Saturday, January 31, 2004
The Good and The Bad
I'm sorry but I was so bored in my training yesterday. In addition to that, the facilitator called on my attention because I was miming with a teammate who was five or six seats away. Gawd! It was so embarrassing. Actually, it wasn't that big of a deal since she (the facilitator called on other people as well, some people even got more than just being called on). I'm just being my usual too-hard-on-myself.
BOP Angelo!
Anyway, I got a bit irritated so I pulled out my little, black notebook and began scribbling away. Let me just clarify that the person I'm referring to in the rant I wrote was someone else and not my facilitator.
But I'm okay now so there's no need to post here what I wrote in my black notebook. Uhm, besides, I already vented it out at this site.
Basically, what I ranted was about unfairness, how sometimes one person exerts more effort than the other and instead, that other person gets more credit.
Anyway, moving on, moving on.
I had a very good end of the week when I saw my name included in the list of people who made it to the Employee Engagement Team.
Wuhoooo!!!
I'm not sure if I mentioned it but a couple of weeks ago, I applied for membership into the team and since there were a lot of applicants, I had to undergo a screening process. I wasn't sure if I was going to make it but hey, I got in!!!
YAY!!!
So what exactly is the Employee Engagement Team? It's a team of Convergys employees whose aim is to support communication, recogniton and work environment at the center level. In short, add fun to the work life. There are four committees - Arts and Culture, Sports and Recreation, Outreach, and Social Events.
I still dunno in which committee I was assigned but the important thing, for now, is that I got in.
Whooopppeeee!!!
I'm sorry but I was so bored in my training yesterday. In addition to that, the facilitator called on my attention because I was miming with a teammate who was five or six seats away. Gawd! It was so embarrassing. Actually, it wasn't that big of a deal since she (the facilitator called on other people as well, some people even got more than just being called on). I'm just being my usual too-hard-on-myself.
BOP Angelo!
Anyway, I got a bit irritated so I pulled out my little, black notebook and began scribbling away. Let me just clarify that the person I'm referring to in the rant I wrote was someone else and not my facilitator.
But I'm okay now so there's no need to post here what I wrote in my black notebook. Uhm, besides, I already vented it out at this site.
Basically, what I ranted was about unfairness, how sometimes one person exerts more effort than the other and instead, that other person gets more credit.
Anyway, moving on, moving on.
I had a very good end of the week when I saw my name included in the list of people who made it to the Employee Engagement Team.
Wuhoooo!!!
I'm not sure if I mentioned it but a couple of weeks ago, I applied for membership into the team and since there were a lot of applicants, I had to undergo a screening process. I wasn't sure if I was going to make it but hey, I got in!!!
YAY!!!
So what exactly is the Employee Engagement Team? It's a team of Convergys employees whose aim is to support communication, recogniton and work environment at the center level. In short, add fun to the work life. There are four committees - Arts and Culture, Sports and Recreation, Outreach, and Social Events.
I still dunno in which committee I was assigned but the important thing, for now, is that I got in.
Whooopppeeee!!!
Friday, January 30, 2004
This Week's Friday Five:
You have just won one million dollars:
1. Who do you call first?
The first person I would probably call is Hunski, to tell him the great news and then take him shopping... at any mall he wants to go to - whether it's Manila or Milan, GO!
2. What is the first thing you buy for yourself?
The first thing I would buy is the entire menswear line of Dior and Prada. Hehehe! Uhm, seriously, I'd probably get another house for my family. In a way, that is already like buying something for myself.
3. What is the first thing you buy for someone else?
Again, Hunski.
4. Do you give any away? If yes, to whom?
Definitely. I believe in giving back. I'd definitely give to volunteer programs and non-government organizations.
5. Do you invest any? If so, how?
I'm not really familiar with investing so I'll leave this part to Hunski.
I'm done. Your turn. Click here.
You have just won one million dollars:
1. Who do you call first?
The first person I would probably call is Hunski, to tell him the great news and then take him shopping... at any mall he wants to go to - whether it's Manila or Milan, GO!
2. What is the first thing you buy for yourself?
The first thing I would buy is the entire menswear line of Dior and Prada. Hehehe! Uhm, seriously, I'd probably get another house for my family. In a way, that is already like buying something for myself.
3. What is the first thing you buy for someone else?
Again, Hunski.
4. Do you give any away? If yes, to whom?
Definitely. I believe in giving back. I'd definitely give to volunteer programs and non-government organizations.
5. Do you invest any? If so, how?
I'm not really familiar with investing so I'll leave this part to Hunski.
I'm done. Your turn. Click here.
Wednesday, January 28, 2004
Group Hug!!!!
Image via Group Hug
I found this website ages ago through a fellow blogger's site.
I thought it was cool. I thought it was nice that there's a site where people can just vent out whatever it is that they are feeling and remain anonymous. It was like Ranters Anonymous. I thought it was a site that I would just read and not actually post a confession in it.
But you know, sometimes, certain events just happen and I myself am surprised that I found myself sharing something on this website.
Well, the guidelines are simple, actually. Just confess anything you want to confess. You remain anonymous. It is completely confidential, at least that's what the site owners say. If you think about it, knowing that someone will read your confession, even if they don't know who you are, provides some sort of good feeling to you.
And it's true. I felt good. Maybe so would you.
Confess here.
Image via Group Hug
I found this website ages ago through a fellow blogger's site.
I thought it was cool. I thought it was nice that there's a site where people can just vent out whatever it is that they are feeling and remain anonymous. It was like Ranters Anonymous. I thought it was a site that I would just read and not actually post a confession in it.
But you know, sometimes, certain events just happen and I myself am surprised that I found myself sharing something on this website.
Well, the guidelines are simple, actually. Just confess anything you want to confess. You remain anonymous. It is completely confidential, at least that's what the site owners say. If you think about it, knowing that someone will read your confession, even if they don't know who you are, provides some sort of good feeling to you.
And it's true. I felt good. Maybe so would you.
Confess here.
Tuesday, January 27, 2004
Where's the Pinoy Trivia?
Some of you are probably wondering whatsoever happened to my regular, now irregular, Tuesday post - the Pinoy Trivia of the Week.
Uhm, I'm not sure if a lot of people read it but I'm quite sure that there are at least two people who regularly read it.
Well, here's my lame excuse. As you know, I've just started on a new job and my schedule's pretty crazy. I've been trying to adjust to the new schedule and I've been finding it hard to post the Pinoy Trivia, let alone research for it, since a.) when I get home, I'm already tired and b.) I can't surf the Net at the office (yeah, I know. I'm such a goody-two-shoes.)
But I do hope that once everything normalizes for me, I can get back with the Pinoy Trivia post.
For now, here's something new. Well, sort of.
I've been playing with the Dreamweaver on my PC for the past couple of weeks and I finally finished something. I know. I know. It's just a simple page but it still is something.
Click here to see what I'm talking about.
Some of you are probably wondering whatsoever happened to my regular, now irregular, Tuesday post - the Pinoy Trivia of the Week.
Uhm, I'm not sure if a lot of people read it but I'm quite sure that there are at least two people who regularly read it.
Well, here's my lame excuse. As you know, I've just started on a new job and my schedule's pretty crazy. I've been trying to adjust to the new schedule and I've been finding it hard to post the Pinoy Trivia, let alone research for it, since a.) when I get home, I'm already tired and b.) I can't surf the Net at the office (yeah, I know. I'm such a goody-two-shoes.)
But I do hope that once everything normalizes for me, I can get back with the Pinoy Trivia post.
For now, here's something new. Well, sort of.
I've been playing with the Dreamweaver on my PC for the past couple of weeks and I finally finished something. I know. I know. It's just a simple page but it still is something.
Click here to see what I'm talking about.
Monday, January 26, 2004
Under the Weather
Today's my first day of training in Ortigas.
And today, I'm feeling very much under the weather. It's been humid in the past few days and then suddenly, the weather turns all chilly and cold, and that kind of messes up my body. The next thing I know, I'm already down with colds and I'm sneezing my head off, which is exactly what's been happening the entire day. And to cap things off, it usually results in an asthma attack.
But I'm more aware of things now so I'm trying to be preventive. I've been drinking lots of fluids and I'm planning to double my daily dosage of ascorbic acid so that I can combat the colds and hopefully, prevent any asthma attack.
Anyway, moving on to the training. How was it? Let's just say that I miss the Communication and Culture Training. I miss the Enterprise Center. I miss my CCT trainer.
Hehehe!
Things are so technical in this new training that I'm getting a headache memorizing all those acronyms and trying to understand how DSL works and that stuff. What really overwhelmed me was when I saw the call flows for us.
Oh my gawd!!!
One word. Toxic!!! I hope I come out of this training in one piece and still in the right mind.
Hehehehe!
Today's my first day of training in Ortigas.
And today, I'm feeling very much under the weather. It's been humid in the past few days and then suddenly, the weather turns all chilly and cold, and that kind of messes up my body. The next thing I know, I'm already down with colds and I'm sneezing my head off, which is exactly what's been happening the entire day. And to cap things off, it usually results in an asthma attack.
But I'm more aware of things now so I'm trying to be preventive. I've been drinking lots of fluids and I'm planning to double my daily dosage of ascorbic acid so that I can combat the colds and hopefully, prevent any asthma attack.
Anyway, moving on to the training. How was it? Let's just say that I miss the Communication and Culture Training. I miss the Enterprise Center. I miss my CCT trainer.
Hehehe!
Things are so technical in this new training that I'm getting a headache memorizing all those acronyms and trying to understand how DSL works and that stuff. What really overwhelmed me was when I saw the call flows for us.
Oh my gawd!!!
One word. Toxic!!! I hope I come out of this training in one piece and still in the right mind.
Hehehehe!
Sunday, January 25, 2004
My Brother's Birthday
Today's the 23rd birthday of my second brother, Raymond.
He's a graduate of fine arts, major in advertising, from one of the universities here in the city. As of now, he's still doing some freelance work. I dunno what his professional plans are.
When we were growing up, we weren't that close. We would always find ourselves in fights primarily because he teased me a lot and made me cry. So there was some sort of gap between us.
However, as weeks, months, and years passed by, as we grew out of our childhood, that gap between us seemed to have decreased. And it's good. I'm not saying that we're very close now. But at least, we don't hate each other. And I have a feeling that in spite of everything, he knows that I love him very much.
HAPPY BIRTHDAY RAYMOND!!!
By the way, he doesn't know I'm gay. I dunno how he'd take it once he finds out.
Today's the 23rd birthday of my second brother, Raymond.
He's a graduate of fine arts, major in advertising, from one of the universities here in the city. As of now, he's still doing some freelance work. I dunno what his professional plans are.
When we were growing up, we weren't that close. We would always find ourselves in fights primarily because he teased me a lot and made me cry. So there was some sort of gap between us.
However, as weeks, months, and years passed by, as we grew out of our childhood, that gap between us seemed to have decreased. And it's good. I'm not saying that we're very close now. But at least, we don't hate each other. And I have a feeling that in spite of everything, he knows that I love him very much.
HAPPY BIRTHDAY RAYMOND!!!
By the way, he doesn't know I'm gay. I dunno how he'd take it once he finds out.
Saturday, January 24, 2004
Graduation Day
Yesterday was our last day of Communication Culture Training.
Our last day was a bit similar to the other days. We were at the office at five. We had our final speech activity, and then went on with the agenda for the day. When the clock struck eleven, we summarized the topics we had for the past three weeks and then...
It was time for fun.
Fellow teammates Icar and Dana, and I, prepared a little program for our teammates. We made awards for each member of the team, and of course our facilitator.
Thursday night was a bit busy for me because I had to make a banner for the program, and I had to write twenty descriptions (for each of my teammates and for our facilitator) for the program. Gawd! I felt like writing a Friendster testimonial for people I just met. And I should tell you, it was not easy.
But it was all worth it as everyone expressed joy and laughter when they saw the banner that said "Congrats Wave IX". We then proceeded to the awards. It felt good that the descriptions I wrote were appreciated and that the people actually found them funny.
I got the Team Leader Potential Award. That award wasn't self-given though. I wrote the award for Icar. Icar wrote the award for Dana and Dana wrote the award for me. Of course, it would be weird if the three of us thought of the awards for ourselves, right?
Anyway, I really felt good that they gave me that award. It's good to know that my efforts didn't go unnoticed. Hehe! Modesty aside, I think I did really well in the training. On so many occasions, I received commendations from my facilitator and those served as an inspiration for me to really do my best in the class.
By the way, I was also salutatorian of the class. Anton was the valedictorian. I think we had a 3% difference in our final grades. It was cool.
Anyway, as I mentioned before, I will be moving to the other office on Monday to begin another training. My shift this time is now six a.m. to two p.m.
I hope I also do well in this new training.
Yesterday was our last day of Communication Culture Training.
Our last day was a bit similar to the other days. We were at the office at five. We had our final speech activity, and then went on with the agenda for the day. When the clock struck eleven, we summarized the topics we had for the past three weeks and then...
It was time for fun.
Fellow teammates Icar and Dana, and I, prepared a little program for our teammates. We made awards for each member of the team, and of course our facilitator.
Thursday night was a bit busy for me because I had to make a banner for the program, and I had to write twenty descriptions (for each of my teammates and for our facilitator) for the program. Gawd! I felt like writing a Friendster testimonial for people I just met. And I should tell you, it was not easy.
But it was all worth it as everyone expressed joy and laughter when they saw the banner that said "Congrats Wave IX". We then proceeded to the awards. It felt good that the descriptions I wrote were appreciated and that the people actually found them funny.
I got the Team Leader Potential Award. That award wasn't self-given though. I wrote the award for Icar. Icar wrote the award for Dana and Dana wrote the award for me. Of course, it would be weird if the three of us thought of the awards for ourselves, right?
Anyway, I really felt good that they gave me that award. It's good to know that my efforts didn't go unnoticed. Hehe! Modesty aside, I think I did really well in the training. On so many occasions, I received commendations from my facilitator and those served as an inspiration for me to really do my best in the class.
By the way, I was also salutatorian of the class. Anton was the valedictorian. I think we had a 3% difference in our final grades. It was cool.
Anyway, as I mentioned before, I will be moving to the other office on Monday to begin another training. My shift this time is now six a.m. to two p.m.
I hope I also do well in this new training.
Friday, January 23, 2004
This Week's Friday Five:
At this moment, what is your favorite...
1. ...song?
Right now. Uhm, I've been playing the finale song of Tick Tick Boom over and over again these past few days. I love the song.
2. ...food?
My favorite food as of the moment is the Hot Fudge Sundae of McDonald's. I've been craving for it since I had it again yesterday, after a million years. The thing is I can't have too much sugar. Gotta watch my weight. Yes. It sucks.
3. ...tv show?
For Christmas, a friend gave me a copy of the entire season of Queer Eye for the Straight Guy. It's super!!! I love it. But I'm also looking forward to getting a copy of The Simple Life. I can't wait to see the havoc that Paris and Nicole wreaked on that small town in Arkansaw. Hehehe!
4. ...scent?
Currently enjoying Issey Miyake.
5. ...quote?
No day but today... from Rent.
I'm done. Your turn. Do it here.
At this moment, what is your favorite...
1. ...song?
Right now. Uhm, I've been playing the finale song of Tick Tick Boom over and over again these past few days. I love the song.
2. ...food?
My favorite food as of the moment is the Hot Fudge Sundae of McDonald's. I've been craving for it since I had it again yesterday, after a million years. The thing is I can't have too much sugar. Gotta watch my weight. Yes. It sucks.
3. ...tv show?
For Christmas, a friend gave me a copy of the entire season of Queer Eye for the Straight Guy. It's super!!! I love it. But I'm also looking forward to getting a copy of The Simple Life. I can't wait to see the havoc that Paris and Nicole wreaked on that small town in Arkansaw. Hehehe!
4. ...scent?
Currently enjoying Issey Miyake.
5. ...quote?
No day but today... from Rent.
I'm done. Your turn. Do it here.
Thursday, January 22, 2004
Almost Over
Tomorrow's the last day of our Communication and Culture Training. Next week, I'm moving to the office in Ortigas where we will begin another month's training. This time, it'll be a program specific training. Uhm, I'm not sure if I could post who our client is so I'd have to keep that from you, guys. Sorry.
Anyway, there are two major things about the closing of the Communication and Culture Training. First major thing is I passed. Well, modesty aside, I think I fared well in the class. I've been getting commendations from the facilitator so I took those as signs that the training was in the bag. The other major thing is a bit saddening. Two of my team mates failed the training.
Yesterday afternoon, my facilitator pulled me out of the room (along with two other team mates Rexxie and Anton) and consulted us about her decision to fail our two other team mates. I have no idea why she was consulting me. And then today, just after lunch time, she pulled me aside again and told me of her decision that she was really going to fail two of my team mates.
I feel bad because not everyone passed the training. I must admit that in the short span of three weeks, the team has formed some sort of bond already and it is really saddening to see that not everyone made it. On the other hand, I also understand our facilitator, I'm quite sure that she considered the best interest of everyone considered before making her decision. I can only imagine how hard it must have been for her to inform my two team mates of her decision.
Moving on, as I have said, I'll be starting on a new training next week. A lot of people have been saying that the new training will be difficult since it's very technical.
Oh well, I guess I just have to wait and see, huh. Take care everyone.
Tomorrow's the last day of our Communication and Culture Training. Next week, I'm moving to the office in Ortigas where we will begin another month's training. This time, it'll be a program specific training. Uhm, I'm not sure if I could post who our client is so I'd have to keep that from you, guys. Sorry.
Anyway, there are two major things about the closing of the Communication and Culture Training. First major thing is I passed. Well, modesty aside, I think I fared well in the class. I've been getting commendations from the facilitator so I took those as signs that the training was in the bag. The other major thing is a bit saddening. Two of my team mates failed the training.
Yesterday afternoon, my facilitator pulled me out of the room (along with two other team mates Rexxie and Anton) and consulted us about her decision to fail our two other team mates. I have no idea why she was consulting me. And then today, just after lunch time, she pulled me aside again and told me of her decision that she was really going to fail two of my team mates.
I feel bad because not everyone passed the training. I must admit that in the short span of three weeks, the team has formed some sort of bond already and it is really saddening to see that not everyone made it. On the other hand, I also understand our facilitator, I'm quite sure that she considered the best interest of everyone considered before making her decision. I can only imagine how hard it must have been for her to inform my two team mates of her decision.
Moving on, as I have said, I'll be starting on a new training next week. A lot of people have been saying that the new training will be difficult since it's very technical.
Oh well, I guess I just have to wait and see, huh. Take care everyone.
Wednesday, January 21, 2004
Outted
So I came out to seven team mates last Friday. I felt good that I came out to them. At least, I can be a little bit more comfortable.
On Sunday night, I received a text message from Je, one of my guy teammates. He was telling me that what I did was really brave and that it is very important for me to be comfortable with who I really am. That was really thoughtful of him. Although I must admit that I am now wondering whether he is in the same boat as I am.
Anyway.
When I came to work last Monday, I thought that the matters discussed during the Friday gimmick would be kept among the people who attended the gimmick. I was wrong. Apparently, there was no more need for me to come out to the whole team since the other people did it for me. Hehehe!
At first, I got nervous. I felt uncomfortable. But I told myself that there's no need to be scared and that there's no turning back now. I got myself into telling the truth and I should be man enough to handle it.
"I'm queer. I'm here. Get used to it." was something I was (almost) ready to say to anyone who would express some agitation over my presence.
But surprisingly, everything has been going well. What is even more surprising that I am really getting along well with the straight men in the class. The only change that happened was that I became more comfortable. I got to be more expressive. I got to crack jokes. I got to show everyone the lighter side of Angelo.
And this is really good, I must say. All the while I've been so scared of what other people might think once they found out the truth and now, I see that there's really nothing to be afraid of. And even if there is something that may be daunting, I now know that I am ready to face it.
And I must agree with you guys said. Being out to the whole team is such a big relief to me!!! Yay!!!
So I came out to seven team mates last Friday. I felt good that I came out to them. At least, I can be a little bit more comfortable.
On Sunday night, I received a text message from Je, one of my guy teammates. He was telling me that what I did was really brave and that it is very important for me to be comfortable with who I really am. That was really thoughtful of him. Although I must admit that I am now wondering whether he is in the same boat as I am.
Anyway.
When I came to work last Monday, I thought that the matters discussed during the Friday gimmick would be kept among the people who attended the gimmick. I was wrong. Apparently, there was no more need for me to come out to the whole team since the other people did it for me. Hehehe!
At first, I got nervous. I felt uncomfortable. But I told myself that there's no need to be scared and that there's no turning back now. I got myself into telling the truth and I should be man enough to handle it.
"I'm queer. I'm here. Get used to it." was something I was (almost) ready to say to anyone who would express some agitation over my presence.
But surprisingly, everything has been going well. What is even more surprising that I am really getting along well with the straight men in the class. The only change that happened was that I became more comfortable. I got to be more expressive. I got to crack jokes. I got to show everyone the lighter side of Angelo.
And this is really good, I must say. All the while I've been so scared of what other people might think once they found out the truth and now, I see that there's really nothing to be afraid of. And even if there is something that may be daunting, I now know that I am ready to face it.
And I must agree with you guys said. Being out to the whole team is such a big relief to me!!! Yay!!!
Monday, January 19, 2004
Claim Your Wings
It's been a while since I've taken a quiz at Quizilla.com so here I am posting the result of the latest quiz I took.
You are one of the few out there whose wings are truly ANGELIC. Selfless, powerful, and divine, you are one blessed with a certain cosmic grace. You are unequalled in peacefulness, love, and beauty. As a Being of Light your wings are massive and a soft white or silver. Countless feathers grace them and radiate the light within you for all the world to see. You are a defender, protector, and caretaker. Comforter of the weak and forgiver of the wrong, chances are you are taken advantage of once in awhile, maybe quite often.
But your innocence and wisdom sees the good in everyone and so this mistreatment does not make you colder. Merciful to the extreme, you will try to help misguided souls find themselves and peace. However not all Angelics allow themselves to be gotten the better of - the Seraphim for example will be driven to fighting for the sake of Justice and protection of those less powerful.
Congratulations - and don't ever change - the world needs more people like you.
*~*~*Claim Your Wings - Pics and Long Answers*~*~*
brought to you by Quizilla
It's been a while since I've taken a quiz at Quizilla.com so here I am posting the result of the latest quiz I took.
You are one of the few out there whose wings are truly ANGELIC. Selfless, powerful, and divine, you are one blessed with a certain cosmic grace. You are unequalled in peacefulness, love, and beauty. As a Being of Light your wings are massive and a soft white or silver. Countless feathers grace them and radiate the light within you for all the world to see. You are a defender, protector, and caretaker. Comforter of the weak and forgiver of the wrong, chances are you are taken advantage of once in awhile, maybe quite often.
But your innocence and wisdom sees the good in everyone and so this mistreatment does not make you colder. Merciful to the extreme, you will try to help misguided souls find themselves and peace. However not all Angelics allow themselves to be gotten the better of - the Seraphim for example will be driven to fighting for the sake of Justice and protection of those less powerful.
Congratulations - and don't ever change - the world needs more people like you.
*~*~*Claim Your Wings - Pics and Long Answers*~*~*
brought to you by Quizilla
Saturday, January 17, 2004
One Friday Afternoon
When the clock struck one in the afternoon yesterday, I gathered my stuff and made my way out of the office. Together with most of my new officemates, we got into the elevator and waited to reach the lobby of the building.
As I bid them goodbye and began heading for the opposite direction, Dana and Mitch called on me and said, "Going home already?" Join us first. We're just going to hang out at the mall."
Since I really had nothing to do that afternoon, I decided to join them. We met up with the others who were smoking their nth cigarette for the day. After everyone finished their cigarettes, some of the people bid us goodbye and the others began walking to Greenbelt III.
The group included me, Rexie, Icar, Mac, Dana, Blue, Sherwin, and Mitch. We headed to the Krocodile Grille where we spent the afternoon. Except for Dana, Blue and me, everyone downed a couple of bottles of beer. Though the idea of beer in the afternoon sounds unusual, you must remember that the afternoon is our evening since we get to work at an early time. Together with the beer, we had some sisig and crispy pata - two of the most favorite dishes of the Filipino nation.
By three thirty p.m., Icar said that we should at least share something about ourselves to the group. This would at least give us a chance to know each other more and be some sort of bonding session for us.
I got nervous. My heart began to beat so fast. I began to chill and feel cold all over.
You see, I wasn't out to anyone at my place of work. Not that I was hiding it. I just didn't feel the need to go over to the PA system and announce to everyone that I am gay. And in spite of the fact that I don't intend to hide the fact that I am gay, I was still afraid to tell people the truth for fear of discrimination.
But then I know that I should just be brave.
So when it was my turn to share something about myself, I just told plainly the truth.
To my relief, everyone was very cool with it. I didn't get any condemnation or discrimination. Everyone congratulated me because admitting the truth was a very manly thing to do.
Thank God!!!
I began to be more comfortable around them. I told them how in the past week, I've been trying to give away hints about the truth. What hints? For my first speech, I admitted that I have a certain fondness for musicals. For my second speech, I talked about Tom Ford's impending separation from Gucci and its implications. When our facilitator asked what our pet peeves are, I said I get annoyed over people with uncoordinated belt, socks and shoes.
We just all had a good laugh over my sharing. I got several compliments from everyone. They told me I looked so neat and that the way I carried myself was really impressive.
When I got home that evening, I couldn't help but smile about the events that took place that afternoon. I can't believe that I came out to seven of my officemates. Coming out to them was not easy but I'm glad I gathered all the courage I have to tell them the truth. And I am very grateful that everyone was very understanding.
To you - Rexie, Icar, Mac, Dana, Sherwin, Blue, Mitch and Mac - thank you very much for being understanding! It means so much. You just made that one Friday afternoon a very memorable one.
When the clock struck one in the afternoon yesterday, I gathered my stuff and made my way out of the office. Together with most of my new officemates, we got into the elevator and waited to reach the lobby of the building.
As I bid them goodbye and began heading for the opposite direction, Dana and Mitch called on me and said, "Going home already?" Join us first. We're just going to hang out at the mall."
Since I really had nothing to do that afternoon, I decided to join them. We met up with the others who were smoking their nth cigarette for the day. After everyone finished their cigarettes, some of the people bid us goodbye and the others began walking to Greenbelt III.
The group included me, Rexie, Icar, Mac, Dana, Blue, Sherwin, and Mitch. We headed to the Krocodile Grille where we spent the afternoon. Except for Dana, Blue and me, everyone downed a couple of bottles of beer. Though the idea of beer in the afternoon sounds unusual, you must remember that the afternoon is our evening since we get to work at an early time. Together with the beer, we had some sisig and crispy pata - two of the most favorite dishes of the Filipino nation.
By three thirty p.m., Icar said that we should at least share something about ourselves to the group. This would at least give us a chance to know each other more and be some sort of bonding session for us.
I got nervous. My heart began to beat so fast. I began to chill and feel cold all over.
You see, I wasn't out to anyone at my place of work. Not that I was hiding it. I just didn't feel the need to go over to the PA system and announce to everyone that I am gay. And in spite of the fact that I don't intend to hide the fact that I am gay, I was still afraid to tell people the truth for fear of discrimination.
But then I know that I should just be brave.
So when it was my turn to share something about myself, I just told plainly the truth.
To my relief, everyone was very cool with it. I didn't get any condemnation or discrimination. Everyone congratulated me because admitting the truth was a very manly thing to do.
Thank God!!!
I began to be more comfortable around them. I told them how in the past week, I've been trying to give away hints about the truth. What hints? For my first speech, I admitted that I have a certain fondness for musicals. For my second speech, I talked about Tom Ford's impending separation from Gucci and its implications. When our facilitator asked what our pet peeves are, I said I get annoyed over people with uncoordinated belt, socks and shoes.
We just all had a good laugh over my sharing. I got several compliments from everyone. They told me I looked so neat and that the way I carried myself was really impressive.
When I got home that evening, I couldn't help but smile about the events that took place that afternoon. I can't believe that I came out to seven of my officemates. Coming out to them was not easy but I'm glad I gathered all the courage I have to tell them the truth. And I am very grateful that everyone was very understanding.
To you - Rexie, Icar, Mac, Dana, Sherwin, Blue, Mitch and Mac - thank you very much for being understanding! It means so much. You just made that one Friday afternoon a very memorable one.
Friday, January 16, 2004
This Week's Friday Five:
1. What does it say in the signature line of your emails?
Uhm, I think it's a line from one of the songs of Rent. "Without you,
2. Did you have a senior quote in your high school yearbook? What was it? If you haven't graduated yet, what would you like your quote to be?
My email signature is a quote I learned from my previous work and it is something that I would always like to tell people - "You can make a difference".
3. If you had vanity plates on your car, what would they read? If you already have them, what do they say?
Uhm, by vanity plates, are we referring to something like what Elle Woods has on her sports car - MZ BLOND? I guess mine would just be "Hunski".
4. Have you received any gifts with messages engraved upon them? What did the inscription say?
I don't remember any. Please give me one. Hehe!
5. What would you like your epitaph to be?
Haven't really thought about this but I guess I'd want my epitaph to say something along the lines of "Refused to be just another face in the crowd... Always strived to make a difference..."
Do yours here.
1. What does it say in the signature line of your emails?
Uhm, I think it's a line from one of the songs of Rent. "Without you,
2. Did you have a senior quote in your high school yearbook? What was it? If you haven't graduated yet, what would you like your quote to be?
My email signature is a quote I learned from my previous work and it is something that I would always like to tell people - "You can make a difference".
3. If you had vanity plates on your car, what would they read? If you already have them, what do they say?
Uhm, by vanity plates, are we referring to something like what Elle Woods has on her sports car - MZ BLOND? I guess mine would just be "Hunski".
4. Have you received any gifts with messages engraved upon them? What did the inscription say?
I don't remember any. Please give me one. Hehe!
5. What would you like your epitaph to be?
Haven't really thought about this but I guess I'd want my epitaph to say something along the lines of "Refused to be just another face in the crowd... Always strived to make a difference..."
Do yours here.
Thursday, January 15, 2004
Out of Sheer Boredom
This photo was taken last December 28 by best friend Eden. The day one of my best friends, Charmy, tied the knot with Erick. Being the prompt person that I am, I dragged Eden to the hotel just in time for the photo session with the bride.
Of course, we were the early bird awardees! Hehe! The photo session didn't take place after an hour passed by.
Anyway, since Eden and I had nothing to do, we played with the camera of her Nokia 3650. The photo above is one of the results of our playfulness. Hehe!
It was kinda inspired by this guy.
This photo was taken last December 28 by best friend Eden. The day one of my best friends, Charmy, tied the knot with Erick. Being the prompt person that I am, I dragged Eden to the hotel just in time for the photo session with the bride.
Of course, we were the early bird awardees! Hehe! The photo session didn't take place after an hour passed by.
Anyway, since Eden and I had nothing to do, we played with the camera of her Nokia 3650. The photo above is one of the results of our playfulness. Hehe!
It was kinda inspired by this guy.
Quick Shoutouts
Gawd! I miss my blog and I haven't been blogging much lately. I've been finding it hard to access the Net and my blog.
Anyway, a quick hi to blog friends.
Wayne: Hey funny man!!! :) Wassup with you? I hope you're still getting into the most hilarious situations. You provide badly needed humor to a lot of people, in case you dunno.
Bruce: Hi there Prof. Man, I miss our early morning (in my case) chats. How's work going? How are your students? Hope they're all well. Guess what I'll be starting to read later. "Me Talk Pretty One Day" by David Sedaris. I heard it's really good! Whoopee! What are you discussing in class now?
Patrick: Hey, PatCH! How's work? Still working hard? Can someone say "workaholic"? Heh heh! Just kidding, just kidding. Any out of town trips lately? Hope you and Greg are super okay.
Francis: Great to bump into you at the mall the other day. Of course, I see you in Rustan's!!! Heh heh! What can I say? We're both Rustan's babies! Heh heh.
Zeki: Hi there. I heard you gotta new barkada, ah. I'm really happy for you. I hope to see you soon.
Everyone: Sorry. Sorry. Sorry. Sorry. I haven't been blogging or reading your blogs. I promise I will once I adjust to this new crazy schedule.
Take care y'all. I miss blogging. I miss all of you. Cheers.
Gawd! I miss my blog and I haven't been blogging much lately. I've been finding it hard to access the Net and my blog.
Anyway, a quick hi to blog friends.
Wayne: Hey funny man!!! :) Wassup with you? I hope you're still getting into the most hilarious situations. You provide badly needed humor to a lot of people, in case you dunno.
Bruce: Hi there Prof. Man, I miss our early morning (in my case) chats. How's work going? How are your students? Hope they're all well. Guess what I'll be starting to read later. "Me Talk Pretty One Day" by David Sedaris. I heard it's really good! Whoopee! What are you discussing in class now?
Patrick: Hey, PatCH! How's work? Still working hard? Can someone say "workaholic"? Heh heh! Just kidding, just kidding. Any out of town trips lately? Hope you and Greg are super okay.
Francis: Great to bump into you at the mall the other day. Of course, I see you in Rustan's!!! Heh heh! What can I say? We're both Rustan's babies! Heh heh.
Zeki: Hi there. I heard you gotta new barkada, ah. I'm really happy for you. I hope to see you soon.
Everyone: Sorry. Sorry. Sorry. Sorry. I haven't been blogging or reading your blogs. I promise I will once I adjust to this new crazy schedule.
Take care y'all. I miss blogging. I miss all of you. Cheers.
Wednesday, January 14, 2004
What's Up?
It's been more than a week since I began my training with Convergys. In that span of time, I have memorized the fifty states America, the location of each state on the map and the timezones and regions of US, took a peek on the American family structure, American lifestyle, spending habits, and political structure, among other things. I have learned about the standard American accent and have been trying to have one. (The reason for this is because we'll be handling American customers.)
I have become acquainted with twenty, new people who I am still trying to get along with. In an overnight, I tried to drop all my expectations and just accept the things that may happen. In the beginning, it was easy. In the beginning, it was fun and enjoyable. But sometimes, when certain slightly unfavorable circumstances happen, one can't help but ask,
"What the heck am I doing here?"
It's not that one is a braggart or overly proud when one asks that question. It's just that one is aware of the reality and you remember how that certain movie goes right... Reality Bites. Once a person becomes aware of his capabilities, one just gets restless when a seemingly menial task is given to the person.
Oh well, my so-called new life is just starting. I know I must not be daunted by the slightest trials. I must continue to struggle and survive in this new world, in which I am strill trying to find my own niche.
And in spite of the things that are happening, I can't help but sing what Princeton sang,
"Something's coming. Something good."
It's been more than a week since I began my training with Convergys. In that span of time, I have memorized the fifty states America, the location of each state on the map and the timezones and regions of US, took a peek on the American family structure, American lifestyle, spending habits, and political structure, among other things. I have learned about the standard American accent and have been trying to have one. (The reason for this is because we'll be handling American customers.)
I have become acquainted with twenty, new people who I am still trying to get along with. In an overnight, I tried to drop all my expectations and just accept the things that may happen. In the beginning, it was easy. In the beginning, it was fun and enjoyable. But sometimes, when certain slightly unfavorable circumstances happen, one can't help but ask,
"What the heck am I doing here?"
It's not that one is a braggart or overly proud when one asks that question. It's just that one is aware of the reality and you remember how that certain movie goes right... Reality Bites. Once a person becomes aware of his capabilities, one just gets restless when a seemingly menial task is given to the person.
Oh well, my so-called new life is just starting. I know I must not be daunted by the slightest trials. I must continue to struggle and survive in this new world, in which I am strill trying to find my own niche.
And in spite of the things that are happening, I can't help but sing what Princeton sang,
"Something's coming. Something good."
Thursday, January 08, 2004
My New Place of Work
Image via Convergys.com
Yes, I've been bitten by the call-center bug.
I'm now on training with the Philippine arm of US-based Convergys Corporation. The name of the Philippine arm is Convergys Philippines Services.
What exactly does the company do?
According to the company profile, Convergys Corporation provides outsourced, integrated billing, employee and customer care software and services. The Company aims to forge long-term relationships with clients in employee and customer intensive industries (e.g. telecommunications, cable, broadband, direct satellite broadcasting, Internet services, technology, and financial services, among others).
The company provides service to its clients through two arms - the Information Management Group (IMG) and the Customer Management Group (CMG). I am part of the latter.
I told you before that my new place of work is very far from my previous work. I really never saw myself working for a call center. I think that it's not really for me.
But so far, things are going well. I'm having fun with my training and I've been learning a lot about the United States and its consumers. I hope that things would go really well so that I may stop referring to Convergys as "my place of work" and start calling it "my life".
This is it for now, I've got exams tomorrow on the states of US and the US timezones and regions.
Image via Convergys.com
Yes, I've been bitten by the call-center bug.
I'm now on training with the Philippine arm of US-based Convergys Corporation. The name of the Philippine arm is Convergys Philippines Services.
What exactly does the company do?
According to the company profile, Convergys Corporation provides outsourced, integrated billing, employee and customer care software and services. The Company aims to forge long-term relationships with clients in employee and customer intensive industries (e.g. telecommunications, cable, broadband, direct satellite broadcasting, Internet services, technology, and financial services, among others).
The company provides service to its clients through two arms - the Information Management Group (IMG) and the Customer Management Group (CMG). I am part of the latter.
I told you before that my new place of work is very far from my previous work. I really never saw myself working for a call center. I think that it's not really for me.
But so far, things are going well. I'm having fun with my training and I've been learning a lot about the United States and its consumers. I hope that things would go really well so that I may stop referring to Convergys as "my place of work" and start calling it "my life".
This is it for now, I've got exams tomorrow on the states of US and the US timezones and regions.
Tuesday, January 06, 2004
First Day at Work
So yesterday was my first day of work.
My alarm was set at 3:15 a.m. I woke up at 2:50 a.m. Got up at 3:09 a.m. Made my way out of the apartment at exactly 4:00 a.m. I then headed to the nearby convenience store to have my breakfast. I was the only customer when I entered the store. Well, me, the widely awake store crew, and a radio playing circa 80s Filipino music.
By 4:20, I finished my breakfast, popped three mints in my mouth and began my walk to the towering Enterprise Building where I was going to have my first day of training. Although I could have walked to my destination, I chose to take a cab. I had to because in spite of the cool 4 a.m. Manila temperature, I knew I would be sweating. Damn active sweat glands!!!
Two, maybe three, minutes later, I was standing at the deserted lobby of the Enterprise Center. Except for some very sleepy security men, there was only me who was looking for the elevator in the poorly lit lobby. It was only me who was heading to the seventh floor of the tower. For a second or two, I began to think whether the information my brother gave me was correct - five a.m. to one p.m. Or was he just playing a trick on me?
As I stepped out of the elevator, a large poster with smiling faces of people and the words "Welcome" greeted me. On the wall were huge carved letters in blue green that read Convergys. Yup, this is my new place of work.
I made my way to the reception area wherer there was only one guy and the security guard manning the reception desk. He greeted me politely and I reciprocated. He asked me to sign an attendance sheet and gave me my trainee ID.
I wrote this entry while sitting at the reception area of the company. Wish you could see me - clad in a new crisp white polo barong, charcoal gray pants (Christmas gift from Hunski), shiny square toed leather shoes. Completing my getup was my new power bag - a sleek, black canvas tote bag with leather trimming from Tyler (again another Christmas gift from Hunski).
As I wrote this entry, I kept on glancing at the clock by the reception area. I was told to be there twenty minutes before and being the prompt person that I am, I got there at exactly 4:40. Why do I never learn? Hehe! Of course, all my other team mates showed up a little after five and the activity for the day began at five fifteen. But that's okay. By now, I told myself that should be used to "Filipino time". I guess "Filipino time" will always be part of the Filipino culture.
I was more concerned with what the day had for me. But that's another entry I have to make.
Ciao!
So yesterday was my first day of work.
My alarm was set at 3:15 a.m. I woke up at 2:50 a.m. Got up at 3:09 a.m. Made my way out of the apartment at exactly 4:00 a.m. I then headed to the nearby convenience store to have my breakfast. I was the only customer when I entered the store. Well, me, the widely awake store crew, and a radio playing circa 80s Filipino music.
By 4:20, I finished my breakfast, popped three mints in my mouth and began my walk to the towering Enterprise Building where I was going to have my first day of training. Although I could have walked to my destination, I chose to take a cab. I had to because in spite of the cool 4 a.m. Manila temperature, I knew I would be sweating. Damn active sweat glands!!!
Two, maybe three, minutes later, I was standing at the deserted lobby of the Enterprise Center. Except for some very sleepy security men, there was only me who was looking for the elevator in the poorly lit lobby. It was only me who was heading to the seventh floor of the tower. For a second or two, I began to think whether the information my brother gave me was correct - five a.m. to one p.m. Or was he just playing a trick on me?
As I stepped out of the elevator, a large poster with smiling faces of people and the words "Welcome" greeted me. On the wall were huge carved letters in blue green that read Convergys. Yup, this is my new place of work.
I made my way to the reception area wherer there was only one guy and the security guard manning the reception desk. He greeted me politely and I reciprocated. He asked me to sign an attendance sheet and gave me my trainee ID.
I wrote this entry while sitting at the reception area of the company. Wish you could see me - clad in a new crisp white polo barong, charcoal gray pants (Christmas gift from Hunski), shiny square toed leather shoes. Completing my getup was my new power bag - a sleek, black canvas tote bag with leather trimming from Tyler (again another Christmas gift from Hunski).
As I wrote this entry, I kept on glancing at the clock by the reception area. I was told to be there twenty minutes before and being the prompt person that I am, I got there at exactly 4:40. Why do I never learn? Hehe! Of course, all my other team mates showed up a little after five and the activity for the day began at five fifteen. But that's okay. By now, I told myself that should be used to "Filipino time". I guess "Filipino time" will always be part of the Filipino culture.
I was more concerned with what the day had for me. But that's another entry I have to make.
Ciao!
Pinoy Trivia of the Week:
Feast of Black Nazarene via Tourism.gov.ph
A great majority of the Filipino population are Catholics. Some may be devout while others may be non-practicing. Whatever the case, the Philippines is popular for its Catholic customs and traditions which date back to the time when the country was a colony of Spain.
One of the most popular feasts takes place every January 9. On that day, thousands of people flock to the Quiapo Church in the city of Manila to participate in the famous devotional procession for the Feast of the Black Nazarene. It is only during this day that a life-sized statue of the suffering Jesus Christ, carrying the wooden cross on his shoulders, his wounded face depicting agony, is brought out of the church for a procession.
The pitch black statue is said to have been carved in Mexico from a particular blackwood. It arrived in the country via a galleon ship in 17th century.
During the feast day, thousands and thousands of devotees, both male and female, congregate in the Quiapo district hoping to get a glimpse of the statue as it moves in a procession. One may expect several devotees carrying handkerchiefs with hope that they may touch the statue. Several devotees believe that the statue is a miraculous one. It is for this reason that they make all efforts to touch the holy statue.
Feast of Black Nazarene via Tourism.gov.ph
A great majority of the Filipino population are Catholics. Some may be devout while others may be non-practicing. Whatever the case, the Philippines is popular for its Catholic customs and traditions which date back to the time when the country was a colony of Spain.
One of the most popular feasts takes place every January 9. On that day, thousands of people flock to the Quiapo Church in the city of Manila to participate in the famous devotional procession for the Feast of the Black Nazarene. It is only during this day that a life-sized statue of the suffering Jesus Christ, carrying the wooden cross on his shoulders, his wounded face depicting agony, is brought out of the church for a procession.
The pitch black statue is said to have been carved in Mexico from a particular blackwood. It arrived in the country via a galleon ship in 17th century.
During the feast day, thousands and thousands of devotees, both male and female, congregate in the Quiapo district hoping to get a glimpse of the statue as it moves in a procession. One may expect several devotees carrying handkerchiefs with hope that they may touch the statue. Several devotees believe that the statue is a miraculous one. It is for this reason that they make all efforts to touch the holy statue.
Monday, January 05, 2004
New Year, New Career
Gawd! I only got to log on to Blogger just now again. I didin't realize that I haven't been making entries since Saturday (!!!). Oh boy!
But don't worry, don't worry.
I have entries for everyone. I wrote them down on my little black notebook. I just haven't had the time to blog since my working hours has changed. It used to be seven to four with my old workplace but now it's five a.m. to one p.m.! Yup, you read that right.
So my body's still adjusting a bit to the whole thing. Promise to make my entries soon.
Hopefully tonight. Take care y'all.
Gawd! I only got to log on to Blogger just now again. I didin't realize that I haven't been making entries since Saturday (!!!). Oh boy!
But don't worry, don't worry.
I have entries for everyone. I wrote them down on my little black notebook. I just haven't had the time to blog since my working hours has changed. It used to be seven to four with my old workplace but now it's five a.m. to one p.m.! Yup, you read that right.
So my body's still adjusting a bit to the whole thing. Promise to make my entries soon.
Hopefully tonight. Take care y'all.
Friday, January 02, 2004
Of 2004 and Resolutions
There's something about this year that is making me especially optimistic and positive. I'm not sure if it has something to do with the fact that I'm now 24 (and people are telling me that 24 is such a good age) or there's just something about the numbers "2004" that's making me look forward to the whole year.
Anyway, backed by this enthusiasm and optimism, I found myself writing down my general plans for the year while I joined Hunski for breakfast at McDonald's. To be honest, I'm not really a big fan of the whole "New Year's Resolutions" tradition. This probably sounds ironic of me after making a recent entry on New Year's Eve traditions. I dunno. I guess I just wasn't motivated enough to keep my resolutions in the past years.
However, this year I told myself that it will be different. I should begin making plans and persevere to implement these plans as the months of the year ensue. And surprisingly, I found it quite easy to write down my plans for the year. It's not because they're general but probably because I know what I want and I just have to put them down into writing.
So here I am writing down my plans for the year. I placed my plans under five categories - Professional, Academic, Extra Curricular (Non-Profit), Extra Curricular (Profit Making), and Personal Growth. Let me know what you think. Are they attainable or unrealistic? Just be gentle with criticism. Hehe.
Professional
- Right now, all I can think of is to be involved with the Corporate Communications department of the new company I'll be working for even if that is not the department where I will be assigned.
Academic
- I'm on AWOL from graduate school (I know...I know...I'm not proud of it but here I am fixing stuff) and I plan to apply for re-entry to my graduate program.
- Save for graduate school.
- Continue searching for schools and scholariships abroad.
Extra Curricular (Non-Profit)
- Participate/initiate a volunteer activity once every quarter or if possible monthly.
- Attend one-day culinary courses.
- Attend arts and craft classes (e.g. photography, drawing, and the like)
- Take up French language classes.
Extra Curricular (Profit Making)
- Try (Force) self to produce one or two articles to be submitted to newspapers and magazines in a quarter.
- Bake goodies and consign the goodies at my Mom's canteen or any other venue.
- Try to participate in the small caterings conducted by my Mom.
- Coordinate the printing of University shirts that will be sold at my Mom's canteen.
- Try to get a second job (e.g. teaching position or part-time barista).
Personal Growth
- Find time and begin having a fitness/health activity once or twice a week.
- Payoff credit card debts.
- Save a small portion of my monthly salary and deposit it in the bank.
Personally, I think that the plans are attainable and realistic. The only difficult part for me in carrying out these plans is my financial limitations. I'm not getting that much from this new job I have because I have no experience in the field so I think there will be a need to tighten my belt. However, I'm hoping that I get to do the profit making extra curricular plans as these will be very helpful.
Uhm, in addition to these plans, I'm also hoping (more like wishing) that I finally find direction in my life as a whole and a unity of life. Whew! Sounds heavy eh?
Oh well, these are my plans. What about you? Have you already sat down and thought about what you want to do for 2004?
There's something about this year that is making me especially optimistic and positive. I'm not sure if it has something to do with the fact that I'm now 24 (and people are telling me that 24 is such a good age) or there's just something about the numbers "2004" that's making me look forward to the whole year.
Anyway, backed by this enthusiasm and optimism, I found myself writing down my general plans for the year while I joined Hunski for breakfast at McDonald's. To be honest, I'm not really a big fan of the whole "New Year's Resolutions" tradition. This probably sounds ironic of me after making a recent entry on New Year's Eve traditions. I dunno. I guess I just wasn't motivated enough to keep my resolutions in the past years.
However, this year I told myself that it will be different. I should begin making plans and persevere to implement these plans as the months of the year ensue. And surprisingly, I found it quite easy to write down my plans for the year. It's not because they're general but probably because I know what I want and I just have to put them down into writing.
So here I am writing down my plans for the year. I placed my plans under five categories - Professional, Academic, Extra Curricular (Non-Profit), Extra Curricular (Profit Making), and Personal Growth. Let me know what you think. Are they attainable or unrealistic? Just be gentle with criticism. Hehe.
Professional
- Right now, all I can think of is to be involved with the Corporate Communications department of the new company I'll be working for even if that is not the department where I will be assigned.
Academic
- I'm on AWOL from graduate school (I know...I know...I'm not proud of it but here I am fixing stuff) and I plan to apply for re-entry to my graduate program.
- Save for graduate school.
- Continue searching for schools and scholariships abroad.
Extra Curricular (Non-Profit)
- Participate/initiate a volunteer activity once every quarter or if possible monthly.
- Attend one-day culinary courses.
- Attend arts and craft classes (e.g. photography, drawing, and the like)
- Take up French language classes.
Extra Curricular (Profit Making)
- Try (Force) self to produce one or two articles to be submitted to newspapers and magazines in a quarter.
- Bake goodies and consign the goodies at my Mom's canteen or any other venue.
- Try to participate in the small caterings conducted by my Mom.
- Coordinate the printing of University shirts that will be sold at my Mom's canteen.
- Try to get a second job (e.g. teaching position or part-time barista).
Personal Growth
- Find time and begin having a fitness/health activity once or twice a week.
- Payoff credit card debts.
- Save a small portion of my monthly salary and deposit it in the bank.
Personally, I think that the plans are attainable and realistic. The only difficult part for me in carrying out these plans is my financial limitations. I'm not getting that much from this new job I have because I have no experience in the field so I think there will be a need to tighten my belt. However, I'm hoping that I get to do the profit making extra curricular plans as these will be very helpful.
Uhm, in addition to these plans, I'm also hoping (more like wishing) that I finally find direction in my life as a whole and a unity of life. Whew! Sounds heavy eh?
Oh well, these are my plans. What about you? Have you already sat down and thought about what you want to do for 2004?
This Week's Friday Five:
What one thing are you most looking forward to . . .
1. ...today?
Today, nothing important really. I'm staying here at home and just keeping myself busy with trivial stuff. Oh, I'm having dinner with grade school friends later. That's something to look forward to today.
2. ...over the next week?
This coming week? I would have to say that the biggest thing I am looking forward to is the new career I will embark on. I hope it turns out okay.
3. ...this year?
There are a lot of plans for this year - there's grad school, a small business perhaps, among others. I guess we'll just have to wait and see.
4. ...over the next five years?
Still contemplating on this one.
5. ...for the rest of your life?
Happiness and contentment. A good life.
Do yours here.
What one thing are you most looking forward to . . .
1. ...today?
Today, nothing important really. I'm staying here at home and just keeping myself busy with trivial stuff. Oh, I'm having dinner with grade school friends later. That's something to look forward to today.
2. ...over the next week?
This coming week? I would have to say that the biggest thing I am looking forward to is the new career I will embark on. I hope it turns out okay.
3. ...this year?
There are a lot of plans for this year - there's grad school, a small business perhaps, among others. I guess we'll just have to wait and see.
4. ...over the next five years?
Still contemplating on this one.
5. ...for the rest of your life?
Happiness and contentment. A good life.
Do yours here.
Thursday, January 01, 2004
Welcome 2004!!!
The onset of the coming year has always been a big thing for my family. I can't remember a time when my family did not merrily await for the clock to strike twelve on the night of December 31, announcing the arrival of a brand new year. Filled with hopes and dreams and just like the entire nation, we would light sparklers and various kinds of fireworks, blow trumpets, pump up the volume of the radio and welcome the New Year.
The celebration would end with a festive dinner called "Media Noche" (Spanish for midnight). The Media Noche has always been a tradition for the family. We may not have a Noche Buena (Christmas Eve dinner) but the Media Noche is something we always hold.
Similar to the previous years, my Mom and I would be the busy bodies cooking and preparing the food for the Media Noche while we await for midnight. This year, our menu lineup included Pasta with Red Sauce, Menudo (Not the 80s boy band but Pork Stew with Potatoes and Carrots... Hehe!) and the much familiar Hamon (Ham), Queso de Bola (Large Ball of Cheese), Palitaw (A Filipino food made from a glutinous dough, coated with Coconut Shreddings, and sprinkled with Sugar and Sesame Seeds), Fruit Salad and Hot Chocolate. My brother also added something new to the menu lineup for this year's Media Noche. He made his popular No Bake Marble Cheesecake. And I must admit he's becoming really good in making no bake cheesecakes.
Now, don't you wish you were part of my household? Hehehe!
Another thing that makes our New Year's Eve special are the customs and beliefs that we practice and adhere to ever since I was a kid. Okay, okay. Mostly, it's Mom who keep doing these superstitious beliefs but I do one or two of these things.
Here are two of our family's customs and beliefs on New Year's Eve:
1.) Make sure that you have lots of money in your pocket so that you will have a good financial year.
2.) Open windows, drawers, cabinets to let all the good luck in. (Of course, you are also letting in all the smoke from the fireworks so make sure you keep your clothes in a diffferent place.)
3.) There are twelve grapes on your plate for Media Noche. Make sure you finish them all as these will bring you good luck for the twelve months of the year.
(In addition to the two I just mentioned, my Mom does the following too.)
4.) Put several coins in a bowl and put right under running water from the faucet. (For material wealth I guess) After some time, gather the coins and scatter them in various parts of the house.
5.) Ligh several green candles on a plate and keep these burning til midnight. It is said that green is the symbol for money.
And the latest addition to her practices.
6.) My mom bought prosperity candles. The color of each candle corresponds to a certain aspect - Red is for Life, Yellow is for Good Spirit, Blue is for Peace, Violet for Material Wealth, Green is for Money, Pink is for Health, and Orange is for Brightness. If you think that lighting all these candles is all that we had to do, you're wrong.
We had to follow these instructions.
At exactly 11:30 p.m. of December 31, all the candles are lit. As the clock strikes twelve, the candles are all put out. The candles are then arranged from the smallest to biggest. According to beliefs, the candle that melt the quickest symbolizes the biggest fortune that the New Year will bring to you followed by the rest.
There you go. The traditions of our household on New Year's Eve. I guess now you're thankful you're not part of this household. Hehehe!!!
HAPPY NEW YEAR EVERYONE!!!
The onset of the coming year has always been a big thing for my family. I can't remember a time when my family did not merrily await for the clock to strike twelve on the night of December 31, announcing the arrival of a brand new year. Filled with hopes and dreams and just like the entire nation, we would light sparklers and various kinds of fireworks, blow trumpets, pump up the volume of the radio and welcome the New Year.
The celebration would end with a festive dinner called "Media Noche" (Spanish for midnight). The Media Noche has always been a tradition for the family. We may not have a Noche Buena (Christmas Eve dinner) but the Media Noche is something we always hold.
Similar to the previous years, my Mom and I would be the busy bodies cooking and preparing the food for the Media Noche while we await for midnight. This year, our menu lineup included Pasta with Red Sauce, Menudo (Not the 80s boy band but Pork Stew with Potatoes and Carrots... Hehe!) and the much familiar Hamon (Ham), Queso de Bola (Large Ball of Cheese), Palitaw (A Filipino food made from a glutinous dough, coated with Coconut Shreddings, and sprinkled with Sugar and Sesame Seeds), Fruit Salad and Hot Chocolate. My brother also added something new to the menu lineup for this year's Media Noche. He made his popular No Bake Marble Cheesecake. And I must admit he's becoming really good in making no bake cheesecakes.
Now, don't you wish you were part of my household? Hehehe!
Another thing that makes our New Year's Eve special are the customs and beliefs that we practice and adhere to ever since I was a kid. Okay, okay. Mostly, it's Mom who keep doing these superstitious beliefs but I do one or two of these things.
Here are two of our family's customs and beliefs on New Year's Eve:
1.) Make sure that you have lots of money in your pocket so that you will have a good financial year.
2.) Open windows, drawers, cabinets to let all the good luck in. (Of course, you are also letting in all the smoke from the fireworks so make sure you keep your clothes in a diffferent place.)
3.) There are twelve grapes on your plate for Media Noche. Make sure you finish them all as these will bring you good luck for the twelve months of the year.
(In addition to the two I just mentioned, my Mom does the following too.)
4.) Put several coins in a bowl and put right under running water from the faucet. (For material wealth I guess) After some time, gather the coins and scatter them in various parts of the house.
5.) Ligh several green candles on a plate and keep these burning til midnight. It is said that green is the symbol for money.
And the latest addition to her practices.
6.) My mom bought prosperity candles. The color of each candle corresponds to a certain aspect - Red is for Life, Yellow is for Good Spirit, Blue is for Peace, Violet for Material Wealth, Green is for Money, Pink is for Health, and Orange is for Brightness. If you think that lighting all these candles is all that we had to do, you're wrong.
We had to follow these instructions.
At exactly 11:30 p.m. of December 31, all the candles are lit. As the clock strikes twelve, the candles are all put out. The candles are then arranged from the smallest to biggest. According to beliefs, the candle that melt the quickest symbolizes the biggest fortune that the New Year will bring to you followed by the rest.
There you go. The traditions of our household on New Year's Eve. I guess now you're thankful you're not part of this household. Hehehe!!!
HAPPY NEW YEAR EVERYONE!!!
