how time flies

It just seemed like last week that Les wrote her Bittersweet February entry. Now where has March gone? It totally passed in a blur. But I'm quite elated by how fast time is flying. Which could be quite selfish since I know people who wish time would slow down -- there's Haydee and Joel, since Haydee and the kids will be going back to the Philippines at the end of April; and there's also Karen (my sister's college friend), who will be moving here by next week, whom I'm sure would want to make the most of her remaining days in Manila before migrating (although I'm sure she and her husband will be flying back frequently). Time is a matter of context. I'll just think that time would be too fast for them so I know it won't be long till my parents will come visit me, and a bit more and I'll be home again for Christmas break. I took the cab to my apartment once and the wife of the cab driver apparently was a Filipina and lives in Cavite along with their daughter. It was only National Service that kept the cab driver in Singapore. He was asking me why I preferred to work in Singapore rather than in Manila since according to him life in Singapore is a blur -- to fast paced. Which is good news for me, because somehow I would like my time here not to be too slow. I'm not saying that this is like a prison and I'm serving my time. In a way I'm enjoying it. It's a different form of enjoyment as the enjoyment that I may have back home. For me the grass is always and will forever be greener back home.

My Destiny

I find the results of this test quite accurate :)

Risha, your destiny is to be a Provider

Whether you know it or not, this is the role that is most in tune with who you are at your core. As a Provider, you have a genuine nurturing concern for the welfare of others and you're eager to serve them. You can recognize exactly what people need and your friendly, helpful, social nature makes them feel comforted. With your kind and generous heart, you are personable, talkative, and outward with your emotions, and your openness and sensitivity makes you concerned about the way others view you. Along these lines, be careful not to blame yourself when things go wrong. You cannot prevent bad things from happening, even though your tendency to be orderly with a strong sense of right and wrong may lead you to believe you can. Accept that you do what you can to take care of things and that this will get you far in the world.

do good... live simply... pray

I was quite struck when I read this in someone's reply to my email this morning. It does encompass everything to make one happy. It's so simple. It makes total sense that we usually forget it.

DO GOOD... It's not so tough doing good, but it's tough NOT to do wrong. There are always temptations for us to hurt others intentionally or subconsciously. We just have to be more careful.

LIVE SIMPLY... Yes, I know I've been posting entries about my hopes, wishes, dreams, etc. I know I sound ingrateful for the countless blessings bestowed in me. I guess I just have to treat these dreams as my motivation to go on. But I don't have to make them rule my life.

PRAY... This could make me cry. I go to mass every week and I pray the rosary everyday yet I find myself not concentrating most of the time. It's just become a habit. May my heart be opened to see the importance of prayer.

* * *

P.S. I am quite happy right now because one of our consultants commended me by saying I was a fast worker. (And it totally helped that it was copy furnished to my boss, hahaha. I guess I've been insecure lately that I've lost touch. I used to work efficiently and I hardly procrastinated. I don't know if it's with the environment I'm at or the work that's given to me. But maybe there's hope for me. :)

if only everyday was like today

Today's work was quite tolerable. A bit of CAD, a bit of photoshop. Not too rushed. Not too slow. It's been one of those days that make me think, "That wasn't so bad." Not like those days wherein I get frustrated with a few unlikeable personalities in the office. Frustration over the supposed ban of instant messaging. (although I still have my chikka, since I consider it not-so-instant, hahahha) And it was also nice that I had to coordinate with the representative of the client for him to pick up the drawings i edited. It is really nice coordnating with consultants, etc (hope I won't eat my words! hahahah) since it makes me feel useful.

Anyways there are some unknown beings in our office right now... smelly men working on some wiring in the ceiling. I don't know if it has to do with the new fingerprint security alarm system that will be installed. (I prefer the eye scan though, hehe) And the bathroom has been cleaned with some cleanser that makes it smell like McDonald's (the 'basahan" smell). :P

Also I just received my reimbursement/ meal allowance for the months of february and march. Can you believe I just worked overtime less than five days for the whole two months? hahahah. I love it. I swear I'm such a bum. I was guilty when I was chatting with this guy last night and he mentioned he would only be willing to work overtime when he's already paid a real salary (since he's still an apprentice). So what's my reason for not liking overtime? I'm paid a full salary. I don't think I can be considered an apprentice. I guess I just don't like working overtime, period. I never liked exerting more effort than necessary for something. Meal and transport allowance isn't enough to compensate for the time you may spend for yourself. The weekend is not enough for that.

Well I know I won't be a bum for the rest of my contract. I'm just enjoying it while it's still here. I've experienced last year the hell of working late every night, leaving the office around ten, and working on both saturdays and sundays. Man, I hope those days won't come for a very long time.

spark of inspiration

i just realized that I keep on thinking that all good-enough men are taken.

But I realized there's another way of looking at it: it's just a matter of perfect timing right? Once in their life these good-enough men were available.

So my bottomline: I will find a great available guy, which girls later on will think, "shucks, of course, he's taken."

*bow.*

close contact

i was chatting with my friend David last night and I was telling him that I couldn't live without internet anymore. Since thursday I've had constant wifi connection in my room and I'm very grateful for it. I am now able to contact my family and friends even during the weekend. I was able to keep myself updated.

Sigh.

Then Steve and I were also talking about it Saturday that even if you're fine away from your family whenever you see them, you just know that you've missed out on a lot. Not necessarily the family gatherings, etc. But the small stuff. Like everything else, it's the small stuff that kills you.

It's just letting go.

God help me.

oh man, oh man...

This long weekend was busier than what I expected. I just thought I'd be bumming in my room, reading, surfing, or even working on the house I'm designing at Canyon Woods. But things came up, and I'm tired and lack sleep, haha.

So I've already written about Friday's last-minute gimik with Mr. Ho-hum and Ms. Girlfriend (I don't know why I refuse to say their names but oh well...). That was fun. There are times that you could actually enjoy clubbing. But once in a while only for me. I don't know how some people get to do it every weekend. To each his own.

Then yesterday Ingrid, Marnie and I prepared lunch for some Filipino friends in our unit. Just a get-together. We prepared adobo, monggo, tortang talong and camaron rebusado. Then we had ice cream and bananas for dessert. Yum yum. I ate too much, haha. Then that afternoon I went to orchard to supposedly return some book at the national library (but I ended up forgetting to bring the books, haha) so I just walked around a bit until I met my friend half past seven.

I just met this guy Steve in a barbecue party a couple of weeks back. Really friendly. We actually invited other people to join us but the bottomline was that it was just the two of us for dinner. We had japanese. Fabulous dragon roll with ebi and avocados. It was nice talking to someone. He's been here more or less as long as Ingrid -- almost four years. After dinner we had coffee at Spinelli's. (actually I had this drink called cookie spin, haha, but it had a hint of coffee)

Mr. Ho-hum texted me that they would be at clarke quay at 12. I wanted to go since I'd be meeting another schoolmate based here. Steve wouldn't be able to go since he was too tired since he played badminton and basketball during the afternoon. So I headed to Clarke Quay to meet Mr. Ho-Hum, Ms. Girlfriend, the other schoolmate of mine Carissa, two of her friends she met at Yale (Americans Sarah and Alonzo, who is gay) and this Indian guy she works with at P&G. (the Indian guy is actually quite cute)

So at Clarke Quay it turns out Mr. Ho-Hum and Ms. Girlfriend haven't had dinner (at 12 midnight!) so I joined them (of course I didn't eat anymore) at Tapas Tree. We all just reminisced our college and high school days. They're both cool anyways. (Yes, I'm truly happy for them -- they're perfect for each other and I wish them well. And I mean it) Then Carissa, the Indian guy (I couldn't catch his name but it sounded like Nithin --like Nathan -- weird), Sarah and Alonzo caught up with us. Alonzo wanted to go to a gay bar at Tanjong Pagar. The three of us actually wanted to go to the gay bar just to check out what happens in one. But when we got there there was a cover charge of 15 dollars which wasn't worth just to try getting into a gay bar. Haha. But they told me it was just a place with topless guys and gay men grinding. Hahhaha. I don't think I could handle that.

So we just decided to transfer (leaving Alonzo in his gay bar) and transfer to Chijmes where this bar named Insomia had a resident band composed of Filipinos. So-so band. And the crowd ranges from jologs Pinoys to foreigners. They just had a drink (I couldn't handle any food or beverage intake anymore) and chatted. They're all cool. We were there till three in the morning.

Then we split when Sarah had to go back since her flight the next day (today) is at 10 in the morning.

I slept at half past three and over slept. I got up at 9. (luckily, since the mass I was attending was at 9!) So I rushed but made it enough to catch the homily. Then when I got back I had to bake apple crumble for Ingrid (my very first client! Haha)

So there. I'm exhausted, full (for everything I consumed during the long weekend) and sleepy. I should catch a few z's in a while.

So this weekend wasn't so bad. Unexpected. A weekend of splurging.

Good Friday Sacrifice

I do have to admit I wasn't able to stick to today's supposed penitence. I spent the whole morning in my room. I just went out the afternoon for the church service (the very first time I completed the whole two-hour church service for Good Friday). But I guess I ruined the supposedly quiet day by agreeing to meet Mr. Ho-hum with Ms. Girlfriend for after-dinner drinks. I could have waited for twelve, but I got to Equinox (a bar at one of the top floors of Raffles Swissotel which has an almost 360-degree view of the city) at half past eleven.

It's the first time I've ever met Ms. Girlfriend even if we went to the same primary/secondary school. She's one of the sweetest girls I've met. Truly hard to hate. So I'm happy for them. Truly I am. I'm just thankful for meeting friends like them. She'll be leaving for Miami Tuesday. It will be very tough for them. I might see them again tomorrow.

We even got to meet a couple of Italian men and a Thai girl. Really nice people. I should have Ms. Girlfriend email me the pics.

It was a fun evening. I just have to find a way to make up for them by sacrificing other things.

It's almost three in the morning. I better get some sleep.

Advanced happy easter everyone.

Holy Week Ramblings

It's the last working day before our oh-so-short holy week (more of holy weekend). My shortest holy week ever. And what have I got planned? Nothing. Maybe just go out with some friends Saturday. Go to church. Clean my room. Chat with friends. Watch a DVD. (or should I start Lovers in Paris?) With movies I think I still have Enter the Phoenix, Look Left Look Right, and a couple more. Plus Chicago, which I keep on postponing. I also haven't finished My Fair Lady (Audrey Hepburn version).

This day isn't so long as I expected. It helped that I went to the doctor again. Got to work at 10. Had some work to do. (Seriously!) Then in less than an hour and a half we would have our office easter bash. Surely there will be some snacks, an easter egg hunt, dunno what else. I'll be going to church after. Depends if I catch the scheduled mass at the cathedral. Or just say the rosary again. I'm not the only person here who doesn't feel the Holy Week spirit. I was texting with one of the SMU girls, and she said with som much work they have in school she wouldn't have time to go to church today (since I asked them if I'll be seeing them in church)

Anyways I hope Tish contacts me in the weekend. Her boyfriend Allen is here till Easter I think. I told her if Allen has space in his luggage, I'll behaving some stuff sent home. Stuff that would help my parents when they come visit me May. (okay, okay, mostly selfish stuff liek the thermal bag for frozen food, and my CD case for some more movies from my sister, hehe. but i did include a movie for my sister, and pictures I took recently) But if not, tough luck. I guess my parents will still manage without these stuff.

I can't wait for this evening. I just want to bum. Read. Chat. I don't know if the local netwrok will be showing the encore episode of American Idol. (If you watched it, wasn't Carrie Underood really good? The "Alone" song is so intense. Reminds of you, Taz! Hehe) Then I also watched Amazing Race last night. I finally found myself rooting for Rob and Amber. To think I hated Rob in Survivor. But Amazing Race is perfect for him since his guile is perfect for the race, since it isn't like Survivor that you have to get along with your competitors in a way.Okay, this is a senseless entry. Just want to take a break already!

Stalling

Sigh.

This will be another looooonnnng day. At work, the only thing I know I'm expecting today is our submission of Lucky Plaza drawings for planning submission. That would include coordinating with our 3D girl to finish the perspective on time. Then that's it. I'll be a professional net-surfer again. :P

Let me brainstorm for time-wasting things to do today (imagine 8 friggin hours! as lazy as I am, i still hope my boss won't come up with new work for me)

So here's what I could think of so far:

ACTIVITY #1: GO TO THE TOILET
Details: Approximately 2 to 3 minutes walking to the toilet, doing my thing, and walking back to my desk, times 5 since it would be really cold and I'll be drinking a lotTotal time wasted
Total time wasted: 15 minutes max (unless I drink much much more)

ACTIVITY #2: HAVE MY MUG OF MILO IN THE PANTRY
Details: Preparing the drink would be around 3 minutes, walking to the wet pantry to my desk then to the dry pantry. Drinking the milo while reading the old papers would be around 15 minutes. (Can't waste too much time with people to see)
Total time wasted: 18 minutes

ACTIVITY #3: GO TO THE RECEPTION TO GET A MEDICAL SLIP
Details: I have to go back to the doctor tomorrow for a check-up on my finger. Going to the Diane (our reception) would only take one minute.
Total Time wasted: 1 minute

ACTIVITY #4: ASKING OUR FINANCE PERSONNEL ABOUT PAYING TAXES
Details: Doris, our Finance Head, gave us our financial statement yesterday. Now I have no idea how to file for tax. So I think today is a perfect day to inquire :) THis should take around 10 to 15 minutes.
Total time wasted: 15 minutes (hopefully more)

ACTIVITY #5: AFTERNOON TEA
Details: I've been trying to drink green tea every afternoon to balance off cholesterol I've consumed during the day. It isn't my favorite tea but it's healthy! The time to be spent will be the same as my Milo-drinking session
Total time wasted: 18 minutes

GRAND TOTAL: 67 minutes

Aaaaahhhhh! Just a little over an hour. Good luck to me. For the other seven hours :(

Impulsive Eating and Buying

Theory: Don't pig out during the weekend or else you'll be pigging out for the rest of the week.

My fault for eating too much during New Year's Eve.

I ended up eating my sandwich (supposedly lunch) an hour before lunch. So lunch break I ended up eating AGAIN. And it's a complete meal at KFC, with dessert! Ugh. That's why I tried to compensate by eating my dinner (a banana) a couple of hours earlier than usual, and I won't eat for the rest of the day.

That's not my only sin for today.

I impulsively bought a nice pink semi-halter top for officeware. Decision in less than ten minutes. I tried it on, saw it fit me perfectly, knew it was 50% off, then bam, I was paying for it already.

(Les, this shall show you we're extremes)

So now I shall treasure it. No more washing machine disasters.

In fairness, I do lack office clothes already. I recycle my clothes too often. I'm getting sick of most of them. So okay, I guess I deserved splurging for a new top.

And my officemate guessed right away that it was pink. Hehe.

I shall abstain from buying clothes for next couple of weeks.

I Wish... (Part 2)

I know I've already come up with a wishlist in my blurty but right now, with one hour to go till I can leave the office I couldn't help but daydream. And what the best thing to daydream of but your hopes and wishes right?

So here's my wishlist for this moment:

1. That my sideline business will be a success.
2. That my sister passes her second job interview with flying colors and hope it's the right job for her.
3. Still that there's such a thing as groundhog day which I can use to travel wherever I want, including going home.
4. That money is, was and will never be an issue.
5. That weight is, was and will never be an issue.
6. That Mr. ho-hum and Ms. ho-hum will realize a long-distance realtionship will not work.
7. That I will find someone much better than Mr. ho-hum and perfect for me.
8. That I will realize that I wouldn't find work better than what I have right now.
9. That I could see my nephew/godchild right now.
10. That I would have extra cash to get a new phone.
11. That I would have extra cash to get a Sony MP3 player. (coolness!)
12. That I would have extra cash to watch both Sound of Music (the play) and Lord of the Dance.
13. That the lease of the units in Waterina, the new condo across from ours, cost as much as our current lease.
14. That I could sign up for internet connection for our condo really soon.
15. That my family could just experience everything I'm experiencing here.
16. That my high school barkada could finally reunite after five years.
17. That I would make the right decision next July.
18. That not only me, but my other two single sisters would find Mr. Right. (hehe)
19. That I would be able to save enough for my purpose.
20. That I would win the Lottery. (hahahhaah)

I think most of my wishes are material. So I guess that's good news since it's normal.

happiness is...

This song brings back kindergarten days. We presented this during our graduation rites, and I could still remember the presentation we made, that I was one of the leads (haha). Oooh... memories.

HAPPINESS

Happiness is two kinds of ice cream
Finding your skate key, telling the time

Happiness is learning to whistle
Tying your shoe for the very first time

Happiness is playing the drum in your own school band
And happiness is walking hand in hand

Happiness is five different crayons
Knowing a secret, climbing a tree

Happiness is finding a nickel
Catching a firefly, setting him free

Happiness is being alone every now and then
And happiness is coming home again

Happiness is morning and evening
Daytime and nighttime, too
For happiness is anyone and anything at all
That's loved by you

Happiness is having a sister
Sharing a sandwich
Getting along

Happiness is singing together when day is through
And happiness is those who sing with you

Happiness is morning and evening
Daytime and nighttime, too
For happiness is anyone and anything at all
That's loved by you


This got me to thinking actually (out of boredom at work hehe) and I was thinking if I'm happy now. I guess despite the sacrifices I'm making, the lack of progress at work, and being away from my family, I'm happy. This song points out that small stuff make you happy.

My weekly conversations with my parents make me happy. My sister texting me online makes me happy. The MMS photos of my nephew makes me happy. Discovering new places makes me happy. Meeting new friends make me happy. Getting reunited with old friends make me happy. Receiving emails from family and friends make me happy. Hope makes me happy. Knowing that I'll be fine makes me happy.

I guess it doesn't take much to make me happy huh? :)

lonely holy week

This will be a long week. I can just tell. Even if we'll be having a three-day weekend (yes, darnit, it's only Good Friday that we get off) it will just be plain long.

I guess it has to do with knowing that my family and friends in Manila will be having a longer weekend. Probably going on vacation, doing their sacrifices, etc. While I'm here working, doing my usual routine. My only saving graces would be my visit to the doctor again this Thursday and our office Easter bash Thursday afternoon. Just to hopefully speed up my week.

And there's also the hope that I will see He-Who-Must-not-be-Named. Which I doubt. Ms. Girlfriend is here. No, I'm not jealous (who am I kidding?) It just sucks that a person could change your thinking even if you were fine just the way things were before you met that person.

I would miss having to fast with my family (at least I was able to do that with them for Ash Wednesday when I was home and we had our full meal at Mr. Choi's. Yum yum!) I will miss the no-TV, no-whatever, sacrifice. Okay, I'll confess. I have no plans of really sacrificing this Good Friday since basically my whole year is full of sacrifices. Being away from your family is a big sacrifice. Believe me.

But I don't know. Hope I will be proved wrong. Hope you guys who are on vacation will be emailing me (hint, hint). Hopefully I do get to see Mr. He-Who-Must-not-be-Named. Hopefully a miracle with happen. Do miracles happen during Holy Week as they happen during Christmas?But we'll see. We'll see.

SHORT WEEKEND

I still stick with a theory I wrote in my old entry (was still in blurty I think) that weekends feel longer if you go out Friday night.

Cuz this weekend was way too short. I did go out a bit Friday night, just for Frisbee practice, but it ended around nine. I just spent the rest of the evening watching this Brazilian film (Central Station -- taz, have you watched it? Sad...)

Then the rest of the weekend passed by in a blur.

I went to Orchard Saturday. The usual. Bought a couple of shirts for my bro. Borrowed some books from the library. (chick lit again!) Went to mass for such a looooonnng gospel. (Which was funny cuz in Manila they say "Crucify him!" but here it's "Let him be crucified!" So English. And here you get used to saying "takeaway" instead of "takeout" and "carry-on" for the plastic for your groceries. And "lift" instead of "elevator". Okay I'm getting off-track here, hehe)

Yesterday was an improvement. I did chores in the morning. Cooking and cleaning my bathroom. Ugh. But there's nothing like a newly cleaned bathroom! Then afternoon I attended the annual general meeting for UP Alumni Association of Singapore. We had the Philippine Ambassador as guest speaker. Was a riot cuz I don't know what province she's from but she kept on saying "booloonteer" instead of volunteer. Hehe. I'm so mean. The food was great though! Sushi, siomai, ice cream puffs, and some form of turn that's really good! Yum yum! But I do have a feeling I will be active in the alumni association soon. Ingrid mentioned to one of the officers that I was a student leader. So uh-oh. The guy has hinted that he will be contacting me soon. Reliving college days again!

Then afterwards we gate-crashed this children's party at the clubhouse of our condo. We didn't know the parents of the baby girl, but we know their housemate. But we didn't even feel ill at ease there even a gate-crashers. Talk about Filipino hospitality. And the food was also fabulous! Cheezy spaghetti with hotdog, cocktail hotdogs on sticks, caldereta, lemon chicken, pork asado, fish fillet, pansit, lechon paksiw, chopsuey, fried chicken, bacon-celery sticks, maja blanca, and yummy cake. I totally ate meals-past-gluttony yesterday. Have to make up for it. Like right now.

Then the weekend is over. Back at work again.

At least this is a four-day week. But sucks cuz everyone else in Manila gets either a two- or three- day week only. But better than a full week. Hopefully next weekend will be much better.

Background Music

From my old blurty journal, I miss writing down the songs that I listen to while writing down my entries.

So just to encompass all my previous entries here at blogger, I'll list some of the songs that I keep on listening to.

Natalie Grant - No Sign of It : forgot what soundtrack this is from but it's an emotional song
Nikki Hassman - Adore You, Every Night I Fall and Any Lucky Penny : even if Nikki Hassman has the tendency to eat her words her songs give those "i think i'm in love" feeling
Lifehouse - Everything - one of lifehouse's best songs; part of the smallville soundtrack (either that or was just played in the first episode); emotions are intense
Ryan Adams - Wonderwall : a good cover of the oasis original; played in the o.c.
Brandy - Come a Little Closer : for me, brandy's best song to date!
Sundays - When I'm Thinking About You and Summertime : both now classics, even if one is slow while the latter is a happy, happy song
Plumb - Real, Stranded and Worlds Collide : classics
Jan Arden - Wishing That and Hanging by a Thread : Jan Arden comes up with these intense songs just like Hanging by a Thread but Wishing That is just one of my faves right now
U2 - All I Want is You : this classic from the Reality Bites OST is a winner
311 - Love Song : makes you want to fall in love at the beach
Liz Phair - Extraordinary and Why Can't I : OST songs that make you bounce
Coldplay - In My Place, The Scientist and Trouble : classics; slowdown songs
Shawn Colvin - When You Know : senti song
Heather Nova - Like Lovers Do : another one of the intense songs, from the Serendipity OST, just like the previous song
Jojo - Leave Get Out, I'm Not That Kind of Girl, and Baby It's You : feel-good songs
Sheryl Crow - The First Cut is the Deepest : sad, sad; from the one tree hill score
Dana Glover - Thinking Over, It Is You, Maybe, and Falling into Love : a milder Anastacia-like voice, popular in OSTS (from Raising Helen and Shrek)
Bonnie McKee - Somebody : a previous entry talks about this song
Jem - Just a Ride, Flying High, and Maybe I'm Amazed : all the songs featured in the o.c.; all great
Jason Wade - Days Go By and You Belong to Me : the lifehouse's lead singer has a voice that could make you swoon
Marvin Gaye - Let's Get it On : as Paula Abdul says, "It's make you hot!"
Katy Rose - Overdrive and I Like : Also feel-good songs, but with a rocker twist
Jessica Andrews - Helplessly, Hopelessly : senti of all sentis

American Idol Fever

As I am a self-confessed TV junkie (yes, I sometimes dictate the time I leave the office for the TV programs that evening) I try to not miss the good shows. Lately, the shows I do not miss are Desperate Housewives, American Idol, Amazing Race, and Chase (VJ Utt's show!)

Since I just watched the first episode of American Idol that featured the top 12 last night, let me talk about that now. Allow me to give my two cents on the contestants.

I am saddened that Mario Vasquez isn't continuing with the show. And I was positive he would be in the top 5. (Even if he looks like he would fit in O-Town, hahahah) But Mr. "Let's Get It On" Nikko is pretty good anyways.

I am definitely rooting for the boys more than the girls. I just love Anwar! And Anthony Federov is adorable with his strong voice. Between the rockers I go more for Bo Bice but I have to admit Constantine did a good performance last night.

As for the girls, it is the two black women that I'm rooting for -- Ms. Turner (forgot her first name and too lazy to check idolonfox.com right now) and ms. mismatched shoes (the hot green and hot pink number during the auditions)

I don't know why Mikalah is still there (all she has is the personality, but she has a face and a body of a matrona who's had a face lift). Lindsey is just pretty but her talent isn't enough. The girl who got booted last is better than her.

I'm still rooting for the boys. We'll just see in the comings weeks. A reason for me to leave work early every Wednesdays!

The Influence of Birth Order

Risha, your position as middle child shows most strongly in your even-tempered nature.

Similar to other middle children, you are probably very stable emotionally which makes people feel at ease around you. In addition, having older and younger siblings taught you how to appreciate diverse points of view. You have learned that the best way to resolve conflict is by remaining calm and open to compromise. Like other middle children, you tend to radiate warmth, affection and maturity. You are likely to display an extraordinary ability to remain composed even in stressful situations.

Birth order influences your relationship with your parents, siblings (if you have them) and how you ultimately learn to interact with the world. It can provide an insightful way to better understand your approach to friendships, romance, and how you meet life's challenges.

***
Ehem, this shows that I, as a middle child, am not problematic, but balanced. Hahahaha.

Let's Talk about Crushes

I could easily find a guy cute but crushes come only once in a while (like once or twice a year only, seriously!) And when I say "crush" there's the physical attraction, the admiration for his personality, and of course the hope that something can develop from it.

And it's funny that whenever I have a crush several other friends of mine suddenly have crushes too. What is this, spring fever?

Anyways, having a crush has its own advantages and disadvantages.

The main disadvantage is that it could be really stressful. Really! Having something (or rather, someone) dominate your thoughts is nerve-racking. And the way your heart skips whenever you get a text message or a phone call. Isn't that a minor heart attack? And of course there's the failure to concentrate at almost absolutely anything. (The poem I posted a few entries back holds true -- even if you weren't kissed!) And the lack of sleep of course. You also tend to spend beyond your budget for dinner or drinks. Or a movie. You just can't resist meeting up ith your crush again!

Then the advantages. You lose your appetite, which is definitely good. It's either that, or you are motivated to go on a diet to impress him. (I tell you, even if it doesn't impress him it could actually work on someone else -- and hopefully someone even better!) Not just the diet. You are also motivated to fix yourself up some more in the hope of a chance that you might cross paths with him during the day. Long walks and waiting for the bus/train becomes entertaining because thinking of your crush (read: daydreaming) becomes your favorite pasttime. You tend to smile more (that it could actually make you look stupid sometimes -- smiling even when you're on your own) therefore people notice more. (example for my point: I was walking along Orchard Road when a cute foreigner smiled at me... great!) You also become more sociable.

I'm sure there are much more advantages and disadvantages for having a crush. But in my list so far, I may be subjective in deciding that the advantages outweigh the disadvantages. And definitely if your crush develops into something more, it would all be worth it!

CLOSEST THING TO A BLIND DATE (in a while)

I've been to three blind dates in my whole life.

The first was for my prom. I knew what the guy looked like. He didn't know what I looked like. He was just a friend of my sister's. A true gentleman. But no fire. He was too nice, if that is possible. And we didn't have much in common. And it didn't help the dates of my friends knew each other already. I've never spoken to him after that.

The second was set up by a college friend. He was an okay friend. He wanted something more though. I haven't spoken to him in a while. My fault. But maybe it's better that way.

The third wasn't a date DATE. It's more of an eyeball thingie. I 've been chatting with this guy for a while who's really sweet and all. He wanted to meet. So there. He was a gentleman and all. But not my type. It ruined our online friendship. No more correspondence now.

Friday I met a friend of a friend. The very first time for me to see him. (I wasn't really supposed to know what he looks like. And I hope my friend didn't give him a picture of me. But the benefits of friendster gave me a sneak peak of what he looked like, hehe)

Through text, reworded:

GUY: So where do you wanna meet?
RISHA: We can meet at Breko Cafe or at Liang Seah street.
GUY: I'm not sure how to get there...
RISHA: Okay then, let's just meet at the mall then walk from there. By the fountain okay? (the only landmark I know halfway between our offices)
GUY: Haha, parang you've got mail to ah. See ya!

But it wasn't a real blind date. It's just a meeting up kind of thing. We both just happen to be in the same city. Make a new friend. (He's taken, unfortunately)

And I think I gained a good friend that evening.

my version of rottentomatoes.com

I've watched a few movies these past few weeks. Nothing new. All DVDs or VCDs. The only way to treat myself for resisting going to the cinema for such expensive movies (Yes, I'm postponing to watch them till December or if hopefully Tisha decides to buy their DVD or VCD copies)

So here they are. Some reviews.

Slap Her, She's Fench. Quite similar to Mean Girls. But an entertaining movie nevertheless. Trent Ford makes the movie a must-see. Piper Perabo is fun despite being the villain. The main actress, forgot her name, is charming.

In the Mood for Love. A Taiwanese movie. Artistic cinematography. Good-looking characters. Weird ending. (sorry for spoiling it)

Shrek 2. Was quite disappointed. After everyone gushing over it after viewing it, I was expecting so much more. I liked The Incredibles better in terms of laughs per minute. But still a fun movie.

Finding Nemo. I don't know how aquariums or water tanks work, but wasn't there a way for Nemo to jump to the bird's mouth and have the bird fly him to the water? Could have saved the movie a lot of time.

Water Boys. A Japanese film. A definitely must-see. Laugh trip. Cute lead. I truly enjoyed it. There is already a sequel out. Haven't watched it. Hopefully it did justice to the first.

He Loves Me, He Loves Me Not. Starring Audrey Tautou. Really weird. Sliding Doors concept.

Win a Date with Tad Hamilton. Cute movie, but nothing great. The OST's a winner though.

Confessions of a Teenage Drama Queen. Lindsay Lohan didn't let me down again. An entertaining movie. Love her, love her, love her.

Who are you?. Korean film. Same guy in The Classic. A fine film. Not as great as The Classic though. But worth the time.

Crazy First Love. Korean film. Guy from My Sassy Girl. Amusing although sometimes irritating.

Till next time!

Utt Fever!

I'm making sure I'm leaving the office today in time to do my taebo and be able to watch the premiere episode of Chase, starring VJ Utt and a Taiwanese singer named Linda Liao (and I don't know why they picked here when she isn't pretty. seriously!)

I truly can't wait!

And check out Utt's official website: www.uttsada.com. The pics are gorgeous! You won't believe he's already 30.

I truly have to find a way to meet him.

Change Paths?

Since I've already realized that I don't have to get stuck in this field even while I'm here (at least after my contract expires and I have to decide to renew or not) I took this test to find out what I could do. Somehow I am not surprised with the results.

Risha, you're likely to find fame and fortune in the Business World

Yep, you probably tend to be a goal setter who works hard to get ahead in life, right? Were you the entrepreneurial kid who set up the corner lemonade stand in the summer, ran the roadside worm stand near the most popular fishing hole, or managed to turn a profit on your allowance somehow? Yeah, we suspected as much. With your drive, it wouldn't surprise us if success comes pretty naturally to you. And when it doesn't, you're likely the type to work twice as hard until it does.

Wherever you end up, you'll probably find fame and fortune in the business world. You're smart, savvy, and full of ideas that can turn the world on end. So what are you waiting for? Want to start the next big ice cream brand? Surf shop? Eco-lodge in Borneo (or the Grand Canyon for that matter)? Then get off your duff! Unless of course, you don't mind if someone else beats you to it...

Why am I still Single?

I'll let my Tickle Test results answer for me:

Risha, you're single because you don't want to settle

You, more than others, have a fairy tale fantasy of how things should be. Ever since you were a kid, you've probably dreamed of the perfect wedding, coming home to a white picket fence, dog, and 2.2 kids (how does that work, anyway?). When someone asks what you're looking for, you don't skip a beat: You're likely to have a handy checklist that details your perfect partner. Hair and eye color, height, religion, education, career, interests, the list goes on.

While it's great to have standards — Hey, you shouldn't have to settle, after all — there's one slight glitch in your master plan: No one has made the grade in real life — at least not yet. Next time you're out with someone, keep yourself from mentally checking that list, and give love — and others — a chance. That special someone who you've written off may be perfect for you after all...

Home

I feel guilty whenever I slip and call the apartment where I'm staying at as "home". Like when I accidentaly say, "I'm going home" or "I'm on my way home". So as much as I could I pick up the Singaporean way of saying "I'm going back." They use back to pertain to either where you live or the office. When you say, "I'm going back on Saturday," it could either mean you're working overtime on Saturday or you're flying to your home country.

It's a bit confusing but you get used to it.

I treat my apartment or just the room I'm renting just like one would treat a dorm room. Temporary. I regularly scan my stuff for what I could bring back with me when I fly home to Manila. I minimize everything. I store food according to the amount of time I'm in Singapore before I fly home again. I don't have any form of decoration in my room. But it's a mess. Really. Ingrid might have noticed I hardly show her my room and I always make sure I close the door behind me. What can I say? I'm an artist. Hahahaha. Let's just call it an organized mess. I usually know where everything is.

But I'm used to it all. That's why I've given up looking for another place to rent. I guess there's just the sense of territoriality now. And I guess the familiarity helps me from longing too much for home.

If I can just keep it up for the next year and so.

unexpected

Friday's events weren't quite what I expected. The only thing I was looking forward to supposedly was that I took one hour time off before lunch to go to the bank to get a new ATM card.

But then work didn't allowing me to do that.

First, Mun Kit (the guy I'm working with for Lucky Plaza) had to take leave due to the tragic accident of his parents in Malaysia the previous night. His father passed away and his mother was in critical condition. I truly fel for him though of course that is just a minute fraction of what he's going through right now. I could just cry for him.

So that left me to prepare the drawings for the Lucky Plaza submission this Monday. So of course to finish it quickly I wasn't able to go to the bank.

And then Mun Kit was also working on this condominium project with this new guy Albert. I was tasked to help out last minute to prepare for this afternoon's presentation.

So there goes my time off.

But at least I was not stuck doing nothing anything. There are times you actually appreciate work given to you. If you enjoy it, that is.

Which reminds me. Our CEO fed us all cake again Friday. It turns out the Changi Airport Terminal 1 project was awarded to us. The second time we were able to beat SOM. Cool huh? I have nothing to do with the project but it's pretty prestigious.

Saturday, I just went shopping for a gift since I was attending a children's party Sunday. Fortunately there was a baby fair at Takashimaya and I was able to buy cute (and pink of course!) socks for little girls. And at a discounted price!
So good timing. Not that the socks I got were expensive, hehe.

Sunday I did go to the children's party. Good food. Good cake. Was a bigger party than what I expected since my friend (the father) was active in their church.

Then I met Tina Bulahan. She's in the same church as him, UP graduate (MBB). And coincidentaly she lives in my village! Our parents know each other. She's older than I am, 30s, though still single I think. Coming from a family of singers (her brother was part of The Tux, if you remember that). Although she graduated with an MBB degree, she's practising marketing. Hehehe. According to her it's perfect for her since she loves to talk. She alse does voice overs at the side. Cool huh?

So anyways, meeting her made me realize that I can actually think out of the box concerning my life, my stay here, etc. After my two-year contract, if I have learnt to very much enjoy my stay here, I could actually look for work in another field. Something I could be passionate about (I tell, you I am NOT passionate about my work right now; I guess I've never been passionat ebaout architecture.)

So there. At least I have another option. I don't have to tie myself to this firm. If I do realize by July next year that I wanna stay here for whatever reason, I could actually do something more fun and fulfilling.

Yesterday I had to take medical leave (well not HAD to, but I opted to stay home of course hehe). My index finger is swollen due to an infection. So I'm E.T. for a few days, hehe. I had the doctor check. And she was nice enough to let me go home and rest. Yahoo! One free day for pigging out, watching movies, finishing the MARS series (weird ending, hehe), and reading my latest chick lit book. What a dream! It was worth the swollen finger, even if it hurts. The doctor said if it doesn't improve in a few days they would have to scrape it off (ouch!) but I swear if it means another extra free day or two I'm definitely up for it!

Sucky Day

Here is a poem that circulated during my high school years. Most prolly you've heard of it too. This one I think is a longer version of what I got before. Anywayz here it goes.


ALL BECAUSE YOU KISSED ME GOODNIGHT

I Said My Pajamas and Put on My Prayers
I climbed up the door, and opened the stairs;
I said my pajamas and put on my pray'rs,
I turned off the bed and crawled into the light
And all because you kissed me goodnight.

Next morning I woke and scrambled my shoes;
I shined up an egg, then I toasted the news;
I buttered my tie, and took another bite;
And all because you kissed me goodnight.

By evening I felt normal, so we went out again
You said "Goodnight," and kissed me,
I hurried home and then, I climbed up the door,
and opened up the stairs;
I said my pajamas and put on my pray'rs;
I turned off the bed, and crawled into the light
And all because you kissed me goodnight.

I powdered my hair, and pinned up my nose;
I hung up the bath, and I turned on my clothes;
I put out the clock, and wound the cat up tight;
And all because you kissed me goodnight.

I ran up the shade and pulled down the stair;
I curled up the rug, and I vacuumed my hair;
I just couldn't tell my left foot from my right;
And all because you kissed me goodnight.

By evening I felt normal, so we went out again
You said, "Goodnight," and kissed me,
I hurried home and then,
I lifted the preacher and called up the phone;
I spoke to the dog, and I threw your Ma a bone;
'Twas midnight, and yet the sun was shining bright,
And all because you kissed me goodnight.


I do feel sucky now. (And no, no one kissed me, haha). I just remembered this poem. Everything's just going wrong. After my phone died, I lost my ATM card (so I'm cardless now and will get a new one tomorrow or Friday). I also lost one pearl earring (just the Greenhills type so no biggie. But still...) I've informed Auntie, our cleaning lady, and hopefully one of us comes across it. And my clip broke (though still usable).

And there's the cockroach in my bathroom that greeted me a good morning. And a pesky officemate who's sense of humor wasn't funny at all and hurt one of my sensitive spots.

I really don't know what's up. Bad luck one after the other.

Eulogy

Taz was right. My phone is dead.

I'm sorry, ol' 3315, my mistake. My stupidity.

But it was good while it lasted. You stuck with me through the times everyone had the latest models yet you proved to be just as reliable.

Although often times I woke up before your alarm set off, there isn't any other alarm clock I could trust more.

You stayed strong even if I dropped you a few times. I should have known that just like me you wouldn't know how to swim.

And most of all, you were my link to my family back home. Without burning their pockets with the ghastly international sms costs of globe and smart.

I'll be sending you to them. And hopefully the renowned phone technicians of Greenhills will ressurrect you.

Till then...