And maybe too if you would believe, you too might be overjoyed, overloved, over me...

2007-01-02T02:25:00.000-05:00

Happy New Year

There are many things I am grateful for for the past year. I may not be able to enumerate them all, but deep in my heart I am very thankful for all the blessings God had showered upon me and my family. I hope and pray that year 2007 will be more fruitful for all of us. For my first prayer for 2007, after thanking Him for a wonderful year, I asked God for humility. I asked him to help me let go of all the bitterness and pain in my heart. I lifted up everything to Him... As Janzel wrote on her blog, "...let Him be in control."

I think my sweater says it all...

my wish

I also want to share a message sent to me by a good friend of mine...
"A new year is a beginning of fresh and beautiful things awaiting for you. Learn from your past mistakes, forgive yourself and others. Take the plans you have today and travel to tomorrow's joy with hope all the way..."

much love,
cath.

photos here

2006-12-24T01:44:00.000-05:00

Merry Christmas everyone!!!

i wish you all peace, hope, and love...

love,
cath.

2006-12-13T21:46:00.000-05:00

i'm so glad!!! this semester is over.

i've never been so stressed..

now i can sleep normally..

whew. it's been a very tough semester but i'm so glad i made it through.

i got an A in Child Development and a B in Nursing 101. i don't mind getting a B in Nursing 101 because i know i gave it my all. it wasn't like i was slacking off. i think everyone else in the class got a B, or if worse a C.

i haven't done my Christmas shopping yet. maybe tomorrow, or next week perhaps. i am also off from work starting the 20th. my boss is going to Jordan for their annual vacation. so yeah.. i'm really happy we are now on break. woohoo.

i miss everyone. i hope y'all are doin great.

i'm thinking of moving to multiply. what do you think? hmmmm... but i just can't leave blogger. hmmm. maybe i'll keep both. :) pictures are uploaded in my multiply.

2006-10-11T09:44:00.000-04:00

hello everyone!!! I'm back... I miss blogging. I've been very busy these past few months, that I barely have the time to update my blog...

What kept me busy???

Nursing school.

During the first few weeks, I had difficulty adjusting to my new world.
There's just so many things to do. So many new things to learn. But I'm coping.
I passed the quizzes given to us. Midterm exam is coming up next week. I have been a regular customer at Seattle's Best, sipping vanilla latte inside the bookstore where I read my nursing book.

I am working part-time as well. I'm just so happy that my boss is flexible with my new schedule.

I wouldn't wanna complain about how busy I am right now. This is what I chose to do. I have met new friends.. And the feeling that I have somehow helped someone inside the hospital is just amazing.. However there are times when I felt like quitting.. But no.. I have worked so hard to get into the program, and I can't let it all go just like that. Prayers keep me going. And I know the Lord will lead me through till I finish this course. : )

Here's what happened these past few months...

My parents celebrated their 25th wedding anniversary in August.

We went camping at Big Foot Resort in Lake Geneva.. Together with my dad's officemates.

kuya rommel, cath, ate jv

the handsome man who drove our boat

We stayed at Wisconsin Dells for 3 days... Fun Fun Fun!!! [Sir Pat, the Velarde's, Kuya Regil's fam, my fam, Paul and Brainy] go karts,, swimming, picnic, poker, in-between. : )

with brainy

the whole group, minus me of course.. i had to take the picture. hahaha

MYMP concert and Jazz night at The Backroom

my good friend brainard

jonas, maggie, kuya rommel

juris

brain, cath and jonas @ The Backroom

My aunt who's a doctor visited us. She stayed here for a week.

dad, mom, tita monina

Went to Jim Brickman's CD signing @ Border's

jim brickman. he's so good.

Attended the 3rd Anniversary of Spring of the living water prayer group and sang with the choir

*******

My good friend will be celebrating her birthday next week. I wish I could be there to celebrate with her.. I just want to greet you in advance.. Not that I won't be greeting you on that day ha... :) may you have many many more birthdays to come and more lives to touch.. Just remember I'll always be here for you..

peace and love everyone.

2006-08-01T21:14:00.000-04:00

one hot Sunday at Six Flags

it was a whole day affair.. from 11 am-10 pm @ six flags.. :)

at first, i wasn't really sure if i wanted to come. but then, i would have missed the fun. :) it was really AWESOME!!! i really had a great time with jhen, quy, carmen and hattaha. [pronounced as HOTTAH :)]

quy, jhen and carmen picked me up at 10:30.
we parked at mc donald's to wait for hattaha.
parked quy's car at gurnee mills and rode hattaha's car.

here are our pics.

this is the first pic we took right after we went in.

water park pics:

quy, cath and jhen

still at the water park

quy, carmen and hattaha

quy and jhen

jhen and i at the souvenir shop.. right after swimming.

still us

cowgirls.. cath, carmen and jhen..

still us

hattaha and carmen

hot momma carmen. =)

"so paris...," said carmen. =)

quy and carmen

tryin to be little kids. hahaha

cath and jhen at the Chubasco, the crazy tea cup ride.

"you guys look good together, said carmen." hahaha. that's hattaha and i still at the Chubasco

jhen quy and carmen before the spin

spinning.. chubasco

hattaha still spinning

quy and carmen enjoying the crazy tea-cup ride. hahaha

cath and jhen after the spin.. [my ngarag look]

group pic after the tea-cup ride

trust me she's so good at this [she won twice. hahaha]

carmen winning again. hahaha

before the train ride

tain ride... cath, jhen and carmen w/ the taz devil she won.

nice smile hattaha. :)

quy

my attempt to take a pic of both quy and hattaha.. w/ my foot. hahahaha

a view from behind...

the giant drop... buckling up

before goin up..[my nene look. hahaha]

goin up...

after the drop. hahaha

carmen and i with sylvester.

the cute boy who wanted to take a pic with sylvester but unfortunately,his parents didn't bring a camera

at the looney tunes parade

now with jhen. :)

hey look it's taz

tweety bird

sylvester

one of my fave shot that day. so colorful.

our last pic for the night...

*******

Meanwhile....

Katie turned three last month. :)

peace and love,

2006-07-25T14:09:00.000-04:00

mga reklamo

grabe,, naramdaman niyo na ba na parang wala ng ma-absorb yung brain niyo sa sobrang dami ng information na binabasa niyo?

hayy... sobrang pagod na 'ko mag-aral. ilang araw na akong puyat sa kababasa. eyebags ko umabot na sa cheeks ko sa sobrang lalim. [o.a. hahaha] hindi nga, grabe, pati pimples ko naglalabasan na rin. :(

hayyy.. di bale, last day of class na tomorrow. makakapagpahinga na rin ako.

ang daming bagay na gusto kong gawin, yet hindi ko masimulan dahil nga sa mga inaaral ko.

wish me luck.. finals na tomorrow.. :)

peace and love everyone..

sorry for the BLAH post.. pagod lang talaga ako.. :(

2006-07-13T10:42:00.000-04:00

S U P E R M A N love <3<3<3

Brandon Routh is so gorgeous.. hanagirl is right.. :) he has a striking resemblance to Mr. Christopher Reeve.

We all have our favorite heroes.. and there's no doubt who's mine. :)

Watched the movie with brainard.. before he leaves for Vegas.

midnight snack.. chili and fries from wendy's :)

2006-07-06T09:35:00.000-04:00

tagged by tenggay:
10 FIRSTS
first best friend:Lorivi
first screen name: eversince chinchay17
first pet name: katuray
first piercing: ears
first crush: paulo a.
first school: Our Lady of Mercy Kindergarten
first house location: Lagro
first kiss: siya na yun. haha
first thing bought with your savings/allowance: shoes ata..
first perfume: angel's breath.

9 LASTS [actually 6 lang ito eh. haha]
last time you smoked: last month
last food you ate: pork steak and the fried rice i cooked this morning
last car ride: july 4
last phone call: jonas
last song you listened to: love's mystery [avila brother's]
last words you said: ano?

8 HAVE-YOU-EVERS
dated a best friend: never
been arrested: nope
been on TV: i think so.. accidentally.
eaten sushi: of course.. love ko yan.
cheated on your BF/GF: nope.
been on a blind date: yes
been in love:yes
cried in public: oo naman

7 THINGS YOU ARE WEARING
1. undies
2. earrings
3. cartilage pearcing
4. red A&F shirt
5. black UST p.e. shorts. haha. favorite
6. flipflops
7. kakulitan

6 THINGS YOU HAVE DONE TODAY
1. checked my phone
2.checked my email
3. had green tea
4. cooked fried rice
5. washed my face
6. brushed my teeth

5 FAVORITE THINGS
1. green tea
2. coffee
3. shoes
4. camera
5. ip0d

4 PEOPLE YOU TRUST THE MOST
1. Mommy
2. Dad
3. sisters
4. the bestfriend

3 THINGS YOU WANT TO DO BEFOREYOU DIE
1. walk down the aisle
2. have kids
3.travel more

2 CHOICES
1. vanilla or chocolate: vanilla
2. hugs or kisses: hugs

1 PERSON YOU WANT TO SEE RIGHT NOW?
1.) Dr. Jalil. Have to finish my health forms so i can bring it to school tomorrow.

Tag! Your IT!
tins
sher
jey
hanagirl
floi
deb
paul
russ

2006-06-20T14:13:00.000-04:00

One Fine Day

W a r n i n g

[lots of pictures ahead.]

where? John Shedd Aquarium
when? June 5, '06

the shedd

the dolphin show.

dolphin show. still.

mimi and i at the souvenir shop. i can't decide which nemo i should pick.

coz there's a lot of them. hahaha

finally. haha.

that moment, i hoped i could be in there feeding the fishes too. *wishful thinking*

a pink and yellow fishie.

striped?

even the ceiling has fishes too.

notice something familiar?

yup, we have our country has it's own spot.

even dad was so proud of it.

the Philippines, a coral paradise

our very own

green

Philippine coral reef

school of fish

hey look.. i was tryin to take a pic of the coral when this creature showed up

still our very own

yellow green

whoa....

poopie and i

hmmm..

hey look it's us again. haha.

Philippine coral reef. still

cath at the Philippine coral reef spot. i'm so proud of it. =) who wouldn't right?

*********

Happy 16th Birthday Angelo

may you have many more birthdays to come... hope to see you again soon. we're hopin' to spend Christmas there. love yah dear cousin.. you've grown up to be a gorgeous young man.[of course. hahaha. it runs in the blood. j/k]i can't believe you and poopie turned 16 already.

some years ago you and poop looked like this:

and now...

[on the other hand]
i've never had this much injections my entire life. gosh. last week, i had three. bloodtest, and two shots. i have another one coming up next week. it's for my nursing clinicals. one of them hurt like hell afterwards. it felt like my arm has been punched. i felt so sick. i can't even lift my own bag. =(

my big arm

*********

[and lastly]
to the person who broke my heart:
thank you. not only have you made me stronger, but i have also learned to love and appreciate myself more. i've never felt this better in such a long time.

thank you sher ,for being there to listen to me during those tough times. =)

peace and love everyone.

much love.

2006-05-29T19:32:00.000-04:00

Sweet 16

happy birthday poopie!!! gosh i can't believe you're sixteen now! i thought you're only 12 haha!

*******
Memorial Day Weekend
Saturday:

nothin' much. lector at 4 pm. other than that, it's a usual tamad-tamaran day. did laundry..just stayed home. ALONE. yup. pathetic i know. haha.

Sunday: Holy Hill Day
It was a very beautiful place... The trip was all worth it. I'll just let the pictures speak for themselves.

look what i found. St. Catherine. At the back of this token says: patron saint of nurses. i had it blessed. i need this. (",)

the perfect way to end the day:

flipflops+dippin'dots in strawberry and cookies 'n cream =happy girl

Monday:
It's a very hot day. Just spent it baby sitting here at home. Ritzel, Angelo and Jillian were left here at home. Spent the day eating Boy Bawang [till now i can still taste the garlic.]squid balls, and drinking lots of iced tea.

Random stuff:

very beautiful musical play. was all worth it. awesome soundtrack.

big doggie!!! poopie won this big black dog.

well, back to reality tomorrow.. gotta go back to work..
peace and love everyone.

2006-05-13T15:03:00.000-04:00

Thank You...

In this life, there are many things that we forget to thank the Lord for...

...For another beautiful day..
...Good health..
...The air that we breathe
...The bus and train coming on time..
...For the people who treat us nicely..
...For each sumptuous meal.. breakfast, lunch or dinner perhaps..
...For the new friends we meet along the way..
...For answered prayers..
...For the strength to face each passing day..

...These, and for so much more i couldn't think of right this very moment,
Thank You
so take time, and ponder on this.. "sometimes, we are so busy adding up our troubles that we forget to count our blessings..."

**********

Happy Mother's Day..

Mommy, thank you for being the best mom in the whole wide world.
I'm sorry if I can be a brat, for being stubborn, for being so tough to handle at times..
I may not be expressive and i may not tell you upfront, I really do appreciate everything you do for me..For cooking my favorite dishes..For waiting for me to come home before you have dinner..[though I come home late..]For taking care of us..
I love you.

**********

Thank you Sher...

thank you for the advance birthday gift. you really surprised me. =)
thank you for the friendship,for always listening to my kwentos.. =) for being you... Love you my friend.

**********

24
..my fave tv show, but not only that, coz in a few days time, i'll be turning 24. Yikes!!! But i can still pass for an 18 year old. right? hahaha..
Birthday wish?
hmmm,, what else can i ask for? God has been very very good to me. He knows what I my heart desires... In His own perfect time, I know, it'll come. =)
so yeah, peace and love everyone. take care.. buh bye.

2006-04-26T19:01:00.000-04:00

i'm back!!!

how's everyone doing?
i hope you're all doin great.
so many good things..so many wonderful blessings..i'm so thankful!!!

-finished my crash course in nursing assistant.. a pre requisite in the nursing program.
-met new friends in class..
-got into the nursing program..
-got slimmer. hahaha.

i'm so happy now...
i hope you all are too..

here are some pics..

what kwando did to me.. =) payat na ko hahahaha!!

during our graduation...

the group...

us again...

dahil kulot ang buhok ko.. hahahaha!!!

happy now... =)

peace and love everyone...

2006-03-04T18:50:00.000-05:00

i'll be back soon...

2006-01-17T22:01:00.000-05:00

What had been...

Happy New Year Everyone... May year 2006 be a better one for all of us...

I am still very lazy. Proof of that is, I haven't posted for more than a month.
Let me share with you some pictures from the holidays..

my RC family.. though i no longer work for them, they still consider me as part of them..

Consulate Christmas Party

with my dad and Sir Patrick

with Celean and Jell

Last Day of Simbang Gabi

I was sick here.. [sigh]

Christmas Eve

with poopie

New Year's Eve

Love ko 'toh

Essie nail polish in Fiji and Ballet Slippers

A Lot Like Love

Red Eye

and lastly...

Dr. Gregory House [Hugh Laurie]

Make us proud...
Good luck Manny Pacquiao!!! We'll keep you in our prayers.

Peace and love everyone...

2005-12-11T20:40:00.000-05:00

The Updates

...Thanksgiving

Thanksgiving lunch at home.
Mom ordered turkey from Boston Market.
green beans..mashed potatoes..sweet yam.. yummy.
Dinner was spent at Brian's place. My sister's boyfriend.
Lots of food as well.
I think I gained more weight. Bleh! What's new with that.

After Thanksgiving shopping..

with brain.. nice background brain hahaha! some underwear huh?

...HPC 2nd year concert
supported my good friends..

me and brain

with patrick [he used to be a part of DaDeDiDoDu]

me and paul

trio..kuya rommel,cath,brain

Side A gig - December 4, '05
"So Many Questions..Tell Me..Tuloy Pa Rin..Hold On..Forevermore.."
Love Side A!!!!

joey g. in white pants

jell and bri

my friend Luis

us again

...Good old friends
with my good friend Che and her dad
pic was taken at Yes Thai where gel works.

...Forgive me for being so vain..

...My purple stuff

purple uggs. love them. *huge grin*

mogu love. i'm so inlove with it. really. it's not the people mogu. it's a long one.

...Let it snow

It's almost Christmas
i hope it will be a merry one for all of us..
i'm pretty sure it will be a white one for me.
but still, there's no way i'll ever trade celebrating Christmas back home.

that's poopie who had set-up our Christmas tree all by her self.

[edit]
and just as i was doing this, some firemen came knocking on our door.
there was fire in our alley.
it was freezing outside.
i was sitting so comfy in front of my pc. just wearing shorts.
when the firemen told us to go down, i just grabbed my pj's, got the sweater nearest to me wore my uggs and went down.
but yeah, i still managed to bring my cellphone. and camera too.

my hands were shivering. that's why it was blurry.

2005-11-23T11:56:00.000-05:00

Lazy Lady

I have been very very lazy lately. Yup. I can't even update my own blog. Here I am at home... Instead of like filling up my nursing application, I went online. I haven't even looked at it yet. Talk about major procrastination. Gosh.. I have 5 days off so I hope I would be able to accomplish at least something... I guess it's the weather. Oh yeah right Cath. Blame it on the weather now...

I think winter's too soon.. I swear.

So how have you all been? I do hope everyone's doin great. [not as lazy as i am, i hope]

Nice to see you again Carms.
Last November 11, Carmi, who's my college barkada,together with her family and in-laws went to Chicago. They actually had a seminar here at Hyatt Regency. So Carmi took the chance to meet up with me. We haven't seen each other for four years. Imagine how excited we were!!! I swear! She still hasn't changed.. She's still the same Carmi I've known back then.
Here are some pics:

i look maputla in this pic. hahaha

me and chase, carmi's baby boy. ain't he adorable? he's such a cutie!

carmi, chris and chasey

carmi and i

with dee

picture muna.. hahaha! Hyatt lobby.

and again.

Plugging: Romano's Macaroni Grill
I love their Shrimp Diavolo which is linguini pasta with shrimps,garlic,in spicy tomato sauce. and i love their tiramisu. whoopie!!! yummy!

Che and I had dinner in the resto last night. I can't believe that i didn't even finish the glass of white wine that was served.. when i could almost finish a whole bottle before. well it's good though. haha. growing up...

che and i in the car.

Unfinished business
something that i thought has long been over is coming back. my past is haunting me..
yeah, even in my dreams.
i desperately need help. what am i supposed to do.? i just want to be happy. shall i cling to the past? or just let it all pass.?

anyway,,,

Happy Thanksgiving to everyone.

peace and love.

2005-11-06T14:21:00.000-05:00

some halloween pics

i was supposed to dress up as a sorceress.
but i couldn't wear any make-up coz of my allergies.
i chose the dress coz it safe. i didn't want anything outrageous.
hahaha! so yeah.
that's me and my buddy Luis. and dad of course.(",)

that's my buddy without the make-up. hahaha.

Cafe Iberico Night

CALAMARES A LA PLANCHA, GAMBAS AL AJILLO, CHAMPIÑONES A LA PLANCHA
yummy!!!

me and my bestfriend.. wasted. hahaha!

DVD's I watched this weekend

Monster In-Law

My Little Bride
Both are feel-good movies. Enjoyed watching 'em. I hope my future mother-in-law won't be like Jane Fonda. Hahaha! The latter is a Korean movie. I recommend both. There's one more movie that we watched last friday night. It was white noise. It's hella lame i swear. Ugh.

Inspiring Quotes i'd like to share with you..

"So often in my life, an unexpected burst of golden sunshine has exploded through a black cloud, sending inspiring shafts of warm, beautiful sunshine into my life..."

"We may run, walk, stumble, drive or fly, but never lose sight of the reason for the journey, or miss a chance to see a rainbow on the way..."

At Last...
I've finally decided to move on, and just leave the past behind. So many things have come along the way that I have just taken forgranted just because I was holding on to broken promises. Thank you for everything. No regrets.. Memories, the good ones, remain. I just wanna be happy this time. We all deserve to be happy. Life is too short. Live well.

Peace and love everyone.

2005-10-26T23:22:00.000-05:00

[Finally]

Chicago White Sox Win World Series
Woohoooo!!!! Congratulations.. Chicago White Sox Rock!!!!!! Finally, after 88 years of waiting...

photo is from here.

I am not a baseball fan.. yeah. Basketball is still my fave thing to watch.. But this is a different story. Chicago got into the World Series. And they're the champs. (",)Woohooo. Chicago is my second home now. So i'm really proud of the White Sox. Keep it up!!!

Meanwhile...

Last Saturday, my sister and i together with her bf's friends went to six flags great america.
It was fun. It was very cold too. Haha! And you have to wait like 2 hours for each ride. That was how long the queues were. Hay. (",) We ended up staying there till closing time. Our main thrill was the Superman ride. Oh my, i swear, i think my stomach flipped out. hahahaha! but really. it was fun naman.

here are some pics:

>>>>>>Happy Halloween everyone!!!<<<<<<
I have a costume na... Hahaha!!!I'll be attending a party on Satuday.I'm excited.(",)

[Kainis moments]
Yesterday, I was so pissed off. really. At one of my coworkers. Grrrrr. Talaga. It's like this kasi. Keith didn't come to work. So in the afternoon, most of the load were on me. Kasi may tamad. Hayyyyy. Nakakainis talaga. Puro utos. Then when it was 5 pm na, i said i was going to school na. She said, "why didn't you tell me. blahblahblah." how was i supposed to tell her, when after every patient i attend to, utos na naman siya. GRRRRRR! Talaga. Tapos she even said, she asked me yesterday if i had school or not. Eh she never asked me naman. Sinungaling talaga. Hmp! Kainis.

[Gising na]
Sana sapat na ang iyong natuklasan.. Hindi karapat dapat na siya'y iyong mahalin.. Dahil siya mismo'y di ka binibigyang-halaga. Magising ka na.. Sa katotohanang hindi ka niya kayang mahalin.. dahil hanggang ngayon, puso niya'y ari pa rin ng iba...(kalungkutan)

On the good side...
[It feels good...]
When you've made up with a friend you haven't talked to for 4 years because of some past issues. I felt relieved. Swallowed my pride and apologized to a friend. It feels so right pala pag ganun. It's hard kasi when you are not talking to someone eh. So ayun, advice ko lang, if ever you have hurt someone in the past, try to say "sorry." Ask for forgiveness. I know it's easier said than done, pero wala namang mawawala kung humingi man kayo ng dispensa sa isang tao na nakasamaan mo ng loob noon. (",)

[sunshine]<

"You are the sunshine of my life. That's why I'll always be around."

Thank you for making me smile..Always..For being there when i needed someone to cry on.For being my buddy... (",)

2005-10-11T16:16:00.000-05:00

[the poem]

i guess you are all wondering what the heck that poem was all about. there are times that i cannot express what i truly feel, that i let it all out via poetry. makes me feel a whole lot better.

[the eyes]
The eyes reveal the windows to your soul.

True? I guess so, the eyes cannot hide what you truly feel deep inside. No matter how much you pretend you're happy, you're eyes wouldn't lie. I can very well attest to that. Some friends would even come up to me and ask me if I am alright. Whenever I tell them, "yes, i am doin fine." I'd often hear, "oh c'mmon, you are not ok. You're eyes tell me otherwise. There is a certain sadness that your eyes reveal."

The eyes also tell you what kind of person you are. For instance, if you talk to me and you cannot look at me straight in the eye, I can easily say, you are not sincere. There is something that you are hiding from me. It is also true that the eyes give a certain glow when we are happy, when we are in love. Our eyes twinkle. (",) The eyes infer characteristics, patterns, behavioral traits, attitudes, challenges and strengths which are likely to accompany you in life.

[long overdue pictures]

we missed you Brain. it was nice seeing you once again.

no we didn't talk to both wear brown. haha.

picnic tayo. (",) ate jv, paul, kuya rommel.

best friends

who would have thought they'd see each other again.? haha.

i am now loving this chair. it is so comfy. haha. mom bought it at a garage sale.

[gary v, concert]

talk about, "how did you know, sana maulit muli, take me out of the dark, i will be here, mahal na mahal kita, di bale na lang, gaya ng dati, wag mo na sanang isipin, warrior is a child, babalik ka rin, paano, look in her eyes, natutulog ba ang diyos, eto na naman.. and a whole lot more." free tickets? again? yes.. wohoo.. i love complimentary tickets. (",) specially if the artist is your idol. the best ever. i love him. haha. i grew up listening to his songs. there was just one song which i wasn't familiar with. this was the song that he just wrote recently. but overall, i am proud to say, that i know all the songs. he never fails to amaze the people around him and touch their lives. gary v, i love.

pictures:

[bunny tribute]

i just want to say thank you to this bunny who means so much to me, as much as it means to the person who really owns this. this bunny calms me down at times when i feel so sad and helpless. i sleep soundly whenever he's beside me. this bunny connects me to the owner who is thousands of myles away from me right now. [get it?] (",)

we all have something that we sleep beside with, be it a pillow, stuff toy, blankie, etc.
care to share what's yours?

peace and love, everyone.

2005-10-02T10:13:00.000-05:00

[sadness]

how can he be so unfair.
he comes and goes whenever he pleases to.
the first time it happened, she survived.
she had moved on, or so she thought.

for the second time it happened again,
she was so happy he had come back.
but now he's gone again.
and she doesn't know if this time it's for good.

sometimes she wishes she was numb
so she won't feel the pain,
or the loneliness of being alone.
sometimes she wonders if she had really moved on.
for there are times her heart betrays her again
everytime memories come flashin' back,
and reminds her of how happy they once were.

how she hopes she had all the courage
to stop hurtin all over again.
for she doesn't know...
If she can still survive,,,
or if she can still get up...

"this time from another FALL..."

2005-09-23T17:15:00.000-05:00

[Something to gross you out] (",)

These pictures were taken in our lab room last Wednesday. With the first picture, before the experiment, it was just a plane agar plate. Monday night, we chose a specific place where we could gather some bacteria, smear them on the agar plate and put them on the incubator. When we took them out last Wednesday, that was how the supposedly clear agar plates looked like. I swear it looked so yucky with those tiny dots, [cultured bacteria] And smelled awful too. So gross, i know. Hahaha.

[Simple Joys...]

*hearing my all time favorite song "Overjoyed" played in piano at work today. Loved it. I was just right on time. So happy to hear it.

*chilly breeze The weather was just right this day. Neither too hot, nor too cold.

*this:

curly tops

i got this from Dells. it's a little boy praying on his knees. this is all we need right now. PRAYERS.
*playing tong-its. haha.

[Confusion]

numbers make me gag. really.specially when they all look like this:

4x5+12x4-8x3=4x3(x2+3x-8)
5x3+10x2+3x+6=5x2(x+2)+3(x+2)=(5x2+3)(x+2)
x4-19x2+25=x4-10x2+25-9x2=(x2-5)2-9x2=[(x2-5)+3x][(x2-5)-3x]=(x2+3x-5)(x2-3x-5)

i know for some these are so easy. not for me though. i wasn't born a math wizard. that's why i admire those who are really good in math. haha. i just hate anything that has to do with numbers. [must be the reason why i can't even manage my own savings.] let me do anything but solve math problems. in college, my favorites were International Marketing, Business Ethics, Anything with English/Literature or Geography. now that i'm into nursing, i enjoy chemistry, and anatomy. (",) 'bout you guys, tell me what are/were your fave subjects. (",)

[What Cath Loves right now:]

*her new job.

my Aeropostale jacket. did i just say i love it? the color and the little butterfly. (",)

going back to my roots. (",) red head no more.

Just a thought: "Missing someone gets easier everyday because eventhough you are one day further from the last time you saw them, you are one day closer to the next time you will." True?

2005-09-09T20:17:00.000-05:00

[New Job Updates]

it's a wonderful feeling that i can be of help to other people, such as our patients each day. everytime i'd prep patients, i'd see to it that i don't hurt them. i enjoy what i'm doing. i'm getting excited even more with i can do, or i can offer when i become a nurse someday. sometimes, i even see my grandmothers in some of our patients. one of them looks like Mama Bernie and one of them looks like Mama Loleng. now i'm missing my grandmas even more. :) we can't help it if we do get attached to the patients. after all, it's us who make their appointments, prep them before the doctor sees them, talk to them, etc.
i also get to visit the chapel. i try to at least go there everyday to ask for God's help in everything that i do, thank Him for all the blessings and pray for all my loved ones.

but sometimes, i also miss my former job. i even visited them one time. i can still feel how much they care for me there. i just feel bad that i had to lie to them because i moved to another job.

[On typhoon Katrina]

My dad's in Baton Rouge, Louisiana right now. Together with Sir Pat and Tito Vic, they are trying to gather reports whether there are Filipino victims/casualties in the area. They drove for 17 hours to get to the place. I was just talking to my dad earlier on, he said that it's heartbreaking to see people who lost their houses, belongings, properties. I can't even imagine how they're going to start all over again. :(

Let's pray for the people who were affected by the killer typhoon.

[Labor Day Weekend]

Where: Polynesian Isle Hotel and Resort, Wisconsin Dells
Who:Kuya Rommel, Ate JV, Ritzel, Angelo, Mommy, Daddy, Cath, Jell, Poopie, Paul, Milk

the resort

skies

skies again

groupie

milk, paul, jell

the boys

jell and i

poopie and i

mr. suaves

upside down

defenders of the universe

my tattoo

downtown wisconsin dells

[On Goodbyes...]

I am grateful that my dad works in DFA. [Dept. of Foreign Affairs] Yes, I get the chance to stay at different countries, learn about their cultures, meet a lot of people, but there is also a sad part.. all good things also come to their end, that's when it's time to say goodbye... [to all the friends you've made on your several years of stay in a certain country, to break the bond you've made...]
I wish that in this life, we never have to say "goodbye." For me, it's the saddest word ever said. Just thinking about it crushes my heart. So when it's time for me to bid farewell, I would just say it in a subtle way, like, "no goodbyes, ok? just see you later, i'll see you soon.." That lessens the sad feeling of saying goodbye.

Surprise despedida for Tita Edna's Fam

a cake saying "Paano Na" [joke kay Chaeds=)]

Meanwhile,
[see what bored people can do.]

once upon a time, there was a bald plastic cup man

who grew purple hair, lots of 'em. did i say a lot???

jell must've liked him. coz she wanted to lick him.

or maybe not, coz she poked her finger right into his nose. haha!

Bowling Naman [For Tita Eds as well]

[from top left: the place,bowling alleys,the balls,my trashy looking bowling shoes,forever friends,best bud,me and paul [marami nagsasabi, bagay daw kami.harhar!myles pa rin.]

Heart and Soul
When: August 17, 2005 8 pm
Where: Ravinia [Highland Park, IL]
What: Aretha Franklin's Concert

I Say A Little Pray'r For YOu, Chain of Fools, It's my Turn, Have you EveR been In Love, You make me feel like a natUral WoMan...

it was so much Fun!!! fantastic sHow!!!

more pictures:

my buddies, Kuya Rommel, Ate Mary
This pic was taken before my allergy attack. Man, I'm thinking that I am now allergic to anything I eat. Supposedly, I am just allergic to seafood.

2005-08-18T23:21:00.000-05:00

I'm back!!! [with gazillion pictures.] (",)

On board American Airlines flight ***, we landed at Long Beach airport. As a first timer in California, I loved it there. I so wanted to stay a little longer. I wanted to move there. [you'll know why in a while.] The weather is great. Proof of California's tropical weather are the numerous palm trees you see around. I really plan to move there and make it my second home.

Aside from the fact that it's our first family vacation, I haven't seen my relatives for more than 10 years, so it was really fun, making up for it. I've realized that no matter how long the time spent apart was, the love for one another remains and always will. At first, there were awkward moments, but as days passed by, we loosened up. Too bad 'coz right when we were beginning to get closer, it was time for us to leave. It was a very brief stay. I hope the next time I'd get there, it would be for good.

More pictures:

with jappy and poopie, on our way to Cali
with poopie

jappy

our first late lunch together, CPK Long Beach

tallest thermometer

California sunset

Vegas Baby!!!
From Long Beach airport, we headed straight to Las Vegas. [first time] as well. Nice place. I know now why it's called crazy Vegas! Haha! And it's true as well that they do not have any clock in any of the casinos there. So you never really keep track of time. Stayed in Vegas for three days.

from top: a giant coke; Harley-Davidson; a replica of Eiffel tower;Wynn hotel [where we checked in, awesome!] on the elevator haha!;waiting in line; w/ Tito Ver, Dad, Jappy dinner at Wynn; along the streets of Vegas; in front of the hotel; with Jappy; Paris hotel; stained glass design at one of the hotels; The Bellagio; Caesar's escalator; Caesar's Place's lobby; Wynn again; [can't help it. it's so nice there!]; with sisters and cousin on the van; the relatives; high limit slots; with Jappy brunch @ Mandalay bay; Luxor hotel; Mandalay Bay; MGM Grand; M & M's store [Jappy got crazy when she the shop]; M&M's chocolate factory; with a blue M&M; M&M photobooth; Excalibur; Rio with Jell; last day in Vegas; brunch at The Bellagio; Monte Carlo hotel

Hollywood

Walk of fame..Rodeo Drive..Universal..Beverly Hills..

What made trip even more special...

Califonia Lovin'

him

Yes, he came. Never thought he would. The reason why I was quite sad before I left for California was that I really thought I won't see him there. They drove for 8 hours. So there. (",)

Now and Then...

My cousin Angelo and Poopie. Hahaha! So cute!

They grew up to be so gorgeous. Haha! It's in the genes bebe.. *wink*

Meanwhile, while looking for some model houses, I found one that I could actually call my "dreamhouse." It's a simple, spacious, single level house. Made me realize that it's time for me to start saving for the future.

Last day...
The Ocampos

a pic during our flight back home

[edit]
I am just so thankful for this trip, first and foremost, to God who makes all things possible. To my relatives there in California for hosting us. To the boyfriend and his mom and kuya who traveled for 8 hours. Who would have thought that I will be able to be at the places I only see in movies. It has been so much fun!!! Looking forward to our next vacation. (",)

Tidbits:

* Started on my new job at the doctor's office. (",)

* Looking for on a trip to Wisconsin Dells come Labor Day.

* Miss my former job. [ano ba talaga?!]

* Got more additions to my growing collection of shot glasses.

2005-08-04T19:55:00.000-05:00

Are you ready, for this?

I thought I wasn't... I actually felt like backing out at the first sight of it.. It took me quite a while before I could actually touch it. I even thought I'd dream about it.. I can't even dare to watch Fear Factor.

But we really had to examine the sheep's brain and compare it to that of a human's. Now I'm thinking, what if I am actually in the real operating room already? Will I be able to do it... This is just the start, I'm pretty sure there's more to come..

Death is inevitable.

My cousin's former boyfriend passed away last Sunday due to an accident with a 10 wheeler truck. I was shocked when I received the text message from my cousin. Although they are no longer together, they've remained good friends, and I know that he will always have a special place in my cousin's heart.
God bless your soul Daniel.. I know you're in a better place right now. Thank you for touching our lives. You will always be a part of our family. Please save a place for us there...

Tidbits...
-Tomorrow's my last day at work. I'm actually quite sad.. Coz I know they love me there. But we all have to move on.

-I'm quite sad right now, for some reasons I can't explain. Or maybe, I know the reason, yet I'm just in denial. When I get home, I'd just take a quick shower and eventually go to sleep so no thoughts would entertain my mind anymore...

Green Tea Aficionado

Try this..
Tazo® Green Tea Frappuccino® Blended Crème with Melon Syrup Tazo Green Tea Frappuccino. Premium Japanese green tea, lightly sweetened and blended with milk and ice, topped with whipped cream.

It's really good. I know.. I'm being biased.. Coz I sooo love green tea!!! Haha!!

My three's
Thanks Tins
three names you go by:

1. Cath
2. Catherine
3. Cathy

three screen names you have had:
1. chinchay17
2. fairlady
3. frankie

three physical things you like about yourself:
1. eyes
2. neck
3. shoulders

three physical things you don't like about yourself:
1. eyebags
2. tummy
3. fingers

three parts of your heritage:
1. filipino
2. spanish
3. chinese

three things that scare you:
1. cats
2. failure
3. growing old "alone"

three of your everyday essentials:
1. toothbrush
2. moisturizer
3. facial wash

three of your favorite musical artists:
1. Boyz II Men
2. Stevie Wonder
3. Musiq Soulchild

three of your favorite songs:
1. "Overjoyed," Stevie Wonder
2. "Who Knows," Musiq Soulchild
3. "On Bended Knees," Boyz II Men

three things you want in a relationship:
1. unconditional love
2. having someone to share your hopes and dreams with..
3. acceptance (accepting him for who he is, and not for who he can be..)

three lies and truths in no particular order:

lies:
1. love at first sight
2. falling in love by chance
3. the line, "I didn't mean to hurt you."

truth:
1. everything happens for a reason
2. there's no easy way to break somebody's heart
3. sometimes it's the things that you can't do, that bring out the brilliance of what you can

three physical things about the opposite sex that appeals to you:
1. teeth
2. eyes
3. nose

three of your favorite hobbies:
1. blogging
2. reading
3. soundtrippin'

three things you want to do really badly now:
1. relax
2. go to a deserted island
3. finish school

three careers you're considering/you've considered:
1. cardiologist
2. lawyer
3. psychologist

three places you want to go on vacation:
1. hawaii
2. amanpulo
3. japan

three kid's names you like:
1. francesca
2. antonio miguel
3. emmanuelle

three things you want to do before you die:
1. travel all over europe
2. fulfill my dreams
3. have kids

three ways that you are stereotypically a boy:
1. i have a deep voice.
2. i laugh out loud too.
3. i hide my emotions

three ways that you are stereotypically a girl:
1. i put on lipgloss
2. it takes me forever to get ready
3. i'm a crybaby

three celeb crushes:
1. brad pitt
2. jude law
3. ben affleck

my turn to tag...

three people that i would like to see take this quiz:
1. janzel
2. alwyne
3. j0ei

and again...
thanks Floi

1. Total number of films I own on tape/VCD/DVD:

- a lot.. i don't keep track

2. The last film I bought:

- The Aviator, and I haven't watched it.. Haha! Too busy.

3. The last film I watched:

- Crash

4. The five films that I watch a lot or that mean a lot to me:

1. The Notebook
2. Armageddon
3. 50 First Dates
4. A Walk to Remember
5. Troy

[edit]

L.A. Bound
Be leaving for L.A tomorrow.. I haven't seen my relatives for more than 10 years, so it's gonna be exciting.. Post some pics when i come home. :)

2005-07-30T17:07:00.000-05:00

Summer,,, Lovin' it...

poopie and i goofin' around,, on our way to Indiana Dunes

with Ritzel

Family Lovin'
Sushi Night with relatives,, Tita Monina and Father Francis

@Joy Yee's, Evanston

Tidbits,,,
*I got bored with my old layout so i made a new one...
*School's ok...It's my last week...
*I miss my boyfriend...
*I resigned from my job...Hopin' to get a new one...
*Feud with my dad...
*I'm cranky right now...
*Got PMS
*It's too hot in Chicago...
*I'm too lazy...
*I'm going to California next week!!! Woohoo!!!

2005-07-04T20:15:00.000-05:00

Please pray for me...

Yeah, last Friday, went to see my doctor because of some allergy attack.. Yup, what seemed to start off as a small insect bite ended up as a big swollen rash on my right thigh.. I panicked.. And I really really hate it.. It's too itchy. I was given some prescription drugs that I religiously take so as to relieve the itchiness. God I wish this will be over soon.

Some pictures I just want to share...

Taste of Chicago pics..

Faith Evans...

LL Cool J...

Evanston Pics...

Ester Hana's Concert..Jell and I as usherettes

Happy Fourth of July everyone!!!

2005-06-19T06:52:00.000-05:00

Between You and Me

It didn't dawn on me
Until you were gone
Just how much I'd miss you
Sometimes I start to pick up the phone
To see if you want to do something,
And then I remember
You're far away
Or I go somewhere we used to go,
See people having fun,
And wish we could be there, too
Laughing and talking like they are.
Don't get me wrong...
I hope yu're having a good time
Exploring new places
And making new friends.
I just miss you...
I guess that's only natural
When someone means to me as you...

Hallmark Between You and Me cards are the best.
When I came across this card, I really had to have it. (",)

I miss him... He called me up at 3 in the morning. And I'm glad he did, coz I was having a bad dream.

What I'm loving right now...

*A Perfect World for Eyes
Firming moisture treatment with White Tea
*Spot RemoverAcne blemish treatment gel
*Make A DifferenceSkin rejuvenating treatment
*Balanced DietLightweight moisture lotion
*No PufferyCooling mask for puffy eyes

They're the best. (",)

My new toy...

Canon PowerShot SD300 Digital ELPH Camera

School Update...
I've enrolled for summer class. Classes started last Wednesday and I'm glad Diane and OB are my classmates again this semester in Biology 226 (Human Anatomy)

2005-05-31T18:30:00.000-05:00

Major UPDATE...

Ritzel's First Communion and Jell's Birthday May 1, 2005

May 17, 2005

My 23rd Birthday...
Spent the day with my boo...He picked me up from work...Told me he was leaving Chicago in a few days...So surprised, I cried my heart out...Didn't go to school...Went to the Queen of All Saints Basilica, the Dined at Chili's...Talked inside the car...Went home puffy-eyed...Spending the day with the boyfriend made my birthday extra special...

May 21, 2005
The eve of his departure...
Spent the entire day with him... Surprised him during the day... He wasn't expecting me as early as 11 am... So while we were talking on the phone, I rang the doorbell...And the look on his face was priceless.. Hahaha!!! Helped him do the laundry...Went to a birthday party in the suburbs...Helped him pack his things around 12 am. [We'll be leaving the house at 5 am since his flight is @ 6:30 am] Yeah... Talk about last minute packing...

May 22, 2005
His departure...
I woke him up around 4 am. While we were on the car, I held his hand... Since it will be the last time... I don't know when we'll ever see each other again...

Didn't really dawn on me that he was leaving until I saw him walking inside the airport...*sigh*

It finally sank in when he called me that he had safely arrived home...Cried again...He called me up again while he was driving around..Cried once more..Then he called me up again to say goodnight...Cried even more...

Yup, my boyfriend's back in California...
We've been talking...
But it's hard to be away from someone whom you really care for...
I'm holding on...
Who knows where the road will lead us...
I hope to see him in August,,, when I visit my relatives in L.A.
Until then...

one of our last pictures together... (",)

School Update...
I got an A in Chemistry...
I still haven't got my grade in Biology and Psychology...
I hope I passed...
I'm planning to take Biology 226 this summer.

Three-day Camping...
For the past two years, it has been a tradition to spend the Memorial Day weekend in the camping grounds.. Last year, it was in Galena, this time around, we spent our three days in Zion.
As usual, endless eating na naman... I practically slept in the tent the whole time. Yeah.. Coz I barely do that in Chicago. It was kinda cold too... Played in between...Watched a scary movie...Drank some beer... Had a great time...On our last day, we went to Gurnee Mills to do some shopping... I swear I think I walked like more than 3 kilometers just roaming around the outlet store...My heels hurt like hell after more than 3 hours of walking...Bought three items from Abercrombie...

*Low-rise, vintage abercrombie capri
*A light blue baby tee

*A brown flared corduroy pants

Here are some camping pics...

As of today, I am still exhausted... Whew...
I miss everyone... Hope you're all doing great...

I have a two-week break before summer school starts.
I have to make the most out of it. I'll probably hit the gym..
Or just rest...Take a break...I know I deserve it. (",)

2005-05-27T23:01:00.000-05:00

Have a great weekend everyone...

It's memorial weekend here in Chicago. Will be gone for three days... Goin camping...

I promise to update when I get back. It's gonna be a long entry for sure.

Miss ya'll...

2005-05-16T23:51:00.000-05:00

Birthday girl...

It's 11:53 pm Chicago time..
i'll be turning 23 in 7 minutes..
i don't know what i'm feeling right now..
somehow depressed..
birthday jitters???

i'll update soon...
miss y'all...

2005-04-17T20:55:00.000-05:00

Whewww... It took me ages to update this blog...
I have been very busy. Sometimes, I feel like giving up either working, or studying. It's tough to do both things at the same time. But I chose to do these. So.. Haha!!! I need a break! Spring break just passed by and I haven't done anything worthwhile.

How's everyone? Missed me? Hahaha! I missed all of you, my dear blogger friends...I'm sorry if I have been a delinquent blogger... Hope all of you are doing great...

Last Song Syndrome...

Let The Love Begin

Look at us
Ain't it funny
Is it just beginner's luck
Maybe
Ooh, with just a touch
Two different people
From such different worlds apart
Has touched each other's hearts
Like candles in the dark
So if it's time for us
We've gotta take it
Take the chance
The chance to make it

Now
Let the love begin
Let the light come shining in
Who knows where the road will lead us now
Look at what we've found
Make this moment turn our hearts around
It may never come again
Let it in
Let the love begin

Ooh..
Here we are
So close together
I can feel the fire start between us
Ooh...we've come this far
Too far to stop it now
If this is meant to be (it's meant to be)
A chance for you and me (for you and me)
We found our destiny
Now we're lookin' at a new forever
Make this dream come true together

Now
Let the love begin
Let the light come shining in
Who knows where the road will lead us now
Look at what we've found
Make this moment turn our hearts around
It may never come again
Let it in
Let the love begin

Here we are
So close together
I can feel the fire start between us
Ooh...we've come this far
Too far to stop it now
If this is meant to be (it's meant to be)
A chance for you and me (for you and me)
We found our destiny
Now we're lookin' at a new forever
Make this dream come true together

Now
Let the love begin
Let the light come shining in
Who knows where the road will lead us now
Look at what we've found
Make this moment turn our hearts around
It may never come again (never come again)
Let it in
Let the love begin

I like the one revived by Kyla particularly. This song hit me big time... (",) Let the lyrics speak for what I feel right now.. As a matter of fact, I'm listening to it right now while updating this blog. (",)

Pictures Galore...

me and my sisters fooling around

me and my mom

our cousins who came over from New Jersey to visit us...

What Cath Have been Up To These Past Few Weeks...

Kuya Mike, (my boyfriend's brother) came over from Sacramento to visit... He's a nice guy, mas kulit than the boyfriend... (",)

me and Kuya Mike

this pic was taken the night before he left for Sac..

Two Sundays ago, our biology class went to my college to clean-up.. We just swept all the dry leaves away. It was worth 10 extra credit points. Haha! It wasn't that nasty though.

Bowling...

We've been hitting the bowling alley for a few weeks now. It's so much fun!!!

the Velarde's

Brain, Jell and Cath

Cath, Ate JV, Ritzel, Jell

Sir Pat, my boyfriend, the Velarde's

Sir Pat, Paul

Ate JV's Birthday...
Last Sunday, a surprise party was held at the Velarde's to celebrate ate JV's birthday. It was also their 10th wedding anniversary. So it was a double celebration. At first, we really don't know how to get her out of the house to prepare. The plan was, they'll all be going church at 11:30. But it turned out, she doesn't want to because they all woke up late. So Kuya asked her to go jogging, since it was really warm that day.
That afternoon was so much fun, more of like a family gathering. Dad and Myles bonded outside... They grilled some porkchops.. (",)

Yesterday, Che and I went to Old Orchard.

We ate at The Cheesecake Factory. Had Calamari for appetizer and Bistro Shrimp pasta. For dessert, I ordered Tiramisu cheesecake while Che had her White Chocolate Mousse Chocolate Cheesecake.. (Wheew!) It was all worth it.. Sarap! We also went to Lincolnwood Town Center to get the shot glass I had engraved with my boyfriend's name with it. (",) I gave it to him last night.

Myles and Cath...

this is my fave pic of us together... (",)

I love him...
Yesterday, around two a.m. I thought the relationship had already ended. He said we're better off as friends.. To my surprise, I just said ok.. I didn't know what exactly I was feeling right that very moment..After the conversation, I decided to turn off my cellphone. I was planning not to show up anymore ever again.. I planned to keep distance.. I wasn't able to sleep after we hung up. I planned to had my hair cut and have a massage. Around 10 am, while I was taking a shower, mom knocked on the door, and told me he had called up on our land phone. I was surprised he ever did that. I was thinking, last night would be the last time he'd ever call me again.

So after I took a shower, I went inside the car and had my dad drop me off at the salon. Unfortunately, it was still closed. So I went Osco drug to just wait until the salon opens up. I just walked, and walked...I really didn't know what to do.. I decided to return his call... (Di ko rin pala matiis...) He was the one who answered the phone.. I was surprised he was up that early.. He asked me how I was.. Said I was ok. He asked me where I was. Asked me how I was doing.. Told him, "You tell me what I am feeling right this very moment." Said he was sorry. I said it was ok. I take all the blame.. He said, "No, it's not you. It's I who has the problem. I'm not good enough for you.." I told him I haven't slept all night.. Thinking what I have done wrong.. I was teary-eyed.. I also realized what I looked like that very moment. I was wearing oversized sweater, sweatpants and my green havaianas. I told him I didn't even know what exactly I was doing at the drug store. I just walked at every aisle. I haven't even brushed my hair after I got out from the shower earlier.. There were lots of silent moment.. Until finally, I heard him say,,, "Please take me back... I still want to be with you..." That's all I wanted to hear from him.. I was already crying that moment.. He asked me what does all of this mean??? Well, yeah, I also asked that to myself..

My dear friends, what do you think all of these mean?

He told me to go home.. And right before we hung up, he said, "I love you..." I replied and told him I love him too...

2005-03-19T09:30:00.000-05:00

I'd Like To Make It With You...

We are officially together now..

But I know that there are some people in my life who's not happy with the decision I made.

I chose to be with him...

I really hope we could make things work.

If there's one thing in life that I've learned from all of these, it's that, God will never let you down. He listens to our prayers. He just won't give what you're asking for in an instant, but He'll give it to you in His time. All the time that he was gone, I've prayed that one day, we'd see each other again.. I know it won't be for long, but still, what's important is that he's here. I'm willing to take the risk. I just don't want to spend the rest of my life thinking what might have been... One day, if ever things won't work out, I'd tell myself, "at least we tried..."

"I'll still miss you tonight, I'll still miss you tomorrow," him.
"Don't be scared," him.

"Basta, alam mo na yon... Nandito lang ako," Cath.

I really hope we can make it through...

It's Spring Break Woohooo!!!!

But it's only for a week, and the week after that, midterms naman.. sad..

I think I'd go to the gym. I miss going there. I feel like I'm gaining weight again. Hahaha!!!

So, how's everyone??? I miss you guys... Hope everyone's doing great...

2005-02-27T19:40:00.000-05:00

Delinquent Blogger...

So many things happened in a span of two weeks.. I missed blogging. I missed visiting friend's blogs. I missed everyone..

I have been so preoccupied with school. And so much more..

I'm happy. Yet sad. I don't know. Just find out by reading these overdue entries.

>>WISCONSIN TRIP<<

birthday boy...

my fam with the birthday boy...

group picture...

another group picture...

little Romrom...

with Paul, Myles, Brainard, and Jell...

fun in the snow...

another group picture

with mom and sisters

We left Chicago at around 7 am. It was a long trip. Five hour drive. There were around 30 of us. Or in fact even more. Rented a house there. Sir Pat celebrated his birthday there. Played Guesstures. Bingo. Drank sa van. Slept late.. It was really fun! Bitin nga e.. Wanted to stay longer pa sana. When we were about to leave, we played sa snow! Ang saya!!! Paul drove all the way home. What was funny was, when we were on our way there, we never got lost.. And nung nandito na kami sa Chicago, chaka pa kami nawala!! hahaha!!!
What made the trip so much fun even more was... He was there. Yup.. He's here in Chicago right now. And that requires a separate entry...

>>He's here<<

And I always thought I was over him...
I was wrong.. I missed this guy so much..
Now I could prove that absence made my heart grow fonder..
But I don't wanna get hurt anymore. I'm happy coz he's here..
But I know it won't be long enough..
I'm dreading the day he'll leave again..
I'm sure it'll hurt big time..

I'll just enjoy his presence while he's here..

>>School Update<<

School's ok. Got high scores sa quizzes. Super stressed nga lang. It's so hard to work and go to school at the same time. But this is a faster way for me to fulfill my dreams. I know my sacrifices will pay-off in the future.

>>Happy birthday Sir Pat<<

Celebrated his birthday last Friday. Ate at Korean Garden Buffet. Then went to a bar in Belmont. Had a great time...

Kuya Rommel and Ate JV

Ritzel, Ate Joan, Wayne, and the birthday boy

group picture

>>I'm Lovin' it<<

two new pairs of Puma... (",) It's super comfy.. love it!!!

2005-02-06T15:32:00.000-05:00

Some Pictures I Just Wanted To Share... (",)

Hahaha!!! My tita sent these through e-mail.. I know I got a lot of these back home but too bad, I wasn't able to bring some. I even have them compiled in an album and some were in our wooden chest. I love looking at those pictures when I was still young. Brings back a lot of childhood happy memories. (",) The first pic was taken at the airport. I think it was still MIA then.. I was in a phone booth.. The second one was taken in my Mama's house.. (grandma)

This was my graduation picture taken a couple of years ago. (",) I love this one.

I had my hair cut yesterday. I'm getting bored with my then shoulder length locks.
This one's a lot easier to manage. I do have natural curls, that when my hair is a little bit long, I'd have to spend a lot of time straightening. (",)

Surprise Birthday Party for the Best Bud

Had a blast preparing for the party which was held at 6030. He was speechless. Haha! First time actually that he was like that. He said he was nervous. But overall,, it was so much fun! I love surprise parties.. (",)

Here are more pics..

w/ ate JV, Wayne, Ate Mary

w/ Tito Rey, the Celebrant, Paul

my sisters

the whole bunch (",)

My First Week in School...

Tiring.. Yeah, coz I have to rush to school from work. See how thick my books are.. And they're all hardbound. I know that what I got myself into is not that easy, but hey I love challenges...

Chemistry is from Monday to Wednesday. It's a looonnnnggg class... That's because we have laboratory right after the almost 3-hour lecture. My professor seems fine.. She's European. Talks a lot. As in a lot!!! Haha!

Biology is on Tuesdays and Thursdays. I think I'm going to enjoy this class. I belong to group four together with 5 other members. Our professor is from Nepal, and he seems good.. Our exams will all be online..

Psychology is on Fridays. I love this subject as well. I think I'll enjoy this one too.

So far, I have a few Filipino classmates.. Most are foreigners.. It feels good to have classmates who are much older than I am because I learn many things from them based on their experiences. I have classmates who are professionals who wanted to change their career.. There are engineers, kindergarten teacher, managers, and so on and so forth. (",)

Webcam Pics..

Jam, Vanessa, and Molly

Jam, Molly, and Gris

Jell, Jam, Vanessa, and Me. (",)
Finally, we had our webcam reinstalled again. (",) Vanessa, our cousin came over yesterday together with her mom, sister and Molly. She had this project that requires her to interview two members of the family or relatives regarding something significant which has happened in their lives.. Well, within the family that is. You know what I realized last night when she told me she'd interview me..? There wasn't any significant story that I could tell her right that very moment.. Could my life be that boring? Perhaps I wasn't really in the mood for that last night.. Sorry Van..

2005-01-22T22:07:00.000-05:00

One helluva week
Been longing to blog.. But I haven't had much time to do so.. Got too much work to do in the office. Too much paperworks.. Been so late at work.. It's been snowing really hard.. Been busy going to the gym.. I missed everyone.. I missed visiting friends' blogs..

Been watching movies in theatre and dvd these past few days. Loved them all..

Movie #1: Eternal Sunshine of The Spotless Mind
Yeah I know, I'm such a loser for not watching it much earlier. It's a nice movie about love and memory. Jim can't seem to get Kate out of his mind.. Figuratively, and literally.. Hehe.. I liked it.

Movie #2: The Terminal
Loved this movie too. Very touching. I really love Tom Hanks. He can portray any role and give justice to it it.

Movie #3 Hotel Rwanda
This movie is highly recommended. click here for the teaser.

Viva Sto. Niño

Last Sunday, the feast of Santo Niño was celebrated in our parish, St. Henry Catholic Church. There were so many people who attended the mass, despite the unpleasant weather. Most were devotees to Señor Sto. Niño. Father Carlos was the celebrant and his homily was touching, as always. Very inspirational. Strengthen one's faith in Him.
I tried to participate in the "sinulog."

I'm the one wearing a skirt. (",)

Dinner-dance followed after the mass. It was held at the social hall. Jell and I danced swing. (",) It was a fun-filled day..

our family with Sir Pat

my sisters

Back to School

Come January 31, I will be going back to school. I'll be attending evening classes at Harry Truman College for Spring 2005. I've finally made up my mind to take up nursing. Yeah I know, it's way different from the course I had finished at the Royal Pontifical Catholic University.
I took the risk. I'm having mixed emotions really. I'm a bit excited to meet new friends in class, eager to learn new things and at the same time, I fear that I won't be able to make it. It's hard to juggle work and studies. But hey! If other people made it, I can do it too. Wish me luck and please, please pray for me as I face another challenge.

On havaianas

After a couple of weeks, the havaianas I ordered online is finally here. I ordered yellow and forest green top havaianas. It's so comfy. But right now, they've found a spot under my bed since I can't wear them yet outside. It's winter time here and I don't want my toes to end up all frozen. (",)

American Idol Season 4

Who will be the next American Idol? Season 4 has started last week. I'm hoping there will be another Camille Velasco or Jasmine Trias.. Or even surpass what they've achieved. Talk about Filipino pride... (",)

Some quotes I wanted to share

"the things people inlove do to each other they remember and if they stay together, it's not because they forget.. it's because they forgive.."

"a broken heart is forcing yourself to hang up the phone after you have dialed the first 3 digits of his number.."

"it's easy to convince yourself you ain't inlove with someone till you see them on the street.. or smell someone wearin' their cologne, and you're like, 'here we go again' so my conclusion is: You don't ever stop loving someone..it's a matter of learning how to deal with the pain of not having them anymore."

"the moment you feel like giving up..just remember why you held on for so long..."

Peace and Love everyone.

2005-01-11T21:04:00.000-05:00

Meet The Fockers

I swear, this movie was hilarious. Hahaha! You guys better watch it, ok? I was laughing my heart out. Watched it with my friends at AMC Rivereast last Sunday.

2005-01-05T16:02:00.000-05:00

My first post for the Year 2005

New year, New Layout... (",)
I've been very indecisive for the past few days.I guess I already changed my layout twice..Well, I kinda like this one better, rather thanthe black one..This one's brighter. Sets me up in a happier mood.
What's with the song? I dunno. I just feel so mushy.. This song was one of my fave songs back in highschool.. Brings back so much memories..

So I changed my fave song [OVERJOYED] for a while..

**************************

Our snow-covered car

I'm so glad we didn't have to go to work right now..It's snowing really hard outside.

"Tonight: Snow and gusty winds this evening will give way to a few snow showers late. Low 28F. NNE winds at 20 to 30 mph, diminishing to 10 to 15 mph. Chance of snow 90%. 3 to 5 inches of snow expected."
-Yahoo Weather News

Oh my God.

3-5 inches of snow.

My winter allies

my bonet and mittens from Gap

****************************
I'm enjoying this. Here I am at home.clad in my fave pyjamas and sweater. Sipping a cup of green tea. I wish I could do this forever.. I don't wanna go to work..
Specially with this kind of weather..
****************************
*Our first family picture for this year*

We spent New Year's eve at our cousin's place.Had pancit, adobo, ham, suman, salad and a whole lot more. It was ok. I can't really say that I enjoyed. Why? Coz I fell asleep. Yep. I was asleep during the countdown... I miss the New Year celebrations back home, as much as I miss spending Christmas there as well.. It has been two years..

I slept at around 7 am, coz I was talking to a new friend for like 4 hours.

The Velarde's came over for dinner on the 1st. Yummy lobsters!

Happy New Year everyone!
May this year bring happiness, success, good health, and love for all of us.

May it be more meaningful and fruitful for everyone.

Peace and love.

2004-12-28T22:26:00.000-05:00

Christmas Afterthoughts..

Belated Merry Christmas to everyone..
I'm really sorry I wasn't able to greet each one of you..
But nevertheless, I hope everyone enjoyed on Christmas day.
It's the happiest season of all.. (",)

I don't know if all of you would agree, but after Christmas day, I felt
so emotional..I felt sad.. Probably because, there are other people in this
world who were not able to enjoy the Christmas season.. Deaths here and
there..Thousands of homeless people..And there are those who did not even
have a single penny to spend for food..

So many times I wished I were rich so I could help other people..
And just today, at work, I felt like crying when Harry, the man my
boss hires sometimes when we're short of people in the warehouse, knocked and
asked if he could work for the day. But my boss said that it wasn't really
busy in the warehouse. Harry was a man with 5 kids. And he does not work
regularly. And soon, they might become homeless because he can't afford to
pay rent anymore.. Just the thought of it breaks my heart...

And then... there's this:
Tsunami Death Toll Soars Past 55,000 -as of December 28, 04

Let us all pray for the victims of the ASIA Tsunami disaster...

*****************************************************************************
Reunited...

No guys, it's not what you're thinking aight? hahaha!!!

It's me and my fave watch.. I thought I'd never find it again.. Left it at
the gym.. and only this morning, Kuya Mel got it for me.. Yahoo!!!

*****************************************************************************
Christmas Eve

Christmas eve was spent at the Velarde's..It was so much fun.. Lotsa food..
Crabs, shrimps, relleno, caldereta, buko pandan, fridge cake, wonton soup
and a whole lot more.. Spent the night there.. Pictures galore.. Guesstures..

my family together with the Velarde's and Sir Pat

my fam

with the sisters and Ritzel

Aika and Ritzel

cath and my best bud, Kuya Rommel

us again (",)

cath with ate JV and Ritzel

braiding time.. (",)
*****************************************************************************

Guesstures

Oh my God, I swear this game is so much fun.. We played it on Christmas eve.
It's like charades with a twist.. You have to let your team guess the first
word on the card and grabe it before the Mimer-Timer swallows it. You
only have seconds to let your team guess 4 words. So you have to think and
act faster. (",)

****************************************************************************

Christmas day

Attended 11:30 mass at our parish, St. Henry church.
Then the entire afternoon was spent at Sir Patrick's condo..
Magic mic, bingo, endless eating, Les Miserables..

with Ritzel

Bingo.. I didn't even win a single penny.. hahaha!!!

Magic mic.. I sang "Have Yourself A Merry Little Christmas.."

***************************************************************************

On Christmas gifts..
For my Dad: I bought him two long sleeved polo shirts from Banana Republic
and a vintage Fossil airplane watch

For my Mom: I bought her a poncho, a sweater, and soaps from The Body Shop

For Jell: I bought her a skirt, a tank tops..

For Jam: She wanted Alicia Keys cd, so i bought her one.. I bought her a skirt as well and the nike headband she wanted.. I gave her a top as well..

For Sir Patrick, gave him perfume, and to Kuya Rommel as well..For ate JV, I gave her stuff from The Body Shop and eyeshadow pallette from Clinique. For Ritzel, I gave her basketball, wristband, and headband from Nike, based on her wishlist.. (",)

And for the presents I received this Christmas...

Personal massager,backpack from Gap, Dolce & Gabbana Light Blue, Ragg wool from Timberland, a CD case, Pear Glace body spray, lipstick case, Warm Vanilla Sugar lotion and body wash from Bath and Body Works..
I bought myself some clothes, mittens and bonnet from Gap another leather boots from Nine West..

Thank You everyone... I'm thankful not just for the material gifts I received, but also because I spent this day with the people who mean the most to me..
I know there are so many people who wished to be with there family on this special day, but for some reasons, they were not able to.. It could have been happier for me, if I spent it as well with my relatives back home.. I know someday, we'll all be together again...

***************************************************************************
What I'm Lovin' Bout Winter..

If there's one thing that I love about winter here in Chicago, it's the
fact that we could go ice-skating.. Woohoo!!!! Love it!
Yeah, I love it so much, eventhough...

got bruises on my knee..

****************************************************************************
Remember this???

Supermario brothers.. hahaha! We played it the other night, and enjoyed!
Childhood memories.. It felt great to once again do things I enjoyed doing
when I was a kid.. (",) Try nyo..

Peace and Love Everyone.. Miss Y'all

2004-12-12T11:21:00.000-05:00

Don't you just hate it when you're too eager to blog, but for some reasons you don't know, your DSL connection wouldn't function?

Hence, the much delayed updates...

"You" made my day

A friend surprised me with complimentary tickets for Freestyle, Jaya, and Basil Valdez's concert. (",) It was held at Pickwick theater in Park Ridge.

Freestyle performed their signature songs such as Para Sa 'Yo, So Slow, Bakit Ngayon Ka Lang, and of course, Before I Let You Go.. Jinky also sang some foreign songs such as If I Ain't Got You and a whole lot more. Jaya's version of Chaka Khan's Through The Fire was really amazing.. I was ecstatic to watch this concert because I know for sure, that Basil will sing one of my all time favorite songs. True enough, he didn't fail me.. (",) Intro pa lang, *kilig* na ko..
"It's your smile, your face, your lips that I miss. Those sweet little eyes that stare at me and make me say, I'm with you through all the way. 'Coz it's you, you fills the emptiness in me. It changes everything you see, when I know I've got you with me..."

And you know what's really funny? Tita Abbie saying, "You're dad has a striking resemblance to Basil.." Hahaha!!!
Too bad, I wasn't able to take good pictures..
***********************************************************************************
Christmas Tree oh Christmas Tree (",)

Last Thursday, I accompanied Sir Patrick at Clark street to buy a Christmas Tree. A fresh one at that.These trees were from Michigan. There were trees of different sizes. The price ranges from $50 to $130 or in fact even more.. I think the price depends on how thick and tall the tree is. We chose a tree which was a little more than 5 feet, plus the stand, which made it 8 feet tall. (",) We thought all along that the salesperson was the son of the owner, that it was a family business. He said that it was way different from his previous job, and he just wanted to save $600 because he got laid off. I felt sad for him because he misses his family so much, and he hoped to be able to go home come Christmas time.

He was also kind enough to tie the tree to Sir Patrick's car.

The tree smells good. (",) The balsamic aroma is really calming.. I'll be convincing my dad next year to buy one.
***********************************************************************************
Daddy's words of wisdom

"In life, there are no wrong choices. You just have to pray and ask for God's guidance in whatever you do. Only then, you'll never go wrong. Sometimes, you might think that I don't support you, but that is not the case. I wanted you to become independent. You and your sisters were always spoon-fed since you were young that's why you weren't really exposed to doing things on your own. When we were young, we always worked hard for what it is that we really want. And that is what I wanted to impose on you. I wanted you to realize that it feels so much better to have the things that you know you really worked hard for." -on my decision to shift to a new career.. very soon...

What more can I say??? I was teary-eyed as he said these things to me...
***********************************************************************************
Very soon...
I will be facing another challenge.. I just hope I can surpass this one. It's a risk I had to take. A decision I had to make.. Please pray for me..

Peace and Love to everyone...

2004-11-29T21:17:00.000-05:00

Fund Raising For A Cause...

Two Sundays ago, I volunteered to help my mom and her friends sell some stuff at St. Henry's parish. The proceeds will go to the Altar Rosary group. The group is in charge of arranging the altar before and after mass. They make sure that the place is well kept.
My mom asked me to order some eggrolls (lumpiang shanghai) and turon from the outlet store owned by my boss. I was so excited because even foreigners dropped by to try our very own Filipino delicacies. (",)

Thanksgiving...

Thanksgiving celebration made me realize that there are so many things in my life that I have to be grateful for. Be it material or non-material, still, I'm really thankful for all the blessings that He has showered upon me.

Thank You...
..that I still have my parents around
..for my family, relatives and friends
..that I do have a decent job
..because for the past two weeks, i wasn't late for work
..because I have managed to stand up again despite the many trials that came my way
..because I still believe in love despite the heartbreaks I endured in the past
..for my new Nine West boots
..because I have lost so much weight for the past few months
..for my University jacketthat I got last week
..to Iya for buying the jacket for me.. and for Tita Mel for mailing it to me.
..for the LV bag that Tita G gave me as an early Christmas present
..for being able to survive the Chicago winter
..for the strength You give me to face each day
..for helping me to move on, and teaching me to hold on
..and above all, Thank You Lord for loving me unconditionally..

Feng Shui

This movie is hella scary I swear!
And Kris has improved a lot..
You guys should watch this movie..

All things come to an end.. So long Ken Jennings!!!

The longest winning streak in television game show history ended on Tuesday when 'Jeopardy!' champion Ken Jennings lost after he collected more than $2.5 million in 74 victories. Jennings walked away with $2,520,700 in cash, in what the syndicated TV show's distributors said was a record for the most money ever won on a television game show, as well as the most victories. -Reuters

He's by far, one of the smartest persons I've ever watched on television..
Gonna miss watching him for sure.. (",)
It's beginning to look a lot like Christmas...

Busy shoppers everywhere..cold weather..snow showers..
I wonder if it's gonna be a white Christmas for us this time.. (",) I hope so...

Peace and Love to all!

2004-11-15T20:33:00.000-05:00

Via Airmail

Monday - I received a letter from my aunt in Hong Kong. She also sent me a mini album of the pictures she took using her digicam. I just can't explain the excitement I feel whenever I receive letters from the mail. 2 weeks ago, I received five or six letters from Iya, one of my buddies back home. I waited till it was bedtime before I read all her letters. I waited till everyone's asleep because I wanted a peaceful and calm atmosphere while reading them. Even with the latest technology we have such as e-mails or text messages, I still prefer handwritten letters.

It's getting harder every week..

Sometimes I really feel like giving up coz I hardly have the time to practice really. But I am no quitter.. I dream of one day be able to play my favorite songs. That alone inspires me to work or rather practice more..

November 12
Last Friday, I couldn't help but just smile, because exactly 9 years ago, I had my first boyfriend. Yeah I know, too young huh? Hahaha! I was just thinking, what could or what might have been, if I did not break up with him. 9 years na sana kami. He was the guy that my mom really wanted for me. But you know what? Eventhought we did not end up together, I am happy for him now... Coz he already found the right girl. Him and I are good friends, what else could I ask for? (",)

What I'm Loving Right Now...

Lychee Flavored Jelly. Tastes best when chilled.. I'm loving it so much that I asked mom to buy one whole bucket. (",)

Grass Jelly Drink (Banana Flavor) a.k.a Black Gulaman
Eversince I was I kid, I've always loved black gulaman, coz my mom, mama(my grandma) and my tita, serve this drink whenever small gatherings are held at home. Imagine my delight when I learned that they have it here and it's ready to drink.. (",) So it means I don't have to persuade mom to make one...(I think it requires a lot of time to make it. Coz she has to slice the black gulaman into small bits.. )

Storm Of The Century

It was a scary one, but it was too long, imagine 248 minutes??? I actually fell asleep watching it. Hahaha! I do not recommend this movie.

Sunday...Family Day
We all went to church together. Mom and I sang for the choir.

After the mass, our first stop was:

Lincolnwood Town Center. It's the nearest mall in our place. Spent hours window shopping.. Bought some stuff for nail care. I have this very brittle nails and I'm hating it. I think if i'll just dip my nails in water for quite a while, I could peel of the whole thing! Hahaha!

Fave Japanese Resto

We had lunch at New Tokyo along Broadway and Belmont. It's my fave jap resto in town! Had the New Bento Combo which had tempura, sashimi, miso soup, california maki. And for dessert, I had green tea flavored mochi! Yummy! Forget about losing weight first. It's my fave resto that we're talkin bout here.. (",) At least, when I do eat Japanese food, I don't feel guilty. Coz compared to Chinese food, Jap food has no, or it has lesser cholesterol. I don't feel bloated after eating. Chinese food is too oily for me..

Peace Everyone! (",)

2004-11-09T22:18:00.000-05:00

Rice Box Cafe

Last Saturday, we dropped by at the new resto of my boss. They had the establishment blessed and they had invited quite a bunch of people.. It was nice bumpin to some friends I haven't seen for quite a while..

Usherette again..
The Philippine Rondalla of Chicago officially launched their first CD at the Ramada Hotel. And once more, I was invited to be one of the usherettes that night. It was successful. A lot of foreigners enjoyed the music. Food was good... Silent auction went well.. But something sad happened that night.. The name of one of the players was not written on the cd cover. It was quite an issue.. His mom was so upset. If I were in her shoes, I'd definitely feel the same way.. The player realized his name wasn't on the cd, during the autograph signing.. How sad is that???

What I'm Lovin' Right Now...

I have it in black and pink as well.. :)

Messy no more...

If there's something productive that I had done over the weekend, it's organizing our pantry. Hahahaha! It took me 2 hours to do so...

2004-11-01T20:09:00.000-05:00

So how was your week???

Updates:

* It's just one of those calls again... (",)
Conversation lasted till 4 a.m. *Kilig* Remember how depressed I was as what I have said in my previous post? That call was more than enough to make me smile again.

I got this cute bracelet from the mom as pasalubong.

This was from Sir Patrick naman.. It's a mini calculator/keychain. (",)

* I went to the gym only once this week. And last Friday, I made sure I'd make up for those 2 days that I did not work out. Went swimming as well..20 laps.. Played pingpong.. Treadmill for 30 minutes.. Stretching.. Crunches.. Wheww!

* Spent the weekend at the residence. Stayed there starting Friday night and I went home last night lang. Watched scary movies..

Last night we were supposed to watch The Grudge, but we just went trick or treating instead at Lincolnwood which is a posh neighborhood here in the Chicago area. Look at what I've got.. (",) Did I tell you I've just munched 2 twix bars, 2 bars of 3 Musketeers and a small bar of Crunch? Hahahaha!!! Forget abouth zits and diet for once!

2004-10-24T18:19:00.000-05:00

"Hawaiian Night..."

Last week, my boss gave me tickets to the fund raising of the Confraternity of Our Lady of Peñafrancia.. It was a dinner dance affair with "hawaiian" as the event's motiff.. I brought Jam, my sister along with me.I should have worn something much better than what I had that night, but hello!!!! It was so cold that night.So I just opted to wear my floral blouse, and I just wore my accessories to go with it..(",)
They served sotanghon, pasta, fried chicken, roast beef sandwich, fruits, salads, and for dessert, leche flan & pichi-pichi.
Danced the night away.. Swing.. woohoo!!! It's been quite a while since I last danced...
Mark Pagatpatan was there, and belted out some songs.. He's really good now.. Jam was excited when she saw him.. (",)

Bowling @ Waveland...
Last Sunday, the friends came over.. We were undecided whether we should watch a movie, or play bowling.. We first went to AMC and checked if THE GRUDGE was already showing, but to our dismay, hindi pa.. So we just decided to go bowling. Good thing, the movie house is just near Waveland.. The place is much better than The Manor where we played last month to celebrate Ritzel's birthday.. It was cosmic night! We had lots of fun..(",)

Blurry No More...

Yup, my dear friends,, welcome me into the club.. I am now officially wearing eyeglasses.. Huhuhu!!! Sad but true... It all started last month, when I was trying to view our cable guide, the list of TV shows seem so blurry.. So I had to see an optometrist..He told me that I really needed help... So, here I am now...

New Maid...
No, we didn't hire one.. Do you know that I actually cleaned almost the entire house today??? Yup, you heard it right.. I started in the kitchen, I washed all the dirty dishes.. Arranged some stuff.. Swept the floor.. Scubbed the floor..Wiped it with 409 Orange Power.. Next stop was the dining room...Then, the living room..Vacuum...Fixed the picture frames.. Next was my jungle.. (a.k.a. my closet) Whewww!!! I guess ganito ako pag depressed...

Sad na naman...
I am depressed again... Some personal reasons... I hope I'd feel better soon..

2004-10-16T11:37:00.000-05:00

I am back...

Hi friends.. Sorry if i haven't been blogging regularly.. It's just that, whenever i reach home, i'd be so exhausted na.. But i'll try this time to at least blog every week.. My God! My last post was September 30. Hahaha!!! I missed everyone.. I missed visiting friends's blogs.. (",) Thank you guys for reminding me to update this blog..

FOUR SEASONS...winter, spring, summer or FALL

sorry for the last two pictures..a view from my window.. (",)

If there are some things that I have to be grateful for being here in the US, one of them is having the chance to witness the FOUR SEASONS... Right now, it is the autumn season. It's just amazing how nature works.. Right now, the leaves from the trees and other plants around turn into yellowish golden brown color.. And in a few months time, those living things would seem to be dead when all of their leaves have fallen down. It would be a sign that winter season will eventually take place.

It's just one of those calls...(",)
Last Saturday, we attended some friends' party.. I was a bit sad coz I thought, the friend weren't coming over.. So I just sat in one corner of their living room and toyed with my cell when a familiar number called me up. My heart started to beat faster coz I know who was trying to call me. So I stood up and went outside.. "Hi! How are you doin," the person on the other line said.. Guess who the person was??? The person I'd love to see right this very moment...The person whom i miss so much..
We chatted for quite a while.. He was a bit sick.. How i wish i was by his side to take care of him.. Well, I just realized that no matter how long we've not spoken, a simple phone call from him would still send butterflies to my stomach.. (",) The fact that he remembered to call me is more than enough to compensate for the times that I thought he has completely forgotten all about me... I hope to talk to him soon again..

Meet Chen.. my nephew..

ain't he adorable??? it's just so sad that i had missed out a lot in his growing up years.. well, i know one day we'll make up for the lost times...

This is it...
Yup, I'm thinking about giving up my credit card..or rather keep it at home na lang, and not put it in my wallet..Why? Recently, I have checked my account balance and believe me, I'm not happy with it. It's just that, for several months, I have been spending a lot.. I easily get tempted when i pass by some of my favorite shops. I guess having a credit card does not really help on my attempt to save. My dad and I were talking about it last night, and it made me realize more that I really am spending almost my entire salary each month. Sad, but true...

Piano updates..
My lessons are getting harder. Well at least for me.. Hahaha!! Because I don't really practice regularly. I'd only practice a few hours before my actual lesson.. Bad huh?? Would you believe that my little sister can play the Minuet and Chopsticks better than I do. And to think that she does not take formal piano lessons.. She plays by ear..

Mean Girls..

I was watching this movie on dvd the other night, and I swear, I was laughing my heart out on most of the scenes. Yeah i know I'm a loser, I should've watched this a few months back.. But i never had the time.. I'd choose Lindsay Lohan over Hillary Duff anytime.. The funniest part was during this Halloween party! Hahahaha!!!

Notice the difference???

I know I'm so kapal to say this.. Hahaha!!! But I feel like I've lost weight na diba?

2004-09-30T20:45:00.000-05:00

Oh my God.. It's been ages since I last posted... Thanks dear Russ for reminding me... =)

Hmm... How's everyone???? I don't even have the time to check my e-mails.. Update my blog.. Read friends' blogs.. Hayyy.. I need a break...

What I've been up to these past few weeks...
2 Saturdays ago, went to Tito Charlie's birthday party... Endless videoke.. hahaha!!! You know what.. I've found a new favorite from the magic mic.. It's "ALL AT ONCE" by Whitney Houston.. I can very well relate to the song.. Haha!! Sang the usual favorites.. Dancing Queen, Friend of Mine, A Smile In Your Heart, etc... Then spent the night at the Velarde's.. It was Marte's last weekend with us.. It's sort of a despedida weekend for Marte.. He went back to Seattle already.. We miss him na nga e.. I was quite sad when he left.. I just hate it when someone has to leave... It's the company and presence that I miss. I've gotten used to it...
That Saturday night, we played 1-2-3 pass... I ended up with a lot of lipstick on my face.. LOSER! Hahahaha!!! I looked horrible i swear! Slept at 5 in the morning..

Sunday morning, played monopoly with Jam and Ritzel. Lunch was superb! Grilled pork chops.. Mussels, Sinigang sa miso, Prawns cooked in cheese sauce.. Whew!!! Yummmy!!! In the afternoon, had a game.. I can't really say what it's called.. We sorta used the magic mic.. Picked a song at random... Ritzel and I were partners.. Jell and Kuya Mel, Marte and Ate Jv, Jam and Sir Pat... Lipstick marks would be drawn on the face to those who gets the lowest score.. It was so much fun! Hahaha!! Who would have thought that there was a song entitled Barbara Ann!!!??? Hahaha!!! Watched "ALL MY LIFE" for the second time.. I never really liked it the first time I watched it.. I kinda liked it when we watched it again.. =)

Some pictures over that weekend...
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Celebrity Crush... (",)

Last Sunday, we went to Paramount theater in Aurora, IL to watch the "Night Of The Champions..." We were given complimentary tickets again... Woohoo!!! Actually, it was only Sarah Geronimo whom I know from the performers that night because we are not TFC subscribers.. (Well, soon I hope...) I was still back home when Sarah won the first prize in Star for A Night.. I even see her then in UST (my alma mater.)

But that night, there's this someone who really caught my attention... It was Christian Bautista.. He was gorgeous! I've been hearing his song (THE WAY YOU LOOK AT ME...) twice from someone's website... I even asked my sister who sang that song, because I really liked it.. And that night, I found out it was him pala... It felt so much better to hear him sing it in person..

But of course, Rachel Ann Go, Sarah, and Mark Bautista were great performers as well... We also met Christian's manager, Carlo Orosa... He told us how popular Christian is now, back home... With the looks and talent he has, I'm pretty sure Christian will go a long way.. LOoking forward to their next concert here in Chicago.. (",)

We even have the same initials.. hahaha!!! C.B. and we're of the same age... Yeah, yeah, enough of this...Hahaha!!!

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Jen and Ben???

Are they really dating??? I've been reading in Us Weekly that these two are secretly seeing each other.. Well, I think, Ben never looked this good again since his breakup with JLo.. I hated his scruffy look then.. But now, he seems inlove, and it shows.. Don't they just look good together??? And the smile, it's so genuine.. They compliment each other..

2004-09-17T23:11:00.000-05:00

Random Updates...

Friday... Book launching at the Consulate.. The author was a Jewish who stayed in the Philippines during the war.. His companion was kinda teary-eyed while relating their stories..

Saturday afternoon, dropped by at RC.. I was craving for the turon.. But by the time we got there, ubos na.. :( Just bought some of their suman which was really good. Mom also had to buy some other foodstuff.. Dad dropped Jell and I at the gym, where we met the Velarde's and Marte as well.. We didn't stay there for long since they close at 7 pm during weekends.. Dinner at Tita G's house.. Videoke.. Beer.. Took the cab on our way to Velarde's residence... Imagine we were 7 passengers in a cab.. Hahaha!!! Sleepover.. Watched The Ring on cable.. Slept at around two..

Sunday.. Ritzel's birthday.. Went to hear mass at St. Pascal. Spent the whole day celebrating.. Sir Pat, Ate Millet, The Velarde's, Christian (Ritzel's friend) Marte, Jell and I. First stop was Laser Quest.. Arcades.. Air Hockey, Laser Guns..We were running around like a bunch little of kids.. Hahaha!Next stop was Jeeper's.. Well, earlier, Kuya Mel and I tried to google about the place.. We thought it was Jeeper's Creepers.. (from the movie) Hahaha! Kaya pala puro about the movie un nahanap namin info sa internet.. Jeeper's lang pla... Hahahaha!!! Had nachos, pizza, chicken wings.. Yumm! We all tried to fit in at the neoprint booth.. Jell and I tried the little roller coaster.. It was okay.. I miss being a kid.. =) Last stop was at the bowling alley.. It was so much fun!

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Crab-mentality...

Last Saturday, when we arrived at the gym, Jell and I tried to proceed at the locker room. We were in a hurry since we only had an hour and a half to do some exercise. The fat lady at the counter tried to stop us.. (Which was kinda odd.. Coz as soon as the employees see us, they would tell us not to show them our card anymore..) The fat lady (who happens to be a Filipina) asked us if we were residents.. We told her we weren't.. I explained to her that our card was given by the director. (Which is really true..) I told her we've been going there for more than a couple of months already.. From the tone of her voice, she was suspecting that we weren't telling the truth, and we were just gatecrashing.. She told me to just leave my card on the counter and get it from her when we're finished.. Kuya Mel learned about what happened.. He argued with her and told her he'd want to talk to the director.. The girl called the director and asked about the card.. To her embarrasment, the director told her that indeed, he gave us our card..

You know what's even more annoying, the other employees who weren't Filipinos never did that to us.. They'd just tell us to proceed right away.. They were friendly towards us.. But this fat lady, (Filipina pa siya ha..) grrr!!! She really didn't treat us well.. I hope she learns her lesson..

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Daddy loves me...

*He bought me Jamba Juice yesterday...
*Shared Wreck sandwich and veggie soup at Potbelly's
*He cooks fried tofu for me..
*He wakes me up in the morning..

2004-09-07T21:04:00.000-05:00

It's been quite a while...

It has been quite a while since I last posted.. Been very busy these past few weeks..
Anyway, just let these pictures show what I've been up to.. =)

Martin Nievera and Patti Austin's Concert...

It was a dream come true for me to be able to watch two of my favorite singers..What's even better is that we were just a few meters away from the stage.. I've always loved Martin and Patti.. Aside from his awesome rendition of his songs, what I love about Martin is his spontaneity.. There was never a dull moment during the concert.. Guess what??? He even sang OVERJOYED (which is my all time favorite) as part of his Stevie Wonder medley.. Patti was really great as well.. Her version of "It Might Be You" moved me.. Well, actually "Say You Love Me" and "In My Life" also did, but it was really the very first song the struck me most...For their finale, they sang "How Do You Keep The Music Playing" which gave them a standing ovation from the audience. It was all worth it..

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It Feels Sad To Be Back...

My family just got back from a 3 day camping trip to Zion, Illinois.. At Beach Park particularly.. We were with my dad's officemates and their respective families. It was so much fun!!! I felt sad when we came home while we were there, we didn't have to wake up early.. I could wake up as late as I really wanted to, and sleep late as long as I wanted to as well.. Games kept us busy.. Volleyball, Badminton... Eventhough the water was chilly, we still managed to dip in and enjoy the waves. As usual, I slept with the Velarde's, together with Marte and Sir Pat.. My second fam... On our last day, we headed to Pleasant Prairie to do some shopping.. I got myself a new pair of Nike rubber shoes, which I'll exclusively use in the gym.. =) I got a new pair of paints and slippers as well from Gap, an orange cap from Nike, a black long-sleeved shirt from Banana Rep, a pink V-neck shirt and beach towel from Polo. Yahoo!!! When we got home, I just ate Chinese food for dinner, fixed my bed, and dozed off to sleep.. I slept from 6 pm till 6 am this morning... Whew!!!

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I Totally Freaked Out... Thank God For True Friends...

This afternoon, as soon as I got off from the green line train, I decided to drop by Potbelly's and have a sandwich... I tried to call up my dad and tell him to drop by so we could go home together. But I guess he left the office at exactly 5 coz no one's answering. So I just stayed there all by myself. When I went inside, I saw a long queue of customers waiting to have their orders taken.. I was the last one inline. I opened the fridge and took a diet Coke. I tried to call up my dad again but no one really answered.. As I tried to put my phone back in my bag, I noticed that there was this man in front of me waving his phone at me. I pretended I didn't see him.. He ordered his sandwich.. I ordered mine.. I told the lady, "I'll have a wreck please.." As soon as the man heard what I said, he told the lady that he wanted the same sandwich I ordered.. As I waited for the cashier to punch in my food, the man asked me, "How old is your camera phone?" Again I didn't answer.. He was interrupted by a phone call.. I proceeded to my seat and started eating my wreck. After a few minutes, I saw this man take a seat in front of me.. I started to freak out but I didn't show it. He glanced at me quite a few times.. I started to call some friends.. First was Ate Millette.. I asked her if Kuya Rommel was still around and she said he already left for the gym.. Same with Sir Pat.. I asked her why she was still in the office, and she said she still had a lot of stuff to do.. This man checks every single person who leaves Potbelly's. And then glances back again.. Checks if I'm still around.. I tried to call Ate Grace but it was her voicemail that greeted me.. So I tried to call Sir Patrick.. Told him what's happening.. He was already in the train.. He said he'll come back.. Kuya Mel was with him as well..I told them they don't need to because it was inconvenient.. But they insisted.. Told me to just stay because this man might follow me.. I was shaking at that moment.. After a few or so minutes, the man decided to leave. I texted Sir Pat that they don't need to come back coz the guy had left. But they said they'll be coming in a few minutes.. I felt releived when I saw them.. Kuya Mel said I looked "maputla." I was still shaking and my hands were cold.. I said sorry coz they still had to come back and fetch me, but they said it was alright.. They said I made the right decision to call them.. I really did... Thank God For True Friends...

2004-08-28T08:30:00.000-05:00

46th Annual Chicago Air and Water Show

I spent the whole day at the beach last Sunday... Friend B picked me up at around 9 am and we parked the car downtown..We took the bus going to North Avenue Beach since it's not really advisable to park the car nearby because parking in the immediate area is virtually non-existent. The city were expecting 2 million people to witness the said event. We chose a nice spot a few meters away from Lake Michigan. The air and water show in Chicago is one of the countries best. Planes are visible from the ground all over the city, but the show is best viewed from North Avenue Beach. =)This event is one of those which Chicagoans look forward to. We all agreed that the Blue Angels squadron were the best!

If I had known that it was gonna be really hot that day, I should've worn my bathing suit.. When I checked for the temperature earlier, it was 50's, and besides it was quite chilly even inside the apartment, so I chose to wear my fave pink shirt.. As a result..... Voila!!! Cath got an uneven tan.. My arms look horrible upto this day... How sad...

Anyway, here are some other pics I took.. Sorry if they aren't so good.. I just used my phone..

meet Angelica and Angelo.. they're fraternal twins.. =)

i was trying to take a pic of the planes sana e..

same with this pic..

i love this kinda hazy pic.. hahaha!

people of Chicago along North Avenue beach

taken after the airshow.. this was at Lincoln Park. I loved the view.. Marte, Angelica, Ritzel and Angelo

elliot and ate jv..

marte and cath.. the cousin.. see how red my face looked like??? this was taken right after we left the beach..

After we left the beach, we went straight to Tita Eleanor's place just to drop off the kids.. But they told us to stay coz they already ordered some food for merienda.. So we ended up eating pizza, french fries, chicken from KFC, and yummy gyoza courtesy of Elliot.. Sarap grabe! I think I ate 10 gyozas.. hahaha!!! We also had a blast with their magic mic.. The songs I sang that night were, Friend Of Mine, Somewhere Down The Road, A Smile In Your Heart, I'll Never Love This Way Again.. Paalam Na.. hahaha! Yeah,yeah.. I know.. all mushy songs...

You know what's weird? My dad didn't even notice how sunog my skin was when I got home that night.. He noticed it the next day when i dropped by his office.. Hay.. How I wish it starts to peel off.. I need your suggestions.. What's the best lotion or ointment I'd use so it will start to peel off very soon..

What I'm Lovin Right Now...

My Tuscan Aroma Jar and Green Tea Home Fragrance Oil from The Body Shop

This simple ritual will help calm the mind, body and spirit any time.. Just add a few drops of your favorite fragrance oil or essential oil to the top of the jar. Set the tealight in the base and light. Relax and enjoy as fragrance fills the entire room..

Ain't it obvious I so love green tea..?

Krispy Kreme Doughnuts

This has got to be my all time fave doughnuts.. Yummy!

The Concert Ticket..

gonna be watching them tonight.. =)

Congratulations to the Newlyweds...

My cousin Paul and Pia.. Cheers!!!
I love this picture...
Last night, we finally met Pia in person.. She's so fun to be with.. Welcome to the family Ate Pia.. =)

Happy Birthday Mommy!!!

May you have more birthdays to come.. God bless..

What I Do Hate Right NOW...

Rainy Days.. Gloomy.. Makes me feel sad..

Thunderstorms.. This is a view from my window.. I would've published this post earlier, probably around 2 am.. But the thunder and lightning freaked me out! I swear I wasn't able to shut off the pc properly, I just ran and curled up under the sheets.. So childish huh? Hahaha!!! Have a great weekend everyone.

2004-08-21T19:23:00.000-05:00

So.. how was your week?

Monday: Mom left for Daly City to attend my cousin's wedding.. So it was only Jell, Jam, Dad, and I were here at home .. Oh! Mice was here as well since no one would take care of him while my tita and Paul together with my mom were in Daly City.. Mice is my cousin Paul's pet ferret.. (Along Came Polly) I admit I am not fond of Mice..I'm not an animal hater ok.. but he just scares the hell out of me.. He looks like a half squirrel and half hamster.. My dad basically took care of Mice.. Fed him, cleaned his cage, played with him.. It was as if his baby.. Oh I'm jealous! Hahaha! Just kidding..
Hmm.. to give you a glimpse of Mice, here's a pic.. This was taken last month.. I didn't take this picture.. I was asleep when my sister took a pic of him inside the pocket of Paul's shirt..

Tuesday: Boring piano lessons.. I'm starting to get tired of it.. I'm so lazy to practice the pieces my teacher told me to. Since my mom ain't around, we were into canned goods.. Corned beef.. Vienna sausage.. Hahaha!!! And then there was Chinese food from the nearby resto along Western.. Hunan Chicken and Gen. Cho's chicken.. I swear I really missed my mom.. I think my dad was kinda jealous na nga e.. Coz i kept saying, "sana dumating na si mommy.." And he would say, "bakit, naiinis ka na ba sa'kin?" It's not that eh, I just miss her presence.. It made me realize I really have to learn my ways in the kitchen very soon.. I'm not getting any younger.. And it would be really embarassing to my future husband,(not that I'm marrying really soon ha..) coz as of the moment, I still don't know how to cook kahit simple adobo lang.. I can cook pasta, but hello!! I can't feed my family pasta everyday right???

Wednesday: I was 30 minutes late sa work.. I hate the CTA.. Grr.. Buses were late.. So was the train.. Hmp! Busy day in the office.. Went to the gym.. Dinner at the Velarde's. Yummy tinola, with lots of spinach.. Yummy leche flan as well. My fave!

Thursday: Tried to call up the trucking companies to pick-up some shipment... Unfortunately, G&J Trucking was not yet accepting shipment going to Florida because of the hurricane a few days ago.. And then there's this other company I could not get hold of. Grr! Kainis.. Voice mail parati.. And they would not return our call.. Went grocery shopping in Argyle.. Bought more instant noodles.. grass jelly drink (black gulaman) and some ingredients for fridge cake like honey grahams, table cream, condensed milk and peach halves in syrup.. Prepared the fridge cake for Friday dinner.. Made a little one for my sis Jam as well..

Friday: Mom arrived from their trip.. Got some shot glasses as pasalubong from her.. I decided I'd collect these when I first got one from Sir Pat.

If you would look closely, most of my glasses were from San Francisco.. I got the yellow ones from Mom, the one with my name on it was from Sir Pat when he went to San Fo, the one on the farthest left at the bottom was from Jam (she went to San Fo last week as well.. Haha!) And the one on the top right was given to my dad by Maggie as pasalubong when she went to New York. Dad decided to give the glass to me.. Haha!! I have yet to buy one here in Chicago to add to my collection..

Went to the gym as scheduled.. Went swimming for more than an hour.. I think I did more than 30 laps yesterday.. Well, 36 laps=1 mile.. I know t's nothing compared to how Olympic swimmers swim 12 miles a day.. Treadmill for 10 minutes.. Table tennis.. doubles.. Kuya Rommel and I, Sir Patrick and Tito Rommel.. Guess who won??? Who else?? Hahaha!!! Nice game.. Adrenaline rush..

Dinner at home... Mom cooked nilaga, rellenong bangus (actually she ordered it last Sunday and just stored it in the freezer) and ginataang alimasag.. Whew!!! The last one was my fave.. Actually my mom knows that I don't eat nilaga that much so she cooked some crabs.. Surprisingly, the crabs were fat.. Ooohh.. I love the aligi.. Did i spell it right? Yummy! Of course my dad was observing me again, he does that everytime I eat seafood.. That's because I'm allergic to it.. He tells me when I've had enough.. Pero kung ano un bawal, yun ung masarap e..

After the sumptuous dinner, mom brought out the dessert I made last Thursday. The fridge cake.. At first, I was really hesitant to admit that it was I who prepared the dessert.. Kasi they (my friends) know that I don't know how to cook/prepare any food.. They were surprised nga e.. Hahaha!! I'm more into a bit of baking or making simple desserts rather than cooking.. Tamad lang ako e.. Hayy.. Promise I'll start learning soon na..

Saturday: Even though I slept at 3 am, I woke up so early.. Decided to go with my mom, dad and tita to the Sto. Niño celebration.. I fell asleep while listening to the welcome remarks.. And fell asleep once more during homily. Bad no?
Hayy.. It's Saturday and I'm stuck here at home right now.. Alone. My parents and Jell went to Westmont to attend a birthday party. I'm too old for that! Jam went to see a concert..Bumming around..Fell asleep for a while.. Cooked Lucky Me instant pancit canton with calamansi for merienda.. And here I am right now.. Updating my blog.. Hahaha!! Checking out friends' blogs as well.. Peace! I'm out..

On the lighter side: Here are some fab finds..

A white Lacoste shirt I bought at Water Tower place.. It was on sale for $30. Used to be fifty bucks..

A pair of green slippers from Gap, and a pair of pink flip-flops from Abercrombie and Fitch.

2004-08-05T21:30:00.003-05:00

Random Updates

It feels good...

It feels so good to finally reap the rewards of the strenuous work-out in the gym. My friends noticed that I've really lost weight.. My arms don't seem to be like those of a "boksingero" as what they used to be a few months back.. My tummy, I can't say that it's really flat na, but still, I really saw the difference..
Just set your mind into doing something you really want, and trust me, you'll achieve your goals sooner than you expected.

Us again..

Yeah i know.. We're addicted to pictures.. Haha! That's my sister Jam and I at a photo me booth in Lincolnwood..

Pissed Off

*Hmp!!! My piano teacher did not show up last Tuesday.. And he didn't even call me to say he won't make it.. I even went home really early just to practice the pieces we learned last week..

*The pool at Swedish Covenant won't be available for the whole week.. I feel that the work-out ain't complete without swimming for an hour.. I do 20-30 laps every other day.

Good luck Poopie..

My sister Jam is leaving for San Francisco on Saturday to perform together with other Philippine Rondalla of Chicago members.. They'll be gone for a week.. Lucky you poopie!!! Hahaha!!! I wanna go but I got work.. Hmp!! Take care.. I'm pretty sure you'll have a blast.. It'll be successful.. Just like your previous concerts..

Weird Weather..

It's supposed to be summer here in Chicago right now.. But from the look of it, it ain't..Coz just the other night, it was raining so hard that my bed got soaked because I left the window open.. This week, it's been cool during the day and late at night as well.. And last week, it was super hot naman.. I guess I should get used to the unpredictable weather here.. Hayyy..

Bills..Bills..Bills..

I just hate it when i receive my bills.. I swear they freak me out!!! When I get 'em from the mailbox, I open each envelope slowly, hoping i didn't maxx out my credit card.. or i didn't exceed the free minutes of my phone.. Right now, I'm not really in the mood to go to my fave stores and shop.. I've been trying to save.. For the past months kasi, it seems that I've been spending a lot on some silly stuff, when I have to save at least half of my paycheck every 2 weeks...

Pics from the party..

Jackie, Jell, Cath

Kami ulit.. Hahahaha!

With Paul naman this time.. Haha!!

Blah..Blah..Blah..
I can't seem to write anything interesting.. Please bear with me dear friends... (",)

2004-07-29T22:24:00.000-05:00

Reflections...

Lately, I have been reflecting about my life.. I have been depressed for the past few months. There are times that I wanted to break down because of the sadness that I feel. I keep on telling myself that everything happens for a reason, but still, though I seem to project a strong facade, deep down I am weak. Very weak...

I don't know if you will agree with me, but we seem to just think about the negative things happening in our lives, that we tend to forget to be grateful for the blessings that come our way.

These past few weeks, there have been some situations that opened up my eyes and made me realize how fortunate I am than other people.. These lessons in life taught me to be thankful for the littlest and simplest things that I receive each day.. may it be material or not.. I can also say that these situations helped me to humble myself.

*There's this person I know who uses his son's backpack to work (since it's still his child's summer vacation..) -he can't afford to buy his own. =(

*Seeing a poor woman get so excited to eat her sandwich from Potbelly's (courtesy of another customer) because it seems she couldn't afford to buy her own..It also seemed like it was her first time to eat such food.. =(

*My boss telling me that she found an old man outside the church digging the trash can for food.. And when the man found some, he ate it straight from the bin.. =(

I am a spendthrift.. I spend money like there's no tomorrow.. But after realizing that there are other people in the world who struggles so hard to make both ends meet, I'll try very hard to spend my earnings wisely. I'll also be grateful for all the blessings He has been showering upon us.. For the air that we breathe.. For another day..For every meal..For every single thing...

I have also reflected on Father's homily last Sunday..
"Ask and it will be given to you; seek and you will find; knock and the door will be opened to you. For everyone who asks receives; he who seeks finds; and to him who knocks, the door will be opened. -Matthew 7:7-8

His homily was very uplifting. He said that we tend to remember God when we need something from him.. Like, "Dear Lord, "Please give me this and that..." But only God knows what's best for us and He gives it to us in his perfect time.. I surrender everything to Him. I lift up my life to Him for He knows the desires of my heart, and knows what's best for me.. Made me realize that in His time, everything's gonna be alright.

"In your time Lord, I will come in Your presence..."

2004-07-20T21:36:00.000-05:00

Random Updates...

I've finally started working out in the gym... Woohoo!!! We (friends, and I) go to Swedish Covenant every other day.

Here's our routine:
We swim for an hour..
Sauna.. or Steamroom
Shower..
Work-out.. (stretching..sit-ups..treadmill..)
Cooldown..
Table-tennis..

Then we have dinner alternately in each other's house... Like, it's my turn to host dinner this Friday.. =)

We hope to see the results in a few months time.. (Keeping my fingers crossed..)

Weekend spent at the mall...

Finally got my cartilage pierced.. My dad didn't notice it for a while.. But he wasn't mad though when he saw it.. Hello!!! I'm 22 years old na.. I'm no longer a kid no..

Shopping.. Got two belts and a bag from Gap. And oh.. I finally have my Superman shirt in Royal blue... Woohoo!!! Got other graphic shirts as well... Like there's one which says, "Cranky," another one is "Super Girl," and the last one was, "Don't Start With Me, You Will Not Win." Got a Speedo swimsuit and dad bought me the goggles as well..

Pictures.. My sister and I had our pictures taken in the studio and the photo booth as well..

goofy Cath and Jam.. don't we just look alike???

Organized my jungle (a.k.a my closet)

I finally found the time to arrange my clothes.. Took out those which I won't be using anymore.. But I'm such a sentimental freak. There were some stuff which I couldn't part ways with. =( Like, those given by so and so.. Even though they no longer fit me, I chose to keep them. Found out as well that there are still some shirts with their tags on.. Huhuhu!!! I'm such an impulsive shopper...

My boss came back from Florida

She gave me a Liz Claiborne bag and some oranges..

It also meant a lot of work for me.. So many invoices to input into the computer.. So many papers to file.. :(

I still miss the guy... =(

There are just so many things that remind me of him.. Like whenever I'm with the friends.. Which literally meant every other day??? And the places we go to.. the place.. Just like last night, we had dinner there.. The hallway.. The hot chips.. The couch.. The car.. The lake front..Just made me think a lot about him... Still brings back memories.. =(

Loose Talk: "Para kang siya." I really don't know why, but friend D just blurted it out last night while she was watching me play table tennis. When she said that, it made me miss him more... So much that it hurts...

2004-07-16T21:48:00.000-05:00

One of the essays I wrote when I was still enrolled at Truman College..
It is every girl’s dream to walk down the aisle someday. Just like other girls out there, I dream of one day getting married too. Writing this paper made me realize that marriage is really for keeps...

Marriage.. A Lifetime Commitment


Marriage is a lifetime commitment between a man and a woman bound in love, wherein the values of respect, honesty, trust and fidelity are very important. Its purpose is bringing new human beings into existence in a loving, secure, and nurturing environment.   It is a sacred union of a couple, who made a vow at God's altar to love each other for better or worse, through thick and thin, in sickness and in health, till death do they part. As the passage from the bible says, "What God has joined together, let no man put asunder." Communication, individuality and patience is also a must, because marriage also has its ups and downs, but love still wins out in the end.

My parents have been married for twenty-three years now.   In a few days, they'll be celebrating their twenty-fourth year together as husband and wife.. Even now, whenever I look at them, I can still see the glow in their eyes. I asked them what kept them together through out the years. They both said that, "Honesty, trust, commitment and fidelity are intricately intertwined in marriage." Spouses who are committed to one another are more likely to develop an honest and trusting relationship. Marriages can't survive without commitment. Commitment sets the stage for honest and trusting relationship. An intimate relationship such as marriage cannot endure without these traits.

My dad said that communication is also very important. Married couples also talk regularly to check their expectations of married life. If those expectations clash, they keep communicating until they have understanding and agreement. My mom added that married couples keep their individuality. They encourage each other not to be always 'us', to take 'me' time, to have 'me' hobbies and even 'me' friends. This way, each partner brings individuality in to the marriage, keeping it fresh and alive. They have always believed that they should also have a life of their own, like own friends and goals. This way, they have something to bring to each other at the end of the day. Married partners should also respect each other. They have always believed that each partner has qualities worthy of respect. My parents refer to each other in endearing glowing terms when talking to other people. In short, they never take each other for granted and remember how lucky they are to be married.

I have also asked my both my parents what made them decide to marry each other. I asked dad, "What made you think that mom 'is it'?" Dad said, "Your mom has such endearing qualities which made me decide that she's the woman whom I want to spend the rest of my life with. I can say that we grew up together. We both just started off as friends. Eventually, we fell in love with each other. I think that she's God's gift to me. She's not just my wife, she's also my best friend. When I proposed to her, I told her that she's the person whom I want to grow old with. I want her to be the mother of my future children. I always knew that she will make a good mother someday. I never regret my decision to marry your mom. Our marriage may not be perfect because there's no such thing as that, but having her as a wife makes it so close to perfection." Mom added, "Marriage is not just an instant decision. It is not something that you'll just walk away from when you got bored and you got tired of it. It is a lifetime commitment. When I made a vow at God's altar, I really meant it."

I have also interviewed my aunt about her views on marriage. She described marriage as a "roller coaster ride." I asked her what she meant about it, and she said, "Marriage has its ups and downs. It is not always a bed of roses. Somewhere along the way, some problems may come."   They had to learn to adjust. She said that over the years, they have accepted each other's flaws and shortcomings. She said that establishing a strong successful marriage is never an easy task. Like anything of value, it requires tremendous amount of patience and determination. She said that problems can be resolved if spouses are willing to come up with common solutions. As a couple, she and her husband 'close off the day in each others arms.' Whenever they engage in a petty fight, they always have closure together at the end of the day. She said that if they would just end the day without settling their 'small' arguments, it might make matters worse. She said that their love for each other wins out in the end.

I have grown up in a predominantly Catholic country. My view on marriage is that, it is a lifetime commitment. This means it should be undertaken with life-long goals in mind. It is a strong bond that takes place between a man and a woman. In every commitment, we should seek that, especially, which never changes. People's outward appearance changes. So also do their personalities, their interests, opinions, and ideas. If one is committed just because of these, it is likely to prove fragile. Couples must commit therefore, to that which lasts. Deeper commitment enables them to weather many storms.

The purpose of marriage is to bring new human beings into existence in a loving, secure, and nurturing environment. Marriage is not an instant decision. It is something that one should really prepare for. Somewhere along the way, problems may come but these are not reasons for couples to walk away out of the marriage. Couples should always remember the vow they made to seal their commitment to one another on their wedding day, "For better or worse, through thick and thin, in sickness and in health, till death do us part."

2004-07-08T23:37:00.000-05:00

UPDATES...

Saturday

Home alone.. My sisters spent the night at Oakley..The Bernardo's particularly.. Parents went to the laundromat, did some grocery shopping.. The friends called me up to ask me if I wanted to go swimming at the Swedish covenant, and watch a movie afterwards.. I couldn't decide at first since it was also Tito Rey's birthday celebration.. But then, after quite a while, I gave in.. Haha!! They picked me up at around four p.m. When we got there, friend B gave us our pass which is actually good for 6 months.. The place was really nice.. Private, very peaceful..We went swimming, dipped into the jacuzzi, and went for the sauna.. It felt so good to relax after several weeks of being stressed out due to work, practices, etc...

When we were done swimming, we checked out the gym. I was finally encouraged to start working out... Woohoo!!!

We had Chinese food for dinner.. Roast duck, fried rice, chow mein, spicy salted shrimp.. Yummmy!!!

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I love Peter Parker...

You just got to see this movie.. I love everything about it.. Fell in love with Peter.. I was just wondering if I'd still love the movie if it wasn't Tobey who played the role of Peter Parker.. Hmmm..

Actually, it's much better than the first one.. Got teary-eyed with most of the scenes.. Very touching.. I recommend this movie.. I can't wait to see Spiderman 3..

See how my eyes looked puffy that night after watching the movie..

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Sunday
A Special Day

Witnessed a special event in someone's life.. We performed for a nun who took her vows..
My mom was teary eyed at some point.. Found out it was because at some point in her life, she wanted to be a nun.. Probably brought back some memories.. There are times that the thought of becoming a nun enters into my mind.. But maybe that's because I wanted to run away from the harsh realities of life, and escape from my problems. I know it's not good to think that way.. The reason must be because I wanted to dedicate my life to the Lord and serve Him with all my heart...

****************************************************************************************

Monday
Picnic

Chicken, Pork chops, grilled fish, Filipino delicacies like cuchinta, palitaw (courtesy of my Mom,) fruits, sweets... Yummy!!!

Spent the whole afternoon at Montrose.. Picnic with the friends, Tito Rey, Tita Baby, Pao, Marella, Tammy, and my family..

I can't believe I spent half of the day sleeping on the banig.. Hahaha!!! The weather was nice kasi on that day.. A lot of people din were having picnic..

Played softball with everyone.. Yep.. You heard it right, everyone.. Including the adults.. Hahaha!! It was so much fun to see them run...

Had a great time.. Planning for the next picnic with them..

2004-07-05T21:21:00.000-05:00

True or False
Bold the things that are TRUE.
Unbold the things that are FALSE.

01. I'm obsessed with new things.
02. I have a cell phone.
03. I'm the youngest child.
04. I am a shopoholic.
05. I love my gauged earrings.
06. I love wearing a lot of black eyeliner sometimes
07. I love BEER.
08. I love the weekends.
09. I can't live without lipgloss
10. I can't live without music.
11. I lived in Tahoe.
12. I spend money I have. (Sometimes.)
13. I'll be in college for over 4 years.
14. I love designer handbags (RL, Kenneth Cole)
15. I get annoyed easily.
16. I eventually want kids.
17. I love the Backstreet Boys.
18. I have more than a couple horrible memories.
19. I'm addicted to Degrassi.
20. I am a person.
21. My first kiss was unexpected.
22. I start school on Jan 4th or 5th.
23. I love taking pictures. (As the picture taker not takee?)-Well both.
24. I hate girls who are fake. (We're all fake.)
25. I can be mean when I want to.
26. My dreams are bizzare.
28. I have way too many pairs of shoes.
29. I've seen Shes all That at least 50 times.
30. I dress how I feel that day.
31. I love Charmed.
32. Sometimes I cry for almost no reason.
33. I hate when people are ridiculously late.
34. I procrastinate.
35. Winter is my favorite season.
36. I have too many clothes for my closet/dresser. (Can't seem to get rid of old clothes... When I do, they make their way back into my closet...)
37. I love to sleep.
38. I wish I was smarter.
39. I am the hottest bachelorette.
40. I have a lot of drama.
41. No one knows the full story of my life.
42. I love my hair.
43. I rarely fight with my parents.
44. I love the beach.
45. I have had the chicken pox.
46. I'm excited for the future.
47. I can't control my emotions. (Sometimes..)
48. I can't wait till New Year's.
49. I love the show 'Rich Girls'
50. I love my friends.
51. Christmas is my favorite holiday.
52. I can be very insecure sometimes.
53. I have had a broken bone.
54. I hate ignorant people.
55. I love my laptop.
56. I love guys that play the guitar.
57. I state the obvious.
58. I'm a happy person.
59. I love to dance.
60. I love to sing.
61. I hate cleaning my room.
62. I tend to get jealous very easily.
63. I like to play video games.
64. I love Britney Spears.
65. I hate when I see animals/people getting hurt/abused.
66. I'm a vegetarian/vegan/don't eat beef.
67. I don't like to study for tests.
68. I love playdough.
69. I am forgiving.
70. I have a good sense of direction.
71. I love high school.
72. I have a talent of sweet talking my way out of things.
73. I don't drink enough to get drunk.
74. I love kisses on the cheek.
75. I love the color blue.
76. I don't sew.
77. I am not addicted to drugs.
78. I love the Olsen twins
79. I'm gonna try out for the softball team.
80. I become stressed easily.
81. I hate liars.
82. I like comfy sweatpants.
83. Bam Margera is AWESOME.
84. I love the smell of fresh laundry.
85. I love my family.
86. I don't mind getting shots.
87. I am a perfectionist when it comes to certain things.
88. I always wanted to learn to play the drums.
89. I hate the feeling of failure.
91. I would love to have my own fashion line.
93. I still act like a little kid sometimes.
94. Above all, I despise dishonesty.
95. I can stay on the computer forever.
96. I love music.
97. I wish I was more motivated when it comes to school.
98. I love getting stuff in the mail.
99. I have problems letting go of people.
100. I hate the feeling of being alone.

2004-07-03T08:35:00.000-05:00

Taste Of Chicago...
Celebrate Chicago with great food and entertainment.

The Taste of Chicago this year started on the 25th of June and culminates on July 4th which is also America's Independence Day. So, to honor the holiday, they extended Taste until 9:30 pm. Chicagoans look forward to these summer events every year.. That's because, we only have three months to enjoy summer heat and the rest of the year, we are all bundled up in our heavy coats..

The great array of food and entertainment enhances the event. This year, the tickets are sold for $7 each, which consists of 11 foodstubs. We weren't able to avail of the discounted tickets which were sold for $5.50 only last June 24 in Dominick's.

My dad has been going home late since Monday because after office hours, he drops by Grant Park to enjoy the concerts held there.. You know, he's been telling me that it was his dream to one day watch the artists perform the songs he grew up to... And now, his dream came into reality.. I'm so happy for him..

I went to see the Taste yesterday.. Around 5 pm, I received a call from Dad telling me to drop by the Consulate so we could all go together. Consul Pat, Ate Millet and the Velarde's will be going as well.. My dad was so excited so he told them, we'd go ahead and just we'll just meet them there..

I was so eager as well because Dad said that Peter Frampton will be performing.. Actually, I don't really know that artist. When dad told me that he was the one who sang "Baby I Love Your Way" I felt so excited as well..

We walked our way to the Grant Park which is just 3 blocks away from the Consulate. We proceeded to the Petrillo Music Shell where the concerts are held. Free Admission peeps..

My sister and I patiently waited for him to sing "Baby I Love Your Way," since it's the only reason why I'm so excited to be there.. After 5 songs since we got there, he did the intro of the song. "Shadows grow so long before my eyes..." Jell and I recognized the familiar intro and felt uber excited that we also went near the stage... Other people did too.. Soon, security were in control.. They tried to tell the people not to go near the performers.. Peter Frampton said, "If you would shun them away, I'd stop performing.." Still, the security did what they had to do. And soon, Peter Frampton walked away from the stage. People started "boo-ing." Started to shout, "We want Peter!!" I was starting to feel disgusted as well coz hey!! The song is the only reason why I wanted to see the concert.. It's the only reason!!!!

When he got back to the stage, he started with a different song to my dismay.. =( We still waited for him to sing it.. We were thinking he'd sing it for his finale.. Unfortunately, the concert ended without him singing it.. Dammit!!! Blame the security..

My mood suddenly changed when Dad bought Eli's cheese cake.. Hahahahaha!!! I love cheese cake really.. It was topped with strawberries.. Yummy!!!

We went to see other performers.. We proceeded to the one sponsored by Illinois Lottery because there were a lot of people headed that way.. Hahaha!!! When we got there, they were singing Lady Marmalade.. I think this was where we really enjoyed grooving to their songs.. Yeah baby yeah!!! (",)

Before we capped the night, we just lounged on the grounds.. Ate the swirly chips.. I dunno what it's called e.. Basta yummy sha... (",) I took pictures.. Sipped Bacardi Limon..Observed other people.. Yeah! Hahaha!! We saw this lady, she was riding on her bike and she had her fuschia lipstick on as if there's no tomorrow.. I swear!! Lagpas lagpas talaga sa lips nya.. Malapit na umabot sa nose and sa chin nya.. Ang weird talaga! She looked like a clown because of the lipstick..Promise... Then on our way sa train station, si Kuya Mel, nag-trip.. Kc there were two sexy young ladies playing frisbee.. Naki join ba naman.. Hahaha!!! And then while walking, sabi nya, at a count of 3 all of us would look up daw.. Tapos other people who saw us started looking up as well.. Then we all laughed!!! There was this lady who got pissed off when we were laughing so hard.. Kasi she looked up din.. Hahaha!!!

We got home at around 10 pm.. I fell asleep na naman sa train.. (",) WE HAD SO MUCH FUN... I'm looking forward to next year's Taste...

To satisfy myself, I just listened to the song online.. Click on the link to hear it..
"Baby I Love Your Way..."

Here are some pics I took... (",)

my freckled arm ewww... stamped with "approved," meaning we could go to the Petrillo to see the concert on stage...

after the concert, we noticed that there was a flock of birds in the sky.. too bad,
i'm just using my phone's camera, that's why it wasn't clear enough..

Chicago's high rise buildings

the stage at Petrillo.. I love the effect..

can you see the Sears Tower? it's the one that looks like a huge syringe on the left.. hahaha!!!

i wanted sana to take a nice picture of the Millenium park, pero sa labas lang kami e.. But I love how the picture looked like..

Haha! This was not taken sa Taste ha.. Sa apartment lang namin to.. That's Reji. He went here sa house just to get the keys sa house nila.. Eh sabi nya mag-picture daw kami.. This guy is so vain I swear.. We had to take the picture thrice.. Kasi daw hindi maganda un nauna.. Haha!!

2004-07-01T20:10:00.000-05:00

How weird are you?

Since I got nothing interesting to write, let me just share how weird ♥Cath♥ is... Hahaha!!!

-she reads a magazine starting on the last page...

-she pours coffee w/ creamer on rice... sarap.. specially with daing na bangus or tuyo..

-she eats dessert first when dining in a buffet restaurant..

-she dips any fried food in vinegar..

-she's multi-tasking.. meaning, she prefers to do things all at the same time.. i remember one time, i was chatting with a friend, typing an e-mail for my tita, watching tv, and listening to a song a just downloaded...

Care to share how weird you are???

2004-06-27T20:55:00.000-05:00

Philippine Independence Day Dance Festival...

After several months of tiring practices, we finally staged our performance at the St. Scholastica Academy. PFDCC (Philippine Folkloric Dance Company of Chicago,) the dance company wherein my sister and I belong to was the host company this year.. We were joined by four other dance companies.. It was a success!

Jell and I arrived at the auditorium at 1 pm.. We were supposed to be there at 12. When we got there, they were already on their costumes.. And in 10 minutes, the tech rehearsal was about to start.. Since I was really in a hurry, my stockings ripped!! Hahahaha!!! Stacey gave me an extra one before the program really started, and for the second time, it ripped again.. Hahaha!!! Me and my clumsiness... Hayyy...

Our first dance was Estudiantina. We didn't know that after Consul General's speech, they were gonna play the music right away.. There was this part wherein we'll be entering from the doors on the side of the stage.. Gillian told us that as soon as we hear the music start, that's our que to finally come out of the stage.. And you know what??? It was so dark that I couldn't see the door knob.. And when I finally found it, the God damn door won't open up right away. Grrr!!! Well, when I asked my sister about it if it was obvious, she said hindi naman daw.. (",) Thank God..

The rest of the show went smoothly...

When the show was over, we went to see our parents.. Consul General Cabrera congratulated us.. Sir Patrick, the Velarde's and Ate Millet were also there to watch us...

I've always loved to perform.. I've been doing this since I was grade 5 until highschool. I guess I'm just really proud to be a Filipino. Mabuhay!!!

Here are some pics...

Jell and I before the performance..

Us again..

Me..

Mah sis and her nice long legs.. Haha!!

Me in my Maria Clara costume..

Jell in Maria Clara..

Stacey and Jell

Celean and I in my malong

Me again with Congen

2004-06-22T22:07:00.000-05:00

"Some people think that it's holding on that makes one strong; sometimes it's letting go..."

Everything comes to an end.. I guess you've totally forgotten all about me..

You promised to call me everyday..
You promised me you're coming back..

But from the very look of it.. I don't think you are..

All you did was take me forgranted..
You went away without a trace..

Left me with a broken heart..

I guess you never really cared from the very start..

If you only knew what I'm going through right now. It's just not the same without you. I feel so alone. It's so hard to put up a brave front and pretend that I am doing just fine when deep inside I am breaking down..

Don't you worry, I am not mad at you, nor I feel bitter about the situation.. I just have to accept the fact that this is not your world.. Thank you for everything.. For coming into my life.. For once being the reason for the sparkle in my eyes..the smile on my lips..for once being the reason to look forward to each day..

But I guess I should hold on no more.. I just have to let go.. I miss him so much...

Sad but true... =(

2004-06-13T11:22:00.000-05:00

Updates...

June 11, 2004: Jell's Graduation...

Last Friday, my sister Jell graduated from Nicholas Senn Highschool. It was held at the Loyola University. Congratulations Jell!!! We're so proud of you... (",) You really looked good that night...

After the ceremony, we headed to our favorite Japanese resto... Tempura, Unagi, Blue dragon maki, Salmon teriyaki, Chicken teriyaki, and of course, strawberry-flavored mochi... Yummmy!!!

Jell and I

us again... (",)

our youngest sister Jam and I

Mommy and I

At New Tokyo resto

Daddy and goofy Jell

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June 12, 2004: Whattaday...

We had to wake up early to attend the flag raising ceremony at Daley Center. We arrived at the Consulate at around 8. Dad had to change into his barong. Breakfast at Pittsfield hosted by Mr. C.
After eating, we went back at dad's office.. Tried playing the piano.. My God it's been two freaking weaks since I last touched the ivory keys.. I can't even remember what my teacher had taught me since our last lesson.. I was preoccuppied with so many things that I haven't been practicing my pieces..
Went shopping with my mom and sisters while daddy was at the Chicago Blues Festival. I bought some tank tops, a pair of black flip-flops, and shades since summer's officially here... Woohoo!!! I also bought nugget necklaces which were on sale.. The regular price was $26 each, and now they're 3 for $14. (",) What was even better was, no one walks out from the store without a free gift. The sales rep would let each one of their customers pick a semi-precious stone from a small basket.. I picked the Rose Quartz coz I know that it's the love stone..

Metaphysical Properties: Rose Quartz is the love stone. Adds positive love energy to relationships. Compassion and forgiveness. Calming, helps clear stored anger, resentment, jealousy, fears. Replaces negativity with harmony. Helps to balance upper four chakras and eases sexual/emotional imbalances. Enhances self-confidence and creativity.

When we were about to leave the store, one of the sales rep randomly picked a bunch of semi-precious stones from the basket again and he wanted to give us more besides from those we got earlier. I was really surprised when what I got from was another ROSE QUARTZ... I mean, he didn't do it on purpose.. I didn't even tell him to give me that kind of stone again..It just happened.. Now I've got two Rose Quartz gems(",) Perhaps I could now be lucky in love.. Hahaha!!! (",)

When we were done with our shopping, dad called us up and told us to meet him at the venue of the Blues Festival (which meant we had to walk another half a mile..) Dad wanted us to appreciate those kind of music.. (blehhh!!!) He was the only one who enjoyed it..
Anyway, it was a very tiring day... I even fell asleep in the car while we were on our way home.. (",)

the flags in half-mast because President Ronald Reagan passed away...

dad and I after the flag raising ceremony

that's me.. trying to play the piano after.. hmmm.. 2 weeks??? without practice that is...

my chubby arms and fingers...

i just had to take this photo.. these musicians caught my attention while walking along State street. They were playing a certain song which was really really nice.. It sounded so familiar.. Yet, when mom asked one of them what the title was, he said that it was his composition and he's still trying to come up with the title.. I swear! sobrang nice nung song.. they were using acoustic guitars.. the music kept playing inside my head until i reached home... (",)

that's me.. donning a blonde wig in a souvenir shop.. mommy said i look like a Chinese Barbie..hahaha!!!

Cath at the Chicago Blues Festival...

so tired...

2004-06-07T18:54:00.000-05:00

Camping in Galena...

We spent the Memorial weekend camping in Galena. My family together with my dad's officemates and their respective families stayed at the Palace Campground from Saturday until Monday morning.

Satuday: Convoy with Tito Rey and Tito Noel. Our car was so full with all the camping gears that my mom had to ride with Tito Rey, Tita Baby and Pao. Dad told me that I should tell him stories so he won't fall asleep. It was a looong 3-hour drive. My dad's other officemates went there earlier. We came late because we had to attend a wedding. When we arrived, their tents had been set-up already. They were preparing for dinner.. Grilled pork-chops, tilapia, chicken and a lot more.. After dinner, they were teasing me.. Telling me that they had brought beer.. (I don't know.. Tingin nila sakin malakas uminom..Di naman..Hahaha!) They even asked my dad if i could drink.. Hello! I'm 22 na no! Tanda ko na.. Please.. Hahahaha! Dad just said, "yeah.. sure.. she's old enough na.. pero occasionally lang.."
I ended up sleeping on Ate Millet's tent together with Sir Pat, the Velardes, and of course, Ate Millet.. My second family.. (",) They told me to just bring my sleeping bag in..

Sunday: We didn't know it was gonna rain early in the morning.. Yup! Sobrang lakas ng ulan.. Nabasa nga ng konti yung mga kasama ko eh.. =( And me? I was in deep slumber.. Yeah, I didn't even notice na mejo pumapasok na un rainwater sa tent... Tulog na tulog ako.. I think I woke up at lunchtime.. around 12 maybe.. I was the last person to wake up.. I think 30 kami lahat na nag-camping.. When I got out from the tent, nasalubong ko dad ko.. I told him sarap ng tulog ko.. He told me, "Buti ka pa anak.. E kami binaha sa tent.." Yup! Sa sobrang lakas ng ulan, pinasok un tent.. What was funny was, i think it was around 5:30 in the morning, and my dad got out from the tent with a bucket full of rainwater.. Ate JV told me later, "Hindi ka ba nakokonsensha.. Nabasa sila ng ulan, and ikaw, tulog na tulog.." (",) Hey! I didn't know that was gonna happen.. Hahaha! I think that was one of the highlights of our camping.. Hahaha!
At around 1 pm, we all decided to go swim.. It wasn't a huge pool, but hey!!! We still enjoyed playing "it".. I haven't gone swimming for a year so I was excited to take the plunge.. Hahaha!
When we came back, again, time for merienda.. You know what I noticed among Filipinos? Never nawawalan ng food pagdating sa mga outing.. Kumpleto parati.. We ate deep-fried chicken wings, grilled squid, and more barbecue... (",) After dinner, the "oldies" decided to visit the nearest casino at Dubuque.. My mom wanted to come but she didn't bring any valid i.d. good thing that i have her voter's i.d. in my wallet.. She wanted me to come.. At first i was i bit hesitant coz i was kinda sleepy na.. I was already in my sleepwear..But my mom was really persuading me to come.. Not long after, i gave in.. The road was really dark and quiet.. Reminded me of provinces back home.. We passed by the Mississippi river.. After a 15-minute drive, we finally arrived at Diamond Jo Casino in Dubuque, Iowa. It was a floating casino.. It was actually my first time to go inside a casino. Slot machines for an hour.. I ended up winning $300. Talk about beginner's luck.. Hahaha! Not bad huh??? Well, gambling is not my thing.. I was just so excited about the whole thing since it was my first time nga.. (",)

Monday: I was the last one to wake up again.. Paggising ko, nagliligpit na sila.. i just had breakfast [jeprox with calamansi as my sawsawan..(yummiest!) rice, tomatoes] then took a quick shower.. we all decided to eat lunch at McDonald's.. Then we proceeded to Huntley (Outlet Store.) I ended up buying a new pair of jeans and a pink anorak from Gap, a pink sleeveless shirt and brown tee from Aeropostale.

We all enjoyed our stay in Galena. The town was very peaceful. It offers numerous sites to behold.. A perfect place to relax and unwind.. I'm looking forward to another camping... (",) I think we all are..

Galena Pictures..

that's me.. on our way to Galena.. (",)

i just had to take to this picture... i love it.. (",)

a house from Galena town

more houses..

one of the streets in the village..

tents (",)

more tents..

bonfire

before we left the campgrounds

2004-06-06T08:41:00.000-05:00

i missed the call... =(

the guy called me up last night but unfortunately, i missed it. i was so preoccuppied with the computer that i didn't hear my cell ringing. he just left a voice mail and i kept it playing until i fell asleep..

2004-06-03T01:04:00.000-05:00

Someone's always saying goodbye...

I hate goodbyes..It really breaks my heart to see someone walk away.. Specially someone special.. Last Tuesday, the guy had to go back home.. It has just been a week since he left yet it seems like forever..

It was just perfect that we spent quality time together before he left.. We strolled along Lake Shore.. Watched Troy..
The saddest part was on the eve of his departure.. While having dinner, I was trying to hold back my tears.. But when we were in the car, I suddenly burst into tears.. I just had to cry..

here's our last pic.. this was taken on the eve of his departure.. my eyes look puffy..

Myles: "There's someone here in Chicago whom I look forward to seeing everyday.. If you were in my shoes, would you leave or would you stay...?"

When Can I See You Again... - Babyface

When can my heart beat again
When does the pain ever end
When do the tears stop from running over
When does you'll get over it begin

I hear what you're sayin'
But I swear that it's not making sense
So when can I see you

When can I see you again
When can my heart beat again
When can I see you again
And when can I breathe once again
And when can I see you again

When does my someday begin
When I'll find someone again
And what if I still am not truly over
What am I supposed to do then

Please hear what I'm sayin'
Even if, if it's not making sense
So when can I see you

[HOOK]

Please hear what I'm sayin'
Even if, if it's not making sense
So when can I see you

[HOOK 2 times]

2004-06-02T22:43:00.000-05:00

hopeless case...

i've been really trying to lose weight.. some people tell me that i am not fat, but my sisters tell me that i am.. =( i really wanted to lose the flabs on my tummy.. can someone please tell me how... please oh please...

and today, just when i thought i won't eat a lot, i mean i just had some chicken wings with no rice.. here comes my mom, giving me a bowl of strawberries with whipped cream on it.. i mean, how can i resist that!!! favorite ko un e...

the culprit..

2004-06-02T19:48:00.000-05:00

Another Disastrous Picnic...
May 22... another memorable picnic... hahaha! this time around we checked the weather forecast.. only to find out that they too, would be wrong at times..
i remember it was still sunny when the guy picked me up at home. we went straight to the residence. left at around 3 pm to pick up friend B at his place.. when we got to the condo, we kinda noticed that the weather wasn't fine.. when we got to the picnic place it started to drizzle.. but still, we insisted on staying.. haha!!! it was really windy that day i swear! anyway, the food was good.. chicken and pork barbecue.. yummy! when we couldn't stand the cold anymore, we all decided to just go to the condo and eat there... well.. i just hope that next time we'd go for a picnic, perfect weather na... really sunny... (",)

here's a glimpse of how the weather was on that day...

2004-05-22T08:16:00.000-05:00

What Cath has been up to these days...

Sorry it took me quite a while to update my blog..I've been so busy these past few days...

May 15...
Treated my close friends at HOOTERS... As usual, we had their famous chicken wings with blue cheese and ranch.. Ordered shrimps and oyster roast.. Yumm! We all spent the night at the condo.. Drank till the wee hours of the morning.. Had a great time... (",)

May 16...
When we woke up, we decided to walk towards the beach front just a block away from the condo.. Sad that I didn't stay for long since I had to rush home and go to Ramada for my sister's concert.. Jell and I were usherettes that day.. He was there.. Told me I looked good that night.. (",)

May 17... MY BIRTHDAY... Cath turned 22
He was the very first person who greeted me.. Called me up around 12.. When I got home from work, Jell told me that his friend gave her flowers. I told her it was so nice of him. Jell couldn't help it but laugh at me and told me, "Sira ka tlaga.. Tingnan mo nga yun card kung kanino galing.." When I read it, it was from him.. I was really surprised and I never expected it.. He gave me a bouquet of dozen red roses... He's just so sweet...

Went to St. Peter's Parish to attend the mass.. I also had a call from a friend telling me that she wanted to refer me at Hilton... Could it be what I've long been praying for? Is it just a coincidence that she gave me a call on my birthday..? (She doesn't know it was my birthday..) It would definitely be a perfect gift...

May 19...
Filled up an application for the position I'm applying for at Hilton... Hope I'd receive a call for an interview...

May 20...
Went shopping... Dropped by New York and Co. to buy these cute jelly slippers..

And of course, shopping won't be complete if i won't be dropping by at The Body Shop... Bought Cocoa Butter Body Scrub, Shimmer Waves (eye make-up)- definitely a must have.. Some facial blotting tissues in Natural and Rose Pink, and a silver case for it.. and a slant brush.. Because I do have the Body Shop card, and it's my birthday month, i get to have one free item.. I chose the Wooden Quilled Brush.. They also gave me the Honey moisturizing shampoo.. I just love The Body Shop.. (",)

2004-05-10T19:02:00.000-05:00

Thank you BLOGGER...

I haven't blogged for a while.. I was so surprised to see the changes.. It's more convenient now and I really like the way they did it.. Thank you! Keep it up!!! (",)

2004-05-10T17:16:00.000-05:00

What I'm Lovin' Right Now...

My french tips... (",) Looks so neat..

My Nike tiki thongs... I do have the black and pink, and the white and pink.. (",)

Usher's Confessions Album...

specially the songs Burn and Superstar

Strawberries & Creme Frappuccino... Perfect to quench summer thirst..

HAAGEN DAZS BAILEYS Irish Cream ICE CREAM

**************************************************************************************
This week's been very hectic for me. Friday night spent at friend's home.. I swear that was memorable... (",) We drank Vodka till the wee hours of the morning.. Bonding at the stairway.. Slept at the living room.. Ate steak, tiger prawns, KFC.. Surely had a great time... Had to take a bath right after I woke up.. Backache.. Headache.. Saturday.. Putanesca was so good.. Had 2 servings of it! Sad I had to leave at around 1:15 coz I had to go to a practice.. Miles and I walked towards the bus stop.. Didn't know it would take that long.. (Parang nananadya...) I realized he had very expressive eyes.. Lovin' it.. Couldn't find a cab as well.. I think we stood there for 30 minutes, until a cab finally passed by.. Told the driver to hurry coz I had to be at Transfiguration church by 3. Called friend's house to say I was home na.. Miles answered it saying he's glad I made it safely.. (Kilig) (",)

2004-05-05T20:06:00.000-05:00

Joy Yee's

After the IMAX experience, we decided to go to Chinatown to have dinner. At Joy Yee's to be exact.. My fave resto.. (",)

We ordered pineapple fried rice, mixed fried rice, lobster balls, korean bbq, stir fried brocolli, chicken bbq, eel, rice noodle soup, and their famous fruit drinks with tapioca.. Yummy eh? (",)

2004-05-05T19:00:00.000-05:00

NASCAR 3D: THE IMAX EXPERIENCE

Last Sunday, immediately after my dance practice, I made lambing to my dad to take me to the nearest Red Line train station. I had to meet my friends downtown because we'll be going to Navy Pier to watch NASCAR 3d at the IMAX theatre..
For me, it's the most involving movie experience yet created. The Navy Pier IMAX Theatre provides you with a larger-than-life escape putting you in the heart of the action! Definitely an adventure that will literally take your breath away..

NASCAR 3D: The IMAX Experience goes behind the scenes of the races to uncover the science, technology and teamwork that make up this preeminent sport. Meet the revered drivers as they compete for the coveted checkered flag. Discover the technology and underlying physics that drivers depend on and meet the millions of passionate fans who are devoted to this exciting sport. With NASCAR 3D: The IMAX Experience, you'll be transported into the driver's seat of North America's most popular spectator sport.

"NASCAR 3D: The IMAX Experience, will set ears afire and jaws agape with some of the most stunning footage to date of the wildly popular spectator sport."

-Chicago Sun-Times

2004-05-01T11:15:00.000-05:00

Yummy calamari!!!

Haha! Don't you love how those two words rhyme?

On my way home yesterday, friend A called me up askin me where am I.. (I dropped by earlier in their office to pick-up my dad and I wasn't able to bid goodbye to him coz dad was really in a hurry..) I told him I'm on my way to the subway. He told me we might go out or just hang out at their place. He said he'll call me when I reach home. At around 7 the phone rang and it was friend D telling me that friend B's on his way to pick me up and we'll have dinner at their place. She even asked my mom's permission. Haha! When we hung up, I just took the very first shirt I saw on my closet, put on my jacket and my Nike tiki thongs. In a few minutes, friend B called up my cell telling me he's already waiting downstairs.

Friend B and I had to drop by at Costco to buy some beer and flour coz friend D was gonna cook calamari. We didn't know that they do not have the ones in smaller bag or box so we ended up buying a sack of flour! Hahaha! I told friend B it was gonna last for a year na. Hahaha!

When we reached the residence, they were almost through eating. Friend B and I were the last batch. Haha! Friend D prepared pork chops, there was bagoong with calamansi and some jalapenos and tomatoes, mixed fried rice, and friend B bought some shrimps and hot and sour soup... Yummm!!!

After dinner, M, B, A and I went up to hang out and do our thing. Hahaha! It was so cold outside.. And it was raining as well... From outside, we could smell the calamari D was cooking... A and B said they were going in for a while so they left him and I outside.. After quite a while, we couldn't stand the cold anymore so we went in too.

The calamari tasted so good! So crunchy! We sat at their dining area and exchanged kwentos while listening to good music.. We were laughing lang the whole time while A was telling us how the guy was trying really hard to speak tagalog the other night.. =) We told him nga na we wanted to hear him e.. He said a few words.. Sobrang tagal before ma-complete yun one sentence.. But it's cute! Hahaha!

Believe me, once in a while we had to do this because of the stress at work.. We were wondering nga e, kc here, after work, we really have no time na to go barhopping or just hang out and have coffee.. Weekends lang namin yun nagagawa.. Unlike back home, pwede pa.. Maybe because here, we don't have any maids... And here, parang ang bilis ng oras...

B, C and I left the residence at around 3:15 am. I just had 3 bottles of Miller and a Heineken. On our way out, you know what? There were cops doing the rounds again... Remember how I got so nervous when they saw him and I on the stairway? Hahaha!

We had to drop off C first coz B lives near us lang.. And he was sleepy na, so if he'll drop me off first, mejo long drive pa from C's place. I was talking nga the whole time e, para di makatulog si friend B. Hahaha! I told him to text me when he gets home, and he told me to text C that I got home na..

When I reached the bedroom, I texted C. After a few minutes, B texted me na telling me he got home safely naman.. I know I replied pa to both of them e... Basta, I don't know na what I told them. I fell asleep na pala... And when I woke up, I was still holding my cell. Hahaha!

You know what we did to the sack of flour? We divided the flour to ourselves and had to put it on a ziplock. I was so sleepy na last night to put my share sa kitchen, so I just left it sa may doorway. When dad saw it this morning, he said, "Where the hell have you been? Hahaha!" They said I seemed to have come from a refugee center. There was also some pan de sal from the Filipino store pala with my plastic bag last night.. Relief goods talaga yun dating! Hahaha!

Anyway, had a great time last night...

2004-05-01T11:14:00.000-05:00

Happy Birthday Jell!!!

It's mah sister's birthday today.. Ey jell, where are gonna treat us out? (",)
May you have more birthdays to come...

I owe you that sneakers.. Sorry I wasn't able to buy it on time.. =(

2004-04-28T20:39:00.000-05:00

: Name the following brands of the things you
have/Use:

1. Shampoo: Pantene, Garnier
2. Bags: RL, Kenneth Cole, Gap.. My Nike knapsack
3. T-shirts: Aber, Gap, Guess, Polo
4. Pants: Gap lowrise bootcut, Levi's lowrise
bootcut
5. Sweaters/Jacket: Polo, Limited, Gap
6. Shoes: Nike, DM's, My fave Diesel sneakers.. (",)
7. Socks: Gap, RL, Nike
8. Toothpaste: Colgate
9. Face cleanser: Neutrogena, Cetaphil, Apricot Scrub to exfoliate
10. Computer: Sony VAIO
11. Wallet: Gucci
12. School Bags: I don't go to school na e.. (",) but when i used to, Esprit
13. Pens: Parker, Cross, Pilot
14.watch: Fossil, Nine West
16. Clock: any brand would do..
17. Pillow Case/Bed sheet – floral, pastels..
18. Furnitures: any brand would do..
19. Cups: any brand would do..
20. Sanrio characters: I'm not into them...
21. Magazines: Cosmo, Candy
22. Car:Honda Civic, Nissan Sentra
23. Chocolate: Ferrero, Hershey's, Toblerone
24. Candy: anything minty
25. Medicine: Claritin for my allergies
26. Chips: Sour Cream and Onion (pringles), Doritos, Ruffles
27. Popcorn: butter and cheese
28. Motorcycle: I'm not into 'em
29. Camera: I don't know pa... still have to buy one for myself..
30. Underwears: Victoria's Secret
31. Cologne/Perfume- Bath and Body Work's Cucumber Melon, Clinique Happy, D&G Light Blue,Victoria's Secret Love Spell, Aqua de Gio for men, Cool Water for men, Curve for men..
32. Ciggie: (",)
33. Deodorant: Secret
34. Hair Gel/Spray: Nah..
35. T.V.: Toshiba
36. CD Player: Sony
38. Caps/Hats:Nike, Polo, Benetton
39. Tie/Scarf:None so far.. but I'm planning to buy a scarf one of these days..
40. lotion and body soap – Lotion: BBW Cucumber Melon, VS Love Spell.. Body Soap: Anything mild..

2004-04-28T20:13:00.000-05:00

I Just Love This Girl...

Eventhough Jasmine was included in bottom three tonight, it was John Stevens who finally had to go...

Wohoo!!! Jasmine's still in...

This girl had kept me smiling for the past few days... You're probably asking why...

Last week, the finalists sang Barry Manilow's songs.. And as if by coincidence, Jasmine sang one of my favorites, "I'll Never Love This Way Again." And last night, she sang Gloria Estefan's "Here We Are." I mean, I hear that song almost everyday on the radio and I love the lyrics and melody, but it was only last night, after Jasmine's performance that I found out the song's title.. Thanks a lot Jasmine!!! (",)

2004-04-28T19:58:00.000-05:00

The Da Vinci Code...

I have finished reading the aforementioned book after three long weeks.. Haha! That's because I don't get to read it every night.. I read it on my way to work while on the train, and it was on the same place where I had finished it.. Hahaha!

I have never been so engrossed in reading a thriller after John Grisham's "The Partner" and Harlan Coben's "Tell No One."

Da Vinci is a must read. Very interesting. Perfect for history and conspiracy buffs. Dan Brown is a superb story teller. However, you must not forget that this is just fiction alright?

2004-04-28T19:37:00.000-05:00

A Concert for a good cause..

Last Thursday, I had a wonderful opportunity to watch the Bukas Palad concert at the Holy Name Cathedral, the Roman Catholic Archdiocese of Chicago. The group is a Catholic community of young professionals and college students who believed that music can inspire and sustain faith. Bukas Palad was founded by friends Norman Agatep, Jandi Arboleda and Fr. Manoling Francisco, who during their high school days at the Ateneo de Manila composed liturgical songs for their school masses.

It was a dream come true for me to be watching them up-close because of their music I had grown to love... I just can't help but miss home all the more.. =(

For those who do not know, it was Father Manoling Francisco, SJ who composed Hindi Kita Malilimutan in 1979 when he was still in highschool. He, together with his friends, were also responsible for Tanging Yaman and One More Gift which are my favorite inspirational songs.

To the Bukas Palad Music Ministry, may you continue to inspire other people through your songs, and bring them closer to the heart and will of God.

I am very proud to say that I am your fan...

2004-04-26T19:55:00.000-05:00

It's been a year...

Time flies so fast.. Today, April 26, 2004, I've been staying here in Chicago for a year... Anniversary ko here today.. (",)

I'm being senti na naman tuloy... I really miss my life back home. I miss a lot of people there. =( I just can't wait for the day when I would be going back. That's something I'm really looking forward to. But the way I see it, probably after 3 long years pa. My dad's term here is till 2007. He won't let me go on vacation, and that's the sad part.. He said, I'll just be wasting my hard-earned money.. =( I don't want to argue with him anymore about that..

So many things happened for a year.. I got employed at East West Martial Arts Supply for 2 months.. And then, I also had the opportunity to work as a Comelec project personnel for the Overseas Absentee Voting Registration from August till October. I have learned so much in that project, met good friends, and also had the chance to go to Michigan and Ohio. That experience was one of the highlights for the year... Then came September, I enrolled at Harry Truman College to get my Associate Degree in Marketing supposedly.. Then came October. Tita Glends recommended me at RC Philippine Trading Corporation.. My current job.. It was also during these days that I realized it was so hard to be studying and working at the same time.. Mahirap pala talaga.. =( So, when I got my work permit already, I stopped studying na... I enrolled lang naman, because it was a requirement for me in order to obtain a working permit... Besides, my ultimate dream really is to go to graduate school and get my MBA. I am working so hard for that.. I'm hoping that when it's time for us to go back home, I have saved enough already to support myself into graduate school...

Then came December.. First white Christmas.. Honestly, mas masaya pa rin Christmas back home.. =( Lalo naman New Year.. No firecrackers at all! Sad no?

February.. March.. Coldest months.. Lonely, depressing days... April.. start of spring...

One year has passed.. Three more years.. Three more years Cath... I had to sacrifice my own happiness for the sake of being with my family... I know my sacrifices will eventually pay off.. Just be patient Cath...

2004-04-24T20:18:00.000-05:00

Two nights in a row...

Last Friday, we went to Hooter's to have dinner. The waitresses at Hooter's are clad in skimpy shorts and revealing tops... =) It's a good thing as well that they don't ask for id's.. Their chicken wings with blue cheese dip is a must-try... You can either have it mild, medium or hot... We ordered 50 of those! Hahaha! And there were just 6 of us! We ordered celery sticks as well, and some curly fries... I didn't drink that night.. (Haha! For a change..) Friend C and I just had iced tea, Sprite for bloody, while the guys had a pitcher of beer.

We dropped by at the McDonald's Rock and Roll to buy a burger. They have memorabilias displayed in there.. Such as guitars used by Elvis Presley, some old pictures of the Beatles, The Supremes and a lot more vintage stuff...

Last night naman, we went to Dublin's at Rush... It was my first time to visit the place. Rush street is like the East Wood City back home...

Arrived there at 6 pm. Ordered nachos.. quesadillas.. I tried their clam chowder soup. It was good, but for me, nothing beats the clam chowder soup at Bennigan's.. =) Would you believe our bill was around $150? Well that's because we consumed 21 bottles of Heineken.

We were supposed to transfer to another bar, but then they required id's. He's just 20 so he won't be allowed in. Went home at around 2 am... hmmm.. i love the night life... (",)

tired cath...

2004-04-24T11:17:00.000-05:00

Wendella...

Last week, some friends and I went for a boat ride. The 60 minute tour travelled through the heart of the city on the Chicago River. It also included an in-depth narration of Chicago's architecture.. It was the very same place where some scenes from the Julia Robert's flick, "My Best Friend's Wedding" were shot. We all decided to meet at the Wrigley Building. The entire tour was worth it. The view was breathtaking. I enjoyed taking pictures. I just used my phone though coz I have yet to by a camera for myself.. The architectures are trully Chicago's pride... (",)

Buildings..

more buildings.. (",)

The Navy Pier... You can see the ferris wheel from afar...

The Sears Tower..

The building as backdrop is actually Chicago Sun Times

LuncH at JOHN HANCOCK's "THE SIGNATURE ROOM"

After the boat ride, we had to catch the lunch reservation at the John Hancock Center.

We were in a hurry to get to the 95th floor because our reservation was supposed to be at 1 pm, and they would give 30 minutes extension, otherwise, they'd cancel it. When we arrived at the building, it was 1:15 already. We took the very first elevator that opened up before us. We didn't know that the one we took would go directly to the 94th floor, that there was no way for it to go one floor up, and there's no way we could take the stairs as well. The employee that greeted us told us to go all the way down to the lobby and take another elevator that would go up to the 95th floor. We thanked her, and the elevator went down upto the basement. You could just imagine how our ears popped because of the pressure! Hahaha! When we reached the basement, we thought it would go one floor upto the lobby. We didn't know that we had to get off from there and just walk our way to the lobby. Yeah, Yeah,.. The elevator went express to the 94th floor again. Hahaha! The woman who greeted us earlier seemed surprise to see us again. Hahaha! She couldn't help but ask, "Weren't you the same guys who were just here a while ago?"

The good thing was, we weren't the only ones who actually experienced it. There were three American women who were also supposed to go to the 95th floor and have lunch at The Signature Room. One woman actually said, "That was so embarrasing yet hilarious!" Hahaha! Indeed it was...

The Restaurant Chicago Looks Up To...

Another good thing was, the food was superb! I had two servings of the potato leek soup. Yummy! I had the roast beef, parsley potatoes, scad fillet in puttanesca sauce and their salad. For dessert, we ordered the Lemon Custard Cake, and Chocolate mousse... (",)

The Signature Room offers a spectacular view of Chicago...

2004-04-24T10:39:00.000-05:00

Something to ponder upon...

Just wanna share this with you. Got this from an e-mail my cousin sent me...

When you're out there looking for that perfect person keep these things
in
mind. People change, no matter how hard they try not to. As you grow
older you mature, and with each new level of maturity come different
ideas, different needs and wants. The person who was perfect for you at
twenty could be the person you hate when you're thirty-five. You have
to
find some one who will grow with you, change with you, laugh with you
and
cry with you. A person who fills in where you lack, a person whom you
can
fill in for when they are lacking.

"i always thought that love was something i'd know the minute it
appeared. That there would be drumrolls and bells ringing as love
swept
me off my feet. No one told me how quietly love could appear, or how
humbly. That someday i'd look up and there it would be, waiting for me
in
a pair of familiar eyes... I never expected i'd find somebody to love
in
you... i guess i never knew love the way i do now."

2004-04-21T20:18:00.000-05:00

The warmth of a hug...

I love to cuddle and be cuddled... =) It gives me immense happiness.. Gives me the feeling of being secured...Here's a pic of me and my sister... I love to make lambing to her... She was lying comfy when I insisted that we would fit on the poor sofa... Hahahaha!

2004-04-21T20:11:00.000-05:00

Friday night...

Dinner at a friend's house... Videoke.. Swing sessions..

I never felt so nervous till that fateful night..

Him and I were having a few drinks at the apartment's stairway when some cops drove in the neighborhood.. When they stopped in front of us, I became really nervous because I thought what we were doin was illegal.. Well in my case, it's legal to drink coz im 21 but he is only 20.. I was afraid that they might call home and confirm if I'm of age already to drink.. So they got off from the car and walked towards us... Even flashed the flashlight on us.. Asked us how we were doin.. I only felt relieved when they asked if we were the ones who complained about the dog who kept barking all night...

2004-04-21T19:15:00.000-05:00

Shopping...

Shopping gives me a feeling of temporary bliss... I really really love to shop. I think it's a girl thing. But I am not the type who max out my credit card. I hate being broke.. Though I shop a lot, I know my limitations.. =)

Material things I have to be thankful for for the past week...

*A pair of jeans from Gap
*A vintage denim skirt from Gap
*White Tiki Thongs from Niketown
*Wrist watch from Nine West
*"The Five People You Meet in Heaven" by Mitch Albom

2004-04-21T19:07:00.000-05:00

Happy Birthday Daddy!!!

May you have more years to come... Glad you liked my gift..

I bought him a dvd copy of his favorite movie.. Schindler's List. Last month, I was asking him what his favorite movie was, or if he wanted to buy any book in particular. I wanted to give him something he'd really like. And so last night, after work, I dropped by at Coconut to buy his gift. I gave it to him this morning and he really really liked it. =) I saw it in his face..He was like a kid who had just received a new toy. He asked me how I knew he'd like to buy a copy of the film. He actually forgot that I asked him about it last month. =)

Simple things like this make me happy. I love to make other people happy. And I do not expect anything in return, it's just enough for me to see the smile on their face and how they appreciate what I had given or what I had done for them.. That alone is more than enough...

2004-04-20T19:55:00.000-05:00

Summertime

If there's one thing in my life that I can look forward to, IT is the fact that summertime's just around the corner. It's now time to part ways with my coat, sweaters and thermals for a while.. Summertime for me means, flip-flops+tank tops+shorts+shades+getting a tan+beach+beach (did I say beach??? lol!) = FUN, FUN,FUN!!! WOOHOO!!!

2004-04-18T19:59:00.000-05:00

A Dose Of My Life's Drama...

It's been quite a while since I last blogged. So many things are running through my mind right now. My life's in chaos.

Let me tell you why...

One of my childhood friends and I started to become close last year. It was the month of November to be exact. When we started talking regularly over the phone, we found out we had so much in common. From music, to back therapies, to French Baker's fetuccini... I believe there's a lot more.. We were the type of friends who never ran out of stories to tell and experiences to share. It has been a routine that we talk every night sometimes till the wee hours of the morning. But we didn't mind. We both enjoy answering cross word puzzles and laughing at corny jokes..In short, we just jived. We connected.. Not long after, I found myself falling for my friend. But I kept it to myself. Mushy as I may seem to be, I even thought I've found my soulmate. I felt that he was the one I've long been waiting for. In my own world, we were perfect for each other.

I know that he felt something for me as well, but for some reasons, I feel that he was just afraid to tell me about it. Not to brag or anything, but I am a very intuitive person.. And perhaps, all girls would agree that we would feel about a guy's intention from the very start...

During those times, he confided to me about his past relationships, and so did I.. It was then when he told me that his girlfriend left for Canada. I didn't really know if they had a formal break-up, or if they ever did break-up.. I didn't have enough courage to ask.. Besides, I know that the answer to my question would definitely hurt me. Truth hurts I know...

I had to control my feelings for him because I know there's someone he loves more. And I also do know that in a few months time, I'd be leaving for Chicago. But I remember, in one of our conversations, he asked me, "Pa'no tayo?" Thinking it was one of his silly jokes again, I just told him, "Eto naman, puro biro e.." That was the last time he ever mentioned that line.

It took me quite sometime before I had the courage to tell him that I was leaving. I think he already knew it because when I mentioned it to him, he didn't seem surprised at all.

A few weeks before I left, during one of our regular conversations, he told me something that really crushed my heart. He said that his girlfriend had come back. I guess that made me realize that I really have to let go of my feelings for him. "Wala akong laban e. Dumating na yung mahal nya."

On the eve of my departure, he was even the last person I was talking to. He made me promise that he'd also be the first person I'd call when I get here. I even thought "This is it.. this could be my last chance..I was still hoping that during our final conversation, I'd hear what I wanted him to tell me. But he didn't. I guess it would be enough to say that I left Manila with a broken heart...

I kept my promise that he'd be the first person I'd call... But eventually, we lost touch. Last June, a friend texted me something about his situation... I think that was the final blow. I just had to completely forget all about him... I had to move on with my life...

One day, he sent me an e-mail. I admit I felt excited when I saw his name on my inbox, because I know I didn't give him my e-mail ad. When I asked him about how he got my e-mail, he told me he confirmed it from our friends.

After a year, he comes back into my life unexpectedly. Now he tells me "hinahanap hanap kita.." I asked him why he's telling this to me now. He told me he didn't want to hurt me then. Here's what he had to say. "Gusto ko sana ipaglaban pero mahirap mag-isa. Kung noon hindi kita napaglaban, ngayon handang handa na ko."

Weak as I can be, I could not help but cry when he told me that.. It really hit me.. He had feelings for me since then, but he was not strong enough to fight for me. Now he tells me he's ready.. As if on cue, tears welled up in my eyes as I heard those words from him. Tears that I've kept from falling all this time. I thought I've totally forgotten all about him. I was wrong...

How can life be so unfair? Why does he have to come back and tell me all of these? Now I had to make a decision that will definitely hurt either one or both of us... Things are different now. "We" can no longer be.. But the Lord knows how I fervently prayed for us to be more than friends.. My mind tells me to let go, however, there are times my heart tells me otherwise.. In fact in one of our conversations, I told him, "Kung alam mo lang..."

When he asked me what we should do about our situation, I told him that what we needed was closure. It's for my own peace and for his as well.

Believe me or not, I actually felt better now that we've talked about it. At least I won't spend the rest of my life regretting that I did not tell him what I really felt at that time. It's enough for me that finally, I've told him that at one point in my life, I've loved him and wished that he felt the same way.

I had to let go so as not to make things complicated, even if it meant giving up what I had long wished for. =( I just hope I made the right decision not to cling to my past anymore.. There's no more turning back this time.. I just had to move on..

Sad but true.. =(

2004-04-13T21:20:00.000-05:00

Only Pinoys...

"Psstt!" That's what I heard this afternoon while I was checking my mail at the Yahoo booth in Marshall Fields. Sensing that the sound came from someone I know, I looked up. And from afar, I saw my dad waving at me. Hahaha! When he reached the booth, he said, "Anak, lakas naman ng pandinig mo." I answered back, "E shempre, alam ko Pinoy lang sumusutsot no.." (",)

2004-04-11T19:29:00.000-05:00

Get together...

Just got home from the Chinese resto. Some friends invited us for early dinner. Early dinner? Coz it was around 4 pm. (",) I ate the usual food they got there. Crab rangoon, peking duck, some crabs, egg drop soup,mushrooms in oyster sauce, and lots of fish. I didn't eat rice today. I wasn't in the mood to do so. Besides, I'm trying really hard to shed off some pounds.
We had fun. Kuya Paul our cousin was with us on our table. We took silly, funny pictures. Had a few laughs coz Jell was tryin to show us how she could move her ears! Hahaha! My sis had superb talents! If you call that one... Hahahaha! Here are some pics we took...

my cousin Paul and I

Paul, my sister Jel and I

poohpooh

Happy Jel

Jel trying to move her ears

Me.. Hahahaha! I dunno what the heck I was doing...

Oh!!! Before I forget... Here's my fortune for today... "Place special emphasis on old friendship..."

2004-04-11T14:46:00.000-05:00

Random thoughts...

*Ian and Adam telling me and jam that we should each have a solo during the mass.. I told them, "I don't wanna embarass myself in front of everybody." I mean I sing, but then, I don't think I can handle the pressure singing alone. Specially in front of other people..

*Dad prompting me to try auditioning for next year's American Idol! Hahahaha!!! Is he ok? I mean, I don't have the guts to do so! My God, I don't think I can take what the judges specially Simon, would be telling me after I have done my piece. Or rather, I might faint in front of the judges before doing my part! Hahahaha! I don't want the entire world to laugh at me alright! My Dad can be so ridiculous at times. (",)

*We had no idea that malls would be closed because it's Easter Sunday. I was hoping I could buy a new pair of pants and flip-flops... We ended up going to the Oriental store. I bought junkies. Junkies meaning lots of instant noodles,and chocolate cookies!

2004-04-11T14:37:00.000-05:00

Last week's smiles...

*Yesterday's chat with JR, a good friend of mine.
*Shopping at Niketown.
*Meeting a new friend, M.
*A few drinks with some friends. (2 Coronas)
*Playing shuffleboard at Dave and Buster's
*The cheese and mushroom pizza.
*Reading a very interesting book.
*Jasmine Trias stays with other finalists.
*My friend Toti, greeting me, saying it was our anniversary yesterday, coz he remembered last year we painted easter eggs for our parish. Hehe!
*Quick chat with Toti who's also a good friend of mine.
*Chat with boss (",) It has been quite a while since the last one... I missed him.

2004-04-11T14:24:00.000-05:00

Happy Easter Everyone...

Let us all rejoice for the Lord has risen...

A few days ago, while cleaning the entire house, 3 bunnies caught my attention. I asked dad if he knows for whom those bunnies are for. He said mom's gonna give it to someone.
We had no idea those bunnies were her Easter gifts for me and my other two sisters. She gave 'em to us together with some M & M's this morning.. Here's a pic of my bunny... She's so cute and cuddly.. I have yet to give her a name.. (",)

2004-04-10T17:35:00.000-05:00

Me and my clumsiness...

Is being clumsy a sin? I don't think so... You just can't prevent things to happen. I admit I am oftentimes clumsy. But I just can't help it. I'm not doing it on purpose. It just happens.

Like yesterday, before going inside the church, dad and I decided to get some song books first. Sister Cecilia was there, instructing us which ones to get. And just as my hand landed on the book, it slipped from my hand and fell on the floor with a loud noise. Father Dominic even turned around to see what it was. It was that loud! :(

And this afternoon, while I was washing the pitcher, the filter suddenly fell off. There was water inside the pitcher, so as the filter fell, the water splashed in the kitchen sink leaving my shirt really wet. :(

I've got a lot of clumsy stories to tell, yet these are the recent ones... I'm sure I'll be back for more...

2004-04-10T10:12:00.000-05:00

Whenever I'm on the train, I tend to read books out of boredom... And yesterday, a man asked me if the book I was reading keeps me interested.. (I was reading The Da Vinci Code) I said the book's really good.. I think he was set to buy a book yesterday but still undecided as to what he was gonna get..

I'm completely engrossed with the book.. I'm gonna write an analysis when I finish it.. :)

2004-04-10T08:41:00.000-05:00

How annoying...

I was just delighted to see the bus coming as I approached the bus stop. I punched my bus pass, and even greeted the bus driver. I sat down and opened my book. I think it was after two minutes when I noticed that the bus was on halt. I looked at the lady beside me and asked her what's going on. She said she didn't know and even told me she's running late.
I checked my watch, it was already 7:55. I really didn't know the reason why the bus was not moving, and the driver was not even telling the reason either.. I got really pissed off and decided to get off at the next stop. After a couple more minutes, the driver decided to move on yet very slowly.. How annoying was that!

When I got off, I took a taxi to the train station. I paid twenty bucks and the driver said he had no change so I told him, "just give me 10 bucks and that's fine.." Imagine??? Paying 10 bucks when I was just supposed to be paying 5 bucks.. If only not for that bus driver, i would have not spent my money for the cab ride..

2004-04-10T07:36:00.000-05:00

Night out...

Last Thursday, friend A called me up while I was still at work and told me they're gonna pick me up to have dinner at a friend's house.. I told them I might as well go home first to change.. When I got off from work, I was really in a hurry to catch the train, since it will take me forty five minutes from downtown to the Loyola Station, and ten minutes bus ride from there to my house.. While on the bus, I texted friend B and apologized coz I told them they could pick me up at around six thirty, but it's almost 6:15 on my watch and I still had to take a shower when I get home.. He said it was ok and told me to just text him when I reach home...

It was around 6:45 when friend B texted me and told me he's gonna pick up the Velarde's first and they might as well drop by somewhere else before picking me up.. He told me to take my time and I need not to hurry.

It was around eight when they called me up to say they're already waiting downstairs.. I grabbed my coat and told dad I was finally leaving. Dad accompanied me and even said a quick hello to them.. Oh.. yeah before I forget, M, ate J's cousin from Sac was also with them. He arrived last Tuesday and I think he's gonna be here for the next two weeks..

We went to St. Ita church to pray before finally proceeding to friend C's place.

Friend C's sister cooked paella and sotanghon soup.. For dessert, she prepared Panacotta with fresh strawberries... =) yummy!!!

After dinner, we decided to go to Dave and Buster's. We were supposed to play pool, but opted to settle for the Shuffleboard. It was an exciting game.. =) We also had a few drinks.. I had two Coronas.. =)

Too bad, they close at 1. We really wanted to stay pa.. =(

We went straight to the Friend A's house and chilled out for a while. We watched the video of our so called "picnic" last week. It was hilarious! Hahahaha!!!

It was around 2 am when friend B drove me home.. We wished each other good luck since both of us needed to wake up at around 6 am. =)

2004-04-07T21:39:00.000-05:00

American Idol Update...

There's no doubt that Jasmine Trias is my favorite... But while watching tonight's episode, I was so tensed because she was included in the bottom three together with Camille Velasco and Diane Degarmo.

I became more nervous when only Camille and Jasmine were left. I guess what I felt was more of mixed emotions. I was wishing that it was Diane who should go tonight. I didn't really like her. She's over confident.

Camille was crying while she was watching her final tribute. I was a bit emotional as well because I was hoping both she and Jasmine could make it to the top 3...

Let's just pray that Jasmine continue to shine and make us all proud... =)

2004-04-07T21:01:00.000-05:00

Another mishap

I woke up so early coz I was told by my boss yesterday to come earlier since her sister won't be around today. I took the cab from our house to Loyola station coz the bus was darn late again.. (or was it I who left the house late??) As usual, I fell asleep on the train again. When I woke up, I thought I was on my stop already, so I hurriedly stood up and I almost got off from the train, only to find out that we were still at Grand station, which is a stop away from Lake where I should really get off from. How embarassing was that! Probably some of the passengers saw my expression and how I reacted, and secretly laughed at me... When I sat down again, I pretended like nothing really happened. Hahahaha!

2004-04-06T21:07:00.000-05:00

Hayyy... I just hope I'd feel better soon... I hate this feeling! I can't seem to function very well. Imagine, I even brought my own tissue box at work coz I really sneeze and blow my nose a lot... :( My throat is still sore and I'm having difficulty swallowing... And sometimes, my throat would be so itchy that I wish I could scratch it inside for real... =(

2004-04-06T21:01:00.000-05:00

Touched...

I felt so touched because of some people's gestures toward me today... I'm very easy to please and simple things make my day.
At work, my boss gave me a medicine that I just had to dilute into hot water, and voila! I had to drink it like a hot tea... to relieve my clogged nose. And believe me, it was effective. My boss's sister even told me to put on another jacket since it was quite chilly. One of our customers also noticed that my voice sounded different over the phone. He told me to drink lots of fluid and hoped I'd get well soon...
How I wish all the people in this world were like them...