Quotes

In your funeral, the people will see two dates on your tombstone: one of your birth, and one of your death. But the most important thing on that stone slab, will be the little line between those two dates.

I got this from a friend of mine, who found it in her friend's notebook. Her friend collects quotes as well.

Quotes

It is the simple things in life that are the most extraordinary.

Quotes

"Understand those who don't understand you."

Quotes

"It's never too early for anything, it's often too late for everything."

Trip to Camiguin Part 3

Still wet and cold from the swim, and having a lot of time in our hands, my parents decided to stop by Ardent Hot Springs for a dip (the perfect way to end the day).

The last time I visited Ardent was two years ago, and it wasn't that much of sight anymore. Even though people go there for the spring alone, that doesn't necessarily mean that you do not maintain the cleanliness of the area. I sighed. I was tired from the swim. And it pains me to see that they're going to have a dip without me. Sometimes it just sucks to be a girl when it comes at the most inappropriate time (if you know what I mean then good). "C'mon Yel!" Ardent Hot Springs did not consist of several individual pools of hot water, and there was only a hole to allow the hot spring water from the volcano to gush in (we asked where the water came from and they said it was from the volcano. Don't know which one); it consisted of three pools (differing in depth and temperature) all filled up by rushing hot spring water (it wasn't a hole, more like a mini fall). The pool down below was the one with the highest temperature.

There was the opening of the door and I opened my eyes. We were already there; and I slept all the way! Outside of the gate was pretty much the same: stalls selling souvenirs and beach clothes, and food and drinks. We walked up the gate, paid for the entrance fee (which I think was less that Php30) and went inside. The ground was covered in cotton (or something that looked like cotton). "What's that Yel?" my brother asked. I saw these before in school. They came from a fruit growing on a tree right beside the school library. The fruit were just 2 feet away from my reach if I was standing at the edge of the roofdeck (the roofdeck is one the fifth floor).

"It's a seed." there was a small seed hidden in the cottony substance. I'm guessing that the cotton was made to protect the seed and allow it to disperse, similar to that of the narra's. Perfect time to forget my botany. I racked my brain for its name. Ah well. My brother won't understand anyhow.

"What's the white stuff?"

"Cottony something." I wasn't sure it WAS cotton. But it was similar to cotton in appearance. I was starting to get sleepy. While my dad was looking for a shed to put our things, I was trudging behind trying to get my brain working again. What are those things on the ground?

"Let's go in!" my dad said enthusiastically. I smiled.

"I'll stay behind." I told them. They already know the reason why, my brother (who was asking about the seeds earlier) apparently forgot and asked me why. I couldn't tell him in a public place now can I? He always had this habit of repeating what I told him a bit louder than usual. Making such information a secret pointless. I just glared at him; he walked away without pressing me any further.

They went to the pool at the farther end where the water is at its hottest. I doubt they would take long; it's inadvisable to stay in a tub of hot water for too long. It would make you nauseous, and instead of relaxing, sport a huge headache. They were only gone for less than 30 minutes. "Hey! Let's get a foot massage!" my mom suggested. There was a small 'house' right beside our hut that offered such services. You don't necessarily have to have a full body massage, as what other people would think. A foot massage alone was accepted. But the masseuse told my parents that they should dry off before they get a massage. Besides, they would be open till 10PM, and would be happy to offer their services when my parents come back from Bahay Bakasyunan to change. It's a good thing that they weren't only after the money and would have given my parents a massage right then and there. They thought about what's best for the client; not wanting him or her to suffer from any effects of having a massage without drying off. My dad nodded his head and told my mom that they might as well come back later.

We left the hot springs and I happily drifted back to sleep.

I woke up upon arrival to Bahay Bakasyunan. My brothers' energy reserves were fully charged once we arrived to our room. They wanted to go swim in the pool. While they were stripping into their swimming trunks, I made a turn for the bathroom. Where do they get all this energy? I asked myself while scrubbing the sand off my body. After drawing a conclusion that my brothers originated from an aquatic lifeform, I turn the tap and got out of the shower. When I came out my mom and I were the only ones left in the room. My dad and my two brothers have gone to the pool. I waited for her to get ready and we went down for dinner at the resort's restaurant.

My dad was lying down by the side of the pool, he looked like one of those crocodiles that bask in the sun only that he had his belly up and the sun has already set at the horizon. His eyes were closed, my brothers splashed pool water at each other, clearly enjoying their late afternoon swim. They're really not tired... after calling on a waitress to see the menu, they guys went back to the hut to bathe and change. While my mother was busy browsing through the menu, I was fixated on the view before me. The sun was setting, radiating a brilliant pink and orange glow that bounced off the surrounding clouds. The clouds cast dark blue and purple shadows. It looked like a gigantic painting where the orange, pink, blue and purple colors harmonize on the canvas.

"What do you want Yel?"

"Hm?"

The first bite was all it took for to fall instantly in love with the resto's garlic chicken. It was so delicious, any more and I would have already turned into a glutton. The rest of the night went by. After dessert, my brothers and I rushed back to the hut to watch TV. :)

Trip to Camiguin pt 2

There was a storm last night and the editted portions of my last entry weren't saved due to the loss of internet connection. *sigh* Good thing this wasn't a paper my life depended on, or else I would have gone wild. (Haha)

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May 23, 2010

The dirty plates were cleared away and my dad washed the dishes (perhaps it was his turn this week). "Yel, you want to watch Transformers 2?" Gavin asked. I haven't seen Transformers 2. The idea came to me while I was still in school, but the thought of going all the way to the theatre to watch it made it unappealing. The first movie was a blast! What really made it worth watching was the action and the comedy. There was less drama in there involving the Sam and Mikaela (thank goodness). I wonder what happened in the second one. More Decepticons attacking the Earth no doubt.

"Sure!" I accepted and stood up next to him, bouncing on the balls of my feet as went ahead to climb the stairs. I already knew my brothers are so close to spoiling the whole movie on me before they could get it playing. I've already warned them countless times not to, good thing they remembered and kept silent as the opening credits rolled.

Hoots of laughter and gasps of shock followed. (For those who haven't watched Transformers 2 don't worry, I won't spoil it here). Usually it was at these parts that my brothers would tell me what would happen next, but they surprisingly didn't. I occasionally asked them who the new robots were, seeing that there were more than last time. I loved the one named Jetfire, a rusting used-to-be-Decepticon who thinks that Earth was a horrid name for planet and we might as well have called it DIRT. (I have to hand it to the scriptwriter, I love the smartass humor).

After sporting a crush on Optimus Prime (despite it being the second time I saw him and he's a fictional character, nonetheless a shifting robot), the three of us decided it would be time to hit the sack. Not before playing some online games, reading several fanfics and packing for tomorrow's trip. I fell asleep at around midnight.

May 24, 2010

"GET UP!" That was not what I expected to wake up to on my first day at home. But it can't be helped, considering that we were going to Camiguin and the second ferry is leaving in two hours. It was 7AM, my brother whined as they woke up. "Oh. Happy Birthday Gavin!" my dad added, standing at the doorway. I leapt up to my feet to get to be the first to use the bathroom. Although I didn't want to wake up so early, the excitement was just too much! We're going to Camiguin!

I was still a bit sleepy when I looked for something to wear before I hit the shower. The cold water wasn't of much help either. After brushing my teeth and combing my hair (thank goodness I packed last night), I went downstairs to help my mom with the luggage. She was usually the one who packed for trips, and my dad would always tell her to pack light. This would then lead to a playful banter that would last far longer than expected. My dad saying to pack ONLY the essentials, and my mom insisting that we bring EXTRAS. I can't say my mom was wrong about that... I actually got packing more than I should from her. I would rather be safe than sorry. My mom tried to squeeze in some shirts into the bag, since my dad said that we were carrying too many bags when all we need are a few. I only had one bag to carry my stuff, my dad had his, one for the towels, one for the drinks, one for the food (leftovers from last night), one for my mom plus her handbag, and one for my two brothers... I hope we don't miss the ferry.

I fell asleep in the backseat, my head resting on my brother's shoulder. Gavin was bigger than me, although it was unfair, it did have its benefits. I have someone to lean on now! I thought to myself with glee. I drifted off to sleep, occasionally opening my eyes now and then to know where we were. I was surprised when we were already on the ferry. I woke up the sound of a lid being pulled off and the smell of meat from last night's dinner. I wasn't hungry, but my mind told me that I should eat. "How was your sleep Yel?" Gabriel asked, if he were any older his question would come off as sarcasm. He's 10, so that was considered an honest question.

I rubbed my eyes. "Good."

We ate in the car, mom passed off plastic spoons and forks and we all just dug in, shoving our spoons into a plastic container filled with rice, and into the one containing the meat. It was... cute. Gavin lodged himself in between the two seats, blocking the aircon and preventing Gabo and I from getting any more food. Can't blame him, he had been telling us (more of heard in those brief moments when I was awake) that his head was aching, a telltale sign that he was hungry. The jug of water of passed from one person to the next. My parents shared a bottle while us three shared another. You can't go obsessive-compulsive in moments like these; it would be another hour before we could find someplace to eat on the island.

I wolfed down all of what remained from mama's beefsteak and handed her the contained. Satisfied, my eyes started to droop. This is getting bad. I should stop dozing off all the time. Try as I might, I still fell asleep. I wonder why I was so tired. In spite me having a preference for sleeping at the wee hours of the night, I didn't have any trouble keeping myself awake. Then... it hit me: nothing was giving me the adrenaline rush. Wait. That couldn't be it! We're heading to Camiguin! How could there not be an adrenaline rush?!

Bahay Bakasyunan sa Camiguin was not that far from Benoni Port. It's a 15-20 minute drive away with one turn to the right when you exit from the port. You can't get lost... unless you don't have people skills to ask for directions. Bahay Bakasyunan was... well... really a place for tourists or for those who just wanted to spend a week or two on the island. Accomodating. Affordable. Perfect. Those were the words that fit to describe it. Accomodating: the rooms are spacious and cool, a clean bathroom (what every girl wish for) and excellent room service (they clean the room everyday and leave towels, soaps, shampoo and a new roll of toilet paper after). Affordable: I haven't asked my dad about that, but from what I've heard I could consider it cheap considering that we stayed for three days and two nights in a room good for 3 (it was previously a room for 2 but another bed was added). Perfect: the view outside was amazing at night!

Settling ourselves in, I knew that we weren't going to stop there. My dad was ecstatic, he wanted to get out as soon as possible. "Where do you guys want to go?" I asked my friend Mitch what were the good places to go to on that time of the day, and she suggested Mantigue Island. We haven't been to Mantigue, so the place sparked our interest to head off there first. Another scuffling on what to bring and we were soon our way to find a way to get there. Few more texts and stops along the way, we found ourselves between Barangay Hubangon and Binaliwan (signs made out of scrap planks of wood with "To Mantigue Island" written in black paint can be seen lining the sides near the ocean). Pump boats were available to send us to the island and back for a price of Php550.

It would approximately take the boat 10 minutes or so to get to the island (I think it was longer than that, seeing that the island was situated further than the renowned White Island). Unlike White Island, Mantigue Island was not merely a strip of white sand in the middle of clear blue seawater. Mangroves and other plants were growing, starting from the center and fanning out, making it look like a chiffon cupcake with green icing (ugh). When we got there it was unbelievably quiet. There weren't that many people about, and they weren't making that much noise either. All you can hear was the churning of the engine as the operator gradually eased it to a stop and the slosh of the waves underneath the boat. The boat stopped and we got off one by one. Gavin, being the daredevil (and klutz) that he is, jumped from the boat's tip landing on his feet. His feet unfortunately gave way and he landed on his ass: getting his shirt, shorts and part of the towel around his neck wet. Everyone laughed. My mother told me to keep it down since it was noon. I let out a muffled laugh. [Image on the left is Camiguin Island from the hut we occupied in Mantigue Island]

The first thing we noticed was that it was too hot. Taking pictures were reserved for a later time until the sun had eased up a bit. We were greeted with a welcome sign and a cluster of shells arranged on a table. The "ceiling", shielding the persons in-charge, consisted the trees' canopy. A fruit caught my sight, a sign was dangling from one of its branches saying that it was Pandan. "Weird-looking fruit." The scent of dried seaweed filled the air. I looked to the right and saw mounds of seaweed strewn on shore. They looked like clumps of...

After paying the woman at the desk for permission to snorkel, we trudged through the white sand to look for a good swimming spot. It was like getting stranded on an island; marooned perhaps just like Jack Sparrow. We managed to find a hut, which was worth Php150, and a decent spot (not that many rocks) to swim. I went farther out to do some snorkeling, finding only a large school of fish (same species, just don't know what it is), a strange-looking dome-shaped figure that's pink in color and several starfish that I remembered were endemic in the Philippines. How I wish I had an underwater camera (haha). Two hours clicked by, we started to get hungry. Remembering that we can order some food, my parents left, going through the "forest", to go order. My brothers and I waited patiently, downing the two bottles of orange Gatorade.

My parents returned, along with two liters of cold water and several small packs of Nagaraya. We waited until the Nagaraya was all gone until we decided to head back into the water. Less than five minutes passed and the food arrived. The first dish was a platter of clams and clam soup. They were so... big. And tasty as I drank some soup. Rice came and fish (cooked on coal... I don't think 'roasted' is the right word) that looked like a small barracuda. There was nothing special added to the fish, I was guessing that its taste came from it being part of today's fresh catch. Salt and a squeeze of a few kalamansi was all it needed.

We stayed a bit longer until we decided that it was time to go. We went through the "forest", seeing that it was the fastest way to the "front desk", passing more plants that got me asking what they were. A man offered to take a picture of us before we left, posing right up front. He mentioned something about turtles drifting onto the island to lay eggs, but I didn't seen any nursery OR hatchery. I asked him some more but he didn't answer; it sounded like he wasn't keen onto giving away any more information. I shrugged it off and walked away to get on the boat that would send us back home. Gavin, again, fell on his butt and wet his shorts and shirt; good thing he only brought the plastic bag that carried our swimming gear. Mama refused to give him anything to bring since that incident. [Figures on the right present the weird-looking fruit I was talking about. Documenting it reminded me of fieldwork. Haha)

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Forgive me for the long entry. It's been a while since I last wrote. Enjoy!

Our Trip to Camiguin

May 22, 2010

My dad picked me up from my dormitory at around 7PM last Saturday, since our flight at 4:25PM the next day. This is a good thing for me since sleeping at the dorm was equal to falling asleep in a sauna! It was so hot! That was the first time I have ever woken up with a wet shirt and bed sheet from sweating the whole night. The fan didn't help at all! It just made the situation unbearable by blowing warm air into my face. Sleeping outside was tempting.

My dad and I had to share the bed, which was a problem for me since I move a lot. To make matters worse he positioned himself at the foot of the bed, within my kicking range. I thought he was going to move to another spot after the movie. Surprised was I when I heard someone snoring. He fell asleep. Ah well. Not my fault he would end up on the floor later.

May 23, 2010

Thankfully... he didn't! I woke up to the news reporter's voice in the television. It was 8AM, the room didn't make it look like it was. It's Sunday today, eight hours from now I'll be back in Cagayan de Oro. I was... excited. I wanted to see what changed and what stayed just the way they were since the last time I went back. I know it was only four months ago, but changes are inevitable. They come and when you least expect them to. Sometimes you have to make them happen.

I have to say coming back to Cagayan de Oro was a bit strange. As the plane lifted off its 'wheels' (for the lack of a better term) from the runway of NAIA Terminal 3, it was like a part of me was yanked out of my system. "Gah! My bladder!" would be the expression befitting to express what I felt at the moment. "The doctor really took it out... cool." was all I could say as we approach our destination.

The last time I went home for the break was last December 27, no wonder I felt that something went wrong as we left Manila. Perhaps I've stayed here for too long that it has become rather unhealthy (unhealthy to a point that I didn't want to go home).

The thing about coming back after such a long time, it's easier for one to point out the differences. There were more subdivisions being put up near the airport, replacing the previous several hectares of farmland which used to be a pleasing sight when people pass by. The green was covered by gray and brown, as the workers dug into the soil to put in foundations.

The thing about modernization, which I find quite annoying, is that it never stops. There are just some things in life that are better left alone. If it would make life easier, go with it. But be sure that the benefits of such a discovery outweigh the consequences brought about by the change. I would go for sticking with the farmland than building a subdivision next to two others. Might as well situate it somewhere else.

The cab turned right down a familiar curb, and I could see the guardhouse from a distance. The place where I usually wait for my dad to pick me up; whenever it was raining and it was late at night or I had a lot of things to carry. The on of the guards on duty that time was a friend of mine, unfortunately he wasn't the one who went up the driver's side to get the driver's ID. After telling the guard, whom I figured was new, who we were, we were allowed in.

Three more houses were constructed in the neighborhood, as we passed by them along the way to our house. There were some guys playing basketball at the court on the field and two girls barreling down the sidewalk on our right with their bicycles. The sun was setting, and the tint of pink-orange-red spread itself on the horizon, glowing magnificently as if it were coming from a newly snapped glow stick. I always take this path home when I was still in high school. It would usually take me ten to fifteen minutes to get home, and within those minutes my mind is completely blank. "How melancholic." you might say. Well... if you were in that stage in life where raging hormones is not the only thing taking its toll on your body, then walking and thinking about absolutely nothing is very much welcome. With the breathtaking view and the cool breeze blowing... it was the perfect breather.

"Left." My dad directed the man to our house. "That park in front of that blue house over there." I was glad that no other house nearby was painted the same shade of blue with the same blue roof as our house. That would make the color an eyesore... the cab pulled up in front of the house. I could see smoke coming from the side of the house. Mama was still cooking tonight's dinner.

"YEL!" my ten-year old brother ran towards me. I didn't let him hug me immediately, I had him chase me first! I laughed, he did to, I stopped, and he knocked the wind out of me as he collided with my gut.

"Ow." I laughed and hugged him just as tight.

"I miss you Yel!" he told me, giving me a toothy grin.

"Miss you too!" I rubbed his semi-kal head. The other bro came rushing down the garage ramp. "YEL!" his voice had gone down a pitch, but it was still the same booming voice that resembled my tatay's. He was taller than me now! He wound his arms around my neck and gave me a squeeze. "How's your trip?"

"It was okay," I smiled up at him. He IS tall. "Come on. Let's put these bags inside." he helped me with my luggage, tugging the stroller with him.

"Yel, your mom's calling you." my dad called from the patio. I left Gavin to deal with the bag, seeing that he can handle it by himself. When did he get so strong? "Coming!" I replied, rushing to the other side of the house. "Hi ma!"

My mom was wearing a green formal blouse, I quirked my eyebrows. "Why are you wearing that?" she was cooking pork belly on the makeshift grill my dad made using a large clay pot that used to hold one of the small trees planted on our front yard.

She laughed. "I asked Gabo to fetch me a blouse. He gave me this." I shook my head. Typical Gabo: if it looks like a blouse and it was the first thing he saw, then that's good enough. I walked towards my mom and hugged her. She kissed me on the cheek. My dad, with a smile on his face, approached us from the front, carrying a camera.

The rest of the evening went by as if I have never went to Manila and stayed there for several months. It was like any other night on the table. Gabo complaining that the meat was too tough (when it wasn't), my dad complimenting my mom's cooking with a grunt or two of approval or exclamations of utter satisfaction, and Gavin staying silent at his side of the table as he mercilessly attacks the meat on his plate. Yep. I'm glad there are some things that NEVER changed.

Home : Day 1 (October 19,2009)

I know it's really, really late. This happened on a Monday... just ignore the date on the upper right.

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It was... different.

You know that feeling you get when you wake up somewhere other than your usual cluttered apartment? You feel a bit dizzy, and it was as if you were in a dream? Yeah... that's what I felt. Perhaps I was still recovering from motion sickness (that's what RB called it)...

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Pale pink painted walls, white curtains, a wooden study table at the foot of the bed and a red plastic garbage can (I doubt it was a can... it looked like an oversized jumbo cup) on the far left was not what I expected to see at five in the morning. Where am I? I looked out the window and it was really bright out. "I think the clock's busted."

Blinking, I sat up and yawned. "Where was that bloody rooster?" I asked. Usually by this time, the rooster next door would crow... and it finally sank in. Everything that happened the day before rushed back in like a tidal wave hitting the rocks at the foot of a cliff. "I'm home..." The painting my mom made hung on the wall at my left, its wooden baby blue colored frame making it stand out from the pink wall. I smiled and stretched. "Uwaaahh... it's good to be back!"

***

"Morning!" I greeted when I reached the foot of the stairs.

"Whoa. You're up early." my dad said. I know they would be surprised. Seldom do I wake up this early in high school; unless the alarm was set at full volume or my mom sent one of my brothers to wake me up (they really are the type that won't stop until you get up from bed. Call them the human cuckoo clocks).

"I'm always like this. I can't go back to sleep." Try as I might to get back to sleep, I just can't. It's the semestral break, why do I have to get up so early?

Both of my parents were going off to work that day, and my brothers had their exams. "You don't have plans for today?" my mom asked while sipping a mug of steaming hot coffee (grown-ups can't live without coffee).

"Mmm..." I untwisted the cap of the large jar of Nutella my tita sent us, spooning out some to spread on a slice of bread. "Oh! I'm meeting RB today." I took a bite from my sandwich. It was still 6AM, my brothers have to leave by 6:30AM.

"You want to tag along?" mama asked. She got up to use the bathroom since my brothers were already done. The clock was ticking. If I don't give an answer now, my brothers will be late. If I don't tag along, papa would have to come back to fetch me or I have to wait for him to get ready (by that time...). Or, I could just walk under the blazing heat of the 6AM sun (6AM? This hot? You got to be kidding me! ... No. I'm not). This is indeed one of the best ways to start the day, think.

"Sure!" I hurriedly finished my sandwich and washed it down with a glass of ice cold water. I went upstairs to get ready, hoping that I won't be the cause of getting them late.

Thankfully I was ready within thirty minutes. My brother was still putting on his shoes. "Hurry guys or else we'll be late." mom told them. Whoa. It was as if I went back to my high school days. I shook the thought out of my system, I was starting to get way too sentimental.

I arrived before RB (since we agreed meeting at 8AM). I waited for him for a good thirty minutes. I didn't mind waiting. All I did was walk around the campus. There were students on the benches in front of the canteen and around twenty were playing soccer at the football field. It was getting warm, which came as a shock since it was still 7:45AM. "How did it get so hot?"

RB arrived, surprised I was there before him. He expected me to come at 9AM. "Do you really think I would do that?" I asked him. We laughed it off and went on our way to the pavilion. It was their finals tomorrow. RB was going to study for English..."What do you study for English?" he asked. So instead of studying, RB and I ended up talking. We caught up with each other's college life, me asking him how it went with the girl he met on his way home three months ago. He wasn't able to find her again... too bad.

I get to see Carmi and Jaeanne while RB and I were eating our snacks. They were studying for their History finals. It was about the Japanese occupation. I already forgot the deatils (fail). When the first bell rang, they left.

"Do you think Mitch is in CDO?" RB asked me while finishing his orange juice with a loud slurp (he was drinking through a straw). He stood up to throw the empty cup into the garbage can.

"I guess." I said over my shoulder. We texted Mitch to come over. She just got back from Camiguin the day before, but we still urged her to come. "RB, can we look for someplace cooler?" I was sweating like crazy. There was no wind at all! "When did this place get so hot?" I fanned myself with my towel, knowing that doing so would just make it worse.

"Let's go to the fifth floor. It's windy there at this time of the day." He suggested. He wasn't sweating! What the...? As we walked down the hallway, I couldn't help but ask where we were going. He said we were going to the fifth floor, but we just passed by a staircase. "We're taking the elevator." Elevator? And there it was, an elevator. Three students walked out of it. The last one was almost caught between the two metal doors. Is this thing even safe?

RB entered the elevator first, I followed. He pushed the button that closes the door and then the button with the number 5 on it. "No elevator music?" RB snickered. The doors slid open and we stepped out. The cool wind slapped me at the face. "Woot!"

Finding an empty classroom, RB and I talked for a bit while waiting for Mitch. Rose also came by (waaahh! She's so pretty!) and we talked some more. When she left, RB's phone rang. "Who is it?" I asked him. I was getting a bit sleepy. The wind felt so nice...

"It's Mitch. She's waiting for us at the benches in front of the chapel." We stared at each other. How long has she been waiting? Wah! We put back the chairs we used to their proper places, turned off the lights and fans, ran down the hallway, pressed the down button of the elevator with such vigor and speed I could have made it pop out from its place!

We found Mitch by the benches. She had been waiting for us... judging by the look of her face when we approached. "Where were you?" she asked.

"We... were on the fifth floor?" RB and I said in unison.

"O-kay... where are we off to after? You guys had lunch?" RB and I shook our heads. "I'm hungry. Let's go eat!"

"Where?" I asked.

"Umm... McDo?"

"Okay!"

After lunch and accompanying Mitch to CHED, we then went back to XU Main since RB still has something to submit at 2PM. "Where are we off to next?" Mitch asked. "You guys want to go to Limketkai?"

"Sure!" It was still 1PM, so we spent an hour just talking about the things that happened right after we separated. It had been that long. Five months. Five months of not seeing each other, merely resorting to text and instant messages for communication. When I met up with RB at eight in the morning, starting a conversation with him was quite hard. In high school, we would talk about practically anything. Now... I don't even know the things he became interested whille in college. Same goes with Mitch.

The clock struck 2:00, we slowly made our way to the elevator (seriously, that elevator has a mind of its own. I barely got off when it suddenly closed, keeping my right foot inside! It hurt. Haha!). RB met up with his teacher, we left and rode a jeepney to Ketkai. Aaahhh Ketkai... its twists and turns resemble that of a maze. The first time I went there (after modifications) it took me and my mom twenty minutes to find the bathroom.

So the day ended with us eating Takoyaki, otherwise known as a veggie ball, drowned in sweet and spicy sauce at Robinsons (Robinsons and Ketkai were connected).

After bidding goodbye I went to Gaisano Mall to meet up with my mom. It took me 45 minutes to find her. E-gad (Hahaha!). She was on the fourth floor not the third. I was going from Gaisano Mall to Gaisano City searching for her on the THIRD floor. "Mamaaaa..." I said when I found her (or she found me). "I had to ask the saleslady where Gaisano Mall is. She replied, 'This is Gaisano Mall.' I looked like an idiot." Mama laughed. Gaisano Mall and Gaisano City stood side-by-side, and I have no means of knowing which is which. "Maaaa... you told me you were on the third floor..." I pouted and let out a chuckle, hugging her as she digs into a heap of blouses. What a way to end the day.

POSTIE!!!!

Home: Day 0

This was on a Sunday. I know it's late. Hehehe. Enjoy!

I woke up to the crowing of the cockerel next door. It was still 6AM when I checked the clock on my table. My brain started whirring, thinking about the stuff I should get done before the end of the day, preventing me from getting back to sleep.

"This early? Can I have thirty more minutes?" I complained, tossing and turning beneath the covers. "Seriously?" I sat up and stretched. The sun was peeping through the window, its rays illuminating the room. It was still 6AM... how did it get so bright out? Taking that out of my mind (since it was still too early to question nature), I got up and went to the bathroom.

The house was too quiet. Everyone was still asleep. "Why can't I sleep just as long?" I made my way to the comfort room, not even bothering to switch the lights on as a entered. Turning the tap, cool water started to gush from the faucet, the sound echoing throughout the whole dorm (yeah. It was that quiet). Taking a handful, I splashed it on my face, hoping to remove the remnants of the sandman.

Awake (what was I before?), I dragged myself into the room and started fixing my things. I was going home today. My flight was not until 12:20AM. I still had approximately six and a half hours to spare. I was sure I had everything ready, being that I packed two days before. Clothes were there, pasalubongs, shoes... the toiletries will be added later. "What to do for six hours and fifteen minutes?" Staring at the ceiling could be one, but the paint was plain making it uninteresting to look at.

Sighing, I went down the staircase to get myself some breakfast. My stomach wanted food. It was still 7AM and Happy Homes won't be open 'til 8AM. I had to wait for an hour for food... pitiful (hahaha!).

Time flew way too slow. I heard my stomach rumble and grumble, it was like I swallowed up a storm cloud and it was gathering up steam at the pit of my gut. I won't be surprised if I started spitting out lightning bolts (that would be so cool!).

When the clock struck eight, I rushed towards the telephone and dialled their number (I was that hungry). I ordered enough food to last me through lunch, since my flight was from 12:20-1:40. There are also chances that it would get delayed. Actually am just trying to convince myself that eating that much was highly necessary. (Hahaha)

Tita came by to pick me up at around 9AM, we still had to buy two dozen krispy kreme donuts for my brothers. Why two dozen? Because a dozen and a half is theirs and the rest is for me, papa and mama. Amazing huh?

It was my first time entering NAIA alone for a flight TO Cagayan. Last time I was there arriving FROM Cagayan. Thankfully there were no mishaps. I didn't get lost, ended up being called by the security office, nor board the wrong plane. Everything went smoothly; even the checking-in of bags. I thought I was going to exceed fifteen kilos, I would have had to pay extra if this was so.

Since I got to the airport way too early (I still had two hours), I amused myself with the game Plant vs. Zombies while drinking a glass of mocchacino. Planes took off before me, like humongous metallic birds with stiff wings being shot into the air by slingshot (they looked like they were sent flying through slingshot... the planes I mean).

Our flight did get delayed, due to heavy traffic on the runway. When the steward called out the flight to Cagayan, everyone at the waiting area stood up and formed two lines. Pregnant women, children and the elderly were given top priority. Getting into your seat proved to be difficult. Some people who were seated from 16-22 entered the front door that was only meant for those who had seats from 15 and below. Everyone was rubbing against each other, bags were slammed onto heads and bodies were being pushed into the chair's linen. I couldn't help but feel a bit cramped. Thank goodness I wasn't claustrophobic. I would have gone wild before the plane could take off.

The flight was uneventful. They had games (a Bring Me game. I wasn't able to win anything since I didn't have the items they requested. Haha) and I was able to use the airplane's restroom, which people said was really, really small (I can still move around in there. Dance maybe). But other than that nothing interesting happened.

When the plane landed on Cagayan de Oro soil, I got all excited! I was going to meet my folks and brothers after five months of extreme sacrifice. "I am not going to cry." I told myself. But to no avail, I did after seeing my little brother crying his eyes out when I approached the car.

It's good to be home. There were a lot of things I missed. I missed my mom's voice, my dad's quirkiness and my brothers' ability to do something funny without even trying to make it so (how adorable!).

I have to go now. So sleepy. Bye!

Bittersweet

I think my toothbrush is a portkey...

Last Thursday at seven in the evening, I was in my tita Malou's place trying to make her little boy Louis give me a hug. I knew it would take him some time to warm up to me, but he was just too cute! He reminded me of my little brother Gabriel, very energetic and always has something up his sleeve. Sometimes it would involve annoying his kuya to the brink of insanity that one had to hold the big guy down before he could pummel the little one to the ground.

Louis was five years old. He had a brother named Luke, who was nine years of age, same as Gabriel. Luke was the first to hug me. I met him at the attic playing Naruto on his PS2. His eyes were glued to the screen as I greeted him hello. A short answer came from his direction, it was like a bullet shot, gone in a millisecond. I could have missed it if I wasn't looking at him.

The two had an older brother named Lance. He was twelve. He was taller, but if I were to wrestle him I could have won the first round (yes, I'm fat). He was the quiet type,just like Gavin. I would have kissed him goodbye when I left, but it was like he knew what I was going to do when I took a step closer.

It was different. Being teleported into place with a different atmosphere, away from the urban noise, PESTS, tension and pressure. I popped into a place that reminded me of something that I have missed for the past two months. Something that I have left behind and would do anything to return to. HOME.

The dorm could soothe that dull ache, but nothing could compare to that place miles away from where you're standing. I can't help it. I miss my brothers. I miss my mom. I miss my dad. And the people I met that day, whom was able to spend time with for two days, were just like them. It was refreshing, yet it made me miss them even more.

Thanks for everything tita Malou and tito Lito! Miss you!

COLLEGE LIFE

Tight schedules. Limited time. Cramming. Seven cups of coffee in one sitting. Thick books that make your shoulders ache. These are some of the things that would come to mind when I hear people talk about college.

College, from what I thought back then, was far from what I am experiencing now. Currently surviving my fourth week in a place I am totally foreign to, things have been going really well. The first week was a bit tough since I still had to adjust with my parents' absence and the fact that I was all alone since I barely knew anyone in school. I was also following a different schedule than my classmates', which hindered me from making any acquaintances in the first few days.

But as the days passed by, things are getting a lot better. My teachers are really nice. They make the lesson understandable and fun. (Not what I expected since it's already college. But I'm glad it's like this. Hehehe) They even want the students to be more creative during group presentations, like making a skit or singing a song while reporting.

College is fun! I know it will get even more difficult as time passes, but who says you can't have a little of both pleasure and business? ^__^

I joined a school publication. Hope I get in! LOL

Summer Frenzy!!!

"Now that summer's in... what now?" I would occasionally ask. This summer feels different. Unlike all the summers I've had, this must be the most uneventful to date. Last summer I spent most of my time reading books. Two summers ago I attended summer classes for Chemistry. Three summers ago, my cousins who migrated to London came over. This summer is pretty uneventful. BUT, my prayers were answered!

Last Saturday, my family and I went to Mantanghale Beach Resort to take a dip and free ourselves from the confines of our small warm home (although it is warm, the endless feeling of laziness is just unbearable!) and the demands of work (who wouldn't want to get out of that?). We were on our way at around 9AM because we didn't pack the night before since my parents had no idea where to go. Haha. It took us two hours to pack my brothers' swimming trunks, two towels, extra shirts, toiletries and the all-important underwear. TWO HOURS. My brother didn't even bother to take a bath! He was too busy looking for his underwear.

On the road, we stopped by Mercury Drug in Gusa to purchase several bottles of mineral water for the trip. The ride went smoothly, if the bumps were taken out, that my brothers and I fell asleep in the backseat (even with the lumps we still fell asleep).

Wiping the remnants of sleep from our faces (you know what I mean), we woke up to the sound of my mom's voice. "Wake up! We're here!" as I opened my eyes, we drove through a narrow passage, and inside was the main entrance to the resort. The security guard on duty almost put me back to sleep with his voice (he sounded like he just woke up). We paid the entrance fee, parked, breathed in the fresh air which was interrupted growling stomachs. It was already lunch and the trip worked up our appetite!

You can't believe how large the porkchop is! It occupied half of the plate! I was almost tempted to ask where they bought it because I have never seen a porkchop that big. After that stomach-busting lunch, we went down the steps leading to the beach.

My little brother, Gabo, was hesitant in jumping in. I told him to wear his goggles since the water would sting his eyes, but no matter how many times I told him, he wouldn't. Because of that, he would constantly run to mama to wash away the saltiness with mineral water. He was the reason why all the mineral water was gone. Due to high tide, we weren't able to bury papa alive. Haha. We did get to have amazing spa treatment by scrubbing ourselves with sand. Hehe.

Next stop would be the pool. Now my brother uses his goggles. I mean, WHAT? You needed it more at the beach not here! DUH! I always think my brothers have topsy turvy brains. My dad taught me how to do the basic swimming technique which I don't know what it's called. I failed. I sank and couldn't get any air after the second arm stroke.

After the pool, we decided to rest for a while since it was too hot (the water was also hot). We ordered halo-halo (aaaahhh... halo-halo), and my bros after snackage went for a dip in the pool now that the sun had gone down a bit.

We got to spend quality time together! After ridding ourselves from our trunks, washing away the sand particles that accumulated in certain places... making us uncomfortable, we head on home. Before heading on home, we had fun at the playground. Papa and I went on a go on the seesaw. Gabo and I did the swings. Gavin was in charge of looking over the place in the tree house. Mama and Papa spent some time alone on the 'group' swing (the one that can accomodate six people).

And the trip back home? We fell asleep. When we woke up we were already in Tagoloan.

Bye for now! See ya!

GRAD BALL!!!

RB and Athena

RB and I

Last March 17, 2009, the fourth year students of Xavier University High School had their Graduation Ball at Grand Caprice, which began at 5:00 PM. Everyone was in a frenzy! Students were filing in, photographers were filing out, snapping shots at the students as they got out of their ride. Waiters moved in a blur, carrying trays of who knows what. Most of the students were taking pictures of themselves and their friends in the hallways, making it impossible for one to get to washroom without mussing up the tediously made up hair and carefully applied make-up.

The theme for the night was Vintage, usually used in knowing when and where a certain wine is produced, but in general it means old, is a term given to the old fashion of the 1950's. In this period women are dressed in simple pastel-colored, clean cut dresses dividing the upper body from the lower with a belt. Men wore vests or huge coats over open chest polos and a matching hat to add that Michael jackson effect.

The Graduation Ball was amazing! The music was perfect, the mood was set, and the food was delicious! We had a great time last Tuesday.

Valentine's...

I don't really know what to post. Am just here, eating a slice of chocolate cake at one in the morning... my butt aching, eyes burning as a fix my gaze on the computer screen.

I am currently reading some one shot mangas, and my mom is mumbling behind me to go to bed. Must have something to do with hormones, I can't seem to GET to sleep whenever I WANT to... what a dilemma.

Anyways, last night (three hours ago), my dad treated us to a Valentine dinner buffet (there's also a lunch buffet... so...yeah...to be more specific). The food was good, the cake was awesome, the music was amazing! The atmosphere was warm. There was a slight drizzle, whose raindrops formed ripples on the still waters of the pool. We had a nice view. Bright lights from tiny houses twinkled like stars in the sky (there were no stars then since it was raining); my brother saw a falling star, told me, and I asked him if he made a wish, he repliedthat he did not by pausing and closing his eyes.

My Valentine's Day this year has been a SWEET one. MORE CAKE!!!

Valentine's Day

We all know what this day is all about. It's about chocolates, red roses, pink and white balloons, but has it ever occurred to you what it's really all about?

As the closk struck twelve last February 12, I knew what to expect for tomorrow. Since Valentine's Day was on a Saturday, the entire student body were buzzing about, trying to catch up with their desired valentine. Cards and rose petals were flying everywhere. Everywhere you look, you see red! If a buffalo were let loose in this chaos, it would go on a rampage and fling everyone down the stairs!

This year, my pre-Valentine's Day celebration was my last and my most memorable pre-Valentine's Day ever! The guys in our section planned everything out. During our lunch break, all the guys were called down to the library (I was also there). I saw them making roses out of paper (origami - the art of paper-folding... perhaps i shouldn't have been there).

When the last bell was rung, all of 4-JDC were asked to remain. The guys moved out of the room, and at the corner of my eye, I saw a bag of paper roses placed on the ground (I saw it through the wooden planks. Haha). I told them that I can see them, they lifted it and the murmurs grew louder. The girls were getting restless, like they were ready to punce at someone the moment they got through the door.

Five minutes ticked by with no life threatening incident. The guys were still conversing LOUDLY behind the cement-covered, styrofoam wall, knowing full well that about 20+ girls can knock it down, still maintaining that same amount of feral intensity.

Finally, four of the boys walked in. Kenn held a guitar and seated himself comfortably in front, the other three walked back out (body guards?). Kenn started off with a brief introduction about what they will be doing, then by public demand, all the guys went in, carrying those paper roses I was talking about earlier. Others mistook that time to give the flowers (it wasn't supposed to be given yet. Very organized impromptu performance).

Then they started singing El Bimbo and a song I do not know but everyone else is familiar with it. Some of the girls cried. Then the guys started dancing to another song I do not know, but they cut it off to sing El Bimbo instead. Haha.

After the first song, they started giving out the paper roses. Phillterr told the guys to say "I love you", which they didn't. Lowell gave me a rose. I think they were asked to pick about three people whom they want the roses to be given to.

In the end, their antics rewarded them a grand applause. It was sweet and cute. Very memorable indeed that the girls knew they lost against the guys for the "mos kilig" factor.

Thanks guys and gals, for making this the best pre-Valentine's Day ever! Even though it's Friday the 13th. Hahaha!

HAPPY VALENTINES DAY EVERYONE!!!!!

FOURTH YEAR

Who knew that senior year can be so hectic? Thanks to the training we got from our junior year, we found ourselves in a better state of mind when in pressure. But that isn't the case with me.

I am the type of girl who can't seem to set her schedule straight. To cram right before the exams and doze off when I know full well that there's going to be a long quiz the next day. What is wrong with me?!

In first year up till second year, I have always prioritized my studies. I don't cram, I don't sleep on tests, I haven't done any of those things listed above. And to think that the junior year and the senior year are the most important years of high school life. This is where the colleges one has chosen determine if you are good enough to be taken in as part of the st udent body.

I honestly didn't do well in my third year. And I definitely deserve that sharp kick in the ass for being an ass (no one did kick me though). WHAT IS WRONG WITH ME?! Am I just tired from all the school work? Shouldn't I be accepting every challenge I come across with open arms? What is wrong with me? What made me this way?

I could say that i lacked the inspiration to be the best that I can be. But, I have an inspiration. My parents. It's because of them that a strive hard. I don't want their sacrifices to be put to waste. I oftentimes feel guilty when I receive my honor's award, with the words "third honor" emblazoned on it in thick black ink.

They don't deserve this. They don't deserve me. I haven't done anything right, from what I've learned. Yes, they are the coolest parents one could ever ask for, but what good would it bring me if I see them in such a state and I'm doing nothing to help them? I cry, I go out of my way to make things right, suggest to get a part time job, help in every way I can in the household (even though the computer keeps on calling for me), just to tell them how thankful I am to have them.

IT'S NOT ENOUGH!!! I say that it's not enough! I want to be the best! But there's something lacking. That special spark. That drive. I lost it when I entered third year. Did i get lazy? Does sleeping late have anything to do with it?... I guess it does.

As i ponder on what thing I lack, what it was that I am missing, I will leave you now to settle your own matters. I have a term paper to deal with, lots of assignments to finish, and four days of endless sports fun to enjoy.

Bye.

Is this true? LOL

What Arielle Means

You are usually the best at everything ... you strive for perfection. You are confident, authoritative, and aggressive. You have the classic "Type A" personality. You are wild, crazy, and a huge rebel. You're always up to something. You have a ton of energy, and most people can't handle you. You're very intense. You definitely are a handful, and you're likely to get in trouble. But your kind of trouble is a lot of fun. You tend to be pretty tightly wound. It's easy to get you excited... which can be a good or bad thing. You have a lot of enthusiasm, but it fades rather quickly. You don't stick with any one thing for very long. You have the drive to accomplish a lot in a short amount of time. Your biggest problem is making sure you finish the projects you start. You are friendly, charming, and warm. You get along with almost everyone. You work hard not to rock the boat. Your easy going attitude brings people together. At times, you can be a little flaky and irresponsible. But for the important things, you pull it together. You are relaxed, chill, and very likely to go with the flow. You are light hearted and accepting. You don't get worked up easily. Well adjusted and incredibly happy, many people wonder what your secret to life is.

What's Your Name's Hidden Meaning?

Accomplishment

I don't know what made me write this... but i think it's... good? Haha.

What is accomplishment? Is it not the feeling of triumph you get when you mastered the art of walking on your two feet? Isn’t it the feeling of well-being you get when you have won something you have been yearning and persevering for? Is it not the word that defines the feeling of being able to do the impossible?

I consider learning as an accomplishment. All humans have the capability to learn no matter what condition or state of mind they are in. God gave us this ability which places us in a much higher position than animals. He gave us intellect, freewill and reasoning, gifts that only humans have. I have never seen a cat stop and think if he should eat the rat or not. Neither have I seen a dog grab a magnifying glass and inspect his fur, wondering why it’s so itchy.

They say that learning begins the very second you come out from the confines of your mother’s womb, your first peek into the world. At first glance, I learned that there are other things far more interesting to look at than the umbilical cord connecting me and my mother together for nine months. I learned that there are such things called good and bad but still had trouble distinguishing one from the other. I discovered new ways how to make use of my feet instead of kicking my father’s face. I noticed that there are furry people walking about on both hands and feet.

At that stage, I was learning even without the help of my parents explaining to me the functions of this part and that, telling me what that furry human is called and what color is orange when I know it’s a fruit. Time passes by and I acquire so many things that seem to cram up the ample amount of space I have in my neural attic. I learned how to draw; I learned how to read and write, what my name was and how to play the violin. I gathered newfound information about the world which I didn’t know of within the boundaries of my home and the security my parents provided me. I understood the complexities of the human anatomy and developed a fondness for the field of science.

The usual words I used in my essays started sounding more complicated and have gotten longer. My usual “large” became “humongous” and the typical “surprised” became “flabbergasted”. I learned that there are different shades of red, pink, blue, green, yellow, violet and orange which before I knew are just plain red, pink, blue, green, yellow, violet and orange. It has escaped me that there are such colors as purple and lemony yellow.

I read books far more interesting than what happened to Goldilocks and the Three Bears. The themes were much more intense than papa bear’s bowl of porridge.

I noticed that one word has over fifteen different meanings and that I should be cautious on how I should use them. I felt unfamiliar emotions that just stir up and break out into the open.

I found new ways on how to learn new things easier, by making graphs and abbreviations to help me understand further the topic at hand. Learning something new is an achievement, understanding it is something more. It is also an innate skill bestowed upon us by God. He gave us reasoning, intellect and freewill. Reasoning is testing what we have learned. We learn so that we may be able to decide the best path to take and to analyze what our mistakes were. I also consider this a skill since I get to nurture it and expand it as time flies by.
I was taught many things that I’m afraid I would have to empty some space in my attic again. I acquired all these in a short amount of time and I don’t know what yet is in store for me.

Learning is an achievement. Getting onto this stage is not easy because along the way, I am tested in every aspect. I quote: “Only mashed grapes produce the best wine.” These challenges describe me as someone who wills herself to try her best in all fields and tests and is ready to learn anything. I pushed myself to the hilt. Striving, going beyond my boundaries. These extremities enabled me to get a position on the honor’s list since the first grade. It placed me in the Honor’s class in my sophomore year. It helped me win extracurricular activities that tested my skills in literature, sports and art.

But for me, accomplishments don’t necessarily come in the forms of embossed certificates or medallions sprayed with golden paint. They might just be the things one has achieved but have not noticed. It might just be a talent imprinted on your genetics which you don’t know about unless you stumble upon it by accident.

An accomplishment could be a skill acquired from other people, like playing the violin. And as you enhance that skill it becomes a talent. Developing one’s skill is an achievement, that was what I realized when I played my first violin piece. Is this what achievement feels like? I felt good about myself, knowing full well that I can do anything I set my mind into.

Yet, I still feel like there’s something else missing. And this brings me to the other variety of accomplishment. I consider making friends an achievement. Being somebody else’s friend is an achievement. They say that finding a needle in a hay stack is difficult, what more if you’re looking for the one person that could understand you and withstand all your imperfection and outlooks in life? Making friends is a tremendous feat. Having true friends is a miracle. Each one of us has different personalities that may not coincide with one another; perhaps that’s what makes finding that said person a miracle.

I have a lot of friends. I am a really friendly person. This defines me as a person who never ceases to care and is open to anyone, who perseveres and goal-oriented. There are some triumphs in life that are worth more than the shiny gold medal framed on your book shelf. And these are the things that never rust or tear.

This is my essay that defines me as a person that I am today.

Ugh...

School, a foundation brought up to form the younger generation into outstanding men and women... that's what they always say. For us students, it's another adventure. School is where you seek the truth. To find yourself and be able to differentiate yourself from other people. In school, you get to do activities that uncovers your true potential preventing you from living beneath another's shadow. School is where you meet new friends, people whom you would get to love and spend all you time with doing the looniest stuff and laughing at the corniest jokes. School is where you get to interact with adults, teachers, yet still retain the same amount of respect. That's what school is.

Today, Xavier University is celebrating its 75th year. The school is getting older, like most of us. It is getting older; the walls may crumble, the paint would peel off the walls, the lockers would rust, but the memories that flood the hallways for all those years still linger. I will remember my high school days, I will remember my elementary days because it was on those days that I was... effervescent. As you tend to get older (and not a deal younger), you can't help but think about the "old" days.

I have never seen the launching of XU at 75. But I am glad that I became a senior on the school's diamond anniversary. Kind of cool to graduate on the school's diamond. "Hey! We were the diamond batch! We're shiny!" Haha!

School has been one heck of a market these days. Lots of students crowd in the lobby after classes that it was like a crime has taken place and the murder weapon was in the middle. Haha. The murder weapon would be an eraser. Stabilo. I like that brand. Good for drawing and the eraser's cool. I'm already promoting their product. Should I expect them to pay me? Haha.

The weeks are passing by fast. Like a blur. Like you're in a race car, without even knowing how to stop it in the first place. Toink. That would be a nasty crash. It's difficult not to faint at the haze of it. People moving about, running in oppoiste directions, yelling, laughing, talking, all too much to handle! But i can live with it.

I cooked spaghetti again. Yummy! I'm being modest. Haha! It;s a feat I am particularly proud of. I can cook spaghetti! I don't put hotdog in it though. only ground pork, spaghetti sauce, lots of onions, garlic, butter, lots of pepper, salt, sugar, water and whole-peeled tomatoes. YUM!!! I'd like to thank my mom for teaching me. Sure is cool to cook.

That's all for now. I'm still searching for an acceptable IP project. Bye!

Weeeee!!!

Sometimes, I get the feeling that my blog is trying it's hardest to prevent me from posting... because every single time i enter a new post the site goes wild and an error appears! DARN! But tonight, I have a feeling that this little post won't be going anywhere but to my blog page. *laughs evilly*

For the past several weeks, me and the guys have been hanging around with our dear ma'am Amsi. Unfortunately, all good things come to an end, as what Newton said by his stupid theory: Everything ends with the opposite. This means that if your are happy now, you'll be crying 75% of your body fluids out later! How's that for an opposite?!

Ma'am Amsi is leaving us this Wednesday to Iloilo since she will be teaching at another school. It was a huge blow on our part vut we know it was for the best and we wish her all our luck. Last Monday we sepnt our time with her at her house, talking about simply anything. She made us mashed potatoes, onion rings and banana cream pie! It was so good! We even bought cake, ice cream and all kinds of chips! It was like having a junk party! WEEEE!!! But you gotta love the mashed potatoes. It's out of this world!

After spending our time with ma'am (from 1pm to 6pm), we grudgingly left her house to go wait for a shuttle at the waiting shed. While waiting, the guys decided to take a few snapshots. The lighting was perfect! Lovette got on down and we started taking a photoshoot! People passing by gave us weird looks, telepathically asking us what the heck we're doing at the waiting shed doing awkward poses! Others just walked on by like it was the most normal thing in world (perhaps it was)! SHAPE that time revealed their "vain" side. Hahaha.

So... I guess this is it! By next week I'll be shipped of too Manila to attend by tito's wedding. I'll be wearing a red dress! EVIL HEELS!!!