Mari's Choco Chats

Birthday

2006-07-23T20:51:00.000+10:00

It's been a successful party indeed. I celebrated my 21st at a fancy floating restaurant yesterday during lunch at Darling Harbour with my family and close friends. Everybody loved the venue, the food, the cake and the after party movie. I really had a great time and if I'm not mistaken, my family and friends had one too.

Ian has also prepared a really cool gift-giving trick. He combined everyone's presents in one box (two actually, coz it didn't fit into one- although we considered it as "one" box, meaning "Combined as one"), making up 21 special gifts that represent myself and my fabourite things. And of course, to top them all off, he bought me tickets to Cirque Du Soleil (one of the best circus in the world apparently) and two bears from this charity foundation ran by Mcdonalds. Cute and sweet.

Simple, and Casual; not too fancy. That's how I would describe my party. But the fun we all had goes far beyond that...

I guess it's the people that made my party PERFECT!

Endless thanks to my family and friends.

(The first lot of pictures are posted on my multiply http://marree.multiply.com . There will be a second batch coming soon)

2006-07-19T22:16:00.000+10:00

I think I stress too much that I even stress about the obstacles that I expect to endeavour in the future. I need to learn to do things step by step...more like worrying about "today" first rather than "tomorrow". That way, I can enjoy life more and cherish all the lessons I learn day by day. There's no such thing as eating dinner at 7 in the morning. Not everything can be done too early. I think I'm unhealthily being too proactive.

Anywayz, enough of my reflections. I feel like most of my blogs are about my D&M moments with myself so i'll try to be a lil bit literal this time. I jst got my results back last night and I'm so glad (and surprised) I passed all my subjects. I'm also turning twenty one on the twenty first (21st on the 21st) and I'll be having a not-so-big party on saturday, 22July. In short, I am currently in a HAPPY MOOD.

I'll be posting my bday photos on my multiply as soon as i can...

2006-07-15T14:41:00.000+10:00

Visit and add to ur favourites: http://marree.multiply.com

Movies

2006-07-14T23:40:00.000+10:00

I found it a bit lame when I realised that I've literally seen all the movies that are out this season. I felt like I've been quite a bum and that I havent been using my time wisely to do productive things. But then someone, a really really good friend of mine (I would really still like to call her my best friend- hoping she'd approve), proved me wrong, "ganito lang yan.. you do everything you can..if it didnt work out, it's not meant to be or it's supposed to teach you something...siguro obsessive compulsive ka lang and you dont like failure...you can't be a superhero...but in a way you can be one too...i envy you" She made me feel really good about myself; and hearing some kind of advice from a very satisfied and happy person like her, I am sure I can be a really happy one too.

I'm not a bum after all. I've just had things a bit too easy and I felt like I haven't been doing much. But now i've realised that being the person that i am right now i can only do so much. I'm just a young student struggling to pass my subjects and at the same time trying to do well in my part time work. I've been too hard on myself as I've put my standards exteremly high thereby pushing myself to do things I do not necessarily have to do. I'm not placed by God in a mission to have a family yet, to raise millions of dollars nor to run my own country. I therefore should enjoy the movies for now without feeling any guilt :)

Looking back on what I did today, I feel fulfilled to have spent time with my younger cousins at the "MOVIES" (again). It's like having little angels around me reminding me that it's ok to be young and free.

2006-07-13T09:44:00.000+10:00

After 20 (almost 21) years of learning how to live, I've finally gained wisdom on how to be and feel more passionate- Passionate in general- about a lot of things, anything, everything. I think it's because I've learnt to ponder and reflect about WHY i do things, and WHO inspires me to accomplish those. It makes me feel more fulfilled and happy that even the most nonsense thing make sense to me.

I can love further.

2006-07-08T22:07:00.000+10:00

I'm so bored at the moment that I really feel like filling in those surveys from the friendster bulletin hehe. For some reason, I've never felt comfortable posting things there so I decided to do it here (to satisfy my need to fill in a stupid survey which I believe to be a cure to my boredom). Please don't feel obliged to read it- its long and well, boring!

1) How old do you wish you were?
hmmm...sixteen...exciting teenage year hehe

2) Where were you when 9/11 happened?
I was at an airport (sydney- luckily), believe it or not. I was on my way to the phils.

3) What do you do when vending machines steal your money?
Press all the buttons i could possibly find and then give up after. Hehe

4) Do you consider yourself kind?
Sometimes hehe

5) If you had to get a tattoo, where would it be?
I don't want one

6) If you could be fluent in any other language,
what would it be?
French

7) Do you know your neighbors?
A bit hehe.

8) What do you consider a vacation?
A time away from my usual routine

9) Do you follow your horoscope?
nah... i dont understand what they mean about things like "the moon is over ur planet and the stars are like heat coming from ur electric waves and ur lucky number is..." hehe

10) Would you move for the person you loved?
Yes unless we're unmarried

11) Do you believe that opposites attract?
Not all the time but they certainly can

12) Dream job?
Hehe secret

13) Favorite channel(s)?:
ten

14) Favorite place to go on weekends?
Mall, movie, long driving

15) Showers or Baths?
showers

16) Do you paint your nails?
sometimes

17) Do you trust people easily?
nope hehe

18) What are your phobias?
None in particular

19) Do you have pets?
nope

20) Do you keep a handwritten journal?
nope

21) Where would you rather be right now?
just right here in my room. its getting late and i'll need to sleep soon hehe

22) Who makes you feel warm and fuzzy?
Joaquin my nephew

23) Heavy or light sleep?:
In between

24) Are you paranoid?
yes with a lot of things unfortunately

25) Are you impatient?
yes :(

26) Who can you relate to?
ian bcoz hes good at putting up with me hehe

27) How do you feel about interracial couples?
its normal to me

28) Have you been burned by love?
no

29) What's your life motto?
it changes every now and then...depends on my success rates hehe

30) What's your main ring tone on your mobile?
i have no idea wat it's called

31) What were you doing at midnight last night?
sleeping

32) Who was your last text message from?
ian

33) Who's bed did you sleep in last night?
mine

34) What color shirt are you wearing?
pink pyjamas lol

35) Thing that most annoys you?
know it alls and "pakialamero"

36) Name three things you have on you at all
times.
Money, phone, keys

37) What color are your bed sheets?
purple, white

38) How much cash do you have on you right now?
10 cents? hehe wala yata akong pera

39) What is your favorite part of the chicken?
thigh

40) What's your favorite town/city?
those places i went to in america hehe i like them all

41) I can't wait till..
im settled with a nice, cozy flat, a husband, a child and a decent job hehe

42) Who got you to join friendster?
my friends

43) What did you have for dinner last night?
bread and tuna

44) How tall are you barefoot?
dont ask! I think im barely 5 ft hehe

45) Have you ever smoked heroin?
no

46) Do you own a gun?
no

47) What do you prefer to drink in the morning?
milk or water

48) What is your secret weapon to lure in the...
I dont get it

49) Do you have?
Do i have a what?

50) What time did you wake up today?
a bit before 9...around 8.50am hehe

51) Current worry?
Failing my exams hehe

52) Current hate?
a few ppl hahahaha (*evil grin*)

53) Favorite place to be?
city

54) Where would you like to travel?
asia or europe

55) Where do you think you'll be in 10 yrs?
refer to question 41 (i hope)

56) Last thing you ate?
noodles and strawberries hehe

57) What songs do you sing in the shower?
i prefer not to sing in the shower

58) Last person that made you laugh?
ian haha

59) Worst injury you've ever had?
none so far...

60) Does someone have a crush on you?
i don't think so

61) What is your favorite candy?
any of those gummy things: gummy bears, snakes, worms, party animals, the pizza thing, the burger thing etc... except those jelly babies hehe

2006-07-05T20:34:00.000+10:00

I am certain about my destination, I have the most reliable road map, I have a car and I know that I have a reasonable diving skill, yet somehow, something is preventing me to go forward. That's how I'm feeling right now.

I have goals, I know each and every step I need to take to achieve those, I get good grades at school, I do what I am told to do, I try new things, I challenge myself each day so that I could lean more, and I am competent and capable to achieve numerous things, yet somehow, I do not see any progress and I cannot even see myself getting at least a step closer to my goals.

Most of the time I feel like just sitting back while waiting for luck to come my way. Giving up is something I've never tried before. Maybe it won't be as bad as I thought it would be.

2006-06-29T09:42:00.000+10:00

The fastest racer could not be a qualified champion if he didn't even attempt to join the race. Sometimes in life we all gotta stand up for ourselves because no matter how correct our principles are, we will still be defeated if we neglect to fight.

2006-06-25T20:36:00.000+10:00

Im finally on my sem break but i think i'll still stay busy coz i want to get a lot of things done but i won't mention them here coz i don't wanna jinx myself hehe.

2006-06-16T23:49:00.000+10:00

REGRET
v. re-gret, re-gret-ted, re-gret-ting, re-grets

1. To feel sorry, disappointed, or distressed about.
2. To remember with a feeling of loss or sorrow; mourn.
3. A sense of loss and longing for someone or something gone.
4. A feeling of disappointment or distress about something that one wishes could be different

That is how the dictionary defines the word regret. It infers the idea that regret is some sense of suffering from a wrong decision. To me, however, regret is not just a consequence from a wrong decision but is also something that is caused by an inability to justify the perfection of a seemingly correct decision.

I am slightly frightened by something at the moment.

2006-06-15T14:23:00.000+10:00

MCDONALDS DELIVERY SERVICE

The surprise delivery of Happy Meal made my day.

AND YET ANOTHER SURPRISE...

I was totally exhausted from studying all day for TWO distinct and very unrelated subjects so I decided to procrastinate by friendsterring to calm my brain overload. I was so surpsised to find a really old photo (1989 to be exact) of myself from the profile a very very old friend of mine who I think is not even a friend of mine anymore. I haven't seen that girl since the photo was taken and it just really excited me to see our ancient memories back in kindergarten...damn, i was fat, lol!

2006-06-06T23:49:00.000+10:00

I jst had my company law exam yesterday but i still dont feel too satisfied coz i didnt really have enough time to write everything that i think i knew hehe. But i hope that i went just fine. All i want is a pass... to get a credit is a bonus; a distinction would be big surprise; and a high distinction? well, lets just say that its IMPOSSIBLE hehe!

I have two more exams to go on the 21st and 22nd of june but im jst so out of it. Uni is like the last thing on my mind right now. Too much time is being taken up by our visitors from philz...not that its a bad thing. Its fun having them here but i feel quite unproductive when it comes to uni work.

After every tiring day, I would sometimes wish everything was back to normal. Comfort zones may be a lot boring but theyre just so secure that I sometimes prefer to stay there FOREVER (hehe).

I think I need to learn how to be undistracted by distractions :)

Mothers day

2006-05-14T22:36:00.000+10:00

Its been a busy weekend for me. Busy doing my end of semester assessments; busy eating out; and busy shopping.

Given my 4-day weekend (to those who dont know, I only go to uni Mondays to Wednesdays), Ive spent all Thursday finishing up my assessments due this coming week. I actually just had one to do- Auditing, but it was quite big and challenging. No wonder auditors get paid heaps.

Friday, on the other hand was a day-out with my uni friends to celebrate on of our friends (Julie) birthday. We went and saw this Indian movie called Water at Dendy, a special movie house for out of this world films and had dinner at some Italian restaurant afterwards.

The movie was about Indian widows in the 1930s who were forced into poverty and social restrictions at some temple in the holy Indian city. Their so-called religion believed that women are worthless without the existence of their husbands. Even the little girls were forced to marry at a very early age just to gain some kind of respect from the society and a sense of security. After watching this movie I began to understand and realise where Indian arranged marriages are coming from. The Indian culture is actually one of the cultures I cant comprehend. But of course I respect it as much as I value my own.

I went shopping all day on Saturday. I got some stuff from Missha, my new favourite cosmetic shop and a jacket from an unnamed shop (hehe). Im not much of an impulse buyer but Im a big window shopper. I love seeing the new fashion as regularly as possible but I dont like spending too much on it and that includes perpetual purchasing of fashion magazines. I prefer seeing the clothes in person rather than by just flicking through pages and pages of glossy paper.

Saturday night was a time for another weird movie. Ian and I went all the way to the Sydney Opera House to see the free viewing of the multi-awarded international film- Ang pagdadalaga ni Maximo Oliveros, in English, The blossoming of Maximo Oliveros. Hehehehehe!!! Yes, its a Filipino movie about a gay 12-year-old boy (Maxi) born in the slums of Manila, befriends a young policeman, thus undermining his devotion to his family of small-time criminals. He grew up in the company of his father and two brothers who all made a living by stealing mobile phones. Since his mother is already deceased, Maxi ends up acting as the lady of the house and does all the cleaning, sewing, cooking and washing of the clothes for his family. It was a low-budget, independent film with amateur actors and I dont really know what people see in that movie. Although, Im really proud to have my fellow Filipinos recognised by people around the world.

I celebrated Mothers Day with 4 different mums: Lunch with Ians mum, afternoon tea with my tita (and supposedly my lola, but she went out with her friends today), and dinner with my bro in laws mum and my sister (this years new mum). I still miss my mum though. FOUR mums today but none of them was my own. Poor me, no mummy! I miss her heaps. I shall give her a big hug in June…and papa too of course hehe.

Happy mothers day to all the mums. Hope u guys had an exciting weekend too.

2006-05-06T00:04:00.000+10:00

Just when I get to adjust with the timetables, the subjects, the lecturers and the assessments, the semester would always have to come to an end. Life is full of irony.

My days are getting busier as the end of the semester approaches. Aside from worrying the assessments that are all due soon, this is the time when I start to worry about life after uni hehe.

Despite all these agonies, I'm really looking forward to my tito and tita's, and my mum and may dad's visit here in june (even if it'll be during my exam study time)!
I also got a 3day casual job at some really cool marketing research place with such an awesome pay (how exciting!).

Your celebrity soul mate is someone who's Cute

Who's Your Celebrity Soul Mate?

Brought to you by Tickle

WOW, ORLANDO BLOOM?!?

2006-04-23T11:28:00.000+10:00

Doing bad is acceptable if it is for a good cause.

Take off your halo and walk with me.

Oh come on, dont be afraid; the grass might be greener on the other side.

I am my shelter's architect

2006-04-17T23:23:00.000+10:00

I AM MY SHELTER'S ARCHITECT

Reality is believed to show truth.
So I carefully examined it.
I saw an empty room; blank, colourless, nothing.
The sparkling jewel that I have safely kept has disappeared.
It was supposed to feed me, clothe me and keep me alive.

All is gone.
I see nothing but footprints.
It left me no trace.
Perhaps because it is indeed over; perhaps because I am over it.
I am to restart life again.

I tried to protect everything dearly.
But nature disagreed for it allowed a thief to steal my all.
I feel no pain, however.
I mustve voluntarily assisted in this chaos.

The room is finally empty and I must fill it in again.
I am considering redesigning it to something entirely new.
Otherwise, I will let it return to its usual state.
Whatever it is that will give me comfort.

I have not decided yet.
Step by step, I shall complete it.
I will get there.
I am getting there.

Easter break

2006-04-14T21:58:00.000+10:00

I'm on my easter break right now.

Aside from spending time at church to celebrate Good Friday and Easter, I plan to eat all my easter eggs and have a bit of fun. I hope this therapy would change my lifestyle. I want to learn how to loosen up bcoz for some reason I tend to get bad luck if I put too much effort on something.

Have a Happy Easter!

lazy lazy me

2006-04-06T12:14:00.000+10:00

i've quit my job after 1 day haha. it wasn't worth it. i was working for nothing. not much excitement nor experience and there wasn't any pay either. hehehe!

im a weirdo.

yay...back to being lazy...i love it!

hmmm...i'm actually considering doing a post grad...im still stuck enjoying uni life!

2006-03-24T22:15:00.000+11:00

So tired!

Went to a group meeting early in the morning, then went to careers fair (an event where employers from big firms visit universities to talk to final year students, then went to a crappy job interview (the workplace is unpleasant, i dont mind if i dont end up getting the job hehe), walked all over the city with ian and had dinner at a thai restaurant before going home.

I got a job as a marketing team assistant yesterday (which makes todays interview useless hehe)! Its an unpaid one but i hope ill get something out of it one day, like a really good work experience would be good enough. Its a big firm based in the US (www.aquent.com) and I think the offer was a great opportunity to grab- even without pay hehe. Im happy :)

I watched Aeon Flux last nite--- its got a corny story line but i enjoyed the movie. I liked their futuristic fashion. It looks classic but futuristic. Hehe! And i have to say I enjoyed the action too. 2.5 stars for me(deducted half the stars bcoz of the stupid story line).

To fight a good fight

2006-03-20T21:19:00.000+11:00

Fights that make you feel better- Fights that give you the biggest opportunity to say how you feel- Yes, I had one. I finally did, and I finally said it. This is the strongest I have ever been and I owe to that very beautiful moment I had. I didnt heat up like a volcano though my anger has been buried in there ever since. But Ive erupted gracefully and nicely, just the way I always wanted it to be. My principles are now safely untouched by her grubby hands- a dream come true.

I know she still wouldnt understand me but thats one of her deficiencies. She cant listen to people because she thinks shes always right. Shes nothing but a Tweety bird. Shed fly high up thinking shes the biggest and tallest woman in the world yet she has the smallest brain. I hope that from now on, shed lay her hands off my life and all the things I want to do. Thats all I want from her.

To you Tweety bird, Ive said what Ive said and you just have to abide by those rules without any Buts and Whys because trust me tweet-tweet, your little brain would never have the capacity to understand it (at first I thought you would but I was wrong and that makes me a bit of a dumbo too). Just please accept me for who I am for I will never be like you. I can never be as low as you. Im not gonna go out of my "comfort zones" just to be friends with you. And by the way, dont ever lecture me about that comfort zones crap again, alright? I will never be good enough for you and you will never be good enough for me either. Who wants live by your lowly standards anyway? So never mind.

2006-03-07T22:35:00.000+11:00

Sorry but I just have to steal this off you andrea... I REALLY LIKE IT!

"When you first fall in love with a person you have an idealized perception of who they are. As time goes on in a relationship there can be disappointments - you can never go back to the way it was when you first met them but you do have memories that you can call upon like passages in a book - these memories help keep you together and serve as reminders to why you fell in love in the first place. These memories help you to see the person you love as a whole and help you to move to the future together."

New address

2006-03-05T20:53:00.000+11:00

I you're reading this it means you found my new address, congratulations! hehe!

Sorry for inconveniently changing it...it's just a privacy reason so please bear with me :)

Anywayz...i might just take this opportunity to update you about this past week. My parents arrived last wednesday (my sister's bday) and will be leaving again soon as this coming wednesday. *sigh* Sometimes, i'd rather them not visit us at all so I will never have to worry about them leaving.

Apart from that drama, I had an awesome friday night at the Harbour Cruise for UTS Peer Network Thank you event. The hard work during the orientation last february has paid off. We had free food, DRINKS and of course free access to the cruise. It was indeed a lovely night. My weekend/ my sister's bday celebration was as great as the previous night. I ice skated at the speed of a few kilometeres per hour without plummets and falls hehe. Oh and who can forget the yummy thai food for dinner?

Thats it...it's study time again.

One day

2006-02-26T22:57:00.000+11:00

One day I will hit my head on one big brick wall and learn...

One day I will discover the things I really desire...

One day I will throw the rubbish in me...

One day I will...

Thai Foon

2006-02-25T10:24:00.000+11:00

We had an awesome night last night. Ian, myself and 2 other friends organised a dinner which had a turn up of 23 people (we were only expecting around 10-15)!!! We ate at this thai restaurant in the city (Thai Foon), overlooking the harbour.

There were lots of crazy moments like meeting friends of friends which had romantic ending for some (hehe), the quick walk along the harbour (plus the ice cream) and of course our outrageous picture taking.

It was a wonderful night to spend the last few days of our summer holiday...Oh no, uni on monday! *sigh*

Quick update

2006-02-20T20:30:00.000+11:00

Just been busy doing volunteer work for uni, helping them organise the programs for the 2 week orientation for new students (last week and this week). It's actually been really fun...very busy but fun...made lots of new friends and we've gone out a lot too, like ever afternoon after our volunteer work. Too much money spent. Oh no!

After this week i'll be craving for an active schedule just like this. I will be wanting to have a job...I will be needing a job. I need and want a job and MONEY! hehe!

Luna Park Picnic

2006-02-17T20:21:00.000+11:00

It was my uni friend's (Carlo) birthday party today! The party started with a little picnic near the Luna park and then we spent the rest of the day at the theme park. It was great coz most of us haven't been there before. Really had a great time...the weather was so good....nice and hot! hehe!

Thoughts...

2006-02-13T21:28:00.000+11:00

Went to my uni friend's bday dinner last nite at Jordons. The food was great but expensive hehe. Had a great time...the last time i went out on a girl's day/night out was in highschool pa. Although, I have to say that this one is better because i like my uni friends better. Haha! Highschool was just a life spent with bimbos...damn exclusive schools!

Oh no, Valentines Day na bukas. We actually have nothing planned. But so what... it's the same as any other day.

I believe that Valentines Day is very similar to Christmas... both should be celebrated everyday because the world is nothing without LOVE...Love for family, friends, and most of all for God... Or baka naman we just couldn't be bothered to do something special tomorrow that's why i came up with this philosophy! Haha...

I better stop blabbing and end this entry with a cute little something I found from my friends' (hyan and andrea) sites:

Your Candy Heart Says "First Kiss"

You're a true romantic who brings an innocent hope to each new relationship.
You see the good in every person you date, and you relish each step of falling in love.

Your ideal Valentine's Day date: a romantic dinner your sweetie cooks for you

Your flirting style: friendly and sweet

What turns you off: cynics who don't believe in romance

Why you're hot: you always keep the romance alive

What Does Your Candy Heart Say?

Big Momma!

2006-02-09T23:14:00.000+11:00

we thought the drive-in cinema was cheaper than the normal ones. it wasn't...it was in fact $2 more than the indoor movie... pero u get to see 2 movies...fair enough (although, we went home na after the first one- kaya siguro kami namahalan)!!!

it was cute though...i liked it...its more comfy coz u can put ur feet up in the car, u can eat and talk loud without anyone hearing u...and most of all i like the fact that ure relaxing under the moonlight.

Sweet!

Reflective mood

2006-02-04T23:01:00.000+11:00

One thing that makes me feel quite stressed and bothered is when I reflect about things that other people are likely to say or think about me...

I've always tried to think of a cure for it... sabi nila, the best way to tackle it is to ignore other people's opinions bcoz we can't please everybody after all. True, but that's easier said than done.

I came up with some exercise and asked myself a couple of questions:

When I criticise (includes postive criticism of course) other people how would I feel? Would Ifeel as upset as those who are being criticised? I GUESS NOT. I'm not the one being criticised.

When I notice something unpleasant about someone how would I feel? Would i feel embarassed? I GUESS NOT. I'm not the one being disliked.

When I see someone trip how would i feel? Would I feel humiliated? I GUESS NOT. I wasn't the one who tripped, I suppose the "worst" thing i can do is to laugh at that person. Nothing more than that.

When someone makes a mistake how would I feel? Would I feel disappointed? I GUESS NOT. I didn't do anything wrong.

Then why is it that I worry too much about what other people think when it seems like people would not seem to care anyway? Even my little exercise used myself as an example to that. People might laugh at me, people might say bad things about me but they can't go any further than that. They'd soon forget because people do get tired...especially with things that don't really concern them--- that includes myself and the person that I am.

I could be rejected but no one can treat me any worse than that.

2nd blog...

2006-02-02T23:06:00.000+11:00

I just had to post another entry straight after the previous one. So for those who are too lazy to scroll down, i'm sorry to say that you also gotta go through the blog entry before this because its as fresh as this one...

Anyway, just wanna share my first day out back in australia...

Just went to some seminar in uni from 11-3pm...that's how much i love uni!!! Hehe! That was the very first place i visited since i got back here. hehe. But the day didn't end there, Ian took me out to the movies to watch "memoirs of a geisha" and to have dinner too...naks! hehe.

Hindi lang ako makatulog kaya ako nagkwento! hahaha! I slept too much last night... from 8pm (ang aga diba) till 7.30am. That's what i hate about travelling...nagugulo yung tulog ko hehe!

Back to blogging

2006-02-02T20:59:00.000+11:00

A quick recap of my 3-week holiday in the philippines:

*Arrived on the 8th

**My first week was the most boring moments of my stay...practically did nothing but play with my neice and look after my lola...but it was fulfilling just to spend time with them.

***End of 1st week: Celebreated my mum's bday on the 13th- Disco party!!! Hehe, yeah my mum is one of those cool mums!

****2nd week: Started my shopping spree, a few times with my mum and one time with my shopping expert tita hehe!!!Shangri-la, Greenbelt, Glorietta, Greenhills, Tiendesitas, Rockwell! Yay, i finally got out of the house!!! Don't ask me how much i spent or how much clothes i've got hehe...

****End of 2nd week: THE BUSIEST!!! My sister, her husband and their little joaquin chucked a surprise visit!!! My mum nearly fainted! It was the most exciting surprise ever...everyone was stunned and speechless, no one managed to say a single word as the big star joaquin arrived. (hehe) My cousins took me out that weekend to club halo in makati to see some sort of fashion show that my cousin has organised. We also celebrated my grandparents' golden wedding plus Manny Pacquiao's victory in Las Vegas last 22nd of January ;)

*****3rd Week: Continued shopping...

******End of third week: Saturday- My cousin's wedding!!! Congratulations to Kuya Nicko and Ate Jen!!! I loved their wedding...so simple, so elegant, very touching! Sunday- Met up with old friends from OBMC at eastwood. Ang saya!!! It was so great to see them again! Guys, thanks for coming!!! I really appreciated it. To those who weren't able to make it, its alright i understand. I know Sunshine was really busy with her new-born son and pam was also busy with her thesis. Good luck to both of you...

*******My last day: Last minute shopping...huling hirit, walang patawad!

********January 31: Back to Australia...first time my mum cried at the airport...because of little joaquin. (not because of her own daughters lol!)

And that's my story...

a different christmas

2005-12-24T10:54:00.000+11:00

My Christmas this year has lots of
"Withs" and "Withouts".

I can't have it all
But I am happy... I should be!

He's here, she's here, they're here, you're here.

Merry Christmas to all...

My last holiday!

2005-12-21T19:36:00.000+11:00

Too much shopping...so tired. I feel like i've been such a bum but i really need to enjoy the last "summer holiday" i'll ever have in my life. i'll be finishing uni next year and it scares me---to death!

"Ipagpapasa-diyos ko nalang!!!" as my mum would always say. It seemed to have worked for her.

I want a decent job next yr!!!

7 DECEMBER 2005, 3.28 AM

2005-12-07T22:04:00.000+11:00

Joaquin Benedict, u're finally here!!!

Yes, my sister has given birth this morning. It still feels like a dream to me...

beach party

2005-12-05T11:46:00.000+11:00

Dec3: Ian's beach party was awesome...the weather was so good to us...We got burnt!!! Yay, I'm roasted!!! We also had max brenner on the way back to ian's place where we had dinner. I don't want to go into too much detail because it might embarass some ppl, hehe jk. Have a look at my friendster to have a glimpse of some of the photos.

Dec4:
Happy 2 years to us.
Welcome back to Australia, mama and papa.

Harry Potter + Shopping

2005-12-01T22:50:00.000+11:00

I'm not much of a Harry Potter fan but I loved it. Hindi naman nakakatakot eh, it's thrilling but not scary. Yun lang comment ko. I can't even compare it with the book coz I haven't even read it :P

Ian and I went to 3 malls today to buy stuff for ourselves, hindi na for other people since we've finally ticked off everyone on our christmas list yesterday! Hehe! Nag exchange pa kami ...We bought our christmas presents in front of each other-> a bag for me and a wallet for him. I guess we're just over those "surprise" phases coz we figured that we would expect presents from each other anyway. Nice excuse diba? Hehe! I also got him a replacement for something he lost the other day.

My wallet is on a diet...ang payat payat na! Hehe!

We're so broke, but I have to say our early christmas + anniversary celebration was wonderful.

summer, rain, christmas, cocktail dresses

2005-11-30T20:05:00.000+11:00

I hate the weather! Parang hindi summer! It's so cold and it's been raining a lot! Sana sa beach party ni ian sa saturday it would stop raining.

OMG, dec1 na tomorrow, time flies so fast...i'm really enjoying my christmas shopping!!! hehe!

Where can I buy a gold 1950's cocktail dress? Waahhhh!!!! My grandparents' golden anniversary is too artsy fancy!

holidays

2005-11-27T22:36:00.000+11:00

Yay! tapos na exams ko hehe!

How exciting. hehe.

Happy Birthday IAN! (For yesterday!) The food was great! :)

**Need to get some sleep. I feel crap, I dunno why.**

Procrastinating again

2005-11-18T17:03:00.000+11:00

I want to break free from studying...and so i did...

Ian and I decided to watch "Flight Plan" today, hehe. It's awsome. I really liked it. Not a typical 'panic-rom-jodie-foster-type' film.

Interesting...

**back to marketing, argh!**

Not too long to go...

2005-11-17T23:34:00.000+11:00

I can't wait till i finish my exams...

I can't wait for ian's birthday
I can't wait for the movies coming up this december (like harry potter that's not even out here yet!)
I can't wait for dec 4 ;)
I can't wait for christmas
I can't wait for joaquin's birth (my sister's son)

I can't wait for the summer holiday!

I guess for now I just gotta study hard to get my mind off "time". The exams will be over before i know it. (im actually halfway through!!!)

Procrastination strikes

2005-11-16T15:40:00.000+11:00

Im halfway through my exams (thank god!) yet im still procrastinating especially for this one subject that i really hate (Introductory market research, yuck!) because our lecturer never taught us anything. It's like, "I dunno what to study for"...geez!

How about some online quizzes for now? Ohhh yeah!

Your Fashion Style is Classic

You like what's stood the test of time...Simple, well styled clothes that don't scream trendyYou stay updated and modern, but your clothes stay in style for a whileYou wouldn't be caught in animal prints, fake fur, or super bright colors

What's" Your Fashion Style?

You Belong in London

A little old fashioned, and a little modern. A little traditional, and a little bit punk rock.A unique woman like you needs a city that offers everything.No wonder you and London will get along so well.

What'>http://ynr.blogthings.com/whatcitydoyoubelonginquiz/">What City Do You Belong In?

You are Milk Chocolate

A total dreamer, you spend most of your time with your head in the clouds.You often think of the future, and you are always working toward your ideal life.Also nostelgic, you rarely forget a meaningful moment... even those from long ago.

What'>http://ynr.blogthings.com/whatkindofchocolateareyouquiz/">What Kind of Chocolate Are You?

You Are Low Rise Jeans

You are both sexy and casual - the type of girl who looks hot without really trying.You tend to spark imagination, only showing a peek of your skin.

What'>http://ynr.blogthings.com/whatstyleofjeansareyouquiz/">What Style of Jeans Are You?

Humpty Dumpty

2005-11-07T23:40:00.000+11:00

"Humpty Dumpty sat on a wall
Humpty Dumpty had a great fall
All the king's horsemen and all the king's men,
They couldn't put Humpty together again!"

Ever wondered who/what Humpty Dumpty really was?
No, he's NOT an EGG!
He was actually a cannon ball from the English Civil war.

end of semester

2005-11-04T23:49:00.000+11:00

Today is officially the last day of the ADVENTUROUS 2nd semester of my 2nd year in uni.

*I gained new friends (especially those people from ian's course who shifted to my course- they had to put up with me bcoz i was the only person they knew in our course hehe), and of course was able to get to know more about the people i've been hanging out with for a year and a half now (given another semester to spend with them).

*I've also enjoyed attending the classes and lectures that the university's best lecturers held. (but of course even the best university in the world would have had a lecturer who doesn't teach too well->i guess you can figure out some of the experiences i had with that)

*This semester I have been punctual but have also jigged...to eat, to shop (trust me, it's so hard to refuse shopping if your uni is right at the heart of the city) and to finish off individual/group assessments that were done last minute.

*The subjects I had were hard but challenging which I think is a good thing.

*My grades are going well so far...but i still can't be sure if they'll stay as high as they are till i actually complete the final exams on the 12th-26th of november...

All i can do is hope and of course STUDY. So i guess i'll stop here for now before i jinx myself.

It's my last day but it's not over yet...

...Not till ian's birthday (which is on the 26th- my last exam day!!!!)...It's nice to look forward to that day and most especially the beach party we've organised for the 3rd Dec. (I hope everyone liked the invitation we made ourselves hehe)

Oh and before i forget ian and i are a month away from our 2nd year....like you care??? hehe! But i'd acknowledge it anyway. It's my blog after all.

mind flies but the heart stays

2005-10-28T23:27:00.000+10:00

my lola forgot where i was
my lola forgot where she was
my lola forgot about what i was talking about
my lola forgot about what she was talking about
my lola forgot why i called
my lola forgot why she was on the phone
my lola forgot to speak correctly
my lola forgot to listen carefully

BUT my lola REMEMBERED "WHO" i was.
and my lola has NEVER FORGOTTEN her LOVE for her family.

***i was on the phone with my grandma today and it was the first time i "heard" the effects of her alzheimer's disease...sad to hear she's loosing her memory, but i was so glad to hear she ain't suffering...not a single pain. she's happy and she's healthy. i hope mum realises that.***

Noooooooooo!!!!!!!

2005-10-23T22:10:00.000+10:00

There's nothing more painful than hearing a loved one cry.

The perspective of a girl on "GIRLS"

2005-10-20T22:27:00.000+10:00

He likes you.
You don't like him...

PLEASE don't flirt back.
STOP leading him on.
BECAUSE you're being mean.
STOP seeking attention because you're attracting the wrong one.
BY THE WAY, i thought you're not interested.
WHY make a big fuss about it in the first place?
QUIT playing...
That is if you don't want to be called a SLUT.

I don't want to hear your story. I wouldn't be there for you when you fall because i know you planned it. You enjoy intrigue and controversies. Sorry, I don't waste as much time as you do.

A girl complaining about a guy chasing after her when she was the one who was playing chase with him in the first place is just simply ANNOYING.

Decent guys don't go for "maarte" girls...
This might explain why you can't get a decent guy.

Tell me, I want to know

2005-10-13T23:18:00.000+10:00

Is it smiles, laughter or joy? Tell me how it feels to be happy.
Is it to shed tears, to frown or to cry? Tell me the reason for the existence of emotion.
Is it fighting, bravery or courage? Tell me what its like to overcome pain.
Is it trust, faith or confidence? Tell me how it is to have hope.
Is it a mystery, magic or divinity? Tell me what to do to feel the presence of God.
Is it apology, pardon or to forget? Tell me the nature of forgiveness.
Is it generosity, charity or bounteousness? Tell me what it takes to give.
Is it understanding, sympathy or compassion? Tell me the essence of empathy.
Is it self-sacrificing, caring or altruism? Tell me what it means to be selfless.
Is it existence, success or triumph? Tell me the spirit of living life.
Is it heroism, fearlessness or boldness? Tell me your thoughts on dying for someone.

Is it the feeling of Happiness, an expression of Emotions, a preparation for Pain, a foundation for Hope, a way to feel Gods friendship, a sense of Forgiveness, an act of Self-giving, to Empathize, or a matter of Life and Death?

Is that what LOVE is? I want to know.
I want to learn how to LOVE.
Tell me how its done.

-mari (13-10-05)

You have two missed calls

2005-10-12T22:31:00.000+10:00

I wanna hear they're voice when they call my name. I want to be there for them at the right place and time. I want to be the first one to arrive. "Sorry i missed it" is not in my dictionary. To me, being late makes me useless.

I just want to be there.

I get frustrated when I make return calls to people I've missed calls from only to find out its too late for me to help.

I could've been there but I didn't make it.

Not hearing the news is bad news.

something different

2005-10-10T22:01:00.000+10:00

An engagement party, a 4th, 18th and a 21st birthday party...how old am i? or should i say, how diverse am i? hehe

I had quite a hectic but extremely fun weekend.

*The girls won the battle of the sexes at sarah and paul's engagement party. (sarah and paul are ian's highschool friends)
*Eiriz's party had nice food. (Eiriz is my adopted sister hehe)
*Kay's 18th was entertaining. (Kay is my good friend's cousin)
*Alex's 21st was full of laughter. (Alex is the good friend i referred to above)

4 festivities on one weekend...

Im tired in a relaxing way.

My insomnia has finally left me.

Check this out

2005-10-07T00:28:00.000+10:00

I have a new template. A total make over! Hope you like it!

Im not much of a follower

2005-10-04T18:00:00.000+10:00

I gotta admit im a victim of consumerism but i have to say im not much of a follower.

I've always thought of buying havaianas thongs but i never did coz everyone wears it. I couldn't find one colour that not many people wear...until i saw these metallic peach thongs. Yay! Im sure i'll find people wearing it anytime soon but at least not at the time i bought it.

Please don't buy the peach havaianas. Hehe jk!

They're my new favourite tsinelas!

Diabetes fear

2005-09-25T22:50:00.000+10:00

I'm on a major (well maybe minor for now hehe) sugar-cutting phase...So help me God.

I've been consuming excessive amounts of sugar (chocolates and lollies) lately. Lollies, especially chocolates do work well in producing endorphins; yet they also work well...very well in making you fat and diabetic.

There's a trade off between feeling cheery and being unhealthily fat :P

I'm gonna try balance it. Just TRYING.

Would you like to join me?

a lovely day, just got paid...

2005-09-24T11:37:00.000+10:00

"when i wake up in the morning love, and the sunlight hurts my eyes..." (*sings*)

It's the Vice Chancellors Week... A week off from uni! Yay....not that there is much of a difference. It's only one week and i got tons of assignments to do anyway hehe.

Its such a nice weekend...the weather is great (getting warmer) and im going out kinda like....now.

Ok then, cya!

disagreements

2005-09-18T16:26:00.000+10:00

If you're angry at someone, instead of asking "why can't YOU understand me?", how about say, "why can't I understand you?"

I don't mind trying on other people's shoes...it might be stylish after all!

Talagang ganon, magkaakaiba tayo ng prinsipyo...

2005-09-16T09:50:00.000+10:00

Wow, may krispy kreme na close to our place!!!

The new cinema has also opened yesterday and they were selling tickets for half price. I forced ian to watch "perfect man" with me. Hillary Duff seems to play similar roles in all her movies. Hehe!

So tired...too many groupworks to do.

Im a dork

2005-09-08T14:28:00.000+10:00

If ur wireless internet connection isn't working try sitting close to your router.

That's what happened to me today!

I was stressing badly when i realised that my laptop is cheap and baduy...it can't reach long distances. Yuck! hehe!

My Space

2005-08-30T21:37:00.000+10:00

I've got a My Space account and its http://www.myspace.com/marree

I just thought i'd make one coz i always wanted to visit my cousins' interesting pages--- Nica, my cousin is such a good writer. So if u too have a my space account just add me. I'm not gonna try and find people like i did for friendster coz i can't be bothered. The formatting of My Space is a lil bit confusing.

This was my weekend

2005-08-28T21:44:00.000+10:00

What made that man foolish is the other man. One could be "the man" or "the other" but can never be niether. The past may have passed but it is present in the future. The deaf is more blessed for he only listens to his heart. What i mean is pain.

Smell the flowers before fall. Tomorrow, it is spring. Let us begin.

Kuya alfie again

2005-08-28T21:03:00.000+10:00

3 names you go by:
1. Mari
2. Powee
3. Marie (hehe...i get that a lot)

3 screen names you have had:
1. powee721
2. marzbar
3. ---

3 physical things you like about yourself:
1. Hands
2. Teeth
3. Ears
(yung mga walang kwenta na part hehe)

3 physical things you don’t like about yourself:
1. height
2. feet
3. hair

3 parts of your heritage:
Pure filo
(From history, u can say that im partly spanish, chinese, indonesian, japanese, american....i dont know! hehe...)

3 things that scare you:
1. death
2. doctors
3. weird ppl on the train

3 things of your everyday essentials:
1. mobile
2. money
3. food

3 of your favorite musical artists:
I dont have a favourite

3 of your favorite songs:
I dont have any fave songs either but right now im listening to...
1. "Someday Someday" (thirsty merc)
2. "How to deal" (frankie j.)
3. "Untitled" (simple plan)
(aiight consider these three artists as my answer for the previous question jst for the sake of having something under that heading hehe)

3 things you want in a relationship:
1. Trust
2. Communication
3. LOVE

3 physical things about the opposite sex that appeals to you:
1. Smile
2. Personality
3. Brain

3 of your favorite hobbies:
1. Watch tv
2. Go out and eat
3. Talk hehe

3 careers you’re considering/you’ve considered:
when i was young i wanted to be a...
1. Lawyer
2. Psychologist
3. Teacher

3 places you want to go on a vacation:
1. Europe!!!
2. Egypt
3. Greece

3 kid’s names you like:
1. Latifa
2. Pristine
3. Faith

3 things you want to do before you die:
1. Raise kids
2. Prepare my family
3. Pay my debts (if i have some hehe)

3 ways that you are stereotypically a boy/girl:
BOYS
1. Sports
2. Car
3. Video games

GIRLS
1. Shopping
2. Make up
3. Fashion

3 celeb crushes:
1. Matthew Goode
2. Just him
3. :P

3 people you would like to take this quiz:
1. Liza
2. Kuya haydn
3. Kuya alfie...again :P

Kuya Alfie's and Liza's request

2005-08-23T20:18:00.000+10:00

What are 5 things you enjoy doing when there's no one around you?
1. Sleep
2. Sing hehe
3. Watch soppy videos ;)
4. Read
5. Go crazy like a lil kid haha

Name 5 things that lower your stress/blood pressure/anxiety level?
1. Aawayin si ian
2. Eat chocolate
3. Go out with friends
4. Watch TV, videos
5. Sleep

Name 5 friends who you would like to post this as well:

Its up to them if they wanna post this hehe.

Kuya Haydn, how about u? I think its ur turn hehe!

welcome to my world

2005-07-31T15:08:00.000+10:00

So tired, tired from fixing my room. Hehe!

I love my lil haven. I've got a new curtain, a new bedside table and a new laptop!

Fixing and designing my room is my fave house chore :)

its my day

2005-07-21T21:18:00.000+10:00

Im not a teen no more but I dont know when it is that im old enough to say i really am old...

Thanks for everyone's greetings... "Happy birthday powee/mari. What did u do/ are you doing today? What did u get for your birthday?"

What did i do?
I had a small dinner here at my house last week with family, friends and family friends . I spent time with my family and ian today, just ate the whole day.

What did i get for my birthday?
I got mostly jackets and bags from my family, a minicooper toy from a good friend, and a swarovski necklace from my best friend.

Ian gave a pair of shoes, a stem of tulip and a happy meal toy that he got from his garage hehehe!

And my parents? They gave all of the above plus everything else...EVERYTHING! Those who know my parents would understand what i mean....I'd have to say the same about ian.

Oh and ate? Still to come pa daw hehe.

YOU GUYS ARE BLESSINGS. THANK YOU!

blog blog

2005-07-16T12:47:00.000+10:00

I got too busy to blog since my parents arrived on the 4th. Im left home alone at the moment and I'm a LITTLE BIT bored hehe.

I had a haircut two days ago and just then, I cut my fringe again out of boredom. I hope no one would notice hehe!

I've been surfing the net last night and found some webpages of people I know (that I won't mention here hehe). I just never thought that people who i thought i knew well would be so different... i never knew i'd ever get involved with certain kinds of people that i believed to be out of my world. hmmmm....

life is interesting. maybe i'm destined to marry an alien. :P

2005-07-04T22:23:00.000+10:00

The following short quiz consists of 4 questions and will tell you whether you are qualified to be a professional. Try and answer them before reading the correct answer. (I've used a smaller font for the answer to lessen the tendency of peeking hehe)...

1. How do you put a giraffe into a refrigerator?

The correct answer is: Open the refrigerator, put in the giraffe, and close the door. This question tests whether you tend to do simple things in an overly complicated way.

2. How do you put an elephant into a refrigerator?

Did you say, Open the refrigerator, put in the elephant, and close the refrigerator? Wrong Answer.

Correct Answer: Open the refrigerator, take out the giraffe, put in the elephant and close the door. This tests your ability to think through the repercussions of your previous actions.

3. The Lion King is hosting an animal conference. All the animals attend... except one. Which animal does not attend?

Correct Answer: The Elephant. The elephant is in the refrigerator. You just put him in there. This tests your memory. Okay, even if you did not answer the first three questions correctly, you still have one more chance to show your true abilities.

4. There is a river you must cross but it is used by crocodiles, and you do not have a boat. How do you manage it?

Correct Answer: You jump into the river and swim across. Have you not been listening? All the crocodiles are attending the Animal Meeting.

This tests whether you learn quickly from your mistakes. According to Anderson Consulting Worldwide, around 90% of the professionals they tested got all questions wrong, but many preschoolers got several correct answers. Anderson Consulting says this conclusively disproves the theory that most professionals have the brains of a four-year-old.

meet my friend max

2005-06-25T10:33:00.000+10:00

He's rich, he's exotic, he's beautiful... He's Max Brenner hehe!

I really am a chocolate lover but i gave up on it after having the thickest hot dark chocolate at Max Brenner. But it's so good...no one could resist it, even ian who isn't much of a diabetic like me hehe.

After indulging ourselves with chocolates, we watched Batman begins. I never knew Batman didn't have super powers and I liked it that way! The concept couldn't have been any better!

We finished the day off at this filo restaurant where my sis, bro and their friend sang...some old songs. Haha!!! :P

That was yesterday!

Winter holidays

2005-06-21T15:13:00.000+10:00

It's finally my 5 week sembreak. I finished my exams yesterday noon and went out with my uni friends afterwards, had yum cha and lots of ice cream...

Right now, I'm just relaxing and praying i've passed all of my subjects. I really stuggled in my management accounting exam last week and i'm not too confident that i'd pass. hehe! God only knows... and if so, I should be fine in His hands :)

I've been doing some cleaning up on my first day of break and it's been good so far...yes, my car is not muddy anymore thank you very much. Hehe! And of course, my room has never been as clean again.

My parents are arriving in two weeks. I'm excited to see what they've got for me... i mean, excited to see them. Hehe!

I can't believe i still haven't gone to try Max Brenner...I first saw it in the phils (greenbelt), introduced to me by one of ian's cousins. I always thought it was some american chocolate shop or something. I never knew it was Australian and that its everywhere in the city. I'm like there everyday but never saw it. It's a bit of a walk from uni that's why. Anyway, my point is, I'm finally going on friday with my uni friends! Haha! *fingers crossed* i hope no one backs out.

Btw, I was recharging my prepaid mobile when the operator said that my credit will expire one month from now...I jst realised my birthday is month away from now. Hehe.

Holidays are FUN... I can finally finish reading The Alchemist ;)

The frog

2005-06-10T21:53:00.000+10:00

The frog! Oh yes the frog indeed! He, he who gave life, to the leaves where gumnuts grow. Let me travel the world! With you and only you! For with you, i am capable of hearing, listening and comprehending the true meaning of the universal language!

It is untrue that exams are detested. The frog will give u the answer. Go forth and travel, find a gumnut if you must. You must, you should and you would meet the ever-beloved preacher of the universe. He who knows the word LOVE. An incomprehensive and complex set of letters one cannot spell. I insist, go forth and find the frog...the frog with Bags...bags on his eyes!

All men adore him but not all men he can love but one. The one he should wed. The one who understood the universal language without words but instead by just looking at his eyes. Yes, his eye bags. It is she. She, the chosen one. The one chosen by the FROG PRINCE.

Knock knock

2005-06-09T18:15:00.000+10:00

At last, we've finished our lengthy group report for Consumer Behaviour. It was time for us to bind our pages. We rushed to the newagents only to find that they've already closed a few minutes ago. We knocked on the door hoping that the guy inside would give us jst a few moments and allow us to bind our project...he mouthed to us saying "sorry i can't im just a cleaner!"....LOL

Alright...thats fine, the report isn't due till tomorrow. I volunteered to hand it in myself tomorrow but i requested that my groupmate would show me where our tutor's pigeonhole (a box where u slip ur assignments in for the tutors to collect) was. We went to the area where the shelves were, stood there for 10 mins and failed to find her box (her name wasn't there!). The idea of "knocking" came in handy again. We decided to tell the marketing faculty office that her name was not written anywhere there. A lady accompanied us back to the shelves. In less than a minute she found our tutor's name...There stood her box. LOL again

It's true that knocking means a door will be opened for you. That's why think before you knock because you can probably open it yourself...To avoid embarassment!

-happy anniversary mama and papa...enjoy china!-

Im currently

2005-05-24T22:24:00.000+10:00

*Busy with uni: major projects due in this last 2 weeks of semester + exams coming up.

*Into eating fast food: KFC, McDonalds, Oporto...u name it! Hehe, i'm sick of watching what i eat.

*Into snacking: Chocolates, chips... reasons the same as above + pleasure :)

*Spending money on movies: Kingdom of Heaven (nice concept), Starwars (im no sci fi fan but i loved it)

yun lang!
jst updating

Marriage

2005-05-18T23:38:00.000+10:00

Marriage - Part I
Typical macho man married typical good-looking lady and after the wedding, he laid down the following rules: "I'll be home when I want, if I want and at what time I want and I don't expect any hassle from you. I expect a great dinner to be on table unless I tell you that I won't be home for dinner. I'll go hunting, fishing, boozing and card-playing when I want with my old buddies and don't you give me a hard time about it. Those are my rules. Any comments?" His new bride said, "No, that's fine with me. Just understand that there will be sex here at seven o'clock every night whether you're here or not."

(DAMN SHE'S GOOD!)

************************************
Marriage (Part II)
Husband and wife had a bitter quarrel on the day of their 40th wedding anniversary! The husband yells, "When you die, I'm getting you a headstone that reads: "Here Lies My Wife - Cold As Ever " "Yeah?" she replies. "When you die, I'm getting you a headstone that reads: "Here Lies My Husband - Stiff At Last"

(HE ASKED FOR IT!)

******************************
Marriage (Part III)
Husband (a doctor) and his wife are having a fight at the breakfast table. Husband gets up in a rage and says, "And you are no good in bed either," and storms out of th e house. After sometime, he realizes he was nasty and decides to make amends and rings her up. She comes to the phone after many rings, and the irritated husband says, "what took you so long to answer the phone?" She says, "I was in bed." "In bed this early, doing what?" "Getting a second opinion!"

(YEP, HE HAD THAT ONE COMING, TOO!)

******************************************
Marriage (Part IV)
A man has six children and is very proud of his achievement. He is so proud of himself, that he starts calling his wife, "Mother of Six" in spite of her objections. One night, they go to a party. The man decides that it's time to go home and wants to find out if his wife is ready to leave as well. He shouts at the top of his voice, "Shall we go home 'Mother of Six?' His wife, irritated by her husband's lack of discretion, shouts right back, "Anytime you're ready, Father of Four."

(RIGHT ON, LADY!)

**************************************
Marriage (Part V)
The Silent Treatment.
A man and his wife were having some problems at home and were giving each other the silent treatment. Suddenly, the man realized that the next day, he would need his wife to wake him at 5:00 am for an early morning business flight. Not wanting to be the first to break the silence (and LOSE), he wrote on a piece of paper, "Please wake me at 5:00 am" He left it where he knew she would find it. The next morning the man woke up, only to discover it was 9:00 AM and he had missed his flight. Furious, he was about to go and see why his wife hadn't wakened him, when he noticed a piece of paper by the bed. The paper said, "It is 5:00 AM. Wake up."

Men are not equipped for these kinds of contests. God may have created man before woman, but there is always a rough draft before the masterpiece.

Pride: Who's supposed to say sorry?

2005-05-13T12:37:00.000+10:00

Pride prolongs a fight.

Let me swallow mine.

For YOU!

What she wants

2005-05-08T16:34:00.000+10:00

Tell her shes beautiful.
Talk to her when shes sad, even if she doesn't talk back.
Put your lips to hers, not to kiss her, but just to exchange your breath.
Hold her hand.
Write her poems, even if you can't write.
Send her flowers, just to show you care.
Kiss her when you make her mad.
Kiss her when shes happy.
Kiss her in the rain.
Sing to her, even if you can't sing.
Write her letters.
Listen to all the bands she likes.
Tell her your secrets.
Let her pay if she wants to.
Make her laugh.
Introduce her to your friends.
Take her to a show.
Take her anywhere.
Let her fall asleep in your arms.
Call her.
Pick her up and pretend to throw her in the pool, she pretends to hate it, but secretly loves it.
Make pet names for her.
Buy her icecream.
Watch movies with her, even the girly ones that make her cry.
Look into her eyes.
Be yourself around her.
And if you've fallen in love, tell her.

it's about "knowing" not "having"

2005-05-02T20:58:00.000+10:00

"There are some things money can't buy"

vs.

"There are some things money doesn't have to buy"

Yes, there is a difference between the two statements. The first infers how hard it is to acquire something if money cannot be accepted as an exchange- it shows inability without money. The latter assumes that it is easy to purchase if money is not involved- it shows comfort without having to have money.

Money does not mean happiness.

The first and only step in finding happiness is KNOWING what truly makes u happy... that's when you realise that "There REALLY ARE some things money doesn't have to buy"!

My purple care bear

2005-05-01T21:50:00.000+10:00

Saturday
I was so busy working on some group work on saturday that my whole group and myself didn't have time to have some rest nor have a break to eat lunch. Ian took me to a late lunch after my group meeting and then went to see a movie afterwards. It was the very first (and hopefully the last) time I ever slept through a movie. No, the movie was not boring but I guess I've just been so tired during the week due to lack of sleep and catching up on some uni work. Trust me, "The Interpreter" is not a bad movie...I was the one who was not in the mood to watch it! Hehe!

Sunday
After church, Ian and I checked out this new shopping centre in Homebush (half an hour drive from home)... I finally got a purple care bear today!

:)

2005-04-27T13:10:00.000+10:00

Ian is back!

She's all that

2005-04-18T13:13:00.000+10:00

I got a call from ian last night (12.30am aus time, 10.30pm phil time) about his lola. Her fight with cancer is finally over.

She tried to live longer for her family, but living longer didn't mean longer life...
It is letting go and leaving things up to God that brings her to eternity.

It was heartbreaking to hear ian's voice last night but i know he has the strength to let his lola go...the strength that comes out of his love for her.

Lola is one of Ian's most favourite people. He told me that he would never let a lifetime pass without letting Lola meet his girl. I met Lola when we visited the Philippines this Dec-Jan 2004-2005 christmas holidays. That visit has been such a precious memory to me, the special moment when Lola met her little boy's girl.

I am so priveleged to have met that very special lady...she's all that!

Lonely Hearts Club

2005-04-16T11:34:00.000+10:00

2 days after hearing the bad news about ian's lola, ian and his family fled to the philippines...
I know they're gonna be going through a lot back home as much as I've been trying to deny it.

It's the weekend and I dont feel like going out. I had a day off yesterday as well but didn't go out either. Although, I'm going to a family dinner tonight for Kuya Bryan's birthday. I should be back to normal tonight after "interacting" with people again. I'm looking forward to seeing my cousins and my best friend after not seeing them for a while.

Expect the Unexpected

2005-04-13T20:33:00.000+10:00

Is expecting the unexpected possible? If it's been expected then it will never be unexpected!

Unexpected...
Its a Surprise.

Unexpected and surprise can be used interchangeably, but colloquially, people would use these two words for two different purposes.

When we hear the word "Surprise" we would immediately think of surpise visits, surprise gifts, surprise parties...Unexpected things that are favourable.

On the other hand, when we hear the word "Unexpected" we would immediatley think of changing plans or (I'm sorry to say) bad news...Infavourable suprises.

The Unexpected.
It is inescapable.
Therefore, do not escape from it.
Accept it. Adapt to it.
After all it is also a Surprise.

The Unexpected is a Surprise blessing from God.
It happens for a reason.
Stay strong and continue to live life!

My boyfriend's family heard an unexpected news from the Philippines. Please pray for their lola.

Quick Update

2005-04-03T12:41:00.000+10:00

*HAPPY 50th BIRTHDAY PAPA! (for yesterday 2 april) I love u lotz!

*The Holy Father has passed away. Lets us pray for and to him.

*My Sassy Girl and Windstruck...the best movies ever!!! Instead of drowning ourselves in food or drinks, people drowned in tears (and a bit of laughter) at Iza's (ian's sister) 18th party last night because of these cool korean movies! hehe!

2nd day or last day?

2005-04-01T22:12:00.000+10:00

"Its just not the type of thing for me. I don't know why but its just not for me. Im just not meant to be doing it"

This is the type of justification people would have for themselves if they let some things go...when they give up on something...or decide to put things to an end.

So what do we really mean when we say things like that? Giving up? Being too weak? Or is it indeed a true justification that there are some things that just aren't right for us? We can't be really sure...that's why people make some reasons up...that's why that "saying" (or phrase/ sentence, however u wanna call it) is so overused...We do not really know why we have given up.

Well, I'm obviously talking about my job. I've been having this feeling since my first day and even more today, my 2nd day. I know it's just my 2nd day and people would normaly say that first few days are always terrible and that we should still give it a try. But i don't know why i feel like a teacher working as a veterinarian. Im doing something I am not and Im not happy with that.

Knocking on people's doors and forcing them to buy a phone is not my thing. Walking alone in the dark is not my thing either.

I don't like people who talk to me when i don't feel like talking. I don't wanna be forced to do
what I don't want to do. Then why am i doing it to other people? Why am I forcing them to have a conversation when they are having a private dinner and force them to buy something from me on top of that? You see, I just can't be doing something that I don't believe in. Catholics will never praise Buddha.

I talked to my manager with it and he told me it has been a usual case. People come and go. He let me think it over and decide...

Someone is currently messaging me on my phone...i was surprised to hear that one of my workmates today is planning to quit too and he's asking for my opinion.

Now my question is...
Is it the job or is it me?

I am not 100% capable of answering that question to help myself come to a perfect decision but I have quitted anyway! Hehe! I just know I just wasn't happy. That's all that matters for now.

First day, First Job

2005-03-29T22:46:00.000+10:00

I was interviewed 2 weeks ago by 3G Telecoms, a mobile phone company here in Australia. I got a call after 2 working days confirming their acceptance of my application. It felt exciting and at the same time, fearful. I am now a sales consultant of 3G Telecoms.

Just to tell you a bit of my job description: I belong to a team of sales consultants who drive around certain residential areas to sell phones. Yes, we are those people who knock on your door…those who interrupt you from your private dinnertime. We all meet up around 2.00 in the office for briefing and then go to the field from around 3-8.

My training started today. I came to the office at 12.00 for the training. I spent ONE HOUR waiting for the trainer (team leader) to come. I got to talk to the employees in the common room for that one whole hour which in a way was a good opportunity for me to get to know more people and learn the “secrets” about the company. Hehe! My training obviously started at 1.00 (one hour after 12…yeah?). I was taught about the product, pricing, sales techniques etc of 3G Telcoms. After a few hours (around 3pm) we went to the field to make some money. It was a 40-minute drive to the residential area where we would sell the phones. I came with an experienced team leader to observe and learn…to learn not to do what normal salesman do, that is, talking without pauses to annoy the customer instead of making a sale. Out of 15 houses we have convinced one house to buy a phone. They said it’s quite normal to have that much sales…it’s actually good enough according to them. It was a long day (ended at 8pm) but I really treasure this challenging experience. I am looking forward to doing it my own way on Friday... “Hi, I don’t mean to interrupt you but would you like to hear the benefits about 3G Telecom? I would be happy to help you save a lot of money regarding your mobile bills”…How does that sound? Hehe! That’s just “me” speaking…I won’t be able to please everyone but I hope at least one would be glad to listen to me. I’m also hoping that I wouldn’t be working with 'pure' team leaders (that is, experts) next time, which I did today. I would have liked it better if I was teamed with people like me. Please pray for my next challenge on Friday…Salamat :)

When we got back to our base I was driven back to where I parked my car earlier that day when I suddenly felt my bladder popping. I quickly rushed inside RSL club (where I parked). “Are you a customer?” the receptionist asked. The honest me told the truth and said that I just needed the toilet. RSL clubs are unfortunately one of the weirdest places. Each time you enter, you would have to sign up your name and a few of your details like ur address. I was questioned by the guy about my age, he asked for my driver’s license and yes, I had to sign some form…for what, you ask? He said needed all those details because I’m officially entering the club to use their toilet (?!?) Geez… I don’t know where I would be parking next time. I don’t want to show them my face ever again. To them, I’m just a girl using all their facilities (parking and toilet) whom they can’t make money out of. How embarassing!

First days are first days…shit happens!

Define "Fun"

2005-03-28T21:35:00.000+10:00

Fun means…

Having a good break.
Spending time with friends laughing with and at each other.
Eating lots of chocolate, easter eggs in particular.
Watching Ms. Congeniality with a free popcorn (we found a $5 bill on the floor and used it to buy a popcorn)

Fun means, TODAY!

Thanks for the wonderful time, Carol, Ate V, Bunny, Lec, Aaron and of course IanV!

Happy

2005-03-27T17:00:00.000+10:00

EASTER!

Went to Port Macquarie with my sis and friends for the easter long weekend!

Good Friday

2005-03-25T13:48:00.000+11:00

Let us remember Jesus...

Childhood

2005-03-22T16:04:00.000+11:00

HAPPY BIRTHDAY BEST FRIEND JUNELLE!

My childhood best friend is celebrating her 20th birthday today. I was on the train this morning when I messaged her. After she replied back, a lot of my childhood memories came back to me particularly those times spent with her , our friends, classmates and even school teachers in obmc. People whom I have not seen in decades came back to me- close friends or even just acquaintances. I realised how much I want to relive my childhood...

I want to go back in time.
Not because I want to change something.
Not because I regret my past.
But because I want to cherish those moments more than I ever did at that time.

I want to return to my past as much as I desire to see my future...

This week

2005-03-06T19:06:00.000+11:00

Terror, Fear, Challenge...
My sister lost her baby on monday. It was a bit disastrous and shocking but everything worked out fine the next day. My sister is healthy again and ready to have a new baby.

Uni, excitment, stress...
Uni started this week. I have a pretty good schedule (mon-thurs, 1 subject a day, total of 3 hrs a day), cool classmates, groupmates, tutors and lecturers. i must say my schedule is "nice and easy"The 1st week of uni is mostly about handing out course outlines which revealed all the coming assessments for the whole semester. It's quite overwhelming to have that much load of work but i look forward to the challenge ahead of me on my 2nd yr in uni.

Fun, Funny, Hehe...
I had a really funny experience on thursday when I shopped at market city. I asked the sales assistant if they have a new stock of this bag i was planning to buy. She said I'd have to wait for 10 mins bcoz one of them would still have to walk to the warehouse to get the bag i asked for. While waiting i looked around the shop and found this nice coat hung on the $15 rack. I hurriedly tried it on and to my surprise it was exactly my size. It fitted me so well that I immediately walked to the counter (still wearing the coat) to purchase it. One of the sales assistants stared at me weirdly and told me that the shop wasnt selling it...its her personal coat.

Weekend, Adventure, Tired...
Ian and I went to this Cruise Party on friday night. It was a thank you event for Peer Netowrkers after the successful Orientation Program a few weeks ago. We had 2 free drinks (per head) and free pizzas. There was a bit of dancing and partying too! It was a great night. I loved the sight and the atmosphere...cruising around sydney harbour overlooking the opera house, luna park, harbour bridge etc. It was a romantic way to celebrate our 15th month monthsary...yes, it was coincidentally our monthsary that day.

I bummed with the oldies this weekend. Carol drove us around after passing her driving exam on tuesday (Congratulations, Cuz). We played badminton today, lost a kilo, had lunch afterwards then gained 2 kilos. How much did loose, or must I say, GAIN? hehe!

I got a phone call from my parents today. My cousin, Ate Kitchie, gave birth to a healthy baby boy, Timothy. A good news for the good weekend.

Right now...
Just chilling out after having a busy week.
Watching tv: Simpsons, Charmed, X factor and everything else that's on. hehe!
And unfortunately...I need to do my readings for uni this week too!

Movie of the week: Hitch. A funny movie! i love it...i mean "him"...will smith! hehe!

God knows better

2005-03-01T09:16:00.000+11:00

My sister lost her baby...

On her birthday.

Only God knows why,

And we trust Him.

Happy Birthday to my dear sister. Everything will be fine. You'll have 100 more babies to come...

Connecting People

2005-02-22T19:49:00.000+11:00

Peer Networking in Uni has started last week and is still running this week. The two week Orientation Programme for new students has been busy but really fun.

Last week was the Orientation week for the international students. It was interesting to have met people from Asia (mostly Japanese, Chinese, Koreans), Europe (Dutch, Norweigans, French, Swedish, Germans), and of course the US. I even tried talking to this French guy with my "pick-up-line", "Je parle francais" ( I speak French) as I boasted to him about learning the language in Year 9 and 10. He was so impressed and started speaking really fast that I couldnt understand a thing...yes it was embarassing knowing that "bonjour" is the only word I truly remember. Hehe! It was a memorable experience meeting an adventurous group of people that is so diverse. Talking to them like learning the World History in 1 minute.

This week was the Orientation Week for Local Students (that is, Australian Citizens). It wasn't as busy as last week since these students didn't really need help from us. They know a lot about Australia and of course the University itself. This week was like entering the world of conformity where people relate through matching similar interests.

People connect in different ways. It can be through sharing differences or sharing similarities.

There's no right or wrong approach. It work both ways...

Sometimes it works better together.

It all depends on how you would handle it.

Ian and I watched SPANGLISH today: A movie where different people connect...or are they really different?

-P.S. its true that Hoyts Cinemas is only $5 every tues-

The Hearts

2005-02-14T21:16:00.000+11:00

are beating,
are celebrating,
are sharing LOVE...
today!

Roses, chocolates, diamonds are nonsense without LOVE.

Loving and being loved are the best blessings one could have.

That's what Valentines Day is all about.

"And now these three remaim: Faith, Hope and Love. But the greatest of these is LOVE"
1 Corinthians 13:13

Productivity

2005-02-10T19:06:00.000+11:00

Wow, after a few weeks of bludging I am now ovewhelmed by my coming activities this coming weeks...

I just completed the "UTS Peer Network" training today. Peer Networkers like me are those people who help out in organising events for new students like orientation day. We also help out international students who need advice about Australia and of course the university. Anywayz, I'd be going to the 2 week orientation for international students (1st week) and local students (the week after) starting next week. We were assigned to do certain duties such as registration of students, assisting in seminars campus tours etc.

On top of this, I am starting my "job"(well not really a job...its just a "side-line" if u wanna call it that) tomorrow. I'd be a direct seller of some homeware hehe. Call it lame but at least I'm trying, right? Hehe!

Uni is coming really soon too and that adds to my list.

I was unproductive the past few weeks...Unproductive meaning, a "big financial spendor" hehe. I thought I'd keep myself busy. I even joined the church choir and will be helping out some cathecists on the weekend which I don't really know about. Hehe!

Right now, I feel like bludging again...

Although, I believe in the saying that it feels like you died a day earlier by wasting one day of your life by not doing anything productive . And even if I retire one day, I would not stop working hard...to share bliss.

I dont want to waste my time,
I dont want to waste my talents,
I dont want my life to get wasted,
I want to be remembered when I die...

Friends

2005-02-08T17:27:00.000+11:00

Who r your friends?
Sometimes people unconciously pretend to transform themselves to something or someone else to find some company...believe me, it gets tiring...its a tedious job...

Friends don't force you to change. To them, you are who you are.

And I'm glad I can always be me...
With you,
And you,
Yes You,
All of you...
My friends, my barkada, my best friend

2005-02-02T19:16:00.000+11:00

When u love someone, u learn to like the things that u used to hate...

How do u want yours to end?

2005-01-28T19:51:00.000+11:00

Stories have different endings, here are the options...

1. A fairy tale ending: You live happily ever after.
2. Tragic Ending: A feeling of hurt, sadness, negativity.
3. Open Ended: You're left thinking and wondering.

Fairy tales do happen, you make it happen. Dream about it, write it, share it...believe in it.

A story can end with an unexpected murder. Tragedies can be unavoidable but theres the chance of doing the best you can to make the situation less tragic. End it by giving your all. Yell your last words. Even if you may still feel hurt you know you've been heard.

Open ended stories keep you uncertain. There might be a feeling of dissatisfaction but some prefer to leave themselves thinking. To some, it's an adventure.

However, modern writers like us like to experiment. A published book from decades ago may be rewritten and reconstructed... a tragic ending can now be turned into a fairy tale ending.

These stories are similar to what we call "Life". Your life, my life. Fairy tale? Tragic? Open Ended?

Unfinished? Rewrite it, reconstuct it, change it if necessary.

Choose your own ending.

-I wish for a fairytale-

Just Shoosh

2005-01-21T19:22:00.000+11:00

Its hard to criticise anyone...

One may define the word "correct" the same way as another defines the word "wrong".

At times, I find it more convenient to shut up and just say nothing.

I like to live in my own little world :)

-Don't look down on someone if you're not even worth looking up to-

-Minding other people's business is a silent crime.Might as well fix ur own mistakes first-

hi!

2005-01-19T21:29:00.000+11:00

jst got back from the phils a few days ago...

it was great to see my friends, family and of course "the shopping centres" again. hehe!!!

filo christmas and new year are best!

trivia: that baby on my profile is ian :P

Philippines

2004-12-11T14:52:00.000+11:00

We arrived here in the phils on wednesday night. We arrived pretty late... the plane was delayed for 5 hours. I reckon that wasone of the the worst flights i've ever had. But yeh, all's good now.

Haven't done much so far. I of course visited my relatives first off, fitted my dress for my sisters wedding (i'm so disappointed, its not made yet hehe...the dress was really nice though; i cant wait to wear it!), and had another hen's party for my sister... Three not-so-busy-but-fun days.

I wont be using the computer much so please contact me on my mobile phone: 09279188582

To my obmc friends: Please contact me...I have to c u guys sometime

Oldies: C u at the wedding

Ian: I'll be in manila on monday and tuesday. Wanna go out with alex, bunny, ate V etc on that day? PLEASE! I got nothing to do then hehe!!!
Lets organise it. Contact me as soon as u get here!!! Can't wait to see you!!!

ps. sorry if this post is really brief (walang detail at all- really boring)...i'm just using the computer in my mum's office which i can't use for too long. Anywayz, jst SMS me please!!!

Last few days before flying

2004-12-07T08:59:00.000+11:00

Sunday
My sister, Bryan, Ian and I watched Guy Sebastian's concert. He was brilliant!!! I love him!

Monday
*Went to uni for the last time for this training day for "peer networkers". Its like having drama classes (role plays and stuff) and i really enjoyed the day. It was a long day...woke up at 6, started the training at 9, finished at 4.
*Had dinner at my cousin's house... HAPPY 16th BDAY Sandra!

Today
Chill out, relax...prepare for tomorrow's flight!

See you all in the phils!!!

04-12-04

2004-12-04T22:02:00.000+11:00

The best day ever...

Ian and I celebrated our first anniversary today.

We caught a ferry fairly early in the morning from the city (at Circular Quay) and went to Manly beach today, had fish and chips (typical beach food), walked on the sand and had a great 1.5 hours. We then headed back to Circular Quay, walked around the tourists area including this weird but interesting museum (we're not nerd but we just wanted to do something different). It felt like I was on my dream holiday- the beach with my special someone, relaxing and walking to places the wind takes us to.We spent the rest of the afternoon window shopping at the "heart" of the city (now outside the tourist area) and caught the train back to our area (west). We watched "Ella enchanted" to finish our day off (movies are our thing...we would always watch movies to relax and just feel good- kinda like "bumming").

Our special date ended at around 9.30pm.

The whole day, after every activity, he'd ask me if there was more he needed to do for me to tick off everything on my "dream date" checklist. By the end of the day, the checklist had an extra tick on it... our day was more than i would ever ask for.

***My love for something grows greater as i learn more about it as days pass by...even more if it has been a year. ***

Shopping

2004-12-02T16:46:00.000+11:00

I haven't gone shopping in ages...

Ian and i went to parramatta today. We got each other a pair of bracelets for our anniversary on the 4th (hehe), christmas presents- he got me a pair of shoes and i got him board shorts.

And plus, I got myself a shirt.

Too bad we had to leave early coz we got to pick his brother up.

Im looking forward to tomorrow as we continue shopping...

Yun lang! :P

bits and pieces

2004-11-29T14:36:00.000+11:00

*Ian's bday dinner on friday was really good. We ate at a chinese restaurant with our uni friends at like 8pm after they finished their last final exam. We had trouble choosing what to order and all but everyone enjoyed the food that night. It was funny how one of our chinese friends offered to pay the bill saying that it's his present for ian. I guess its a chinese thing to do. But of course, being a filipino, ian insisted to at least contribute a few dollars ;)

**Carol, ianQ (carol's bf), ianV, and i watched the grudge on saturday night. It was damn scary that i coudnt sleep that night. I couldnt put my quilt on me coz it was too hot.

***My sister and bryan bought their first car on Sunday. It was a black Holden Astra. It took us ages doing all the paperworks. I missed lunch and all coz bryan kept chatting up the agents which prolonged the process. Hay nako.

****I went to the car inspection station (RTA) today and i was told that I don't need to replace my seatbelt. Thank God the long drive to the car inspection station was worth it and of course I get to save $300 for not having to replace the left hand rear seatbelt of my car.