Jam -- complete w/ sharing bills and space at the same time. whoa.

I'm missing Italy. I'm craving coffee. I need another vacation.

Work has become so busy, getting out at 6pm is early. Am I really doing a good job? Where will my career take me? Hearing the layoffs, will I be one of them down the line? If I am, what then...?

Money. Need more of it. But I'm telling my parents that I have enough of it, so not to worry them. I guess money is now an issue b/c I'll be buying furniture and decorating my home to my liking (I already told Jordan he'll have a 5%-10% input on decorating - it's all about me, baby! =P)

I'm working out again. As the stress is relieved, new ones come along: will I be in tip-top shape by summer? Will I fall off the wagon one day? Why is my right love-handle there and my left one not?

After over 22 yrs, I'm finally experimenting w/ eye make-up. This should be interesting.

Daddy and I got into a minor fender bender yesterday. A truck hit us. He practically pushed us on Queens Blvd. cuz he didn't see us on his right side - we're small, he's big. If he was driving any faster, it would've been BAD. Fortunately, we are OK. A bit shaken up that day, but OK. It could've been worse. This is a sign that either my dad needs to go or needs to stay. I prefer the latter. I'm too worried life's misfortunes such as yesterday will happen to those I love and I won't be there to do anything about it. =(

MOM AND DAD IN ANOTHER COUNTRY? PERMANETLY?!?!?!?

Yeah, I feel it. My blogs might slowly trickle down to a few days a month, or something. It's not like they'll be missed. =P Before I go, Jackie's pics from lounging-in on her house warming/girls night.

Girl Talk

So last night was girls night/Jackie's house warming. Finally, a night where all 7 of us are in one room and this is what you get:

>>playing Nintendo's (yes, the orginal) Super Mario Bros.
>>eating, and talking, junk
>>reminiscing about grade school (yes, all 7 of us even went to the same grade school)
>>conversations that are too-hot-to-handle to post
>>"telling stories" (the happy, angry, freaky, & funny ones)
>>"pet names" for uhhh...errr... yeah.
>>questions that start w/ "How often do you..." ;-)
>>planning Mimi's wedding in August, Karen's bday in March, Lily's bday in April
>>Tootsie's claws (cut them!!) =) *muah*
>>new things: Wendy dyed her hair and it looks gorgeous; Becky is a BOY, not a girl; new pics of Zaida; Lily, Jackie, Mimi's diploma (congrats again!)
By the time I left, around 1:30am, they were cracking open the cranberry and vodka
I forgot my camera, but Wendy, Mimi, and Jackie will give me pics soon.

The Other Man

Today Ty came on the phone and finally declared his love for me. His exact words were "I love you, Jam". So naturally my heart told me to reply "I love you, too Ty-Ty." After, I squealed like a little girl. I knew he loved me, I was just waiting for him to realize that. I know I'm engaged, but one look at that face told me Jordan will have to share me w/ the adorable, identical twin, half Colombian, half Guyanese... 11 yr old. =P It's OK, he's pretty tall for his age, he's up to my neck - we'll work something out. lol.

The "Official" Bling Bling

THANK YOU FOR ALL YOUR BEST WISHES! *muah!*

Breaking News


Now for the details (for those who want to know)
well I got out of work cranky bc it was 7pm, my tummy was feeling funny, it was raining, and i wasn't in the mood to celebrate vday. so i get in the car and i see the normal flowers and card for vday. so i smile get in and he gives me the card to read. while i'm reading he takes out a box of the rainbow cookies i absolutely love. the card alone put me in tears and the end says "other side" and i turn the page to find a post-it that says "Will you by my Lapu Lapu forever?" (lapu lapu is just a funny endearment, which is a name of a fish). He gives me the box of rainbow cookies, and not only are there the cookies in there, but the ring in the box =)

I mean i knew it was a possibility that he would ask on vday, but while i was walking to the car and even reading the card and seeing the cookie box, it really didn't cross my mind that he would ask at that moment right there in the car -- rain, rainbow cookies and all =) yessss.. i bypassed the rainbow cookies and went for the ring =P

**EDIT**
Don't hold your breath, the wedding date won't be until years later (I'm thinking 2007) b/c we're taking our time and saving money ;)

Condolences

The LORD is my shepherd, I shall not be in want.  He makes me lie

down in green pastures, he leads me beside quiet waters, he restores

my soul. He guides me in paths of righteousness for his name's sake.

Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will

fear no evil, for you are with me; your rod and your staff, they

comfort me.  You prepare a table before me in the presence of my

enemies. You annoint my head with oil; my cup overflows.  Surely

goodness and love will follow me all the days of my life, and I will

dwell in the house of the LORD forever.

---Psalm 23



My Condolences.

Warning: Sappy, Mushy Stuff

This weekend was amazing and tiring at the same time. I was a little disappointed my usual 16-member family trickled down to 9 this weekend. We didn't bowl, instead we had a family night in. My stinky was there w/ me the whole time. I've heard sappy stories where someone "falls in love all over again" w/ his/her significant other, but I thought that was for the movies. However, seeing how much Jordan loves my family, how comfortable he is just being him around them, and how much they love him, I think I can say that I agree w/ that mushy stuff about falling in love again. =) (Pls, hold your gags. lol) Anyway, bottom line, family is everything to me, so I'm glad to have found someone who shares my passion. Even the kids ask where is the "white boy".lol. What's even better is that I feel at home w/ his family, too. This is both new and nice to us.

Saturday morning/afternoon was full of shopping. Jordan also got my early Valentine's Day present(s)! We went to Woodbury Common Outlets and I wasn't planning on buying anything b/c Italy still has me paying bills. However, I saw soooo many nice things in different stores, that he ended up getting all of them for me. I love it that he sees shoes/clothes and says to me "That is so you". haha. He also surprised my brother and got him JCrew sandals. We picked up some gifts for my Mom b/c her Bday is coming up. Then Sunday we had breakfast and lunch upstate, drove back to Queens, and had dinner at my sister's. Spending time w/ my family is exhausting but the most blessed aspect of my life. I can't wait to be able to "take care" of all them in return to show my gratitude.

Super Bowl was supposed to be watched w/ Jordan, but I'm just sooo tired and have so much to do.

Go New England, Patriots!

Saturday Morning

So its Saturday morning and I wake up at 7:30am. That's a treat for me considering that's not my Mon-Fri 6:30am wake up. Before I even brush my teeth, I turn on my PC. I think its become a habit. The other day, I almost answered my cell phone w/ "Citigroup" instead of "hello". I had to think about that for a minute before saying hello - that bugged me out. I think this week work has worked me out. This is a much-deserved, must-needed weekend.

My dad has been calling the radio station 103.5 KTU and asking "What is that song playing now?" and he writes it down to buy the album later on. He bought 2 Dance/Freestyle albums yesterday and now I'm the one blasting the music from my PC/iPod at 8am and loving it - it take me back to the 80s when growing up w/ my siblings.

I finally got back into working out. I haven't worked out since I've left for Italy. Let's hope it lasts.

[My dad and my niece in the Philippines talking about her bf]
Dad: So is that your boyfriend?
Niece: uhhh.. M.U., Grandpa. We have M.U.
Dad: M.U?! What's that shit?!?
Niece: Grandpa, Mutual Understanding
Dad: What's that shit??

Can't blame him, the Philippines seems to have a whole different lingo. I still don't know what the hell she means by Mutual Understanding. She's a special one.

Latest "inheritance": Mom's 1980's white quilted leather Chanel tote

Alright, I'm out, going upstate to Woodbury outlets (Dad is itching to go to the Ferragamo and Nautica stores). Then its off to brother's house for Bday Disco Bowling. =)

Almond Eyes

I know I have this poem written by Gerard Yabut on my site, but I really like it. The author is Filipino, so you can already see why I like the poem. Here is my favorite part, sometimes exactly what goes through my mind [the boldings are mine]:

"And you know
I hear you hate on our knowledge
But check -
Not every Asian
Does well in college.
I did.
But that’s because I actually opened my books
And was overzealous in class
So don’t be jealous
Because you’re an indolent (ass).

And here’s another
You say we can’t drive
Because we have slits for an eye.
I feel bad for you
Because you’re an imbecile guy.
Cause contrary to popular belief.
My vision is keen
My Optometrist
Told me 20/15.

And for the pseudo-bilingual people who think they’re so clever
Who attempt to speak a language they failed to endeavor
I know you might find this extremely absurd
But I looked it up
And Ching Chong-
Not a word.

What else
O yeah
You think that we’re passive
But that’s a big generalization for a population so massive.
Because if YOU.
Insult ME.
I will fight you
And I know that you’re scared
Cause I
Might
Know
Kung- FU.

But honestly I’d rather verbally bruise you.

Because
Through my almond eyes
I bet I can guess what you see.
Bruce Lee, Charlie, Jet Li
For-tune
Cook –
(E)
See.

But wait here’s the one I can’t stand
Not every Asian person is Chinese man.

Cause I’m Filipino
And I’m proud of that fact
But please don’t assume that I think I’m black.

Cause through my almond eyes
I see you still don’t empathize with me.
So instead of using stereotypes
Let me help you conceptualize
My reality."

The whole poem: click here

Weekday Babblings

Do you ever wonder why some ppl (including me) write "LOL" and you just know they're not laughing out loud? It may be a smile or even a light chuckle, but they're not laughing hysterical or rolling on the floor. I guess we just get used typing it or it's just methodical to type out "lol". Sometimes I'm really just smiling or let out a "heh". Just a thought to entertain. I'm probably going back to using "lol". Heh.

Do you ever feel sometimes that your days fly by, but the week crawls? Monday and today have flown by, yet, tomorrow is only Wednesday?? Its OK I guess b/c I actually have something to do in the middle of the week. My brother and I are taking Mom and my Dad to dinner, then to the Broadway show "La Cage Aux Folles". My bro said if you saw the movie "The Birdcage" then you'll get the gist of it. And I liked the Birdcage. At this age, I should be doing more of this sporadic outing, yet I'm at home at 9pm actually logged on for work to "clean up" some small things. booo =/

There are not enough days in a weekend, nor time in a day. Can't wait for Friday already!

New endearments: I'm Jordan's Lapu-Lapu and he's my Palabok (hehe, I think only Filipinos will get that).

"Do what makes you uncomfortable... that's whats going to take you to the next level" - I figured if I kept reminding myself that, I'll follow-through. =P

Because I'm slightly bored:
*5 Random Things in My Room:
1) 5 pairs of different colored Timbs in my closet from 3 yrs ago
2) 4 Pillows on my bed I NEED to sleep with (head, legs, left side, right side) =P
3) 3 stuffed animals on my bed (SpongeBob, white/red teddy bear, sad lookin' dog w/ a bonnet - all given by Jordan)
4) 2 "gadgets" I never thought I would have - a palm pilot and an iPod
5) 1 bouqet of Lilies by my bed

Weekend Babblings

It feels good to be out this weekend, considering last weekend was the snow storm AND I had the flu. I was under "house arrest" for what seemed like a week just to recover. I did enjoy the rest and tv, but a girl needs to get out.

Friday - had dinner w/ Jordan, Jason (Jordan's brother), and Nikki (Jason's wife) at Jason and Nikki's house. I feel so comfortable at their house.
Friday night - Sex .... and the City Season 2 -- what were YOU thinking about? get your mind out of the gutter ppl! hehe
Saturday - Brunch at IHOP and shopping at Roosevelt Field Mall w/ Jordan, Jason, and Nikki, visited and hung out w/ Jordan's parents, debated w/ his dad (it was fun), laughed w/ his mom (even more fun), and got reaquainted w/ their cats (soo cute, but their claws scare me)
Saturday night - Boxing w/ Dad and Jordan. Even though the boxing "date" was between my dad and Jordan, Jordan ended up watching the fights in my room w/ me while my dad was in the living room w/ my mom. It was nice. =)
Sunday - Mass, organized my room as much as I could, finally got scrapbooks to start my art and picture project for parent's farewell *sniff sniff*
Sunday night - decided to take Jordan out to dinner in the local Filipino restaurant. Instead he surprised me and ended up treating me to dinner =) Thanks Babe!

Final Thought: In my Myer-Briggs class at work, our instructor said something that I should REALLY live by: "Do what makes you uncomfortable...that's what's going to take you to the next level". As an "I" (Introvert), I need to step out of my comfort zone/shyness, especially within a group of collegues.

When in Rome...

Aggie and I definitely did as the Romans did =)

Don't want to read? click here

Quick Summary:
1. Funny moment at airport -
Me: What scares you most about flying?
Aggie: That there are no strings attached

2. Meals are broken up into Antipasta (appetizers/really FRESH cheese), First Course (pasta only - CARBS!), Second course (meat only). Didn't know this, but once we found this out, we took FULL advantage, hehe. We even took advantage of all that bread and fresh cheese Italy had to offer, we just dipped it in Olive oil, salt, and pepper (YUMM!)

3. "Caffe"(expresso) and Wine are drank like its water - daily, w/ every meal, and in-between meals. Sheesh. I was a coffee hater, but in Rome, I drank coffee every morning, had at least 2 expressos every day, and had my snacks w/ cappucino. Now that I'm back to NYC, I'm going back to hating coffee =P (btw, 'Diet Coke' is called 'Coca Cola Light' there)

4. My typical Italian talk during the vacation: "Molto bene, uncle Bene" (Very good, Uncle Bene - a personal joke bet. Aggie and I), "Gracie" (Thank you), "Prego" (You're welcome), "Buon Giorno" (Good morning/afternoon), "Buena sera" (Good evening), "Arrivederci" (Good Bye), "Ciao" (see you later), "Cuanto?" (How much), "Dove" (Where)

5. On every block and corner there are numerous Gelaterias - places to buy gelato and other sweets. Gelaterias are like what deli's are to NYC.

6. Aggie moment: "Let's go over there to scratch our asses".. LOL.. what she REALLY meant was "Let's go over there to stretch our legs" (b/c of all the walking we did). I don't know what made scratch our asses come out of her mouth that day, but we laughed about it til we cried. LOL.

7. The both of us never changed the time in our watches b/c we still wanted some part of NY w/ us. hehe, all we did was just add 6 hours to the times on our watches.

8. Proudest accomplishment of the entire trip: Getting around Rome w/ just a map and basic Italian words, walked everywhere, became a "local", and appreciated Rome's culture. We saw about 20 sites and some of them were probably by accident as we stumbled across them and caught ourselves saying "Isn't this the...."

9. Place we visited 3 times = Spanish steps and the Vatican.

10. Ate that much and actually lost weight from all the walking. Nice.


I'll try to make it short and sweet (if that's possible). Here I go:

Day 1 (1/13): Rome. Landed in Rome's Da Vinci airport around 11am. Was pissed that the dollar was so weak, and worried ourselves to death over which cab driver we'd pick so we wouldn't get ripped off. After paying the "normal" cab price, got to the hotel by 1pm and headed right on out to the Colosseum b/c it closed by 3pm. Took a map from the front desk and just started walking. We got all giddy knowing we were literally going to explore a part of Rome through a map and our feet. We saw the Colosseum from afar and starting jumping like we found some treasure. I guess it was the moment of seeing our first monument, and got there all by ourselves. Ate an overpriced pizza lunch - probably b/c they knew we were tourists. That was the last time we would eat at a place next to a monument. Went into the Capitoline Museums but couldn't really enjoy it b/c we were DEAD tired. We were up for about 24 hours since Rome is 6 hours ahead and we didn't sleep on the plane like we were supposed to b/c flying coach isn't so comfortable. So we did only half of the museum and walked back home, passing the Colosseum at night. I had a strawberry gelato (YUM) and Aggie had Pistachio. Slept like babies to prepare ourselves for the next day.

Day 2 (1/14): Rome. Visited the Santa Maria Spora Church, the Pantheon (thought it would be bigger inside), and had lunch in "Enoteca Corsi", a family owned restaurant suggested by the Food Network in one of the small streets along the way. Had Spaghetti con Pesce and white wine. Stopped by one of the thousands of Gelaterias and had a chocolate gelato and Aggie had a Tirmisu gelato. Decided to mail home some post cards, so it took about 30 minutes to find a post office. But ended up stumbling across another tourist site while at it. Stopped by the always crowded, social spot, Piazza Navona where Bernini's Four Season's Fountain was the highlight. Snacked on Salami and cheese pannini. Visited San Luigi dei Fracncesi to learn about Caravaggio (now my favorite painter, thanks to Aggie's knowledge), stopped by Sant' Ignazio di Loyola (another church). Then headed to the famous Fontana di Trevi (Trevi Fountain). Sooo many people. Threw a U.S. nickel into the fountain but forgot to make my wish b/c I was concentrated on Aggie taking the picture. whoops. Walking around, trying to find a Puma store, we stumbled across the spanish steps at night along w/ the "baller" stores across (Dior, Gucci, Ferragamo, etc.). They were closed, but we knew where our next stop would be tomorrow ;-) Ate dinner at the popular, family-owned, Trattoria Gigi. Had antipasta, fettucine w/ meat sauce, steak, and roast potatoes. Delicioso!

Day 3 (1/15): Rome. Went to the Roman Forum (Ancient Rome and the ruins) and La Boca della Verita. Ran to the Spanish steps right after to take pictures. Had cappucino and panini at the bar for lunch (standing up, of course). Took the pictures, it was so crowded b/c it was also a Saturday. After, pictures, the damage began.
Chanel shades $$$
Puma shoes $$
Christian Dior bag $$$
Fornarina shoes $$
Ferragamo belt for Dad $$$
Gucci belt for Dad $$$
LV credit card holder for Mom $$

Now for Aggie's damage:
Burberry bag $$$
Gucci bag $$$
Dior bag $$$
Puma bag $$
Fornarina shoes $$
Roberto Cavalli shades $$$

Feeling like money grew out of our asses at that moment (which it doesn't): Priceless

Things were a lot cheaper in Europe than in the U.S. We loved that. Too bad the dollar was weak. But even after converting the currency and removing tax (tourists shop tax free), we still paid a lower price than if we were to buy in the U.S. Plus, January was a month for Sales in EVERY single store. Sweet. Had expresso for the first time this day at the "famous" Antico Caffe Greco". Loved expresso so much it became my favorite in Italy. Had dinner at Trattoria Nuova Stella - fresh mozzerella w/ tomato, Eggplant w/ melted cheese (So good!), Penne pasta, and bread w/ olive oil.

Day 4 (1/16): Rome. Visited Santa Maria Maggiore and did Reconciliation for the first time in years. Caught the MetroBus (aka train) to the Vatican. The Vatican was BEAUTIFUL!!! Caught an Italian Mass. Received the Holy Eucharist at San Pietro's Basilica. Pope blessed the crowd at noon in Italian. He spoke Italian and I didn't understand a word, but that didn't matter b/c I still had the chills hearing/watching him. I never thought I would feel that way. He sounded so sick and I felt sad when he left his window. It was an experience. Walked through the Spanish steps again to sit down and enjoy our gelato. Had dinner at Ristorante Pizzaria Tudini and had veal cutlet Milan style w/ Gnochi (forgot the spelling). Aggie almost got pick-pocketted by little girls but caught on and was aware. Good job, Aggie.

Day 5 (1/17): Florence. The train ride there was 1 hour and 35 mins, but an engine or something started to smoke. We thought the train was going to blow up. We arrived and it was soooo cold. It's a Beautiful city, but w/ very rude and mean people. Aggie and I decided to leave Florence at an earlier train b/c we were a little disappointed considering Mondays, the markets were closed and so was a popular museum she was dying to see. (Aggie was an art major, so she knows her shit). We ate lunch at Trattoria Sostanza - we saw on the Food Network suggestions. Had tortellini w/ meat sauce, and Bistecca Fiorentia (best steak I've had). Did some more shopping and damage (geez), then headed back to Rome (thank God)

Day 6 (1/18): Rome. Visited the Vatican Museums and Sistine Chapel. Fell in love w/ the Last Judgement painting by Michelangelo. Bought souveniers and drank from a drinking fountain. Italy has clean water everywhere unless there is a sign that the water isn't safe. Ate lunch at La Cappa D' Oro - mozzerella cheese and really good pizza. Took the train back during rush hour and we were literally like sardines. NYC rush hour is a lot better than in Rome. It was ridiculous how people pack themselves in. For our last dinner we went to nearby Trattoria Giovanni and had the BEST last dinner in Rome ever. Shared everything - Super fresh mozzerella cheese, ravioli stuffed w/ ricotta and spinach, grilled bass, roasted potatoes, and homemade tiramisu as our dessert. I had white wine, Aggie had red wine. We talked for what seemed like hours. It was special b/c not only were we both homesick and ready to go, but we knew we were going to miss Rome and our adventures. We also both know we'll return in the future to find more adventures and discover more of Italy.

Back from Vacation

I'm back and a little sick. Pictures and vacation stories will have to wait until this weekend b/c I can barely swallow my saliva without wincing. =( poop.

But on another note, I just had one of the most intimate talks w/ my dad about his marriage to my mom. He said, "Your Mommy is my soul mate". I never heard him say that before. He told me about his past relationships and how he didn't want to marry the women who loved him. So he broke their hearts, met my Mom, and to this day he doesn't know what made him settle down (He was one of those girl-chasing types, hehe). So he must think that if there is some unexplainable "thing" that made him marry her, then that must mean she is his soul mate =) Aww shucks! After 25 years of marriage and declaring your wife is your soul mate, then that's something to admire.

Car rides w/ my dad make me learn a lot about him, his past, my Mom's past, my family's past. The things you find out years later... crazy and beautiful at the same time.

I promise, this weekend, pictures and all that other good stuff ;)

Ciao!

I was already in bed and I just remembered that I promised to write one last entry before I leave.

In less than 24 hours the plane will be departing to Rome, Italy. In less than 12 hours I will be leaving my house to go to JFK airport. =)

I didn't finish my work's work until 11:30pm today (ended up working from home starting 8:30). It felt like I wasn't even in my body the entire day. I did last minute packing. Tomorrow I'll do last minute errands -- bank, make calls, manicure, etc.

I hope everything, plans and flight, go well. Actually, I hope they go great. I'll bring you guys back something Italian ;-)


See you next week!
Muah! =X Miss you already!

Cool+Crazy=Dad

Me and my dad are walking to the Mall on a quiet Monday night. He and I like to go shopping or window shop b/c we have the same taste (most of the times we are drawn to expensive things w/out realizing it either), and we buy each other things (just the other day I got him some Nike jogging pants he wanted -- on sale too!) and tonight he got me a green sweater jacket on sale for 50% off.

[On our walk to the mall - the mall is literally a block away]
Dad: The other day I went to the foot doctor and he sent me to another doctor b/c I got confused.
Me: What do you mean?
Dad: I said I had a problem w/ my ankle. But when I showed up in his office, I was pointing to my knee. So he said I was at the wrong doctor, and pointing to the wrong body part. I needed a Knee doctor and I made an appointment w/ the foot doctor b/c I kept saying ankle instead of knee.
Me: [cracking the f- up.. again!!] How do you get your body parts confused? Are you getting that old? So for the longest time you've been pointing to and calling your knee your ankle???
Dad: Yes! Oh my God Girl!

Then we're at this store and I'm browsing for sneakers. A Notorious B.I.G song comes on and he starts boppin' his head to the rap song. Then 3 seconds into the song, he says "BIGGIE!". Me and the teenage sales girl both look at him very impressed. He's still boppin his head to a hip hop song and the sales girl is giggling. I let out a proud little laugh like "yep, that's my dad". Don't sleep on my Dad, b/c apparently he can school you on hip hop (either that, or he's been patient and listened carefully when I "own" the car radio)

Shorty vs. Kung Fu

Every ride home w/ my dad results in the funniest conversations.

Dad: I noticed people in the gym are nosey. They watch what you are doing.
Me: How do you know?
Dad: I don't know who they are and they ask me if something is wrong w/ my knee.
Me: Who asks you?
Dad: The people there
Me: Girl or Guy?
Dad: [pauses] Girl...Guy.
Me: hm.

[Then the song "Lovers and Friends" by Usher, Lil' Jon, and Ludacris comes on]
Dad: Why do these brothers say "Shaowty" [Translation: "Shorty", but Lil' Jon says it like that w/ his southern accent]
Dad: [yelling in the car] SHAOWTY! SHAOWTY!

[We pull up to Wendy's to get some food and he parks in the Handicap spot]
Me: Daddy this is for Handicap people
Dad: Its OK, I'll walk funny..
[He's now walking away from the car w/ a crazy ass limp, and I'm cracking the f- up b/c he's an idiot for doing that]

[Now we're standing in line at Wendy's -- and I'm still laughing from the limp]
Dad: SHAOWTY!! SHAOWTY!!
Me: [laughing] Shhhh!!
Me: [saying my order] ...and an order of chili
Dad: Gimme some Chili Willie! Chilli Willie!.... SHAOWTY!

[Driving home]
Dad: Me and your mommy used to fight... if she starts w/ me I'm gonna "SHAOWTY" her!
Me: That makes no sense
Dad: What does "Shaowty" mean?
Me: It's really pronounced "Shorty"
Dad: Ohhhh. So what are those karate fighters??
Me: WHAT?! You mean the Shaolin martial arts?? [aka Kung-Fu]
Dad: YESS.. that's it! I thought Shaowty was Shaolin. Maaaan, these brothers. [Translation: brothers=African American ppl]

Pictures!

Karen and Ray's Wedding / Zaida's Baptism Pictures
I only posted a few b/c there are over 300 pictures, and still counting!
(Ceremonies are first, then Reception pics towards the end)

I stare at the computer screen all day at work, the last thing I want to do is look at my own computer screen at home. But it never seems to work out that way. There's always something to look up, send, update, fix, blah blah blah...

Goal for tomorrow: Don't do "computer stuff" at home.

Girls' Day

Today I didn't go to Mass. I feel bad about that. I feel like now my week is jinxed. I'm just being superstitious, but still. Instead, I had much-needed down-time w/ the girls at Michelle's house in Long Island. Lillian and I woke up at 8am, took the LIRR at 10am. As soon as we got off the train at 11:20am, Michelle was there to pick us up. We did unexpected shopping -- but thank God I didn't buy anything. Then it was off to Michelle's house to meet Pris, Karen, and baby Zaida. It was the usual scene -- talking, eating, talking. Comfy clothes, hair pulled back, and just being us -- if you could only hear the things we talk about, it would be a movie =P. Too bad it was so short. Then again, even if it wasn't short, it usually feels like that since we aren't always all together on a daily basis.

I have so much to do, but I want to get some rest before I get sick and exhausted. Besides, for some strange reason, I'm feeling anxious about this work week. =/

Funny Moment: I sneezed and my retainers almost came flying off my mouth. hehe

Happy 2005!

Happy 2005, Everyone!

I got my wish and was able to sleep at 1am on New Year's Eve. I had the worst headache and my eyes could not stay open. It was just the work week catching up to me. I got a nice surprise: Jordan came to my sister's house to celebrate New Year's w/ the family. So it's officially our first Holidays together -- Christmas and New Year's. That's nice.=) Here are some pictures and video clips.

The pressure is on, he has to bring all 16 family members to Morton's Steakhouse =P The check should be interesting =) My oldest nephew (19), Faisal, did the most unexpected and surprising gesture: he gave his mother and I "Thank You" cards just for being us. My favorite part, other than the surprise, was his little message: "Dear Tita Jamlen, From all the Girls in my life, I love you the most (besides Mom)" .. AHHHHH!!! My heart melted. Well from all the Men in my life, he's the only one who can get away w/ "murder" and I won't completely lose my mind. hehe.

I think I'm going upstate today to be w/ some family up there, then Long Island tomorrow to be w/ my girls. Hope I don't get sick w/ all this hustle and bustle.

Hope you all had a great start to your New Year and hope this year brings you lots of blessings!