Wednesday, December 31, 2003
Tuesday, December 30, 2003
Pinoy Trivia of the Week:
UP-Philippine General Hospital via PGH Site
Today's my last day of work. I think it is only fitting that I share something with you about my place of work - the UP-Philippine General Hospital.
Let me correct something though. I work for the Ugnayan ng Pahinungod, the volunteer service program of the University of the Philippines Manila. My office, however, is located within the hospital premise. So even if, technically, I am an employee of the University, my workplace is the hospital.
Moving on.
The construction of the hospital began in 1908. It was February 28 when the cornerstone of the hospital was laid. The contractor for the construction of the hospital was H. Thurber of the Manila Construction Company.
On November 30, 1909, the construction of almost the whole hospital facilities was completed. These include the central administration building, a surgical pavilion with two operating rooms, a building for dispensary and out-patient services, five ward pavilions of sixty beds each, a nurses' home, a kitchen, an ambulance stable and a morgue.
The Philippine General Hospital opened its doors to the public on September 1, 1910. It eventually was linked to the College of Medicine of the University of the Philippines Manila. The name was changed from Philippine General Hospital to UP-Philippine General Hospital.
Today, UP-PGH is the training hospital for the University's health professions schools and colleges. The hospital is the biggest tertiary hospital in the country serving about 700,000 patients in a year. The new facilities of the hospital include a modern Outpatient Department, a 400-bed payward, and a centralized diagnostic and intensive care facility. The hospital also provides services in various areas of outpatient and inpatient care, as well as emergency care.
UP-Philippine General Hospital via PGH Site
Today's my last day of work. I think it is only fitting that I share something with you about my place of work - the UP-Philippine General Hospital.
Let me correct something though. I work for the Ugnayan ng Pahinungod, the volunteer service program of the University of the Philippines Manila. My office, however, is located within the hospital premise. So even if, technically, I am an employee of the University, my workplace is the hospital.
Moving on.
The construction of the hospital began in 1908. It was February 28 when the cornerstone of the hospital was laid. The contractor for the construction of the hospital was H. Thurber of the Manila Construction Company.
On November 30, 1909, the construction of almost the whole hospital facilities was completed. These include the central administration building, a surgical pavilion with two operating rooms, a building for dispensary and out-patient services, five ward pavilions of sixty beds each, a nurses' home, a kitchen, an ambulance stable and a morgue.
The Philippine General Hospital opened its doors to the public on September 1, 1910. It eventually was linked to the College of Medicine of the University of the Philippines Manila. The name was changed from Philippine General Hospital to UP-Philippine General Hospital.
Today, UP-PGH is the training hospital for the University's health professions schools and colleges. The hospital is the biggest tertiary hospital in the country serving about 700,000 patients in a year. The new facilities of the hospital include a modern Outpatient Department, a 400-bed payward, and a centralized diagnostic and intensive care facility. The hospital also provides services in various areas of outpatient and inpatient care, as well as emergency care.
Saturday, December 27, 2003
Sorry. My Fault
On my way home yesterday, I took a cab. I was carrying a lot of things so I had to take a cab. After putting my stuff at the backseat of the car, I got into the front passenger seat. As the driver drove off, I fastened my seatbelt and began to relax.
I then remembered that I forgot to change my shoes. I was wearing a pair of leather shoes and wasn't able to change into my trusty old pair of crosstrainers. No wonder my feet were aching while I tried to carry, more like juggle, several bags and a box from the building to the street.
So I decided to unfasten my seatbelt, reached into the back of the cab for the dust bag containing my crosstrainers and began removing my leather shoes. While I was reaching for my crosstrainers, the cab driver suddenly stepped on the brakes. I hit my knees on the dashboard of the cab and almost hit my forehead on it as well.
But I was okay. Nothing serious happened.
I looked out and saw the car that suddenly tried to get in front of us, thus making the driver step on the brakes. The driver of the other car looked furiously at the cab driver before driving off. Thank god the cab driver chose not to get into an argument with the other driver.
The cab driver, then looked at me, and said, "Are you okay?"
Grateful for his concern, I replied, "Yes, I'm okay."
To my surprise, the driver speaks to me again, this time half irate. He said, "You shouldn't be removing your seatbelt."
I told him, "Sorry. My fault."
I was a bit stunned with the driver's reaction. What did I do wrong? Surely, we both didn't know that some car would try to overtake us. And no doubt, it wasn't my fault that I lightly bumped my knees on the dashboard. I must admit that I was wrong in removing my seatbelt but I don't think I'm the only one at fault in the situation.
Oh well.
Sad lesson learned: Even if it wasn't completely your fault, it still is. Whatsoever happened to the whole the-customer-is-always-right crap.
On my way home yesterday, I took a cab. I was carrying a lot of things so I had to take a cab. After putting my stuff at the backseat of the car, I got into the front passenger seat. As the driver drove off, I fastened my seatbelt and began to relax.
I then remembered that I forgot to change my shoes. I was wearing a pair of leather shoes and wasn't able to change into my trusty old pair of crosstrainers. No wonder my feet were aching while I tried to carry, more like juggle, several bags and a box from the building to the street.
So I decided to unfasten my seatbelt, reached into the back of the cab for the dust bag containing my crosstrainers and began removing my leather shoes. While I was reaching for my crosstrainers, the cab driver suddenly stepped on the brakes. I hit my knees on the dashboard of the cab and almost hit my forehead on it as well.
But I was okay. Nothing serious happened.
I looked out and saw the car that suddenly tried to get in front of us, thus making the driver step on the brakes. The driver of the other car looked furiously at the cab driver before driving off. Thank god the cab driver chose not to get into an argument with the other driver.
The cab driver, then looked at me, and said, "Are you okay?"
Grateful for his concern, I replied, "Yes, I'm okay."
To my surprise, the driver speaks to me again, this time half irate. He said, "You shouldn't be removing your seatbelt."
I told him, "Sorry. My fault."
I was a bit stunned with the driver's reaction. What did I do wrong? Surely, we both didn't know that some car would try to overtake us. And no doubt, it wasn't my fault that I lightly bumped my knees on the dashboard. I must admit that I was wrong in removing my seatbelt but I don't think I'm the only one at fault in the situation.
Oh well.
Sad lesson learned: Even if it wasn't completely your fault, it still is. Whatsoever happened to the whole the-customer-is-always-right crap.
Friday, December 26, 2003
This Week's Friday Five:
1. What was your biggest accomplishment this year?
Uhm, I can't think of just one really big accomplishment but I can think of several accomplishments - making new friends, editing and publishing another book, having an article published in a national daily, and successfully coordinating the Summer Immersion Service Program that I'm handling.
2. What was your biggest disappointment?
My biggest disappointment is not getting into graduate school abroad. I have been wanting so much to get into either this school or this one. I am on awol from my Master's program in this University and I dunno if I should continue it or not.
3. What do you hope the new year brings?
Well, the new year is bringing me a new job so that should be pretty exciting. It's a totally different job from the one I have right now and to be honest, I'm a bit nervous (but more excited) about this new career. I need more order in my life. This is not to say that I tend to be unorganized. I am an organized person. The only problem is I keep on procrastinating the implementation of my plans. Sigh.
4. Will you be making any New Year's resolutions? If yes, what will they be?
I would. I already have some listed down but I'm still contemplating em.
5. What are your plans for New Year's Eve?
It has always been a tradition to spend New Year's Eve with my family. Dressed in our best and with money in our pockets (superstitious belief... hehe!), we all wait for the clock to strike twelve. Together with the whole country, we light up firecrackers and sparklers to welcome the new year. The night caps with a festive dinner prepared by my Mom and yours truly.
I'm done. Your turn. Go do yours now.
1. What was your biggest accomplishment this year?
Uhm, I can't think of just one really big accomplishment but I can think of several accomplishments - making new friends, editing and publishing another book, having an article published in a national daily, and successfully coordinating the Summer Immersion Service Program that I'm handling.
2. What was your biggest disappointment?
My biggest disappointment is not getting into graduate school abroad. I have been wanting so much to get into either this school or this one. I am on awol from my Master's program in this University and I dunno if I should continue it or not.
3. What do you hope the new year brings?
Well, the new year is bringing me a new job so that should be pretty exciting. It's a totally different job from the one I have right now and to be honest, I'm a bit nervous (but more excited) about this new career. I need more order in my life. This is not to say that I tend to be unorganized. I am an organized person. The only problem is I keep on procrastinating the implementation of my plans. Sigh.
4. Will you be making any New Year's resolutions? If yes, what will they be?
I would. I already have some listed down but I'm still contemplating em.
5. What are your plans for New Year's Eve?
It has always been a tradition to spend New Year's Eve with my family. Dressed in our best and with money in our pockets (superstitious belief... hehe!), we all wait for the clock to strike twelve. Together with the whole country, we light up firecrackers and sparklers to welcome the new year. The night caps with a festive dinner prepared by my Mom and yours truly.
I'm done. Your turn. Go do yours now.
Gifts, Gifts and More Gifts
I would be such a big liar if I told you that gift giving is not one of my favorite things about Christmas. In the previous years, I always enjoyed getting special things for my family and a select few of my relatives. This year, the whole gift giving has been very much a challenge since a.) I resigned from my job so I have to be on a very tight budget with my spending money and b.) the list of people I am going to give presents to grew longer and longer.
In any case, I am very proud that I was able to give gifts to all the people on my list and at the same time, I was able to keep some more money and in fact, I even got to buy gifts for myself (and I thought I wouldn't be able to get any present for me since I'm on such a small budget). The two lessons I've learned here are 1.) That I can actually survive on a smaller budget for my Christmas shopping and 2.) It's really not how big or how expensive your gift is, it's the thought that counts.
The gifts I received this year were more special primarily because I got gifts from the siblings and parents of Hunski. I don't really know if Hunski's siblings know who I really am to Hunski but the fact that they thought of me is such a great gift to me already. Awww!!!
Let me share with you the gifts I gave to Hunski and the memorable gifts I got from Hunski, his siblings and parents.
Gifts for Hunski:
1.) Rock Style by Tommy Hilfiger (Thanks to Roy for being thoughtful enough in getting me this book from faraway Alabang)
2.) Tong Lashing by Peter David (Thanks to good friend Maowy for purchasing this for me from Amazon.com)
3.) Red Hot Chili Peppers: Greatest Hits (Yes, my Hunski is a rock fan!)
4.) Issey Miyake Pour Homme Perfume Set (I just love the sweet smell of Hunski)
Gifts from Hunski:
1.) Sex and the City: Kiss and Tell (I love this book! It'll make a great coffeetable book)
2.) Tote Bag from Tyler (The next best thing to the one I'm eyeing at Fino)
3.) Charcoal Pants from K & Company (I'm beginning to love this Filipino owned clothing company. They're affordable and classy)
4.) Jockey Undershirt (Which I have to say is the most beautiful undershirt I ever saw)
5.) Necktie from Rustan's (Which I am suppose to use on the new long-sleeved polo that I bought but I already got a tie)
6.) Anthony Dellamore Blue Green Shirt with the words "New York Herald Tribune" printed on the chest
Gifts from Hunski's folks and siblings:
1.) Hunski's Parents - the nicest bookends (I'm not exaggerating) that have mini-drawers on the sides (the drawers are painted like books)
2.) Hunski's Older Sister - an oversized bag made by women of an indigent community in Manila
3.) Hunski's Older Brother - a box of cookies
Gifts for myself (I thought I would not be able to buy a gift for myself this Christmas but big surprise, I had money for it. Yay!!!)
1.) Light purple long sleeved polo (Which I'll use on Sunday at Charmy's wedding) from Van Heusen
2.) Metallic blue necktie with logo prints from Fendi (I'm extremely ecstatic!!!)
3.) Madonna's American Life CD (This is such a long overdue purchase)
4.) Madonna's Remixed and Revisited CD (It was only 250 pesos so naturally, I got it)
5.) Me Talk Pretty One Day by David Sedaris
6.) All I Want for Christmas by Jon Jeffrey et al (Thanks to Maowy for getting this book and Me Talk Pretty One Day)
There you go! What a lovely Christmas it was. Hope yours was just as great, if not greater.
I have a feeling the year 2004 is going to be a great one!
I would be such a big liar if I told you that gift giving is not one of my favorite things about Christmas. In the previous years, I always enjoyed getting special things for my family and a select few of my relatives. This year, the whole gift giving has been very much a challenge since a.) I resigned from my job so I have to be on a very tight budget with my spending money and b.) the list of people I am going to give presents to grew longer and longer.
In any case, I am very proud that I was able to give gifts to all the people on my list and at the same time, I was able to keep some more money and in fact, I even got to buy gifts for myself (and I thought I wouldn't be able to get any present for me since I'm on such a small budget). The two lessons I've learned here are 1.) That I can actually survive on a smaller budget for my Christmas shopping and 2.) It's really not how big or how expensive your gift is, it's the thought that counts.
The gifts I received this year were more special primarily because I got gifts from the siblings and parents of Hunski. I don't really know if Hunski's siblings know who I really am to Hunski but the fact that they thought of me is such a great gift to me already. Awww!!!
Let me share with you the gifts I gave to Hunski and the memorable gifts I got from Hunski, his siblings and parents.
Gifts for Hunski:
1.) Rock Style by Tommy Hilfiger (Thanks to Roy for being thoughtful enough in getting me this book from faraway Alabang)
2.) Tong Lashing by Peter David (Thanks to good friend Maowy for purchasing this for me from Amazon.com)
3.) Red Hot Chili Peppers: Greatest Hits (Yes, my Hunski is a rock fan!)
4.) Issey Miyake Pour Homme Perfume Set (I just love the sweet smell of Hunski)
Gifts from Hunski:
1.) Sex and the City: Kiss and Tell (I love this book! It'll make a great coffeetable book)
2.) Tote Bag from Tyler (The next best thing to the one I'm eyeing at Fino)
3.) Charcoal Pants from K & Company (I'm beginning to love this Filipino owned clothing company. They're affordable and classy)
4.) Jockey Undershirt (Which I have to say is the most beautiful undershirt I ever saw)
5.) Necktie from Rustan's (Which I am suppose to use on the new long-sleeved polo that I bought but I already got a tie)
6.) Anthony Dellamore Blue Green Shirt with the words "New York Herald Tribune" printed on the chest
Gifts from Hunski's folks and siblings:
1.) Hunski's Parents - the nicest bookends (I'm not exaggerating) that have mini-drawers on the sides (the drawers are painted like books)
2.) Hunski's Older Sister - an oversized bag made by women of an indigent community in Manila
3.) Hunski's Older Brother - a box of cookies
Gifts for myself (I thought I would not be able to buy a gift for myself this Christmas but big surprise, I had money for it. Yay!!!)
1.) Light purple long sleeved polo (Which I'll use on Sunday at Charmy's wedding) from Van Heusen
2.) Metallic blue necktie with logo prints from Fendi (I'm extremely ecstatic!!!)
3.) Madonna's American Life CD (This is such a long overdue purchase)
4.) Madonna's Remixed and Revisited CD (It was only 250 pesos so naturally, I got it)
5.) Me Talk Pretty One Day by David Sedaris
6.) All I Want for Christmas by Jon Jeffrey et al (Thanks to Maowy for getting this book and Me Talk Pretty One Day)
There you go! What a lovely Christmas it was. Hope yours was just as great, if not greater.
I have a feeling the year 2004 is going to be a great one!
Thursday, December 25, 2003
Christmas Day
Merry Christmas to everyone! Thank you for a great year of friendship and love. Looking forward to another great year with everyone! May the year 2004 be great for all of us!!!
Cheers!
Merry Christmas to everyone! Thank you for a great year of friendship and love. Looking forward to another great year with everyone! May the year 2004 be great for all of us!!!
Cheers!
Wednesday, December 24, 2003
A Wedding and Seeing an Old Friend
In the morning, I attended Joseph's and Eileen's wedding.
It was held at the parish church of one of the villages in the city. The wedding was at ten a.m. Just a little before the wedding march began playing, the guests of the bride and groom started arriving and finding seats for themselves.
The church was a small one, more like a chapel. And although the size of the church did not give any sign of grandness, the church exuded a sense of closeness and a very familial feel. Adding to the simple beauty of the church are the Christmas decorations - red poinsettias in pots, a model of the Mary and Joseph awaiting the arrival of the Son of Man, traditional Filipino lanterns and the ever-present colored lights.
At about ten twenty, the wedding march began. I found a seat near the aisle so that I could take pictures of Joseph and Eileen. Accompanied by his father and an aunt, Joseph began marching down the aisle. He was wearing a traditional barong tagalog. Gawd! Just a couple of years ago, it was him and me who always watched people march down the aisle. (We would assist in weddings since we were altar boys.) Following him were the kids, the principal and secondary sponsors and others. Last to walk down the aisle was Eileen. Looking immaculate and brilliant in her flowing white gown, everyone could see in Eileen's eyes the extreme happiness we see in brides.
The ceremony lasted for an hour. I read the Liturgy of the Word. Of course, Joseph informed me about reading just minutes before the Mass. Hehe! I wasn't dressed appropriately. Had I known, I would have donned my own barong. But moving on, the ceremony took place and was almost very solemn, especially during the part where Joseph and Eileen exchanged vows and the rings.
After the wedding, we all proceeded to Great Eastern Hotel where the reception was held. It was okay. Friends from my elementary years were there - Dennis and Allan. (The latter also just tied the knot last Saturday!!!) We had a good time chatting away while a short program was going on.
Sometime during the program, all the single men were called up to go to the center of the room. Me, Dennis, Ryan and even Allan (!!!!) joined (More like coerced by Joseph's aunts. Hehe!) the other guys. It was time to do the tradition of putting the garter on the maid-of-honor. And I was lucky enough (notice the sarcasm) to be the one to get the garter. I told the people "I'm gay." but they did not believe me (I'm not out to everyone in the room, not even my own friends). So I did the whole garter thing and then went back to my seat.
Finally, we bid goodbye to the newlywed couple. Dennis went to Greenhills to go shopping. Allan had to go home to his wife because they were going to the province. Ryan stayed on. I headed home.
Congrats Joseph and Eileen!!!
In the afternoon, I had to go to Maowy's house. Before heading to him, I called him up to see if he was there. Maowy just arrived from Connecticut (where he's having his medical residency) this morning and I needed to get something from him. The maid told me he left but that something was left for me. Uhm, I was hoping to see this guy since I haven't seen him for the longest time.
Anyway, Hunski was kind enough to pick me up from my house and bring me to Maowy's house. Thanks Hunski!!! When we got to Maowy's place, he was already there. Yay!!! I waited for him to come downstairs and meet me. The man showed up and we gave each other a hug. I handed him his gift and he gave me the books I asked him to buy for me from Amazon.com. Thanks Maowy!!! We only got to chat for a short time but we agreed to see each other soon. That's good.
Maowy has been a very good friend especially since my college days. We went to the same University but he was taking up medicine and I was still earning my bachelor's degree. We spent a lot of time talking whenever we see each other and we've had really good memories. The guy is such a good friend.
I'm happy to I introduce him to Hunski. I'm really happy that the two of them have met already. It was a great thing. It was great seeing the guy.
Welcome home Maowy!!!
In the morning, I attended Joseph's and Eileen's wedding.
It was held at the parish church of one of the villages in the city. The wedding was at ten a.m. Just a little before the wedding march began playing, the guests of the bride and groom started arriving and finding seats for themselves.
The church was a small one, more like a chapel. And although the size of the church did not give any sign of grandness, the church exuded a sense of closeness and a very familial feel. Adding to the simple beauty of the church are the Christmas decorations - red poinsettias in pots, a model of the Mary and Joseph awaiting the arrival of the Son of Man, traditional Filipino lanterns and the ever-present colored lights.
At about ten twenty, the wedding march began. I found a seat near the aisle so that I could take pictures of Joseph and Eileen. Accompanied by his father and an aunt, Joseph began marching down the aisle. He was wearing a traditional barong tagalog. Gawd! Just a couple of years ago, it was him and me who always watched people march down the aisle. (We would assist in weddings since we were altar boys.) Following him were the kids, the principal and secondary sponsors and others. Last to walk down the aisle was Eileen. Looking immaculate and brilliant in her flowing white gown, everyone could see in Eileen's eyes the extreme happiness we see in brides.
The ceremony lasted for an hour. I read the Liturgy of the Word. Of course, Joseph informed me about reading just minutes before the Mass. Hehe! I wasn't dressed appropriately. Had I known, I would have donned my own barong. But moving on, the ceremony took place and was almost very solemn, especially during the part where Joseph and Eileen exchanged vows and the rings.
After the wedding, we all proceeded to Great Eastern Hotel where the reception was held. It was okay. Friends from my elementary years were there - Dennis and Allan. (The latter also just tied the knot last Saturday!!!) We had a good time chatting away while a short program was going on.
Sometime during the program, all the single men were called up to go to the center of the room. Me, Dennis, Ryan and even Allan (!!!!) joined (More like coerced by Joseph's aunts. Hehe!) the other guys. It was time to do the tradition of putting the garter on the maid-of-honor. And I was lucky enough (notice the sarcasm) to be the one to get the garter. I told the people "I'm gay." but they did not believe me (I'm not out to everyone in the room, not even my own friends). So I did the whole garter thing and then went back to my seat.
Finally, we bid goodbye to the newlywed couple. Dennis went to Greenhills to go shopping. Allan had to go home to his wife because they were going to the province. Ryan stayed on. I headed home.
Congrats Joseph and Eileen!!!
In the afternoon, I had to go to Maowy's house. Before heading to him, I called him up to see if he was there. Maowy just arrived from Connecticut (where he's having his medical residency) this morning and I needed to get something from him. The maid told me he left but that something was left for me. Uhm, I was hoping to see this guy since I haven't seen him for the longest time.
Anyway, Hunski was kind enough to pick me up from my house and bring me to Maowy's house. Thanks Hunski!!! When we got to Maowy's place, he was already there. Yay!!! I waited for him to come downstairs and meet me. The man showed up and we gave each other a hug. I handed him his gift and he gave me the books I asked him to buy for me from Amazon.com. Thanks Maowy!!! We only got to chat for a short time but we agreed to see each other soon. That's good.
Maowy has been a very good friend especially since my college days. We went to the same University but he was taking up medicine and I was still earning my bachelor's degree. We spent a lot of time talking whenever we see each other and we've had really good memories. The guy is such a good friend.
I'm happy to I introduce him to Hunski. I'm really happy that the two of them have met already. It was a great thing. It was great seeing the guy.
Welcome home Maowy!!!
Tuesday, December 23, 2003
Another Feather in My Cap
Oh what a happy day!!!
An article I wrote got published in a national daily. It's a review of the recently launched cookbook, Inday Genius II. I'll be putting a link to it soon.
To the readers residing here in Manila, you can read "Inday Genius to the Resue" at the Life & Times section of the Manila Times.
YAY!!!
Oh what a happy day!!!
An article I wrote got published in a national daily. It's a review of the recently launched cookbook, Inday Genius II. I'll be putting a link to it soon.
To the readers residing here in Manila, you can read "Inday Genius to the Resue" at the Life & Times section of the Manila Times.
YAY!!!
Monday, December 22, 2003
Christmas (and Wedding) Bells are Ringing
Apparently, Christmas bells aren't the only ones ringing this holiday season. So are several wedding bells.
A little background (for the next paragraph) before I continue. From my sixth grade until my freshman year in the University, I was an altar boy at our local parish church. Yes, it's true. During those years, I have made really good friends with several fellow altar boys. One of them is Joseph. For a time, he served as the president of the Knights of the Altar of our parish. A couple of years ago, he and Eileen, another friend from the church, had their civil marriage.
When I woke up last Saturday morning, the text message on my mobile phone waiting to be read brought big news to me after I pressed the Show Message button. The message was from Eileen. She was informing me that she and Joseph will have their church wedding this December 24, and that I was invited to the big day in case Joseph hasn't told me yet.
What the!!!
So I have three weddings to attend in one week. Charmy and Erik's on the 28th. Mayou and Onet's on the 26th and the third one, Joseph and Eileen's on the 24th.
It's a good thing that each wedding required different attires. For Joseph and Eileen's, a long sleeved polo and khakis will do. For Mayou and Onet's, it's Barong Tagalog. (Let me just say that I love Barong Tagalog! It's so classy and at the same time, traditional.) And for Charmy and Erik's, it's coat and tie. Woohooo!!! I'll be playing a minor role in Mayou and Onet's wedding as I was assigned to read the Prayers of the Faithful. The really big one is at Charmy and Erik's wedding where I will be the commentator for the wedding.
Moving on.
What is it about people getting married these days? Why does it seem like there's a big rush to tie the knot? Is the world about to end in January 2004 and someone forgot to pass on the news to me? Or is life getting too boring that people just woke up one day and said, "Let's get married."
Kidding aside, I guess I'm just surprised that several of my very good friends are tying the knot already. I still remember the times when Joseph and I would assist the priest together during Mass. It wasn't too long ago when Mayou and I were still fooling around the University campus. And it certainly feels like it was only yesterday that Charmy and I are still wandering around the halls of our beloved University, trying to survive the University life and earn a degree.
What happened? Did we all turn to be (almost) adults overnight? Has time flew so fast? Have I been too preoccupied with matters, both significant and trivial, that I didn't notice the pages of my life turn so fast?
I dunno. I have been enjoying life too much and the coming marriage of my friends is definitely another "high" moment of my life. Hmm, I should probably be content with that and not be too pensive about things. It's not like my friendship with them is being cut just because they're getting married. I dunno. I guess I'm just hoping that things would still somehow be the same even though they're now married.
In any case, the marriages of my friends gives more reason to celebrate this holiday season. Wooohooo!!!! I'm definitely happy for my friends and I wish them all only the best!!!
Apparently, Christmas bells aren't the only ones ringing this holiday season. So are several wedding bells.
A little background (for the next paragraph) before I continue. From my sixth grade until my freshman year in the University, I was an altar boy at our local parish church. Yes, it's true. During those years, I have made really good friends with several fellow altar boys. One of them is Joseph. For a time, he served as the president of the Knights of the Altar of our parish. A couple of years ago, he and Eileen, another friend from the church, had their civil marriage.
When I woke up last Saturday morning, the text message on my mobile phone waiting to be read brought big news to me after I pressed the Show Message button. The message was from Eileen. She was informing me that she and Joseph will have their church wedding this December 24, and that I was invited to the big day in case Joseph hasn't told me yet.
What the!!!
So I have three weddings to attend in one week. Charmy and Erik's on the 28th. Mayou and Onet's on the 26th and the third one, Joseph and Eileen's on the 24th.
It's a good thing that each wedding required different attires. For Joseph and Eileen's, a long sleeved polo and khakis will do. For Mayou and Onet's, it's Barong Tagalog. (Let me just say that I love Barong Tagalog! It's so classy and at the same time, traditional.) And for Charmy and Erik's, it's coat and tie. Woohooo!!! I'll be playing a minor role in Mayou and Onet's wedding as I was assigned to read the Prayers of the Faithful. The really big one is at Charmy and Erik's wedding where I will be the commentator for the wedding.
Moving on.
What is it about people getting married these days? Why does it seem like there's a big rush to tie the knot? Is the world about to end in January 2004 and someone forgot to pass on the news to me? Or is life getting too boring that people just woke up one day and said, "Let's get married."
Kidding aside, I guess I'm just surprised that several of my very good friends are tying the knot already. I still remember the times when Joseph and I would assist the priest together during Mass. It wasn't too long ago when Mayou and I were still fooling around the University campus. And it certainly feels like it was only yesterday that Charmy and I are still wandering around the halls of our beloved University, trying to survive the University life and earn a degree.
What happened? Did we all turn to be (almost) adults overnight? Has time flew so fast? Have I been too preoccupied with matters, both significant and trivial, that I didn't notice the pages of my life turn so fast?
I dunno. I have been enjoying life too much and the coming marriage of my friends is definitely another "high" moment of my life. Hmm, I should probably be content with that and not be too pensive about things. It's not like my friendship with them is being cut just because they're getting married. I dunno. I guess I'm just hoping that things would still somehow be the same even though they're now married.
In any case, the marriages of my friends gives more reason to celebrate this holiday season. Wooohooo!!!! I'm definitely happy for my friends and I wish them all only the best!!!
Friday, December 19, 2003
This Week's Friday Five:
1. List your five favorite beverages.
Uhm, let's see. I like the Green Tea Frappuccino of Starbucks. I also like the Iced Tea of Wendy's. What else. I also enjoy drinking Caffe Mocca, Coke Light and Chrysanthemum Tea.
2. List your five favorite websites.
Hmm, this is a toughie. I guess it would be Style.com, Blogger.com, Giselencyclopedia.com, Google.com and of course, my blog. Hehe!
3. List your five favorite snack foods.
This is hard since I don't really like snacks but I would have to say that my favorites are Bravo's (not the TV network) Crostinis and Tomato Garlic Dip, Doritos and Salsa, Bravo's (again!) Crostinis and Love's Recipe Tinapa Cream Cheese Dip, Mrs. Field's Brownie/Cookie Nibblers and anything sweet.
4. List your five favorite board and/or card games.
I grew up playing Snakes and Ladders, Monopoly, Boggles, Scrabble and Millionaire's Game.
5. List your five favorite computer and/or game system games.
Sorry. No reply for this one.
Go do yours here.
1. List your five favorite beverages.
Uhm, let's see. I like the Green Tea Frappuccino of Starbucks. I also like the Iced Tea of Wendy's. What else. I also enjoy drinking Caffe Mocca, Coke Light and Chrysanthemum Tea.
2. List your five favorite websites.
Hmm, this is a toughie. I guess it would be Style.com, Blogger.com, Giselencyclopedia.com, Google.com and of course, my blog. Hehe!
3. List your five favorite snack foods.
This is hard since I don't really like snacks but I would have to say that my favorites are Bravo's (not the TV network) Crostinis and Tomato Garlic Dip, Doritos and Salsa, Bravo's (again!) Crostinis and Love's Recipe Tinapa Cream Cheese Dip, Mrs. Field's Brownie/Cookie Nibblers and anything sweet.
4. List your five favorite board and/or card games.
I grew up playing Snakes and Ladders, Monopoly, Boggles, Scrabble and Millionaire's Game.
5. List your five favorite computer and/or game system games.
Sorry. No reply for this one.
Go do yours here.
Thursday, December 18, 2003
Recap of the Weekend
Another weekend is approaching. If I would write anything about what happened over the past weekend, I should do it now. Otherwise, you and I both know that delaying things would only lead to a piling of the entries to be written.
So here's a recap of the things that took place over the weekend.
Saturday
Saturday was baking day for me and Hunski. We woke up around eight in the morning, took a bath, got dressed and headed out. It was going to be a long day. Our baking lineup included 125 Food for the Gods bars, 220 Special Macaroons and about 200 Choco Chip Cookies. We were doing all these for the Christmas baskets we would give to our friends.
So after breakfast, we went to Chocolate Lover and began shopping for ingredients. Ten bars of butter, two bars of margarine, two kilos of dessicated coconut, cookie sheets, vanilla oil, chopped dates, walnuts, mini M&Ms, all-purpose flour, molasses, cookie sheets, muffin pans, pre-cut cellophane wrappers were among the things on our list to buy.
After getting all the things we needed, we had to go to Hunski's house because that's where we're baking. The rain poured a little bit that day. I dunno in other countries but here in Manila, ten minutes of rain will cause ten hours of traffic. Gawd! Traffic was so bad that Hunski and I got to start baking by lunch time.
Donned with our aprons, Hunski and I began mixing the ingredients for the cookies. Next on our list was the food for the gods. We did the macaroons last. After creating the mix for each goodie, our work became a little less tiring as we were just following a routine. We scooped the cookie mix into the cookie sheet, put it in the oven, set the timer to twenty minutes, wait. Once the timer alerts us, we take the pan out of the oven, put in the next one, let the fresh one cool down and then wait again. We greased and lined the baking pan, poured the food for the gods mix in it, put it in the oven, set the timer to fifteen minutes, wait.
Sounds simple, huh? Not. Hunski and I had to do so much that we already missed a the party of a friend's nephew. By the time the last few pans of macaroons came out of the oven, it was already twelve midnight. It was a good thing that Hunski and I packed the cookies and wrapped the food for the gods while waiting for the macaroons. That was one less thing to do.
Hunski and I got back at the apartment at one in the morning. We were both so tired that we just changed into our sleeping clothes and immediately hit the sack. It was a tiring but a really very nice experience.
Would I do it all over again? Yes, I would.
Sunday
I woke up early, as usual. My body has probably been so accustomed to getting up early during weekdays so much so that even on weekends, I wake up early. It's not something that I like but it's something that has always been useful to me.
At nine in the morning, I was trying to wake up Hunski. Hehe! Thank God he wasn't grumpy at all. I told him that we better be early at the mall for the shopping so that we may avoid the huge throngs of people who will be arriving by lunch time. I was hoping that we would be done shopping by one in the afternoon but we ended up going home at four p.m.
We went to about three malls for our shopping. There were still more things to be bought on Hunski's list but he said he could do it sometime during the week. I was done with my shopping since I began shopping a week or two early. Hehe!!!
Gawd!!! All I can say that that weekend has got to be a very tiresome one. I'm not sure if this year's Christmas was more tiring than the previous one. I think so but it's all good. Hunski and I made a lot of presents which means that we both gained more friends. It may be tiring but for me, the fact that it was a personally made Christmas basket makes it better. I, personally, am really proud of the Christmas baskets that we made because it was a project in which Hunski and I devoted a lot of our time, effort and energy. I'll post a picture of the basket soon.
The Queer-smas Christmas dinner will be tonight. I really hope that people will like the baskets we made.
Another weekend is approaching. If I would write anything about what happened over the past weekend, I should do it now. Otherwise, you and I both know that delaying things would only lead to a piling of the entries to be written.
So here's a recap of the things that took place over the weekend.
Saturday
Saturday was baking day for me and Hunski. We woke up around eight in the morning, took a bath, got dressed and headed out. It was going to be a long day. Our baking lineup included 125 Food for the Gods bars, 220 Special Macaroons and about 200 Choco Chip Cookies. We were doing all these for the Christmas baskets we would give to our friends.
So after breakfast, we went to Chocolate Lover and began shopping for ingredients. Ten bars of butter, two bars of margarine, two kilos of dessicated coconut, cookie sheets, vanilla oil, chopped dates, walnuts, mini M&Ms, all-purpose flour, molasses, cookie sheets, muffin pans, pre-cut cellophane wrappers were among the things on our list to buy.
After getting all the things we needed, we had to go to Hunski's house because that's where we're baking. The rain poured a little bit that day. I dunno in other countries but here in Manila, ten minutes of rain will cause ten hours of traffic. Gawd! Traffic was so bad that Hunski and I got to start baking by lunch time.
Donned with our aprons, Hunski and I began mixing the ingredients for the cookies. Next on our list was the food for the gods. We did the macaroons last. After creating the mix for each goodie, our work became a little less tiring as we were just following a routine. We scooped the cookie mix into the cookie sheet, put it in the oven, set the timer to twenty minutes, wait. Once the timer alerts us, we take the pan out of the oven, put in the next one, let the fresh one cool down and then wait again. We greased and lined the baking pan, poured the food for the gods mix in it, put it in the oven, set the timer to fifteen minutes, wait.
Sounds simple, huh? Not. Hunski and I had to do so much that we already missed a the party of a friend's nephew. By the time the last few pans of macaroons came out of the oven, it was already twelve midnight. It was a good thing that Hunski and I packed the cookies and wrapped the food for the gods while waiting for the macaroons. That was one less thing to do.
Hunski and I got back at the apartment at one in the morning. We were both so tired that we just changed into our sleeping clothes and immediately hit the sack. It was a tiring but a really very nice experience.
Would I do it all over again? Yes, I would.
Sunday
I woke up early, as usual. My body has probably been so accustomed to getting up early during weekdays so much so that even on weekends, I wake up early. It's not something that I like but it's something that has always been useful to me.
At nine in the morning, I was trying to wake up Hunski. Hehe! Thank God he wasn't grumpy at all. I told him that we better be early at the mall for the shopping so that we may avoid the huge throngs of people who will be arriving by lunch time. I was hoping that we would be done shopping by one in the afternoon but we ended up going home at four p.m.
We went to about three malls for our shopping. There were still more things to be bought on Hunski's list but he said he could do it sometime during the week. I was done with my shopping since I began shopping a week or two early. Hehe!!!
Gawd!!! All I can say that that weekend has got to be a very tiresome one. I'm not sure if this year's Christmas was more tiring than the previous one. I think so but it's all good. Hunski and I made a lot of presents which means that we both gained more friends. It may be tiring but for me, the fact that it was a personally made Christmas basket makes it better. I, personally, am really proud of the Christmas baskets that we made because it was a project in which Hunski and I devoted a lot of our time, effort and energy. I'll post a picture of the basket soon.
The Queer-smas Christmas dinner will be tonight. I really hope that people will like the baskets we made.
Tuesday, December 16, 2003
I Promise...
See. I told yah.
I had a feeling that I would not be able to blog for a couple of days and that's exactly what happened.
But the good news is...
A lot of things have happened in the past four days - baking about two hundred macaroons, having a taste test of the food for the wedding, shopping, among so many other things.
I am just finding the time to write em all down and post it here. I know. I know. You can hardly wait. Hehe! Kidding. Gawd! I myself can't wait.
Take care y'all.
See. I told yah.
I had a feeling that I would not be able to blog for a couple of days and that's exactly what happened.
But the good news is...
A lot of things have happened in the past four days - baking about two hundred macaroons, having a taste test of the food for the wedding, shopping, among so many other things.
I am just finding the time to write em all down and post it here. I know. I know. You can hardly wait. Hehe! Kidding. Gawd! I myself can't wait.
Take care y'all.
Pinoy Trivia of the Week:
Bibingka and Puto Bumbong via Seasite
So here's the continuation of the Filipino Christmas traditions I began writing about last week.
Like what I told you, the traditional Simbang Gabi (Mass of the Dawn) begins today. Almost all, if not all, of the Catholic churches and chapels all over the country are up and well-lit at what is ironically called an ungodly hour. In some churches, the Mass is as early as 4:30 in the morning. And if you think that only a few people observe this tradition, you'd be surprised by the number of people attending the Eucharist because the churches are almost always overcrowded with people. Yes, a huge majority of the Philippine population still observe the tradition and that is something I am proud of.
Now, you must be wondering what the people do after the Mass? Does everyone go home immediately and crawl back to their beds? Well, some probably but one thing's for sure, one of the best ways to do after the Mass is to get some steaming hot bibingka and puto bumbong.
These two native delicacies are always part of the traditional Filipino Christmas. The word "Puto" means steamed glutinous rice while "bumbong" is a bamboo cannon. The puto bumbong, is a purple-colored dish (Yes! Purple!) that is cooked inside a small standing bamboo cannon hinged on a steam-producing tin can. The tin can is on top of boiling water or steam. The cooked puto bumbong is then placed on banana leaves, sprinkled with grated coconut and golden butter.
On the other hand, bibingka is a kind of a rice cake. Made from coconut milk, eggs, cassava (in some recipes), and sugar. If I'm not mistaken, the bibingka mixture is poured on a clay container lined with banana leaves. It is then covered with some sort of pan with live charcoal. There is also live charcoal under the clay container, thus turning the mixture into a rice cake. Bibingka is usually topped with salted eggs, giving you a mix of sweet and a bit salty taste.
Of course, it would be so much better if you actually got to taste these delicious dishes. So if ever you visit the country, make sure you try these delicacies. And don't worry if you get come here on months other than December. There are several restaurants and hotels serving the dishes. It may be more delicious but of course, it doesn't have the ambiance of the early morning crowd.
Bibingka and Puto Bumbong via Seasite
So here's the continuation of the Filipino Christmas traditions I began writing about last week.
Like what I told you, the traditional Simbang Gabi (Mass of the Dawn) begins today. Almost all, if not all, of the Catholic churches and chapels all over the country are up and well-lit at what is ironically called an ungodly hour. In some churches, the Mass is as early as 4:30 in the morning. And if you think that only a few people observe this tradition, you'd be surprised by the number of people attending the Eucharist because the churches are almost always overcrowded with people. Yes, a huge majority of the Philippine population still observe the tradition and that is something I am proud of.
Now, you must be wondering what the people do after the Mass? Does everyone go home immediately and crawl back to their beds? Well, some probably but one thing's for sure, one of the best ways to do after the Mass is to get some steaming hot bibingka and puto bumbong.
These two native delicacies are always part of the traditional Filipino Christmas. The word "Puto" means steamed glutinous rice while "bumbong" is a bamboo cannon. The puto bumbong, is a purple-colored dish (Yes! Purple!) that is cooked inside a small standing bamboo cannon hinged on a steam-producing tin can. The tin can is on top of boiling water or steam. The cooked puto bumbong is then placed on banana leaves, sprinkled with grated coconut and golden butter.
On the other hand, bibingka is a kind of a rice cake. Made from coconut milk, eggs, cassava (in some recipes), and sugar. If I'm not mistaken, the bibingka mixture is poured on a clay container lined with banana leaves. It is then covered with some sort of pan with live charcoal. There is also live charcoal under the clay container, thus turning the mixture into a rice cake. Bibingka is usually topped with salted eggs, giving you a mix of sweet and a bit salty taste.
Of course, it would be so much better if you actually got to taste these delicious dishes. So if ever you visit the country, make sure you try these delicacies. And don't worry if you get come here on months other than December. There are several restaurants and hotels serving the dishes. It may be more delicious but of course, it doesn't have the ambiance of the early morning crowd.
Friday, December 12, 2003
So I Haven't Really Been Blogging...
Hey people.
I haven't been writing much lately because I have been preoccupied writing a short annual report that is due next Wednesday. I am currently tasked to fit into six pages all the activities that we have had, the number of volunteers we deployed, the number of people we have served, and other significant information that happened in the past 365 days (almost) of 2003. Add to that a monthly report summarizing the activities for November, which is also due next week.
It is for this reason that I do not have the energy to come up with any substantial entry in my dear blog. But I do try to keep my presence felt by making an entry on banal quizzes, websites and the like that the Internet has to offer.
And then, last night, I just realized.
Wow! It's another Friday. Another weekend.
I hope the weekend would be not as demanding from me as the week has been but fat chance, Angelomilco. Tomorrow, Hunski and I are going over to his folks' place to prepare for our Christmas gifts. I can't tell you just yet what it is because Carlo, Francis and Zeki might read it. All I can say is that what we're preparing for our friends is pretty exciting, especially for me, since it is the first time that I'm doing this.
Aside from that, Sunday looks like it will also be a tedious day since I intend to finish all my Christmas shopping on Sunday. I hope it doesn't take me all day. I was checking my Christmas list yesterday and it seems that I'm almost done with it. All I have to do is just wrap gifts (wait, this is also tiring) and pick up gifts this coming week and next week.
Gawd! It sounds like that there's still much to be done but that's okay. It's Christmas time and I don't have any intentions to be Uncle Scrooge.
Hey people.
I haven't been writing much lately because I have been preoccupied writing a short annual report that is due next Wednesday. I am currently tasked to fit into six pages all the activities that we have had, the number of volunteers we deployed, the number of people we have served, and other significant information that happened in the past 365 days (almost) of 2003. Add to that a monthly report summarizing the activities for November, which is also due next week.
It is for this reason that I do not have the energy to come up with any substantial entry in my dear blog. But I do try to keep my presence felt by making an entry on banal quizzes, websites and the like that the Internet has to offer.
And then, last night, I just realized.
Wow! It's another Friday. Another weekend.
I hope the weekend would be not as demanding from me as the week has been but fat chance, Angelomilco. Tomorrow, Hunski and I are going over to his folks' place to prepare for our Christmas gifts. I can't tell you just yet what it is because Carlo, Francis and Zeki might read it. All I can say is that what we're preparing for our friends is pretty exciting, especially for me, since it is the first time that I'm doing this.
Aside from that, Sunday looks like it will also be a tedious day since I intend to finish all my Christmas shopping on Sunday. I hope it doesn't take me all day. I was checking my Christmas list yesterday and it seems that I'm almost done with it. All I have to do is just wrap gifts (wait, this is also tiring) and pick up gifts this coming week and next week.
Gawd! It sounds like that there's still much to be done but that's okay. It's Christmas time and I don't have any intentions to be Uncle Scrooge.
This Week's Friday Five:
1. Do you enjoy the cold weather and snow for the holidays?
Snow isn't really part of the Filipino Christmas since we're in a tropical region, but the weather does get cold, at least for us. And personally, I enjoy the cool weather. The only downside to it is it is so difficult to wake up in the morning on a weekday. I would rather stay in bed for a couple of more hours.
2. What is your ideal holiday celebration? How, where, with whom would you celebrate to make things perfect?
Just to be with my family and relatives in the morning until lunch time and then be with Hunski in the afternoon.
3. Do you do have any holiday traditions?
For as long as I can remember, my family and I always go to my grandfather's place every Christmas. My mom's siblings and families also go there. It is the one time of the year when I get to almost all of my cousins, Aunts and Uncles, nephews and nieces.
4. Do you do anything to help the needy?
Yup, last year, Hunski and I organized a Christmas party for street children for our friends. This year, the party came much earlier, October (during my birthday).
I didn't have time anymore to prepare for a Christmas activity especially since I'm resigning from work.
5. What one gift would you like for yourself?
Just a Merry Christmas and a Happy 2004.
1. Do you enjoy the cold weather and snow for the holidays?
Snow isn't really part of the Filipino Christmas since we're in a tropical region, but the weather does get cold, at least for us. And personally, I enjoy the cool weather. The only downside to it is it is so difficult to wake up in the morning on a weekday. I would rather stay in bed for a couple of more hours.
2. What is your ideal holiday celebration? How, where, with whom would you celebrate to make things perfect?
Just to be with my family and relatives in the morning until lunch time and then be with Hunski in the afternoon.
3. Do you do have any holiday traditions?
For as long as I can remember, my family and I always go to my grandfather's place every Christmas. My mom's siblings and families also go there. It is the one time of the year when I get to almost all of my cousins, Aunts and Uncles, nephews and nieces.
4. Do you do anything to help the needy?
Yup, last year, Hunski and I organized a Christmas party for street children for our friends. This year, the party came much earlier, October (during my birthday).
I didn't have time anymore to prepare for a Christmas activity especially since I'm resigning from work.
5. What one gift would you like for yourself?
Just a Merry Christmas and a Happy 2004.
Thursday, December 11, 2003
Mr. Picassohead
Two Faces
Days of My Life
Found this really cool site thanks to Paul's blog.
Go check it out and unleash the Picasso in you.
Two Faces
Days of My Life
Found this really cool site thanks to Paul's blog.
Go check it out and unleash the Picasso in you.
Wednesday, December 10, 2003
Inday Is Back
Inday Genius II Book Launch
Hi everyone!
Today's the launch of Inday Genius II. Inday Genius 2 is the second installment to the best-selling Filipino cookbook Inday Genius. It will be at Popular Bookstore, 305 T. Morato St., Quezon City.
See you there.
Inday Genius II Book Launch
Hi everyone!
Today's the launch of Inday Genius II. Inday Genius 2 is the second installment to the best-selling Filipino cookbook Inday Genius. It will be at Popular Bookstore, 305 T. Morato St., Quezon City.
See you there.
Tuesday, December 09, 2003
Pinoy Trivia of the Week:
Simbang Gabi via Phil. Tourism.com
Christmas is just around the corner. Allow me to share some of the Philippine Christmas traditions that date back to when my grandparents and great grandparents' days.
In a week's time, the Filipino tradition of Misa de Gallo will begin. Misa de Gallo, Simbang Gabi in Filipino, is literally translated as Midnight Mass or Mass of the rooster. It begins on December 16 and concludes on Dec. 24. The Misa de Gallo is one of the remnants of the Spanish colonization of the country. It is a Catholic custom where people wake up early in the morning to attend the mass at the parish church.
If I remember correctly, the Simbang Gabi at our parish church was held at 4.30 in the morning. Yup, it's that early!
To many of the Massgoers, the Simbang Gabi is also some form of novena and it is their belief that anyone who completes the nine days of the Simbang Gabi gets to receive or ask a special favor from the Big Boss up there.
Now, what is it that I wanted for Christmas again? Hehehe!!!
Simbang Gabi via Phil. Tourism.com
Christmas is just around the corner. Allow me to share some of the Philippine Christmas traditions that date back to when my grandparents and great grandparents' days.
In a week's time, the Filipino tradition of Misa de Gallo will begin. Misa de Gallo, Simbang Gabi in Filipino, is literally translated as Midnight Mass or Mass of the rooster. It begins on December 16 and concludes on Dec. 24. The Misa de Gallo is one of the remnants of the Spanish colonization of the country. It is a Catholic custom where people wake up early in the morning to attend the mass at the parish church.
If I remember correctly, the Simbang Gabi at our parish church was held at 4.30 in the morning. Yup, it's that early!
To many of the Massgoers, the Simbang Gabi is also some form of novena and it is their belief that anyone who completes the nine days of the Simbang Gabi gets to receive or ask a special favor from the Big Boss up there.
Now, what is it that I wanted for Christmas again? Hehehe!!!
Oh Christmas Tree, Oh Christmas Tree
Christmas Tree
Over the weekend, Hunski and I brought out the boxes containing the Christmas tree and its ornaments and set it up. We might add more flowers. I was thinking rust colored ones to add more color to the tree.
Christmas Tree
Over the weekend, Hunski and I brought out the boxes containing the Christmas tree and its ornaments and set it up. We might add more flowers. I was thinking rust colored ones to add more color to the tree.
Monday, December 08, 2003
The Bridal Shower
Saturday turned out to be a really big day.
Around two in the afternoon, Hunski and I checked in ourselves at the Astoria Plaza in the Ortigas business complex. This was where we were throwing the bridal shower for our dear friend, Charmy. The shower was at eight in the evening so Hunski and I were able to enjoy the comfort of the room for a couple of hours.
The room seemed to be perfect for a bachelor. It was a one-bedroom suite. When you enter the room, there's a huge mirror hanging on the right side of the room. With the size of the mirror, it actually creates an illusion that the room is bigger than it is. There's a door to the left leading to the kitchen. And to the right is a door to the bedroom and the bathroom. The living room, it was a space actually, was very immaculate. The walls were done in white and accented with chocolate brown tones of a table, some shelves and cabinets. The lighting of the room was also almost perfect. I say almost because I thought it wasn't too good for reading. Over all, the whole unit was perfect for a some sort of weekend getaway.
But there was work to be done.
After resting for an hour, Hunski and I left the comforts of the room and walked to the nearby Shangri-la Mall. We had our late lunch before proceeding to the supermarket. A couple of cans of beer, three bottles of soda and water, some nachos together with cheese and salsa dips, cocktail hotdogs, two whole pieces of chicken for dinner, some plates and utensils and we’re done. The rest of the stuff were brought by co-shower organizers Eden, Kendi and Lovelynn.
A little before seven, Hunski and I began preparing dinner and the cocktails. Our menu lineup included hotdog bites, crostinis with smoked fish cream cheese, and nachos with two dips for appetizers, and roasted chicken and angel hair with puttanesca for entrée. Yummy!
Of course, people started arriving past seven but that was okay. I think I am the only person who arrives at a party on time, sometimes even earlier. Hehehe! We informed guests that the party was at eight but we actually began the program an hour and a half later.
To begin the program, we asked Charmy to have her seat at the bridal chair we placed at the center of the room. Everyone gathered and Kendi and I started the program. We asked people to introduce themselves and briefly share how they met Charmy. Some of the guests were classmates from high school and elementary. Others were relatives and of course, the select few from college.
Following the introduction of the last person, the games began. Three games were played that night - Pass the Carrot, the Toilet Paper Bride, and the How Good are you in the Dark games. In the first game, each person had to pass a long carrot to the person beside them with the carrot between their knees!!! Each time the carrot is dropped, it was sliced an inch shorter. The person who has the carrot at the end without dropping it wins. It was such a funny game.
On the other hand, the second game tested the creativity and ingenuity of the guests. They were asked to make three groups. In each group, a "bride" was chosen. The task was to make a gown for the group's "bride" using the toilet paper. Charmy picked the one who had a gown and a bouquet made out of toilet paper.
The last game was a test of speed in the dark and being blindfolded. Each group was given a cucumber, a banana, an eggplant and a wrapped condom. With the guests' blindfolded, each group must open the condom and put it on the veggies. The fastest group to finish putting all the condoms on the veggies in the proper way and without tearing it wins.
The last game was the perfect segue to the next segment, one of the highlights of the night - Troy. With the sensual music playing in the background, Troy stepped out of the room and began gyrating. First, he had his polo and his pants on. As the song continued playing, he started removing each piece of clothing, leaving only his skivvies. In the second song, he only had a towel draped around him, but still with his undies on. As the third track of the CD played, Troy went fully naked. The only thing that covered his privates were his hands and a white towel. The girls were so funny. They were running around the room shrieking and thinking they can escape from Troy and his package. Charmy, on the other hand, just sat down on the chair and let Troy tease him. There was no full stripping though, just a tease. Eden threatened to cut our friendship (kidding) if Troy goes naked in all his glory.
After Troy has left, we all recomposed ourselves and got back to our seats and continued with the program. The atmosphere of the room somehow became subdued, with a burst of laughter once in a while, as we asked all the guests to give Charmy a sex or love advice.
Charmy then thanked all the guests who came. And as a conclusion to the bridal shower, Lovelynn distributed the giveaways to the people. It was a plastic plate with cartoon characters printed on it.
What a tiring night it was!!! Tiring but very fun!!! We're all very happy for Charmy!
Best Wishes Charms!!! I love you very much!
Saturday turned out to be a really big day.
Around two in the afternoon, Hunski and I checked in ourselves at the Astoria Plaza in the Ortigas business complex. This was where we were throwing the bridal shower for our dear friend, Charmy. The shower was at eight in the evening so Hunski and I were able to enjoy the comfort of the room for a couple of hours.
The room seemed to be perfect for a bachelor. It was a one-bedroom suite. When you enter the room, there's a huge mirror hanging on the right side of the room. With the size of the mirror, it actually creates an illusion that the room is bigger than it is. There's a door to the left leading to the kitchen. And to the right is a door to the bedroom and the bathroom. The living room, it was a space actually, was very immaculate. The walls were done in white and accented with chocolate brown tones of a table, some shelves and cabinets. The lighting of the room was also almost perfect. I say almost because I thought it wasn't too good for reading. Over all, the whole unit was perfect for a some sort of weekend getaway.
But there was work to be done.
After resting for an hour, Hunski and I left the comforts of the room and walked to the nearby Shangri-la Mall. We had our late lunch before proceeding to the supermarket. A couple of cans of beer, three bottles of soda and water, some nachos together with cheese and salsa dips, cocktail hotdogs, two whole pieces of chicken for dinner, some plates and utensils and we’re done. The rest of the stuff were brought by co-shower organizers Eden, Kendi and Lovelynn.
A little before seven, Hunski and I began preparing dinner and the cocktails. Our menu lineup included hotdog bites, crostinis with smoked fish cream cheese, and nachos with two dips for appetizers, and roasted chicken and angel hair with puttanesca for entrée. Yummy!
Of course, people started arriving past seven but that was okay. I think I am the only person who arrives at a party on time, sometimes even earlier. Hehehe! We informed guests that the party was at eight but we actually began the program an hour and a half later.
To begin the program, we asked Charmy to have her seat at the bridal chair we placed at the center of the room. Everyone gathered and Kendi and I started the program. We asked people to introduce themselves and briefly share how they met Charmy. Some of the guests were classmates from high school and elementary. Others were relatives and of course, the select few from college.
Following the introduction of the last person, the games began. Three games were played that night - Pass the Carrot, the Toilet Paper Bride, and the How Good are you in the Dark games. In the first game, each person had to pass a long carrot to the person beside them with the carrot between their knees!!! Each time the carrot is dropped, it was sliced an inch shorter. The person who has the carrot at the end without dropping it wins. It was such a funny game.
On the other hand, the second game tested the creativity and ingenuity of the guests. They were asked to make three groups. In each group, a "bride" was chosen. The task was to make a gown for the group's "bride" using the toilet paper. Charmy picked the one who had a gown and a bouquet made out of toilet paper.
The last game was a test of speed in the dark and being blindfolded. Each group was given a cucumber, a banana, an eggplant and a wrapped condom. With the guests' blindfolded, each group must open the condom and put it on the veggies. The fastest group to finish putting all the condoms on the veggies in the proper way and without tearing it wins.
The last game was the perfect segue to the next segment, one of the highlights of the night - Troy. With the sensual music playing in the background, Troy stepped out of the room and began gyrating. First, he had his polo and his pants on. As the song continued playing, he started removing each piece of clothing, leaving only his skivvies. In the second song, he only had a towel draped around him, but still with his undies on. As the third track of the CD played, Troy went fully naked. The only thing that covered his privates were his hands and a white towel. The girls were so funny. They were running around the room shrieking and thinking they can escape from Troy and his package. Charmy, on the other hand, just sat down on the chair and let Troy tease him. There was no full stripping though, just a tease. Eden threatened to cut our friendship (kidding) if Troy goes naked in all his glory.
After Troy has left, we all recomposed ourselves and got back to our seats and continued with the program. The atmosphere of the room somehow became subdued, with a burst of laughter once in a while, as we asked all the guests to give Charmy a sex or love advice.
Charmy then thanked all the guests who came. And as a conclusion to the bridal shower, Lovelynn distributed the giveaways to the people. It was a plastic plate with cartoon characters printed on it.
What a tiring night it was!!! Tiring but very fun!!! We're all very happy for Charmy!
Best Wishes Charms!!! I love you very much!
Friday, December 05, 2003
This Week's Friday Five:
There was not Friday Five this week at Friday Five so I just got an old one from the same site.
1. Would you consider yourself an organized person? Why or why not?
Yep. I think I'm an organized people and that sometimes freaks me out. I plan out my wardrobe when I go on out of town trips. I always make a list of things to do. One time, I made an inventory of all the clothes that I have.
2. Do you keep some type of planner, organizer, calendar, etc. with you, and do you use it regularly?
I have a black notebook and that's where I write down all the things that I have to do.
3. Would you say that your desk is organized right now?
At home, yes. At the office, yes but the people around keep on messing it up, placing all sorts of stuff on top of it.
4. Do you alphabetize CDs, books, and DVDs, or does it not matter?
No, but they're grouped according to genre. Yes, it's scary.
5. What's the hardest thing you've ever had to organize?
My life. Harhar!
There was not Friday Five this week at Friday Five so I just got an old one from the same site.
1. Would you consider yourself an organized person? Why or why not?
Yep. I think I'm an organized people and that sometimes freaks me out. I plan out my wardrobe when I go on out of town trips. I always make a list of things to do. One time, I made an inventory of all the clothes that I have.
2. Do you keep some type of planner, organizer, calendar, etc. with you, and do you use it regularly?
I have a black notebook and that's where I write down all the things that I have to do.
3. Would you say that your desk is organized right now?
At home, yes. At the office, yes but the people around keep on messing it up, placing all sorts of stuff on top of it.
4. Do you alphabetize CDs, books, and DVDs, or does it not matter?
No, but they're grouped according to genre. Yes, it's scary.
5. What's the hardest thing you've ever had to organize?
My life. Harhar!
Christmas Bells Are Ringing
First Wrapped Gift for Xmas 2003
This afternoon, we're having the Christmas party for all our volunteers. We're expecting students from the seven colleges of the University, University faculty and personnel, doctors, dentists, nurses, and friends to drop by the office to join us in celebrating the Christmas seasons.
There will be a program filled with fun and games. We also prepared a TV and karaoke so that anyone who feels like singing may do so.
We're also having an exchange gift. Our budget for the gift is only 20 pesos! You read that right. Twenty pesos. It really is a challenge to find something worth twenty pesos that is worth keeping.
At first, I thought of just buying a bag of candies or chocolates. That's the easiest thing to get but I decided to challenge myself and see what I can get for twenty bucks that's worth more than a bag of chocolate.
So yesterday after work, I went to our neighboring mall and looked for something worth twenty that would look like it's worth a hundred. In less than an hour, I found the gift.
I got a tin can with a pencil sharpener inside, a cutter, board tacks, and a 6 inch ruler. All for twenty pesos!!! Wondering how I got all the stuff for only twenty pesos.
I have one word for you - SALE!!!
Addendum:
So I took pictures of the gift for the blog. And I took some self-pics also. Can I be narcissistic for two seconds? Hehe!
Serious Angelo
Smiling Angelo
Wooohoooo!!!
First Wrapped Gift for Xmas 2003
This afternoon, we're having the Christmas party for all our volunteers. We're expecting students from the seven colleges of the University, University faculty and personnel, doctors, dentists, nurses, and friends to drop by the office to join us in celebrating the Christmas seasons.
There will be a program filled with fun and games. We also prepared a TV and karaoke so that anyone who feels like singing may do so.
We're also having an exchange gift. Our budget for the gift is only 20 pesos! You read that right. Twenty pesos. It really is a challenge to find something worth twenty pesos that is worth keeping.
At first, I thought of just buying a bag of candies or chocolates. That's the easiest thing to get but I decided to challenge myself and see what I can get for twenty bucks that's worth more than a bag of chocolate.
So yesterday after work, I went to our neighboring mall and looked for something worth twenty that would look like it's worth a hundred. In less than an hour, I found the gift.
I got a tin can with a pencil sharpener inside, a cutter, board tacks, and a 6 inch ruler. All for twenty pesos!!! Wondering how I got all the stuff for only twenty pesos.
I have one word for you - SALE!!!
Addendum:
So I took pictures of the gift for the blog. And I took some self-pics also. Can I be narcissistic for two seconds? Hehe!
Serious Angelo
Smiling Angelo
Wooohoooo!!!
Thursday, December 04, 2003
Need Your Ideas
I am looking for ideas about the latest restaurant concepts in the US that I can bring here in Manila.
Target Market: Mostly college students with money to burn.
Any suggestions?
I am looking for ideas about the latest restaurant concepts in the US that I can bring here in Manila.
Target Market: Mostly college students with money to burn.
Any suggestions?
Wednesday, December 03, 2003
Striptease Anyone?
This December, Christmas bells aren’t the only ones that are ringing. So are wedding bells. Well, at least that's how it is in my situation.
I haven't been writing much lately because a.) I'm preoccupied with accomplishing all the things that I have to finish before I bid my dear office goodbye, and b.) I am in the middle of planning a wedding shower.
Together with bestest friends Eden and Kendi, we are currently organizing a shower party for our dearest and bestest friend, Charmy, who's tying the knot this December 28.
This is the first time that I am going to attend a wedding shower and I'm really excited. Although not to the point that I feel like I'm the one having the shower. Harhar! But I guess that would be really fun.
Lucky us, the preparation for the event isn't so hard for shower dilettantes like us thanks to Google which came out with 283,000 sites after I queried "Wedding Shower Ideas". And mind you, it took her only 0.28 seconds to search. Haha!
Anyway, part of our preparation was to look for a "dancer" (note the quotation marks and the italics...hehe). Kendi volunteered to look for one since she didn't want just any guy. However, she had a hard time finding one. Unfortunately, it still is taboo for so many sectors of the Philippine society until now which is probably why Kendi had a hard time looking for one. Or maybe, your standards are way too high, Kendi dear. Hehe! I’m sorry but finding a Ken Zhu would be really difficult.
So I decided to help her out. And guess what? Just after sending three text messages to some friends, I immediately got the numbers of three dancers. Wow! I guess this is one of the perks of having friends in the know.
After getting the numbers of the dancers, I sent them a text message to inquire about their rates. It felt weird doing the whole "How much is your rate?" text conversation. The guys, however, appeared to be professional, for lack of a better term, in this kind of business.
"Hi. I'm looking for a stripper for a shower for this Saturday night. Are you free? How much does it cost?"
"3500. All the way na po iyon." (3500 pesos. That's all the way.)
"Uhm, no. No full stripping. Just a striptease."
"3000 po."
I decided to reword my query before moving on to the next guy.
"Hi. I'm looking for a stripper for a shower for this Saturday night. No full stripping. Just a striptease. Our budget's 2000."
"2000. Okay. Minimum ko yan. Sige. Text mo na lang ako kung saan tayo magkikita sa Sabado." (2000 pesos. Okay. That's my minimum rate. Just text me where we'll meet this Saturday.)
It was that fast. No more questions. No more inquiries. On the other hand, being the amateur that I am, I have no idea what to prepare. Would I seem stupid if I ask the guy if he has any requirements like a particular music or costume. What came as a bit of a surprise to me really was that they did not even bother to ask my name or my background. Not that I would tell them but I'm just wondering, "Do they conduct business with all of his clients this way?" What if the client turned out to be some psycho? That's it. Goodbye, Mr. Dancer. And they put their lives at a great risk for what? To feed themselves, to send a sibling or a kid to school? To buy a luxury? I don't really know.
Anyway, I think everything's almost set for Saturday. Hotel reservations. Check. Food. Check. Guest list. Waiting for more confirmations. Giveaways. Check. Program. Check. Dancer. Check.
Looks like Saturday is going to be really exciting.
This December, Christmas bells aren’t the only ones that are ringing. So are wedding bells. Well, at least that's how it is in my situation.
I haven't been writing much lately because a.) I'm preoccupied with accomplishing all the things that I have to finish before I bid my dear office goodbye, and b.) I am in the middle of planning a wedding shower.
Together with bestest friends Eden and Kendi, we are currently organizing a shower party for our dearest and bestest friend, Charmy, who's tying the knot this December 28.
This is the first time that I am going to attend a wedding shower and I'm really excited. Although not to the point that I feel like I'm the one having the shower. Harhar! But I guess that would be really fun.
Lucky us, the preparation for the event isn't so hard for shower dilettantes like us thanks to Google which came out with 283,000 sites after I queried "Wedding Shower Ideas". And mind you, it took her only 0.28 seconds to search. Haha!
Anyway, part of our preparation was to look for a "dancer" (note the quotation marks and the italics...hehe). Kendi volunteered to look for one since she didn't want just any guy. However, she had a hard time finding one. Unfortunately, it still is taboo for so many sectors of the Philippine society until now which is probably why Kendi had a hard time looking for one. Or maybe, your standards are way too high, Kendi dear. Hehe! I’m sorry but finding a Ken Zhu would be really difficult.
So I decided to help her out. And guess what? Just after sending three text messages to some friends, I immediately got the numbers of three dancers. Wow! I guess this is one of the perks of having friends in the know.
After getting the numbers of the dancers, I sent them a text message to inquire about their rates. It felt weird doing the whole "How much is your rate?" text conversation. The guys, however, appeared to be professional, for lack of a better term, in this kind of business.
"Hi. I'm looking for a stripper for a shower for this Saturday night. Are you free? How much does it cost?"
"3500. All the way na po iyon." (3500 pesos. That's all the way.)
"Uhm, no. No full stripping. Just a striptease."
"3000 po."
I decided to reword my query before moving on to the next guy.
"Hi. I'm looking for a stripper for a shower for this Saturday night. No full stripping. Just a striptease. Our budget's 2000."
"2000. Okay. Minimum ko yan. Sige. Text mo na lang ako kung saan tayo magkikita sa Sabado." (2000 pesos. Okay. That's my minimum rate. Just text me where we'll meet this Saturday.)
It was that fast. No more questions. No more inquiries. On the other hand, being the amateur that I am, I have no idea what to prepare. Would I seem stupid if I ask the guy if he has any requirements like a particular music or costume. What came as a bit of a surprise to me really was that they did not even bother to ask my name or my background. Not that I would tell them but I'm just wondering, "Do they conduct business with all of his clients this way?" What if the client turned out to be some psycho? That's it. Goodbye, Mr. Dancer. And they put their lives at a great risk for what? To feed themselves, to send a sibling or a kid to school? To buy a luxury? I don't really know.
Anyway, I think everything's almost set for Saturday. Hotel reservations. Check. Food. Check. Guest list. Waiting for more confirmations. Giveaways. Check. Program. Check. Dancer. Check.
Looks like Saturday is going to be really exciting.
My Inner Child
My inner child is sixteen years old!
Life's not fair! It's never been fair, but while
adults might just accept that, I know
something's gotta change. And it's gonna
change, just as soon as I become an adult and
get some power of my own.
How Old is Your Inner Child?
brought to you by Quizilla
So, just you wait...
Tuesday, December 02, 2003
Pinoy Trivia of the Week:
Photo Courtesy of PTFI.Org
If there is one place in the country that I am planning to visit really soon, that would have to be Bohol. The province is most popular for its approximately a thousand or so hills spread over three municipalities. Known as the Chocolate Hills, it is said that these were formed centuries ago by tidal movements.
But aside from the Chocolate Hills, Bohol is also the home of the smallest living primate in the whole world - the tarsier (Scientific Name: Tarsius Syrichta). The creature is only 4 to 5 inches tall and usually has a tail longer than its body. It is one of the rarest animals in the world and is said to be in existence for 45 million years now. Whoa!!!
However, the cute little thing is now an endangered specie due to the destruction of their forest habitats as well as other harmful forest activities.
For more information on how we can help save the tarsier, visit this site.
Photo Courtesy of PTFI.Org
If there is one place in the country that I am planning to visit really soon, that would have to be Bohol. The province is most popular for its approximately a thousand or so hills spread over three municipalities. Known as the Chocolate Hills, it is said that these were formed centuries ago by tidal movements.
But aside from the Chocolate Hills, Bohol is also the home of the smallest living primate in the whole world - the tarsier (Scientific Name: Tarsius Syrichta). The creature is only 4 to 5 inches tall and usually has a tail longer than its body. It is one of the rarest animals in the world and is said to be in existence for 45 million years now. Whoa!!!
However, the cute little thing is now an endangered specie due to the destruction of their forest habitats as well as other harmful forest activities.
For more information on how we can help save the tarsier, visit this site.
Monday, December 01, 2003
George Bush...is only for now
I am now currently endlessly listening to the soundtrack of Avenue Q. Thanks to Jigs for purchasing the CD on your recent trip.
Avenue Q is the latest hit musical everyone is talking about right now. The musical is great for adults. It's also great for teenagers. For kids? Uhm, you might want to think twice (or even thrice) before you bring a kid to the show. Yes, one of the main features of the musical are its puppets reminiscent of our Sesame Street. Yes, the musical has a very catchy score. But I'm just not sure if you're ready to hear your toddler or your pre-school sibling or nephew singing, "Everyone’s A Little Bit Racist", "If You Were Gay" or "The Internet Is For Porn". These are some of the songs in the musical.
The musical becomes more appealing to the audience as it discusses contemporary issues like finding and losing a job, racism, homosexuality, falling in love, avoiding commitment and discovering one’s purpose in life. So it may be hard to point out what age group Avenue Q is really trying to reach out to but to watch it, whether you’re fifteen or fifty, is pretty cool.
Avenue Q bagged the 2003 Lucille Lortel Award for Outstanding New Musical. Add to that a nomination to the 2003 Outer Critics Circle Outstanding Off-Broadway Musical award. Music and Lyrics are by Robert Lopez and Jeff Marx. Book written by Jeff Whitty.
Sigh.
All I can say is I wish a local theater company would produce the musical. Chari and Rony, are you reading this???
I am now currently endlessly listening to the soundtrack of Avenue Q. Thanks to Jigs for purchasing the CD on your recent trip.
Avenue Q is the latest hit musical everyone is talking about right now. The musical is great for adults. It's also great for teenagers. For kids? Uhm, you might want to think twice (or even thrice) before you bring a kid to the show. Yes, one of the main features of the musical are its puppets reminiscent of our Sesame Street. Yes, the musical has a very catchy score. But I'm just not sure if you're ready to hear your toddler or your pre-school sibling or nephew singing, "Everyone’s A Little Bit Racist", "If You Were Gay" or "The Internet Is For Porn". These are some of the songs in the musical.
The musical becomes more appealing to the audience as it discusses contemporary issues like finding and losing a job, racism, homosexuality, falling in love, avoiding commitment and discovering one’s purpose in life. So it may be hard to point out what age group Avenue Q is really trying to reach out to but to watch it, whether you’re fifteen or fifty, is pretty cool.
Avenue Q bagged the 2003 Lucille Lortel Award for Outstanding New Musical. Add to that a nomination to the 2003 Outer Critics Circle Outstanding Off-Broadway Musical award. Music and Lyrics are by Robert Lopez and Jeff Marx. Book written by Jeff Whitty.
Sigh.
All I can say is I wish a local theater company would produce the musical. Chari and Rony, are you reading this???
Best Buy of the Week
Image courtsey of Austin Chronicle.
Yesterday afternoon was mostly spent lounging at Powerbooks Live in Greenbelt IV, together with Hunski.
While Hunski read books on designing apartments, bedrooms, fantastic color schemes for one's home and the like, I was just slouched on the chair across him. It was okay actually. For once, I enjoyed letting my mind rest, not think about anything and just people watch inside the huge bookstore.
However, I was the one who ended up making a purchase. Hehe! I went up to the second floor after model-turned-Cosmo Philippines editor Myrza Sison walked away from my view.
While happily browsing through the Fashion shelves, I took a big black book that had a collage of black and white pictures and in bold, blood red letters read "Front Stage Mario Testino".
The book was filled with about 100 pages of photographs from the Pret-a-Porter and the Haute Couture runway shows of top designers. It would be a very good coffee table book but it didn't cross my mind to purchase the book since it would probably cost about P3,000 (that's about $60 or so.)
But lo and behold, when I looked at the price, it was only P439!!! And that was the last copy that they have. I walked over to the cashier to verify the price of the book. The woman behind the counter happily told me it was the real price of the book.
Given that situation, I purchased the book. It's not everyday that I find a good book like this for a cheap price.
YAY!!!
You can view pages of the book here.
Image courtsey of Austin Chronicle.
Yesterday afternoon was mostly spent lounging at Powerbooks Live in Greenbelt IV, together with Hunski.
While Hunski read books on designing apartments, bedrooms, fantastic color schemes for one's home and the like, I was just slouched on the chair across him. It was okay actually. For once, I enjoyed letting my mind rest, not think about anything and just people watch inside the huge bookstore.
However, I was the one who ended up making a purchase. Hehe! I went up to the second floor after model-turned-Cosmo Philippines editor Myrza Sison walked away from my view.
While happily browsing through the Fashion shelves, I took a big black book that had a collage of black and white pictures and in bold, blood red letters read "Front Stage Mario Testino".
The book was filled with about 100 pages of photographs from the Pret-a-Porter and the Haute Couture runway shows of top designers. It would be a very good coffee table book but it didn't cross my mind to purchase the book since it would probably cost about P3,000 (that's about $60 or so.)
But lo and behold, when I looked at the price, it was only P439!!! And that was the last copy that they have. I walked over to the cashier to verify the price of the book. The woman behind the counter happily told me it was the real price of the book.
Given that situation, I purchased the book. It's not everyday that I find a good book like this for a cheap price.
YAY!!!
You can view pages of the book here.
