During this time of year, almost all newspapers, magazines and TV news shows are doing a lookback at the year that just past and looking back to 2005, I realized that there were a lot of things that happened to me that changed my life.
2005 has been the most memorable year in my life so far. It is the year of change, to say the least. It would be very tough to find a year that will top this. But as with all things in life, you have to expect the unexpected.
January 21- KC and I got married in a civil ceremony held at the Paranaque City Hall in the presence of our family and friends.
January 22- We left Manila for a short 6 day honeymoon in Singapore and Hong Kong. Bumped up to business class on Cathay Pacific on the Manila-Hong Kong route. Arrived in Singapore around 5 p.m. and missed the city tour the next morning because we didn't wake up. ;)
January 26- Watched Sting live in concert in Hong Kong. It was one of the best concerts I have ever seen live. I guess we got pretty good seats as we are in the same row as Bongbong and Imee Marcos and other socialites from Manila.
April 17- Got married (again). This time it was a grand celebration with the wedding ceremony at the Manila Cathedral and the reception at the Manila Peninsula Hotel. About 300 guests showed up to celebrate with us - or just to get drunk.
April 19- Went to Boracay for fun under the sun.
May 1- Onwards to China for a tour of Shanghai and Beijing. The Great Wall is breathtaking.
June- KC received the approval from the USCIS. WE ARE MOVING TO U.S.A.
July- Interview at the US Embassy went well. There is no turning back now. We are definitely moving to Seattle (or close to, anyway).
Found out that KC is pregnant!
September- Went back to Boracay again to enjoy the beach and the sun. Problem is, there was no sun. Rained the whole time we were there and it only cleared up a few hours before we are scheduled to fly back to Manila. Bummer.
September 24- The big day has arrived. Loaded with 280 pounds of our personal stuff in 2 gigantic luggage bags and 2 full-and-ready-to-explode balikbayan boxes, we are stepping to the unknown.
Arrived at SeaTac airport and met by Mom's childhood friend who treated us a part of their family (we will always be grateful).
October- KC started working, I officially became a houseband. Learned how to cook, do laundry and clean the house.
Found out we are having a boy!
November- Our first Thanksgiving here. Decided not to get a turkey, instead ate lamb. Yummy!
December 15- watched T-Mac and Yao Ming demolish the Supes. Would have been a better match if the 2 teams didn't suck this season.
My family called me at halftime and informed us they got their visas! They will be arriving next year!
December 25- Christmas here is very very different to the Christmas I grew up with. I miss the malls in Manila.
30 December 2005
24 December 2005
23 December 2005
Impossible is nothing
Got this photo from Sports Illustrated's Pictures of the Year. Stupid referee didn't allow him to play in a high school football match because he is not wearing any shoes. How stupid is that?
21 December 2005
Today is the official start of winter. Ironically, it has been the warmest day for a long time.
KC and I are also excited that my brothers and my parents finally got their visas and will come and visit us here early next year! This is one of the best Christmas gifts you can ever ask for.
Merry Christmas everybody!
KC and I are also excited that my brothers and my parents finally got their visas and will come and visit us here early next year! This is one of the best Christmas gifts you can ever ask for.
Merry Christmas everybody!
17 December 2005
Live at the Hardcourt
KC and I went to Seattle last Thursday to watch the Sonics against the Houston Rockets. This is the first time I ever saw an NBA game live and it was better than what I have ever expected.
T-Mac was sensational and it was fun to see Yao Ming play. They did pretty well and won the game. Definitely not the last game we're gonna watch live.
07 December 2005
Can't believe it's just a few more weeks to go 'til Christmas. I think that this is the first Christmas that I'm not in Manila, the first away from the family and the first without having to go through the hellish traffic along EDSA.
Christmas will be totally different for KC and I, as this is the last Christmas we're gonna celebrate that's just the two of us - which is a scary thought. With two months left before our baby arrives, I am still not sure what to do. I am not sure that I am ready to be a Dad. I think that everybody who reads this would agree.
Oh well... let's see.
Christmas will be totally different for KC and I, as this is the last Christmas we're gonna celebrate that's just the two of us - which is a scary thought. With two months left before our baby arrives, I am still not sure what to do. I am not sure that I am ready to be a Dad. I think that everybody who reads this would agree.
Oh well... let's see.
01 December 2005
Let it snow...
It's snowing quite heavily now, and it forecast to stay this way well into tomorrow. I'm worrying about driving later to fetch KC from work but also excited to see the snow. It is really nice to see the snow if you are just home with a hot cup of coffee beside you.
By the way, threw my first snowball earlier. :) And yes, those were my footprints.
28 November 2005
First Frost
Woke up this morning with ice on the road. Forecast for tonight and tomorrow is snow. Yes, it is cold.
25 November 2005
Today is the official start of the holiday shopping season here with shops opening as early as 5am earlier. Retail shops promised huge savings for people who would go early, so KC and I decided to go and check it out.
We woke up at around 6am and it was still dark out and raining. This is not a civilized time to wake up. Well, we tried to get up from bed and eventually left our apartment around 6:45. Passing by Ridgetop Boulevard on the way to Macy's, we saw a long line of eager shoppers outside Old Navy waiting for it to open. I thought, "Crap. This is bad." People lining up outside near freezing temperature in the rain is never good news. At least people who waited outside Best Buy last Tuesday for the Xbox 360 did not have to endure the rain.
We arrived Kitsap Mall five minutes to 7am and luckily, we found a parking space near Macy's without problem. We entered Macy's and saw a lot of people (well, a lot for seven in the morning) but kinda disappointed on the selection that was on sale. Not all items are on sale and those that were were only discounted by about 20%. Not worth waking up early for. Anyways, KC and I walked around the mall for about half an hour and finally called it off.
Around 7:40 when we got back to the parking lot and the sun was just beginning to rise near Highway 303, we went back to the apartment to catch an extra hour of sleep before KC had to go to work.
After bringing KC to work, I passed by Walmart on the way home to check if I can still catch some of the sale they have (laptops as low as $348). Disappointingly though, most of the electronics section looked like Katrina hit the Pacific Northwest.
Home at around 11am. Had coffee and read the papers in the clubhouse. Just another day.
We woke up at around 6am and it was still dark out and raining. This is not a civilized time to wake up. Well, we tried to get up from bed and eventually left our apartment around 6:45. Passing by Ridgetop Boulevard on the way to Macy's, we saw a long line of eager shoppers outside Old Navy waiting for it to open. I thought, "Crap. This is bad." People lining up outside near freezing temperature in the rain is never good news. At least people who waited outside Best Buy last Tuesday for the Xbox 360 did not have to endure the rain.
We arrived Kitsap Mall five minutes to 7am and luckily, we found a parking space near Macy's without problem. We entered Macy's and saw a lot of people (well, a lot for seven in the morning) but kinda disappointed on the selection that was on sale. Not all items are on sale and those that were were only discounted by about 20%. Not worth waking up early for. Anyways, KC and I walked around the mall for about half an hour and finally called it off.
Around 7:40 when we got back to the parking lot and the sun was just beginning to rise near Highway 303, we went back to the apartment to catch an extra hour of sleep before KC had to go to work.
After bringing KC to work, I passed by Walmart on the way home to check if I can still catch some of the sale they have (laptops as low as $348). Disappointingly though, most of the electronics section looked like Katrina hit the Pacific Northwest.
Home at around 11am. Had coffee and read the papers in the clubhouse. Just another day.
23 November 2005
England 24-hour drink law starts
England 24-hour drink law starts
Self-explanatory. How many a nights have I wished this would happen. Now that the Brits have started it, it won't be long before the rest of the world catches on. And now for that pint of Guiness...Weird thing...
Somebody knocked on our door about 30 minutes ago and delivered a baby stroller. At first I thought it was a mistake but when I looked at the packing list, it was really intended for us. It is the first gift that we have received for the baby. Thanks Jill! :)
Anyway, now that it has started, I guess there is no sense it keeping it for longer. Just in case you people are feeling generous and want to help us out with this new major development in our life, we would appreciate it a lot! Log on to our baby registry at Amazon.com and see for yourselves. Thanks in advance.
http://www.amazon.com/gp/registry/babyreg/3IO3F2UGHWA0M
*********************
Also, went to Best Buy earlier and grabbed the new CD collection of Billy Joel with a bonus DVD. Very excited to listen to it and what made it more exciting is hearing that Billy Joel will resume touring early next year! We will definitely watch the concert if ever he passes by this area. Talked to KC about it and she agreed to watch it as long as I agree to watch a Backstreet Boys concert too. Well, it's a huge price to pay but what the heck...
Anyway, now that it has started, I guess there is no sense it keeping it for longer. Just in case you people are feeling generous and want to help us out with this new major development in our life, we would appreciate it a lot! Log on to our baby registry at Amazon.com and see for yourselves. Thanks in advance.
http://www.amazon.com/gp/registry/babyreg/3IO3F2UGHWA0M
*********************
Also, went to Best Buy earlier and grabbed the new CD collection of Billy Joel with a bonus DVD. Very excited to listen to it and what made it more exciting is hearing that Billy Joel will resume touring early next year! We will definitely watch the concert if ever he passes by this area. Talked to KC about it and she agreed to watch it as long as I agree to watch a Backstreet Boys concert too. Well, it's a huge price to pay but what the heck...
Went to the bank today and after finishing all my transactions, the teller said, "Have a nice holiday!"
It took me a few seconds to digest that. In my mind I was thinking that it was still way too early to greet people for Christmas - as much as retail stores want us to think, and then I realized that the greeting was for Thanksgiving.
Now, the concept of Thanksgiving is totally alien to me. First of all, I have never celebrated it ever before and second, I just don't get it. What is the holiday actually about. Well, I know all about the pilgrims and the Indians. But how does the turkey fit in? Is it just one of those holidays (again) that is glamorized in order to lure people to spend more money?
KC and I were talking about it and we agreed that this holiday is on the same level as Christmas for the Americans. This is the time when families get together and try to be nice to one another. We are still thinking of whether to celebrate it or not.
The pros of celebrating it would be:
It took me a few seconds to digest that. In my mind I was thinking that it was still way too early to greet people for Christmas - as much as retail stores want us to think, and then I realized that the greeting was for Thanksgiving.
Now, the concept of Thanksgiving is totally alien to me. First of all, I have never celebrated it ever before and second, I just don't get it. What is the holiday actually about. Well, I know all about the pilgrims and the Indians. But how does the turkey fit in? Is it just one of those holidays (again) that is glamorized in order to lure people to spend more money?
KC and I were talking about it and we agreed that this holiday is on the same level as Christmas for the Americans. This is the time when families get together and try to be nice to one another. We are still thinking of whether to celebrate it or not.
The pros of celebrating it would be:
- We have a lot of things to be thankful about this year.
- If ever we decide to cook a turkey, we wouldn't finish it until after Christmas.
- It would be sadder for us because our families and friends are not here with us to celebrate.
21 November 2005
19 November 2005
Thank God for eBay!
After a week of waiting for my new keyboards to arrive, well, it finally did. It's just fascinating how you can find almost everything on eBay! Who would expect that you can get an OEM keyboard which you can not possibly get in any retail or wholesale store and get it in eBay for like 20% of the price!!! I love shopping online and eBay definitely is now one of my fave online sites.
After a week of waiting for my new keyboards to arrive, well, it finally did. It's just fascinating how you can find almost everything on eBay! Who would expect that you can get an OEM keyboard which you can not possibly get in any retail or wholesale store and get it in eBay for like 20% of the price!!! I love shopping online and eBay definitely is now one of my fave online sites.
18 November 2005
"We don't make mistakes here, we just have happy accidents.We want happy, happy paintings.
If you want sad things, watch the news. Everything is possible here.
This is your little universe."
Sitting here in our apartment during sunset is one of the most enjoyable times during the day. Not only because it's because only a few hours more until KC finishes her work but I can also enjoy the wonderful sunsets Washington has to offer. Here, the sun sets behind the snow-capped Olympic Mountains.
There is only one way to describe the beauty of the mountains here, and that is to compare it to Bob Ross' paintings. For people who don't know Bob Ross, he is the person who paints entire landscapes in 30 minutes on TV. I first saw his paintings on his show "The Joy of Painting" on RPN 9 in Manila when I was still in grade school. And when I googled him, I found out that he died about ten years ago and had a huge cult following not only here in the US but in numerous countries worldwide.
He is one of those people who makes something look so easy - like watching Wok with Yan and telling yourself that you too can prepare food that good.
The Goblet of Fire
Got tickets to watch Harry Potter tonight. Despite the cost of the tickets ($8.50 a pop), I am sure that it's gonna be worth it. :) And I'm sure KC will be thrilled to know that I got the tickets.
She has been looking forward to watching this film since the end of the last one.
******************
Also got a new DVR for our TV and finally got to experience HDTV. I must say, I was very surprised to see the difference in quality from regular TV. The video quality was superb and the audio is in Dolby Digital. Now, regular TV just looks like crap.
11 November 2005
I had the worst experience yesterday with my laptop when I spilled water on the keyboard which might have shorted the circuit on the board. I spent the whole afternoon trying to dry it up but alas, I gave up and just went online to order a new keyboard.
Ordering a keyboard for a laptop is a lot harder than getting one for a desktop, for one, you can't just go to Best Buy or Circuit City and purchase a $20 keyboard. But after dismantling my laptop and finding the part number, I found a relatively cheap keyboard for the Toshiba Satellite M30 for $21.95 plus $7.99 for shipping. That accidental waterspill just cost me about 30 bucks! What a waste. Sigh. (At least it is still a way lot cheaper than bringing it to a service center and paying 300 bucks!)
And it was the first time I tried ordering something off eBay, the experience is not bad and good thing that I set up my paypal account last week. Bad news is that the keyboard would be coming from Montreal in Canada and it would probably take about 2 weeks to arrive. So, until I receive the keyboard, I would be forced to clean up the text manually. Lesson learned, never ever place beverages on your computer desk. Tough lesson to learn, believe me.
Just for your information, I have included the text that came out from my computer before I edited it to be readable.
Ip 6hadp t6hep worstp exp eriencep yesterdayp wit6hp myp lap topp w6henp ip sp illedp waterp onp t6hep keyboardp w6hic6hp mig6htp j6havep s6hortedp t6hep circuitp onp t6hep board.p Ip sp entp t6hep w6holep a4fternoonp tryingp top dryp itp up butp alas,p ip gavep up andp justp wentp onlinep top orderp ap newp keyboard.
Orderingp ap keyboardp 4forp ap lap top isp ap lotp 6harderp t6hanp gettingp onep 4forp ap desktop ,p 4forp one,p youp can'tp justp gop top Bestp Buyp orp Circuitp Cityp andp p urc6hasep ap $F20p keyboard.p Butp a4fterp dismantlingp myp lap top andp 4findingp t6hep p artp number,p Ip 4foundp ap relativelyp c6heap keyboardp 4forp t6hep Tos6hibap Satellitep M30p 4forp $F21.95p p lusp $F7.99p 4forp s6hip p ing.p T6hatp accidentalp watersp illp justp cosytp mep aboutp 30p bucks!p W6hatp ap waste.p Sig6h.p p (Atp leastp itp isp stillp ap wayp lotp c6heap erp t6hanp bringingp itp top ap servicep centerp andp p ayingp 300p bucks!)
Andp itp wasp t6hep 4firstp timep Ip triedp orderingp somet6hingp o4f4fp eBay,p t6hep exp eriencep isp notp badp andp goodp t6hingp t6hatp Ip setp up myp p ayp alp accountp lastp week.p Badp newsp isp t6hatp t6hep keyboardp wouldp bep comingp 4fromp Montrealp inp Canadap andp itp wouldp p robablyp takep aboutp 2p weeksp top arrive.p So,p untilp Ip receivep t6hep keyboard,p Ip wouldp bep 4forcedp top cleanp up t6hep textp manually.p Lessonp learned,p neverp everp p lacep beveragesp onp yourp comp uterp desk.p Toug6hp lessonp top learn,p believep me.
Justp 4forp yourp in4formation,p Ip 6havep includedp t6hep textp t6hatp camep outp 4fromp myp comp uterp be4forep Ip editedp itp top bep readable.
Ordering a keyboard for a laptop is a lot harder than getting one for a desktop, for one, you can't just go to Best Buy or Circuit City and purchase a $20 keyboard. But after dismantling my laptop and finding the part number, I found a relatively cheap keyboard for the Toshiba Satellite M30 for $21.95 plus $7.99 for shipping. That accidental waterspill just cost me about 30 bucks! What a waste. Sigh. (At least it is still a way lot cheaper than bringing it to a service center and paying 300 bucks!)
And it was the first time I tried ordering something off eBay, the experience is not bad and good thing that I set up my paypal account last week. Bad news is that the keyboard would be coming from Montreal in Canada and it would probably take about 2 weeks to arrive. So, until I receive the keyboard, I would be forced to clean up the text manually. Lesson learned, never ever place beverages on your computer desk. Tough lesson to learn, believe me.
Just for your information, I have included the text that came out from my computer before I edited it to be readable.
Ip 6hadp t6hep worstp exp eriencep yesterdayp wit6hp myp lap topp w6henp ip sp illedp waterp onp t6hep keyboardp w6hic6hp mig6htp j6havep s6hortedp t6hep circuitp onp t6hep board.p Ip sp entp t6hep w6holep a4fternoonp tryingp top dryp itp up butp alas,p ip gavep up andp justp wentp onlinep top orderp ap newp keyboard.
Orderingp ap keyboardp 4forp ap lap top isp ap lotp 6harderp t6hanp gettingp onep 4forp ap desktop ,p 4forp one,p youp can'tp justp gop top Bestp Buyp orp Circuitp Cityp andp p urc6hasep ap $F20p keyboard.p Butp a4fterp dismantlingp myp lap top andp 4findingp t6hep p artp number,p Ip 4foundp ap relativelyp c6heap keyboardp 4forp t6hep Tos6hibap Satellitep M30p 4forp $F21.95p p lusp $F7.99p 4forp s6hip p ing.p T6hatp accidentalp watersp illp justp cosytp mep aboutp 30p bucks!p W6hatp ap waste.p Sig6h.p p (Atp leastp itp isp stillp ap wayp lotp c6heap erp t6hanp bringingp itp top ap servicep centerp andp p ayingp 300p bucks!)
Andp itp wasp t6hep 4firstp timep Ip triedp orderingp somet6hingp o4f4fp eBay,p t6hep exp eriencep isp notp badp andp goodp t6hingp t6hatp Ip setp up myp p ayp alp accountp lastp week.p Badp newsp isp t6hatp t6hep keyboardp wouldp bep comingp 4fromp Montrealp inp Canadap andp itp wouldp p robablyp takep aboutp 2p weeksp top arrive.p So,p untilp Ip receivep t6hep keyboard,p Ip wouldp bep 4forcedp top cleanp up t6hep textp manually.p Lessonp learned,p neverp everp p lacep beveragesp onp yourp comp uterp desk.p Toug6hp lessonp top learn,p believep me.
Justp 4forp yourp in4formation,p Ip 6havep includedp t6hep textp t6hatp camep outp 4fromp myp comp uterp be4forep Ip editedp itp top bep readable.
10 November 2005
Talk about biting the hand...
Sony Music is in deep shit following controversy about copy protecting music CDs while at the same time also installs spyware in the computer. The music industry is really paranoid about piracy to do such an underhanded tactic like this. A group of California consumers have already filed a suit against Sony Music and I am sure a lot more people will follow.
Do I hear boycott??? :P
Just avoid these CDs for now as listed in www.eff.org
Trey Anastasio, Shine (Columbia)
Celine Dion, On ne Change Pas (Epic)
Neil Diamond, 12 Songs (Columbia)
Our Lady Peace, Healthy in Paranoid Times (Columbia)
Chris Botti, To Love Again (Columbia)
Van Zant, Get Right with the Man (Columbia)
Switchfoot, Nothing is Sound (Columbia)
The Coral, The Invisible Invasion (Columbia)
Acceptance, Phantoms (Columbia)
Susie Suh, Susie Suh (Epic)
Amerie, Touch (Columbia)
Life of Agony, Broken Valley (Epic)
Horace Silver Quintet, Silver's Blue (Epic Legacy)
Gerry Mulligan, Jeru (Columbia Legacy)
Dexter Gordon, Manhattan Symphonie (Columbia Legacy)
The Bad Plus, Suspicious Activity (Columbia)
The Dead 60s, The Dead 60s (Epic)
Dion, The Essential Dion (Columbia Legacy)
Natasha Bedingfield, Unwritten (Epic)
This is not a complete list and Sony-BMG continues to refuse to make such a list available to consumers. Consumers can spot CDs with XCP by inspecting a CD closely, checking the left transparent spine on the front of the case for a label that says "CONTENT PROTECTED." The back of these CDs also mention XCP in fine print. You can find pictures of these and other telltale labeling at http://www.eff.org/IP/DRM/Sony-BMG/.
An advise to Sony... You cannot stop progress... Go with the flow. Piracy will not be solved by aggravating consumers - not only do you charge exorbitant amounts for a CD release (why would you buy a CD for 450 pesos (or $14.99 here) when you can buy the same CD in Quiapo for 50 pesos) but now you are distancing yourselves from the very people who are giving you the business.
By the way, I pity you if you're stuck in this shit if you bought the Celine Dion album. :p
Gives you another reason to get your music from iTunes...
Sony Music is in deep shit following controversy about copy protecting music CDs while at the same time also installs spyware in the computer. The music industry is really paranoid about piracy to do such an underhanded tactic like this. A group of California consumers have already filed a suit against Sony Music and I am sure a lot more people will follow.
Do I hear boycott??? :P
Just avoid these CDs for now as listed in www.eff.org
Trey Anastasio, Shine (Columbia)
Celine Dion, On ne Change Pas (Epic)
Neil Diamond, 12 Songs (Columbia)
Our Lady Peace, Healthy in Paranoid Times (Columbia)
Chris Botti, To Love Again (Columbia)
Van Zant, Get Right with the Man (Columbia)
Switchfoot, Nothing is Sound (Columbia)
The Coral, The Invisible Invasion (Columbia)
Acceptance, Phantoms (Columbia)
Susie Suh, Susie Suh (Epic)
Amerie, Touch (Columbia)
Life of Agony, Broken Valley (Epic)
Horace Silver Quintet, Silver's Blue (Epic Legacy)
Gerry Mulligan, Jeru (Columbia Legacy)
Dexter Gordon, Manhattan Symphonie (Columbia Legacy)
The Bad Plus, Suspicious Activity (Columbia)
The Dead 60s, The Dead 60s (Epic)
Dion, The Essential Dion (Columbia Legacy)
Natasha Bedingfield, Unwritten (Epic)
This is not a complete list and Sony-BMG continues to refuse to make such a list available to consumers. Consumers can spot CDs with XCP by inspecting a CD closely, checking the left transparent spine on the front of the case for a label that says "CONTENT PROTECTED." The back of these CDs also mention XCP in fine print. You can find pictures of these and other telltale labeling at http://www.eff.org/IP/DRM/Sony-BMG/.
An advise to Sony... You cannot stop progress... Go with the flow. Piracy will not be solved by aggravating consumers - not only do you charge exorbitant amounts for a CD release (why would you buy a CD for 450 pesos (or $14.99 here) when you can buy the same CD in Quiapo for 50 pesos) but now you are distancing yourselves from the very people who are giving you the business.
By the way, I pity you if you're stuck in this shit if you bought the Celine Dion album. :p
Gives you another reason to get your music from iTunes...
06 November 2005
03 November 2005
BEEP BEEP!!!
I have been driving here for about a month now and am now getting the hang of following street signs, not swerving and following the speed limit (gasp!). But the one thing that I am very surprised with is that I haven't used the car horn ever! I never had the use for it (unlike in Manila when it is crucial just to survive travelling along EDSA) and honestly, I feel better about it.
It makes driving much more comfortable without having to hear cars honk their horns at you every few minutes. It also reduced the headaches I usually have while driving. It does sometimes get boring though driving at 60mph on the Interstate without cars in front of you. That's a waste of time and good asphalt, if you ask me.
I have been driving here for about a month now and am now getting the hang of following street signs, not swerving and following the speed limit (gasp!). But the one thing that I am very surprised with is that I haven't used the car horn ever! I never had the use for it (unlike in Manila when it is crucial just to survive travelling along EDSA) and honestly, I feel better about it.
It makes driving much more comfortable without having to hear cars honk their horns at you every few minutes. It also reduced the headaches I usually have while driving. It does sometimes get boring though driving at 60mph on the Interstate without cars in front of you. That's a waste of time and good asphalt, if you ask me.
28 October 2005
Rain, rain go away...
Saw the forecast for the next ten days at Weather.com and it doesn't look pretty at all. :(
Saw the forecast for the next ten days at Weather.com and it doesn't look pretty at all. :(
10-Day Forecast | |
 | High / Low (°F) | Precip. % | | ||
| Fri Oct 28 |  | Showers / Wind | 52°/44° | 80 % | |
| Sat Oct 29 | | Showers | 52°/44° | 70 % | |
| Sun Oct 30 | | Showers | 52°/48° | 60 % | |
| Mon Oct 31 | | Showers | 54°/46° | 60 % | |
| Tue Nov 01 | | Light Rain | 51°/42° | 60 % | |
| Wed Nov 02 | | Showers | 50°/43° | 40 % | |
| Thu Nov 03 | | Showers | 52°/44° | 40 % | |
| Fri Nov 04 | | Showers | 53°/41° | 60 % | |
| Sat Nov 05 | | Showers | 50°/42° | 60 % | |
27 October 2005
25 October 2005
Finally!!!
After one failed attempt of passing the Washington Driver's License Test (got clocked for overspeeding the first time, who would have thought? :p) I finally passed the damned thing!
Got an 82% score on my driving test this morning. Whew! That's two points away from taking another test and another 20 bucks wasted.
After one failed attempt of passing the Washington Driver's License Test (got clocked for overspeeding the first time, who would have thought? :p) I finally passed the damned thing!
Got an 82% score on my driving test this morning. Whew! That's two points away from taking another test and another 20 bucks wasted.
24 October 2005
A couple of memorable things happened on this very foggy day here in Washington.
First, it was KC's first day of work and I am all alone at home now. I am applying for jobs now but unsure how it will turn out or how long it will take for somebody to bite. I am just hoping that everything will turn out ok. KC started work at 930 this morning and won't be off until 8pm. And I miss her already. :(
The second thing that happened is one that I will always remember. We went to the doctor today before taking KC to work for her checkup and ultrasound and everything is normal with the pregnancy and WE ARE HAVING A BOY!!! Yes, it is official that WE ARE HAVING A BOY!!! I am just so happy that i can't stop saying that WE ARE HAVING A BOY!!! So for everybody whose sending gifts... now you know!!! WE ARE HAVING A BOY!!!
I will scan the ultrasound image as soon as our HP All in One 2610 arrives in the mail.
C'mon people, now help us with names. :)
And by the way, it was cooooooold this morning, temperature was down to 37 degrees F (less than 3 degrees C) earlier. Good thing it is warming up now and currently it is 60 degrees (16 C).
First, it was KC's first day of work and I am all alone at home now. I am applying for jobs now but unsure how it will turn out or how long it will take for somebody to bite. I am just hoping that everything will turn out ok. KC started work at 930 this morning and won't be off until 8pm. And I miss her already. :(
The second thing that happened is one that I will always remember. We went to the doctor today before taking KC to work for her checkup and ultrasound and everything is normal with the pregnancy and WE ARE HAVING A BOY!!! Yes, it is official that WE ARE HAVING A BOY!!! I am just so happy that i can't stop saying that WE ARE HAVING A BOY!!! So for everybody whose sending gifts... now you know!!! WE ARE HAVING A BOY!!!
I will scan the ultrasound image as soon as our HP All in One 2610 arrives in the mail.
C'mon people, now help us with names. :)
And by the way, it was cooooooold this morning, temperature was down to 37 degrees F (less than 3 degrees C) earlier. Good thing it is warming up now and currently it is 60 degrees (16 C).
23 October 2005
Houseband Extraordinaire
It has been a week since we moved into our new apartment and being without help for the first time ever, KC and I are sharing common household chores like doing our own laundry, washing dishes and cleaning the apartment and I believe that we are doing a very good job!
One thing that I would love to do myself but not allowed to (according to our apartment laws) is washing the car. Now, I have to bring our car to the carwash and spend more money on something which I can do myself.
KC is starting work tomorrow and I will be left on my own in the apartment and will probably figure out the color of apron to wear... Sigh...
It has been a week since we moved into our new apartment and being without help for the first time ever, KC and I are sharing common household chores like doing our own laundry, washing dishes and cleaning the apartment and I believe that we are doing a very good job!
One thing that I would love to do myself but not allowed to (according to our apartment laws) is washing the car. Now, I have to bring our car to the carwash and spend more money on something which I can do myself.
KC is starting work tomorrow and I will be left on my own in the apartment and will probably figure out the color of apron to wear... Sigh...
18 October 2005
Comcast finally arrived this afternoon to install cable internet service in our apartment. We are now connected to the internet at a hair-raising speed of 6Mbps. Yup! 6 Megabits per second!!! That's like downloading a song from iTunes in less than 10 seconds. I have no idea what I need all that speed for but apparently, that is the basic speed for cable internet here (they are also offering one at 8Mbps).
Next project - HDTV!!! Hahahaha!!!
Next project - HDTV!!! Hahahaha!!!
16 October 2005
It had been a very busy week for us. First, we got our new Civic off the lot last Friday. It was a Royal Pearl Blue Civic 06 EX. You gotta see this car!!! It has all the bells and whistles of a luxury sedan at a price that won't bite your behind.
Second, we moved in to our new apartment yesterday in Silverdale and spent the whole day moving and buying stuff - and we are even halfway through. I hope that we can finish most of it before Wednesday.
I will update as soon as Comcast fixes our internet connection in our place.
:)
10 October 2005
Finally, after two weeks of looking at bedrooms, kitchens, washers, dryers, full baths, half baths and three quarter baths, we have finally found our apartment.
We were not even scheduled to see this apartment, nor had any plans to. One reason is that the apartment was not listed in any of the rental websites and it just so happens that it is close to an apartment complex that we are scheduled to see so we decided that there would be no harm in looking.
Turned out be a diamond in the rough. This place is the best we've seen and is within our price range and so we gave our application with no hesitation and within 2 hours, we got the phone call and got the approval.
Our long wait to find our apartment paid off big time and we will spend next week shopping for furniture for our new place. We have only agreed on a short 6 month lease period so that we will have an option just in case we want to get our own place.
We were not even scheduled to see this apartment, nor had any plans to. One reason is that the apartment was not listed in any of the rental websites and it just so happens that it is close to an apartment complex that we are scheduled to see so we decided that there would be no harm in looking.
Turned out be a diamond in the rough. This place is the best we've seen and is within our price range and so we gave our application with no hesitation and within 2 hours, we got the phone call and got the approval.
Our long wait to find our apartment paid off big time and we will spend next week shopping for furniture for our new place. We have only agreed on a short 6 month lease period so that we will have an option just in case we want to get our own place.
05 October 2005
VROOOOOOOMMMMMMMMM!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Test drove the new Civic 06 LX model yesterday and I immediately fell in love. You gotta love the way they changed the dashboard and the odometers.
Was seriuosly contemplating on getting the EX model with the moonroof and the aux input for my iPod and might get the navigation system as a bonus.
Although I was quite nervous as I drove the car out of the lot, I felt that I have total control of the car once we hit the road. The ride was comfortable, there was ample room even in the back and you can feel the power of the 1.8, 140 horsepower engine. I was surprised when I hit 60 mph (yes, we are counting in miles now) without even trying.
I am now looking forward to purchase the car... hope everything goes well.... (cross your fingers)
Test drove the new Civic 06 LX model yesterday and I immediately fell in love. You gotta love the way they changed the dashboard and the odometers.
Was seriuosly contemplating on getting the EX model with the moonroof and the aux input for my iPod and might get the navigation system as a bonus.
Although I was quite nervous as I drove the car out of the lot, I felt that I have total control of the car once we hit the road. The ride was comfortable, there was ample room even in the back and you can feel the power of the 1.8, 140 horsepower engine. I was surprised when I hit 60 mph (yes, we are counting in miles now) without even trying.
I am now looking forward to purchase the car... hope everything goes well.... (cross your fingers)
02 October 2005
I was excited to learn that my uncle who we are staying with plays basketball regularly at the University of Washington and I went with him this afternoon to play while KC came with us to do laps in the pool.
One thing I immediately noticed was how huge these people were. I think most of them were more than 6 feet tall! So I was kinda hesitant and scared on how I will perform against them.
First play of the game, my opponent drove for a lay-up, and I caught him for a block! Well, this guy is just probably my height or if not a couple of inches taller than me. All the same, this boosted my confidence level up a bit. I thought to myself, I can compete with these people. :)
After a few more plays, I was already tired from running up and down the court, I was short of breath and my throat dried up. These guys conditioning level were good!
Next play, I was jumping up for a rebound when suddenly, THUD! Out of nowhere, this 6 and a half foot tall guy bumped me from behind and I fell on the floor on my side. For an instant, all the air from my lungs emptied and it took me about a minute to get up. It was kinda embarrassing and I sat down to regain my composure and just waited for the next pickup game.
The second game was good and we beat our opponents handily but the third game was a different story. I was guarded by a girl who is about 5'10 and boy (or girl) was she fast! I had trouble keeping up with her. I made a couple of baskets against her but then the most embarrassing thing happened. I was set up for a three pointer when suddenly she jumped and blocked my shot! SHIT, I thought. Well, I ended up saying to her, "Nice block." What I forgot to add was, "I will never live that down."
Well, I guess I have to get used to the fact that almost everybody who I will play with here will be a lot taller, a lot stronger and a lot quicker than me. And to think that these guys are still in college! There was a guy there who looked a lot like Dirk Nowitski and played a lot like Dirk Nowitski and spoke a lot like Dirk Nowitski. That left me wondering if that guy was indeed Dirk Nowitski.
My body still hurts right now from all the bumps from this afternoon but the pain will go away, well, the embarrassment, that's another story.
One thing I immediately noticed was how huge these people were. I think most of them were more than 6 feet tall! So I was kinda hesitant and scared on how I will perform against them.
First play of the game, my opponent drove for a lay-up, and I caught him for a block! Well, this guy is just probably my height or if not a couple of inches taller than me. All the same, this boosted my confidence level up a bit. I thought to myself, I can compete with these people. :)
After a few more plays, I was already tired from running up and down the court, I was short of breath and my throat dried up. These guys conditioning level were good!
Next play, I was jumping up for a rebound when suddenly, THUD! Out of nowhere, this 6 and a half foot tall guy bumped me from behind and I fell on the floor on my side. For an instant, all the air from my lungs emptied and it took me about a minute to get up. It was kinda embarrassing and I sat down to regain my composure and just waited for the next pickup game.
The second game was good and we beat our opponents handily but the third game was a different story. I was guarded by a girl who is about 5'10 and boy (or girl) was she fast! I had trouble keeping up with her. I made a couple of baskets against her but then the most embarrassing thing happened. I was set up for a three pointer when suddenly she jumped and blocked my shot! SHIT, I thought. Well, I ended up saying to her, "Nice block." What I forgot to add was, "I will never live that down."
Well, I guess I have to get used to the fact that almost everybody who I will play with here will be a lot taller, a lot stronger and a lot quicker than me. And to think that these guys are still in college! There was a guy there who looked a lot like Dirk Nowitski and played a lot like Dirk Nowitski and spoke a lot like Dirk Nowitski. That left me wondering if that guy was indeed Dirk Nowitski.
My body still hurts right now from all the bumps from this afternoon but the pain will go away, well, the embarrassment, that's another story.
30 September 2005
Home calling me
We went to Downtown Seattle this afternoon and did all the touristy stuff and saw places which we only saw in the travel guides before.
But the warm and sunny weather we had since Saturday was gone, and Seattle finally showed its true color, with rains and strong winds all day long and the same is forecast until the weekend.
The brightest spot in our "tour" was the visit to the original Starbucks store near the Pike Street Market. It is hard to believe that this small coffeeshop became the global empire that it is now. It is just a small, obscure and non-intrusive shop in the middle of the market which is so humble that I didn't even notice it when we were walking back.
Our last stop for the day is Best Buy which is the biggest electronic computer shop I have ever been. I felt the same way as I did about 15 years ago when I first went to a Toys-R-Us store in Hong Kong, it was just overwhelming. We spent like an hour and a half there and sobrang bitin. I hope that I can go back there soon. :)
Going back to Bremerton tomorrow to check out the apartment. Hope the weather will be a lot better.
We went to Downtown Seattle this afternoon and did all the touristy stuff and saw places which we only saw in the travel guides before.
But the warm and sunny weather we had since Saturday was gone, and Seattle finally showed its true color, with rains and strong winds all day long and the same is forecast until the weekend.
The brightest spot in our "tour" was the visit to the original Starbucks store near the Pike Street Market. It is hard to believe that this small coffeeshop became the global empire that it is now. It is just a small, obscure and non-intrusive shop in the middle of the market which is so humble that I didn't even notice it when we were walking back.
Our last stop for the day is Best Buy which is the biggest electronic computer shop I have ever been. I felt the same way as I did about 15 years ago when I first went to a Toys-R-Us store in Hong Kong, it was just overwhelming. We spent like an hour and a half there and sobrang bitin. I hope that I can go back there soon. :)
Going back to Bremerton tomorrow to check out the apartment. Hope the weather will be a lot better.
28 September 2005
Finally went to Bremerton this morning to check out apartments for us to move into. Price range of the apartments ranged from $750-900 for a two bedroom unit. (I stopped converting to pesos after the second day, we would not be able to buy anything if I continue to).
We have also looked at a place that was advertised for less than $600 which we saw on the 'net. But when we got there, it was the ghetto part of Bremerton (which obviously they did not mention in the ad). We didn't even bother to go out of the car to check out the unit.
We are fancying this apartment which is about 2km away from where KC will work. The rent is a little out of our range but we are considering it as it was the only one we liked from all the apartments that we went to.
We will have a definite word from the owner tomorrow if she will consider our offer. Just help us pray for the best.
We have also looked at a place that was advertised for less than $600 which we saw on the 'net. But when we got there, it was the ghetto part of Bremerton (which obviously they did not mention in the ad). We didn't even bother to go out of the car to check out the unit.
We are fancying this apartment which is about 2km away from where KC will work. The rent is a little out of our range but we are considering it as it was the only one we liked from all the apartments that we went to.
We will have a definite word from the owner tomorrow if she will consider our offer. Just help us pray for the best.
25 September 2005
We have finally arrived!
Along the waterfront
After a long 11 hour flight from Taipei to Seattle we have finally arrived here in Seattle this afternoon or early morning Manila time the next day (you figure it out).
The flight was pretty uneventful except for the 3 disturbingly noisy Thai kids on the seats in front of us. It is tolerable to have brats on short flights but having to endure a long haul flight with these kids really tested my patience.. I guess I'm really ready to be a dad!
Immigration and customs were a cinch and didn't cause us any trouble at all. We declared in Customs that we have brought over canned goods and when asked what were in the cans, I told them its pig ears with tails. I think that shocked him as he let us through without any more questions. Another reason to be thankful for sisig.
Along the waterfrontAfter a long 11 hour flight from Taipei to Seattle we have finally arrived here in Seattle this afternoon or early morning Manila time the next day (you figure it out).
The flight was pretty uneventful except for the 3 disturbingly noisy Thai kids on the seats in front of us. It is tolerable to have brats on short flights but having to endure a long haul flight with these kids really tested my patience.. I guess I'm really ready to be a dad!
Immigration and customs were a cinch and didn't cause us any trouble at all. We declared in Customs that we have brought over canned goods and when asked what were in the cans, I told them its pig ears with tails. I think that shocked him as he let us through without any more questions. Another reason to be thankful for sisig.
23 September 2005
17 September 2005
15 September 2005
Embarassing
There's no other way to describe what happened this afternoon at the Araneta Coliseum. Ateneo was again a victim of the run and gun game of the DLSU Archers. What is so irritating about this is not the Ateneo loss per se but the way how they lost it. They showed a lack of heart and a lack of desire to win the ballgame.
Now, we might be caught in a three way tie with DLSU and UE if DLSU wins their game against UE on Sunday. I just hope that we play UE in the Final 4 as in my opinion we have a better chance of winning against.
Let us also see if JC's injury will heal in time for the Final 4.
There's no other way to describe what happened this afternoon at the Araneta Coliseum. Ateneo was again a victim of the run and gun game of the DLSU Archers. What is so irritating about this is not the Ateneo loss per se but the way how they lost it. They showed a lack of heart and a lack of desire to win the ballgame.
Now, we might be caught in a three way tie with DLSU and UE if DLSU wins their game against UE on Sunday. I just hope that we play UE in the Final 4 as in my opinion we have a better chance of winning against.
Let us also see if JC's injury will heal in time for the Final 4.
12 September 2005
Boracay!!!
It is not everyday that you have a clean shot of Boracay's long beachfront
Just came back from a quick trip to Boracay last weekend. Came back with burnt arms and shoulders but it was worth it. Though it rained Friday and Saturday, the sun was out and shining on our last few hours there on Sunday and we made the most out of it.
It is nice to be in Bora during the off season, at least you don't have to share the beach with drunken teenagers, and have the beach all to yourself. Nigi Nigi Nu Nus was very accomodating as usual and I'm sure we'll be back there, I hope.
It is not everyday that you have a clean shot of Boracay's long beachfrontJust came back from a quick trip to Boracay last weekend. Came back with burnt arms and shoulders but it was worth it. Though it rained Friday and Saturday, the sun was out and shining on our last few hours there on Sunday and we made the most out of it.
It is nice to be in Bora during the off season, at least you don't have to share the beach with drunken teenagers, and have the beach all to yourself. Nigi Nigi Nu Nus was very accomodating as usual and I'm sure we'll be back there, I hope.
08 September 2005
Our baby's first picture
That's our boy... or girl. KC just went through her first prenatal ultrasound earlier and it was the first time that we saw our baby. You just have no idea how it felt like when I saw his/her head, spine and his/her beating heart. It was quite a moving experience.
Bummed me out a little though as it is yet too early to tell if it is a boy or a girl. The OB-GYN says that it may take about two months more in order to see.
Nonetheless, the ultrasound showed that the baby is normal and is growing as expected. Good news indeed!
That's our boy... or girl. KC just went through her first prenatal ultrasound earlier and it was the first time that we saw our baby. You just have no idea how it felt like when I saw his/her head, spine and his/her beating heart. It was quite a moving experience.
Bummed me out a little though as it is yet too early to tell if it is a boy or a girl. The OB-GYN says that it may take about two months more in order to see.
Nonetheless, the ultrasound showed that the baby is normal and is growing as expected. Good news indeed!
07 September 2005
... and they sucked ever after
This is not a porn review or an explicit post but it will save you two hours and more than a hundred pesos - this is a review of one of the worst films, that does not star Pauly Shore, I've seen in recent memory.
I saw The Brothers Grimm last night expecting to be entertained as I was when I first viewed the trailers. But what I saw was just a hodgepodge of fairy tale characters put there in the movie because their stories were written by the Grimm Brothers. There was no coherence nor plot which makes it very frustrating to watch.
I was very disappointed and would not recommend it even to my worst enemy. Unless you are a huge fan of Matt Damon or Heath Ledger (which I am definitely not!) then stay away from Cinema 6 of Glorietta 4 or any moviehouse that shows this crap. They should have paid me to watch this film and suffer through it - it is that bad!
This is not a porn review or an explicit post but it will save you two hours and more than a hundred pesos - this is a review of one of the worst films, that does not star Pauly Shore, I've seen in recent memory.
I saw The Brothers Grimm last night expecting to be entertained as I was when I first viewed the trailers. But what I saw was just a hodgepodge of fairy tale characters put there in the movie because their stories were written by the Grimm Brothers. There was no coherence nor plot which makes it very frustrating to watch.
I was very disappointed and would not recommend it even to my worst enemy. Unless you are a huge fan of Matt Damon or Heath Ledger (which I am definitely not!) then stay away from Cinema 6 of Glorietta 4 or any moviehouse that shows this crap. They should have paid me to watch this film and suffer through it - it is that bad!
06 September 2005
"Damn Dog!!!"
We have a half breed labrador (the other half? You're guess is as good as mine) here at home who I am very fond of. He takes care of the house when no one's here and I believe that he is a very reliable guard dog.
Last week, one of our neighbors came to our house and said that her son was beaten by "Parker". It was a surprise to us as although he looks, I must admit scary, he would never harm somebody unless provoked. This kid came and showed us where Parker bit him. It was a solid bite just under the armpit. They came to see if we can help for the payment of the required rabies vaccinations.
Now, here is my angst again about what is wrong in this country. Although we are willing to help these people, they were expecting to get a lot of money from this incident. The incident happened last Monday afternoon and they just informed us on Saturday and is expecting us to pay for all the expenses incurred (even expenses without receipts which we were just supposed to believe them) - which is totally unfair.
These people are the worst kind of people in the country - next only to politicians, jeepney and bus drivers and squatters. Those people who try to extort money from others.
I know how hard life is now. But this does not mean that you can take advantage of innocent people. We work hard specifically to have the kind of lives we have now - and not to be taken as stupid morons by people who at best graduated from kindergarten.
I just hope that Cutie is still alive so they can feel what a real dog bite feels like.
We have a half breed labrador (the other half? You're guess is as good as mine) here at home who I am very fond of. He takes care of the house when no one's here and I believe that he is a very reliable guard dog.
Last week, one of our neighbors came to our house and said that her son was beaten by "Parker". It was a surprise to us as although he looks, I must admit scary, he would never harm somebody unless provoked. This kid came and showed us where Parker bit him. It was a solid bite just under the armpit. They came to see if we can help for the payment of the required rabies vaccinations.
Now, here is my angst again about what is wrong in this country. Although we are willing to help these people, they were expecting to get a lot of money from this incident. The incident happened last Monday afternoon and they just informed us on Saturday and is expecting us to pay for all the expenses incurred (even expenses without receipts which we were just supposed to believe them) - which is totally unfair.
These people are the worst kind of people in the country - next only to politicians, jeepney and bus drivers and squatters. Those people who try to extort money from others.
I know how hard life is now. But this does not mean that you can take advantage of innocent people. We work hard specifically to have the kind of lives we have now - and not to be taken as stupid morons by people who at best graduated from kindergarten.
I just hope that Cutie is still alive so they can feel what a real dog bite feels like.
03 September 2005
New Orleans Like 'the Third World'
Not quite. Even in the Philippines, where an average of 20+ typhoons pass through every year, disasters of this magnitude would never result in victims looting, taking the government that long (5 days to bring supply in... into a major city!!!) to help victims or giving "shoot to kill" orders to soldiers for people who were already victims of a disaster (for whatever reason). Even in a "Third World" country like ours, we have a consciense, believe in good karma and will do what is right. We do not see people in terms of color, race, religion or social status.
We, the people of the so-called "Third World" will offer our help as soon as possible, we do not need actors, singers or celebrities to appear on national TV and plead us for pledges. We open up our homes, our wallets, our hearts to victims without question or hesitation.
We, the people of the "Third World" will never stoop to the level of civility of the First World.
Not quite. Even in the Philippines, where an average of 20+ typhoons pass through every year, disasters of this magnitude would never result in victims looting, taking the government that long (5 days to bring supply in... into a major city!!!) to help victims or giving "shoot to kill" orders to soldiers for people who were already victims of a disaster (for whatever reason). Even in a "Third World" country like ours, we have a consciense, believe in good karma and will do what is right. We do not see people in terms of color, race, religion or social status.
We, the people of the so-called "Third World" will offer our help as soon as possible, we do not need actors, singers or celebrities to appear on national TV and plead us for pledges. We open up our homes, our wallets, our hearts to victims without question or hesitation.
We, the people of the "Third World" will never stoop to the level of civility of the First World.
01 September 2005
Google Me?
A very funny albeit fictional article found in The Onion on how Google plans to take over the world.
Kinda scary too as it is not too far off the truth.
http://www.theonion.com/content/node/40076
A very funny albeit fictional article found in The Onion on how Google plans to take over the world.
Kinda scary too as it is not too far off the truth.
http://www.theonion.com/content/node/40076
BLah!
What in the world is happening? Unless you have been in a bomb shelter the past week trying to hide from the farce that we call "politics in the Philippines" you would have heard that the impeachment complaint against the President is now dead and that the EVAT law has been deemed constitutional by the Supreme Court.
Now let us analyze how these events will affect our daily lives. First of all, we will belch out a collective curse everytime we fill up our gas-guzzling vehicles (Although we sold Tish, we still have our beloved workhorse, Vicks). My prediction is that before the year ends, gasoline prices here in Manila will cost more than 40 pesos/liter, keeping into account the recent hike in international crude prices and the EVAT. I think that's it... Honestly, nobody cares about the impeachment proceedings anymore, it's like congressmen (and women) are just jockeying for airtime to have a certain recall in the voters' minds for the next elections.
Voters' minds... That is a redundant phrase here in the Philippines...
************************************************************************************
Do you still remember prior to the Iraq-Kuwait War when gasoline prices are in the 7 pesos range? Those were the days... I wonder how long it will be until the great war where nations will fight for the control of the world's fuels. Isn't it weird that the "coddlers of terrorism" as our American friends call them are the world's biggest oil producers? (Coincidence? I don't think so.)
Maybe Islam is the right religion after all... Pray to Allah for oil!!! :P
************************************************************************************
Another significant development in the previous days had been the hurricane that swept the Gulf states in the United States. Katrina wrecked every concievable thing that was on its path of terror and now, people in places like New Orleans have been resorting to looting in order to eat and stay alive.
I cannot fathom the intensity of this natural disaster just because our typhoons just aren't that bad compared to this Category 5 hurricane. The worst I remember is that a few years ago, Manila was center to a typhoon with winds of upto 160 km/hr. Katrina's gusts went up to about 200 MILES/HR!!!
It is just scary that every natural disaster is becoming more and more intensified as time goes by. Every year, you would hear that the calamity is the worst ever. Worst part is, we can only hope for the best.
What in the world is happening? Unless you have been in a bomb shelter the past week trying to hide from the farce that we call "politics in the Philippines" you would have heard that the impeachment complaint against the President is now dead and that the EVAT law has been deemed constitutional by the Supreme Court.
Now let us analyze how these events will affect our daily lives. First of all, we will belch out a collective curse everytime we fill up our gas-guzzling vehicles (Although we sold Tish, we still have our beloved workhorse, Vicks). My prediction is that before the year ends, gasoline prices here in Manila will cost more than 40 pesos/liter, keeping into account the recent hike in international crude prices and the EVAT. I think that's it... Honestly, nobody cares about the impeachment proceedings anymore, it's like congressmen (and women) are just jockeying for airtime to have a certain recall in the voters' minds for the next elections.
Voters' minds... That is a redundant phrase here in the Philippines...
************************************************************************************
Do you still remember prior to the Iraq-Kuwait War when gasoline prices are in the 7 pesos range? Those were the days... I wonder how long it will be until the great war where nations will fight for the control of the world's fuels. Isn't it weird that the "coddlers of terrorism" as our American friends call them are the world's biggest oil producers? (Coincidence? I don't think so.)
Maybe Islam is the right religion after all... Pray to Allah for oil!!! :P
************************************************************************************
Another significant development in the previous days had been the hurricane that swept the Gulf states in the United States. Katrina wrecked every concievable thing that was on its path of terror and now, people in places like New Orleans have been resorting to looting in order to eat and stay alive.
I cannot fathom the intensity of this natural disaster just because our typhoons just aren't that bad compared to this Category 5 hurricane. The worst I remember is that a few years ago, Manila was center to a typhoon with winds of upto 160 km/hr. Katrina's gusts went up to about 200 MILES/HR!!!
It is just scary that every natural disaster is becoming more and more intensified as time goes by. Every year, you would hear that the calamity is the worst ever. Worst part is, we can only hope for the best.
30 August 2005
Bittersweet Goodbye
I remember the first day I drove my Altis out of the Toyota Cubao showroom last October 2003. I distinctly remember the feel of the steering wheel on my hand, the touch of the leather car seats and the new car smell that is as sweet as a baby's bottom (well, I will know that first hand next February :P).
It felt like the advert of PS Bank Autoloan, where the car buyer was in a waiting room, nervous like an expectant father while he waits for word if "Britney" is ready to be driven.
So it is bittersweet that I sold my dear "Tish". Tish is the first car I have bought and it will always have a special place in my heart even if I drive a Porsche or Ferrari in five years time (Yeah, Mark, dream on!).
I remember the first day I drove my Altis out of the Toyota Cubao showroom last October 2003. I distinctly remember the feel of the steering wheel on my hand, the touch of the leather car seats and the new car smell that is as sweet as a baby's bottom (well, I will know that first hand next February :P).
It felt like the advert of PS Bank Autoloan, where the car buyer was in a waiting room, nervous like an expectant father while he waits for word if "Britney" is ready to be driven.
So it is bittersweet that I sold my dear "Tish". Tish is the first car I have bought and it will always have a special place in my heart even if I drive a Porsche or Ferrari in five years time (Yeah, Mark, dream on!).
27 August 2005
25 August 2005
23 August 2005
It finally arrived!
Got myself a new toy! The video camera I asked my uncle to get from the US has finally arrived! Been playing around with it and I must say that it is sweeeettt.... :)
Got myself a new toy! The video camera I asked my uncle to get from the US has finally arrived! Been playing around with it and I must say that it is sweeeettt.... :)
20 August 2005
Let me be a little geeky
This blogging thing is becoming a little complicated. In order to improve upon the look of this site, I have decided to invest in 2 HTML books. I bought it in National Bookstore for a very good price.
It was just when I got home that I realized why these books are dirt cheap (a little over P200 a book). These books were published in 2001 (as all of you know, computer books that are more than 6 months old are worth a little less than last year's phone book) but I hope I can learn even the basic commands and tricks of HTML, CSS, DHTML and XML.
Once I get the hang of this, I would like to get started on learning about Macromedia's Studio MX 2004. This is a more advanced website publishing and design software which I hope I can learn.
This blogging thing is becoming a little complicated. In order to improve upon the look of this site, I have decided to invest in 2 HTML books. I bought it in National Bookstore for a very good price.
It was just when I got home that I realized why these books are dirt cheap (a little over P200 a book). These books were published in 2001 (as all of you know, computer books that are more than 6 months old are worth a little less than last year's phone book) but I hope I can learn even the basic commands and tricks of HTML, CSS, DHTML and XML.
Once I get the hang of this, I would like to get started on learning about Macromedia's Studio MX 2004. This is a more advanced website publishing and design software which I hope I can learn.
19 August 2005
When I want to feel like six again...
I just stumbled into this collection in Amazon.com and nostalgia hit me. I started reading Calvin and Hobbes strips when I was in high school and I immediately loved it! Since then, I have bought every collection of Calvin and Hobbes strips there is.
This is definitely a recommended buy for everybody who, once in a while in this workaday world, is looking for something to cheer them up. I know I want to read this again with my kid... soon. :)
I just stumbled into this collection in Amazon.com and nostalgia hit me. I started reading Calvin and Hobbes strips when I was in high school and I immediately loved it! Since then, I have bought every collection of Calvin and Hobbes strips there is.This is definitely a recommended buy for everybody who, once in a while in this workaday world, is looking for something to cheer them up. I know I want to read this again with my kid... soon. :)
Collection Consolidation
I have started the gruesome task of packing stuff for our imminent move to Seattle and I started with cataloging and filing our CD collection. It became an interesting exercise halfway through when I started adding KC's CDs to that collection.
I found some duplicate CDs (which obviously meant that we have some semblance of taste, musically, that is) that I have decided to share.
Lauryn Hill's The Miseducation Of Lauryn Hill
Side A's The Tenth Anniversary Live Concert
U2's The Best of 1980-1990
John Mayer's Room for Squares
Jewel's Pieces of You
Kenny Loggins' Yesterday, Today, Tomorrow the Greatest Hits of Kenny Loggins
Mind you, there were also "What were you thinking when you decided to buy these CDs" CDs. CDs from Aiza Seguerra, Martin Niviera, Backstreet Boys, Westlife among others now pollute an otherwise immaculate collection of real music... Sigh...
I have started the gruesome task of packing stuff for our imminent move to Seattle and I started with cataloging and filing our CD collection. It became an interesting exercise halfway through when I started adding KC's CDs to that collection.
I found some duplicate CDs (which obviously meant that we have some semblance of taste, musically, that is) that I have decided to share.
Lauryn Hill's The Miseducation Of Lauryn Hill
Side A's The Tenth Anniversary Live Concert
U2's The Best of 1980-1990
John Mayer's Room for Squares
Jewel's Pieces of You
Kenny Loggins' Yesterday, Today, Tomorrow the Greatest Hits of Kenny Loggins
Mind you, there were also "What were you thinking when you decided to buy these CDs" CDs. CDs from Aiza Seguerra, Martin Niviera, Backstreet Boys, Westlife among others now pollute an otherwise immaculate collection of real music... Sigh...
18 August 2005
RANT RAMPAGE
Forgive me for having a rant session here in my blog but I figured that this is the easiest and cheapest way to express my feelings publicly about what I think is the problem here in Manila.
Please, please somebody do something about the conditions of Metro Manila roads. After heavy rains soaked the city last week, potholes have popped up all over the metro like weeds would litter an unkept garden. And stop just filling the potholes with asphalt!!! IT IS JUST WASTING TAXPAYERS MONEY! I know that DPWH get a lot more of money every time they fix roads (DPWH would rather construct poor grade road so that they can maintain the roads more often and thus get more kickbacks.), but this is just ridiculous. What the hell happened to good ole fashioned concrete? Huh? Yes, it's raining and yes, it would take concrete more time to cure but YOU SHOULD HAVE THOUGHT ABOUT THAT DURING THE LONG FREAKIN' SUMMER WE JUST HAD!!!
ABOLISH THE MMDA!!!! Yes, Mr. Bayani Fernando... you are not worth the chair that your ass is seating on. Pink fences? Pink urinals? Are you a freakin' fag??? You are the source of all the metro's problem, not the solution as you want people to believe. You used the grant for the restoration of EDSA (Yes people, we received a grant to have EDSA rehabilitated. Yes, they were supposed to concretize (?) the whole stretch) but NO!!! You decided to use that money to build worthless pink footbridges all around town (using steel beams that was sourced from BF Steel, coincidence?). I guess it pays to kiss the ass of the top biatch. (How low do you have to stoop?)
I'm sure that this next rant got into a lot of people's nerves since... since people began driving!!! GET THE BUSES OUT OF EDSA!!! or at least minimize their presence. Most of the traffic congestion (and smoke belching) in EDSA is due to these darn buses. These bus drivers are also the worst types of drivers in the world! (Nowhere else can you see a 20ft bus swerve 5 lanes in rush hour traffic in a little under 20-meter stretch of road). I just wish that it is not illegal to carry firearms with the sole intention of maiming these driving maniacs and putting them in wheelchairs.
Whew! I am done... I guess the next edition would come after a long bout of traffic along EDSA again. Sigh... Can't wait to get out of this city.
(Disclaimer: Before I get any libel suits from any of the organizations or persons mentioned above, I would just like to say one thing... Stop fuckin' about with all these nonsense lawsuits and just do what you are voted, assigned, tasked, hired to do.) Now, can somebody please give me some Valium?
Forgive me for having a rant session here in my blog but I figured that this is the easiest and cheapest way to express my feelings publicly about what I think is the problem here in Manila.
Please, please somebody do something about the conditions of Metro Manila roads. After heavy rains soaked the city last week, potholes have popped up all over the metro like weeds would litter an unkept garden. And stop just filling the potholes with asphalt!!! IT IS JUST WASTING TAXPAYERS MONEY! I know that DPWH get a lot more of money every time they fix roads (DPWH would rather construct poor grade road so that they can maintain the roads more often and thus get more kickbacks.), but this is just ridiculous. What the hell happened to good ole fashioned concrete? Huh? Yes, it's raining and yes, it would take concrete more time to cure but YOU SHOULD HAVE THOUGHT ABOUT THAT DURING THE LONG FREAKIN' SUMMER WE JUST HAD!!!
ABOLISH THE MMDA!!!! Yes, Mr. Bayani Fernando... you are not worth the chair that your ass is seating on. Pink fences? Pink urinals? Are you a freakin' fag??? You are the source of all the metro's problem, not the solution as you want people to believe. You used the grant for the restoration of EDSA (Yes people, we received a grant to have EDSA rehabilitated. Yes, they were supposed to concretize (?) the whole stretch) but NO!!! You decided to use that money to build worthless pink footbridges all around town (using steel beams that was sourced from BF Steel, coincidence?). I guess it pays to kiss the ass of the top biatch. (How low do you have to stoop?)
I'm sure that this next rant got into a lot of people's nerves since... since people began driving!!! GET THE BUSES OUT OF EDSA!!! or at least minimize their presence. Most of the traffic congestion (and smoke belching) in EDSA is due to these darn buses. These bus drivers are also the worst types of drivers in the world! (Nowhere else can you see a 20ft bus swerve 5 lanes in rush hour traffic in a little under 20-meter stretch of road). I just wish that it is not illegal to carry firearms with the sole intention of maiming these driving maniacs and putting them in wheelchairs.
Whew! I am done... I guess the next edition would come after a long bout of traffic along EDSA again. Sigh... Can't wait to get out of this city.
(Disclaimer: Before I get any libel suits from any of the organizations or persons mentioned above, I would just like to say one thing... Stop fuckin' about with all these nonsense lawsuits and just do what you are voted, assigned, tasked, hired to do.) Now, can somebody please give me some Valium?
15 August 2005
Blogging in style
Going to the mall might not be so bad after all. I'm now here in Podium and the whole mall have free wifi access. How cool is that?
Instead of just walking around aimlessly for 2 hours (which I tend to do for about two to three times a week while I wait for KC to finish her tutoring), I find it more fullfilling to just spend the same two hours connected to the internet, catching up on current events and accessing my emails.
There's nothing better than doing that with a hot cup of coffee, good music (thanks to my iPod), air conditioning and watching people go about their businesses.
I sure wish that I can do blogging on my XDA IIs phone though instead of having to boot my laptop. For some strange reason, the Blogspot page cannot be opened properly.
Free wifi access has definitely put Podium on top of my favorite malls list. Aside from this, its not crowded, good shops, good restaurants and a nice ambience. What more can you ask for? (I just hope they are paying me for plugging their establishment though).
Going to the mall might not be so bad after all. I'm now here in Podium and the whole mall have free wifi access. How cool is that?
Instead of just walking around aimlessly for 2 hours (which I tend to do for about two to three times a week while I wait for KC to finish her tutoring), I find it more fullfilling to just spend the same two hours connected to the internet, catching up on current events and accessing my emails.
There's nothing better than doing that with a hot cup of coffee, good music (thanks to my iPod), air conditioning and watching people go about their businesses.
I sure wish that I can do blogging on my XDA IIs phone though instead of having to boot my laptop. For some strange reason, the Blogspot page cannot be opened properly.
Free wifi access has definitely put Podium on top of my favorite malls list. Aside from this, its not crowded, good shops, good restaurants and a nice ambience. What more can you ask for? (I just hope they are paying me for plugging their establishment though).
14 August 2005
My partner in crime
KC has decided to finally write her own blog! Visit her page to read about what's going on in her head.
*Warning: Her page might contain comments (positive or otherwise) about this writer.
KC has decided to finally write her own blog! Visit her page to read about what's going on in her head.
*Warning: Her page might contain comments (positive or otherwise) about this writer.
12 August 2005
I think I'm growing up...
It's kinda nice staying home on a Friday night. It's nice that I don't have to worry about which gimik to go to, which friends to contact and how much I am going to spend.
It's kinda nice that I now have a home of my own. A wife that I very much adore, and a baby on the way.
It's kinda weird how a simple pregnancy test can change your whole outlook in life. Before KC took the test, we were sure that our family will just be the two of us for at least another 2 years.
It's kinda worrying that I am going to be a father in half a year. I don't think I am ready to handle such a great responsibility. Though I know I will give everything I can to the baby.
It's kinda scary that we will leave everything that is close to us, everything that we are comfortable with, everything we know in less than 2 months - and exciting at the same time. We will be in a totally different environment with total strangers. I will surely miss sisig.
It's kinda wonderful knowing that all this happened in just a little over a year. I can't wait to see what the next 12 months will bring us.
"Magnificent. The boy is gone. In the last 30 seconds... you became a grown-up." - Finding Neverland
It's kinda nice staying home on a Friday night. It's nice that I don't have to worry about which gimik to go to, which friends to contact and how much I am going to spend.
It's kinda nice that I now have a home of my own. A wife that I very much adore, and a baby on the way.
It's kinda weird how a simple pregnancy test can change your whole outlook in life. Before KC took the test, we were sure that our family will just be the two of us for at least another 2 years.
It's kinda worrying that I am going to be a father in half a year. I don't think I am ready to handle such a great responsibility. Though I know I will give everything I can to the baby.
It's kinda scary that we will leave everything that is close to us, everything that we are comfortable with, everything we know in less than 2 months - and exciting at the same time. We will be in a totally different environment with total strangers. I will surely miss sisig.
It's kinda wonderful knowing that all this happened in just a little over a year. I can't wait to see what the next 12 months will bring us.
"Magnificent. The boy is gone. In the last 30 seconds... you became a grown-up." - Finding Neverland
Shower Time!
It's been raining continuously for the past week and there is nothing better to do than to sleep. I don't think there is a typhoon and it is just the monsoon season.
The temperature has been great (an average of 25 degrees C) compared to the past months (which ranged from 35-40 degrees C).
Unfortunately, we might not be able to view the Perseid meteor shower which is expected to peak early this morning. Let's just hope that the skies will be clear enough tonight for us to enjoy this celestial event.
It's been raining continuously for the past week and there is nothing better to do than to sleep. I don't think there is a typhoon and it is just the monsoon season.
The temperature has been great (an average of 25 degrees C) compared to the past months (which ranged from 35-40 degrees C).
Unfortunately, we might not be able to view the Perseid meteor shower which is expected to peak early this morning. Let's just hope that the skies will be clear enough tonight for us to enjoy this celestial event.
11 August 2005
Let's Get In ON!!!
The UAAP has just released the schedule for the second round of the tournament. The Blue Eagles have a pretty nice draw to build on their 4-game winning streak of the first round. The last two games of the second round might just become a warmup to the Final Four if Ateneo manages to win the first 5 games.
However, the performance of the team is far from perfect. A lot has to be done in this two-week break for the Blue Eagles to continue on their winning ways. Some of the areas they should work on:
1. Limit turnovers. Yes, that means you, JC.
2. Doug Kramer. Play as well as you had in the first round and it will help open up the outside.
3. Magnum. Please, please, get your shooting back on track.
4. L.A. Work on your conditioning. The team can't afford to lose you during crucial moments.
4. Norman Black. Fantastic rotation during the first round.
5. The Bench. They should come in and play with intensity every game. Ford Arao, Ken Barracoso, and Zion Laterre have all done excellent jobs in filling in for the starters.
2nd round schedule
Sat Aug 20, 2005 4pm vs ADU, ATENEO GYM
Thu Aug 25, 2005 4pm vs UP, ATENEO GYM
Sat Aug 27, 2005 4pm vs UE, ARANETA
Sat Sep 3, 2005 2pm vs UST, ATENEO GYM
Thu Sep 8, 2005 130pm vs NU, ATENEO GYM
Sun Sep 11, 2005 4pm vs FEU, ARANETA
Thu Sep 15, 2005 4pm vs DLSU, ARANETA
On a sidenote, it will be interesting to watch the NCAA-UAAP All Star Game this weekend. No idea on how the NCAA teams will fare, but I am sure it will be a nice to watch. Hope nobody gets injured though.
The UAAP has just released the schedule for the second round of the tournament. The Blue Eagles have a pretty nice draw to build on their 4-game winning streak of the first round. The last two games of the second round might just become a warmup to the Final Four if Ateneo manages to win the first 5 games.
However, the performance of the team is far from perfect. A lot has to be done in this two-week break for the Blue Eagles to continue on their winning ways. Some of the areas they should work on:
1. Limit turnovers. Yes, that means you, JC.
2. Doug Kramer. Play as well as you had in the first round and it will help open up the outside.
3. Magnum. Please, please, get your shooting back on track.
4. L.A. Work on your conditioning. The team can't afford to lose you during crucial moments.
4. Norman Black. Fantastic rotation during the first round.
5. The Bench. They should come in and play with intensity every game. Ford Arao, Ken Barracoso, and Zion Laterre have all done excellent jobs in filling in for the starters.
2nd round schedule
Sat Aug 20, 2005 4pm vs ADU, ATENEO GYM
Thu Aug 25, 2005 4pm vs UP, ATENEO GYM
Sat Aug 27, 2005 4pm vs UE, ARANETA
Sat Sep 3, 2005 2pm vs UST, ATENEO GYM
Thu Sep 8, 2005 130pm vs NU, ATENEO GYM
Sun Sep 11, 2005 4pm vs FEU, ARANETA
Thu Sep 15, 2005 4pm vs DLSU, ARANETA
On a sidenote, it will be interesting to watch the NCAA-UAAP All Star Game this weekend. No idea on how the NCAA teams will fare, but I am sure it will be a nice to watch. Hope nobody gets injured though.
That gives me 3 years to save up!
www.deepspaceexpeditions.com, the same company that offered people with money to waste a trip to the ISS (International Space Station) for $20 million is now offering a lunar fly-by starting in 2008 for only $100 million.
Let me see, that means I have to earn more or less $100,000 a month starting today in order to come up with that amount of cash. Is it too late to join the senatorial race in 2007? :p
www.deepspaceexpeditions.com, the same company that offered people with money to waste a trip to the ISS (International Space Station) for $20 million is now offering a lunar fly-by starting in 2008 for only $100 million.
Let me see, that means I have to earn more or less $100,000 a month starting today in order to come up with that amount of cash. Is it too late to join the senatorial race in 2007? :p
10 August 2005
'Nuff said!
Received this on an email today. Makes sense. If only half of the people in this country does one of the things stated in this list, our country won't be in a mess. The other half could then run for public office.
THERE'S a booklet making the rounds in Metro Manila that every Filipino who loves his country should get a hold of and read.
"Twelve (12) Little Things Every Filipino Can Do To Help Our Country," by Alexander Ledesma Lacson, may be a "voice in the wilderness"; but as Fr. Ruben Tanseco, S.J. puts it, what Alex proposes are "very concrete, practical and doable" actions for us ordinary Filipinos.
A simple enumeration of these "twelve little things" will not do justice to the work of Alex. You've got to read the whole text, but I shall try to compress a few lines for some of the items mentioned.
1. Follow traffic rules -- Why is that the most important? The answer is simple. Traffic rules are the simplest of our laws. If we learn to follow them, it will be the lowest form of national discipline that we can develop. Since it is totally without monetary cost, it should be easy for us to comply with, and therefore should provide a good start.
2. Whenever you buy or pay for anything, always ask for an official receipt. -- If a seller does not issue an official receipt when you buy a product, the seller may or may not remit the tax to the government. Without an O.R., there is no record of the sale transaction, and the tax that you paid may not be remitted to the Bureau of Internal Revenue.
3. Do not buy smuggled goods. Buy local, buy Filipino. - It may not be good economics to buy
100 percent local products. What I suggest is for us to take a "50-50" buying attitude. This means that we must develop the attitude of using 50 percent of our budget for local products and the other 50 percent for imported choices.
4. When you talk to others, especially foreigners, speak positively of our race and our country -- this is best addressed to the rich and the middle class in our country, who have contact with the outside world. It is they who talk to, dine or deal with foreigners either here or abroad. It is what they say and do which creates impressions about us among foreigners.
5. Respect your traffic officer, policeman, soldier and other public servants -- There is nothing like the power of respect. It makes a person proud. It makes one feel honorable. At the same time, courtesy to others is good manners. It is class and elegance and kindness. It is seeing the value and dignity in the other man. It is, in fact, a mark of a most profound education.
6. Do not litter. Dispose your garbage properly.
Segregate. Recycle. Conserve. As Louis Armstrong says in his song: "I see trees of green, red roses, too, I see them bloom for me and you and I think to myself, what a wonderful world."
7. Support your church. (or charitable/ civic organizations -- :-)
8. During elections, do your solemn duty. -- Honesty, more than a masteral or doctorate degree, is what gives credibility. And credibility is essential because it is a leader's link to the people. It is what makes the people look to one direction, follow a common vision, and perform a uniform act. In short, credibility is what makes people follow the leader.
9. Pay your employees well. -- No exercise is better for the human heart than to reach down and lift someone else up. This truly defines a successful life. For success is the sum, not of our earthly possessions, but of how many times we have shown love and kindness to others.
10. Pay your taxes. -- In 2003, P83 billion was collected from individual income taxes. But 91 percent of this amount came from salaried workers from the government and private sector, people who had no choice since their income taxes were withheld mandatory. Only P7 billion of the P83 billion came from businessmen and professionals like doctors, lawyers, accountants and architects, among others.
11. Adopt a scholar or adopt a poor child. -- You can make a difference in the future of our country by making a difference in the world of children.
12. Be a good parent. Teach your kids to follow the law and to love our country. -- Today's children will someday rule and lead this world. But whether they will be bad rulers or good leaders will depend largely on how we raise them today. Our future is in the hearts and minds of our children.
Received this on an email today. Makes sense. If only half of the people in this country does one of the things stated in this list, our country won't be in a mess. The other half could then run for public office.
THERE'S a booklet making the rounds in Metro Manila that every Filipino who loves his country should get a hold of and read.
"Twelve (12) Little Things Every Filipino Can Do To Help Our Country," by Alexander Ledesma Lacson, may be a "voice in the wilderness"; but as Fr. Ruben Tanseco, S.J. puts it, what Alex proposes are "very concrete, practical and doable" actions for us ordinary Filipinos.
A simple enumeration of these "twelve little things" will not do justice to the work of Alex. You've got to read the whole text, but I shall try to compress a few lines for some of the items mentioned.
1. Follow traffic rules -- Why is that the most important? The answer is simple. Traffic rules are the simplest of our laws. If we learn to follow them, it will be the lowest form of national discipline that we can develop. Since it is totally without monetary cost, it should be easy for us to comply with, and therefore should provide a good start.
2. Whenever you buy or pay for anything, always ask for an official receipt. -- If a seller does not issue an official receipt when you buy a product, the seller may or may not remit the tax to the government. Without an O.R., there is no record of the sale transaction, and the tax that you paid may not be remitted to the Bureau of Internal Revenue.
3. Do not buy smuggled goods. Buy local, buy Filipino. - It may not be good economics to buy
100 percent local products. What I suggest is for us to take a "50-50" buying attitude. This means that we must develop the attitude of using 50 percent of our budget for local products and the other 50 percent for imported choices.
4. When you talk to others, especially foreigners, speak positively of our race and our country -- this is best addressed to the rich and the middle class in our country, who have contact with the outside world. It is they who talk to, dine or deal with foreigners either here or abroad. It is what they say and do which creates impressions about us among foreigners.
5. Respect your traffic officer, policeman, soldier and other public servants -- There is nothing like the power of respect. It makes a person proud. It makes one feel honorable. At the same time, courtesy to others is good manners. It is class and elegance and kindness. It is seeing the value and dignity in the other man. It is, in fact, a mark of a most profound education.
6. Do not litter. Dispose your garbage properly.
Segregate. Recycle. Conserve. As Louis Armstrong says in his song: "I see trees of green, red roses, too, I see them bloom for me and you and I think to myself, what a wonderful world."
7. Support your church. (or charitable/ civic organizations -- :-)
8. During elections, do your solemn duty. -- Honesty, more than a masteral or doctorate degree, is what gives credibility. And credibility is essential because it is a leader's link to the people. It is what makes the people look to one direction, follow a common vision, and perform a uniform act. In short, credibility is what makes people follow the leader.
9. Pay your employees well. -- No exercise is better for the human heart than to reach down and lift someone else up. This truly defines a successful life. For success is the sum, not of our earthly possessions, but of how many times we have shown love and kindness to others.
10. Pay your taxes. -- In 2003, P83 billion was collected from individual income taxes. But 91 percent of this amount came from salaried workers from the government and private sector, people who had no choice since their income taxes were withheld mandatory. Only P7 billion of the P83 billion came from businessmen and professionals like doctors, lawyers, accountants and architects, among others.
11. Adopt a scholar or adopt a poor child. -- You can make a difference in the future of our country by making a difference in the world of children.
12. Be a good parent. Teach your kids to follow the law and to love our country. -- Today's children will someday rule and lead this world. But whether they will be bad rulers or good leaders will depend largely on how we raise them today. Our future is in the hearts and minds of our children.
07 August 2005
Willy Wonka does it again
One very vivid memory I had as a kid was watching Willie Wonka and the Chocolate Factory. As an eight-year old, a movie with all-you-can-eat candies and chocolates is as good as it gets. So I was very excited to see how Tim Burton's rendition stacks up to the classic.
Thank God it didn't disappoint. Saw Charlie and the Chocolate Factory last night and I must admit, I thoroughly enjoyed it. Although touted to be a kiddie film, Johnny Depp's humor certainly isn't.
This is one of those films that suspends your beliefs for two hours and lets you feel like a child again. The lure of candies and chocolates haven't diminished after all.
Another great performance from Freddie Highmore - same kid who played Peter in Finding Neverland.
One very vivid memory I had as a kid was watching Willie Wonka and the Chocolate Factory. As an eight-year old, a movie with all-you-can-eat candies and chocolates is as good as it gets. So I was very excited to see how Tim Burton's rendition stacks up to the classic.
Thank God it didn't disappoint. Saw Charlie and the Chocolate Factory last night and I must admit, I thoroughly enjoyed it. Although touted to be a kiddie film, Johnny Depp's humor certainly isn't.
This is one of those films that suspends your beliefs for two hours and lets you feel like a child again. The lure of candies and chocolates haven't diminished after all.
Another great performance from Freddie Highmore - same kid who played Peter in Finding Neverland.
05 August 2005
It always comes in 3s
I'm very sorry to hear that Raul Roco passed away yesterday morning. Maybe his family and close friends were expecting it since he "withdrew" from the presidential elections last year due to health problems. For me, I guess he will always be the President that the country should but will never have.
Come to think of it, he was the second presidential candidate to die since the election. I don't know if this is just a coincidence or Lady Faith might have something to do about it... And the saying that death always comes in 3s. I wonder who will be next (knock on wood).
I'm very sorry to hear that Raul Roco passed away yesterday morning. Maybe his family and close friends were expecting it since he "withdrew" from the presidential elections last year due to health problems. For me, I guess he will always be the President that the country should but will never have.
Come to think of it, he was the second presidential candidate to die since the election. I don't know if this is just a coincidence or Lady Faith might have something to do about it... And the saying that death always comes in 3s. I wonder who will be next (knock on wood).
03 August 2005
I'm Gonna Be a DAD!!!
Yup! Seriously. KC is on the way! We found out about a couple of months ago but we waited until we told everybody we are close to before announcing it to the world!
On her regular checkup with the OB-GYN yesterday, we heard our little baby's heartbeat for the first time. I have no idea how emotional one can get. I felt so proud and happy upon hearing those heartbeats.
Come back soon for more updates on the pregnancy.
Yup! Seriously. KC is on the way! We found out about a couple of months ago but we waited until we told everybody we are close to before announcing it to the world!
On her regular checkup with the OB-GYN yesterday, we heard our little baby's heartbeat for the first time. I have no idea how emotional one can get. I felt so proud and happy upon hearing those heartbeats.
Come back soon for more updates on the pregnancy.
21 July 2005
Another loss...
Talo na naman... This year will turn out to be very disppointing for Ateneo's bid in the UAAP if they keep up this type lackluster play.
For the second time in three games, the Blue Eagles lost by a big margin. This time to the FEU Tamaraws. The Tamaraws led by more than 25 points late in the third quarter as they cruised to their third straight victory.
Bilib pa naman sana ako kay Norman. Or is it the players fault? This is the guy who won a Grandslam in the PBA with the San Miguel Beer franchise in the late 80s. I guess coaching a team with Ramon Fernandez, Samboy Lim, Hector Calma and other All-Stars helped him a bit.
I hope Ateneo improves on their gameplan in the following games. ONE BIG FIGHT!
Talo na naman... This year will turn out to be very disppointing for Ateneo's bid in the UAAP if they keep up this type lackluster play.
For the second time in three games, the Blue Eagles lost by a big margin. This time to the FEU Tamaraws. The Tamaraws led by more than 25 points late in the third quarter as they cruised to their third straight victory.
Bilib pa naman sana ako kay Norman. Or is it the players fault? This is the guy who won a Grandslam in the PBA with the San Miguel Beer franchise in the late 80s. I guess coaching a team with Ramon Fernandez, Samboy Lim, Hector Calma and other All-Stars helped him a bit.
I hope Ateneo improves on their gameplan in the following games. ONE BIG FIGHT!
20 July 2005
How I hate cocks
I haven't been sleeping normally for two months now. For some reason, I couldn't get to sleep anytime before 3a.m. Most times I would be awake until after sunrise and watch one of those morning news shows before finally shutting my eyes.
One thing that I have noticed is that I hate cocks (or roosters). Correction, I despise them. Every night between 3 and 4 a.m. they would start crowing and it will continue for the rest of the day. Now that's a bugger for someone who sleeps at around 6a.m.
Just in case you are wondering, these infernal birds are owned by our neighbors and are raised on the vacant lot behind our house. There were many nights that I thought of going out in the middle of the night with a handful of rat poison or something and feeding it to them.
Sigh...
I haven't been sleeping normally for two months now. For some reason, I couldn't get to sleep anytime before 3a.m. Most times I would be awake until after sunrise and watch one of those morning news shows before finally shutting my eyes.
One thing that I have noticed is that I hate cocks (or roosters). Correction, I despise them. Every night between 3 and 4 a.m. they would start crowing and it will continue for the rest of the day. Now that's a bugger for someone who sleeps at around 6a.m.
Just in case you are wondering, these infernal birds are owned by our neighbors and are raised on the vacant lot behind our house. There were many nights that I thought of going out in the middle of the night with a handful of rat poison or something and feeding it to them.
Sigh...
"Welcome to my blog."
Let those four words invite you to what is really going on in my life - where I'll openly discuss what I am feeling, what I am thinking or what I am doing. I promise I will make some sense most of the time.
By the way, for those of you who just got lost... I am Mark Jowett Tan, 26 years old, married and expecting a kid sometime in Feb 2006. I am from Manila and moving to Seattle this October.
Now that I have properly introduced myself, I guess we can start...
Let those four words invite you to what is really going on in my life - where I'll openly discuss what I am feeling, what I am thinking or what I am doing. I promise I will make some sense most of the time.
By the way, for those of you who just got lost... I am Mark Jowett Tan, 26 years old, married and expecting a kid sometime in Feb 2006. I am from Manila and moving to Seattle this October.
Now that I have properly introduced myself, I guess we can start...
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