My Birthday at Dos Palmas, Palawan

September 26, my birthday, but I'm far away from home, far from my family. I am with my highschool friends, officemate, and cousin at Palawan. It was an availed promo of an airline, so I don't really spend that much. But I must say, this is one of the most treasured birthdays I ever had.

Our first stop is the underground river, but because of the heavy rain shower and the strong current, it was canceled. Hence, we headed on to Dos Palmas instead. We had our breakfast at RAQ where we also stayed. I pamper myself with a shower, but after five (5) minutes, my companions were already knocking at my door telling me that the shuttle that would bring us to the ferry has arrived. But I just ignored them and continue with my shower. After another 5 minutes, they told me to hurry up for the shuttle would be leaving anytime soon. Good thing, I had finished my shower; however, I have not yet prepared my things. And so, I just throw in anything in my small bag. The clothes that I had put up is my clothes that I am supposed to wear for the underground river. My hair is so wet that time. Then, I surprisingly found out that we have companions from other hotels, so they really have to hurry me up.

It took us around 25 minutes before we arrived at the ferry, then around an hour from the ferry to our destination, the Dos Palmas. It was indeed raining, but the waves were not that time is not that strong. So, nothing to worry about, but have fun. It's my birthday anyway. Of course, photo shoot won't be missed. I even got to have a picture with the dive master, Kuya Manny, whom I get to have chums right away. I told him that it was my birthday, thus, he treated me a dive. [grin]

With Kuya Manny

Upon arriving at Dos Palmas, we were oriented of the do's and dont's. Unfortunately, we won't be able to enjoy snorkeling. The rain and wave already grew strong. Commoners told us that they hadn't experienced tyhpoon there. But, when it rains, it just means that it is Signal #3 at Manila; which we later on found out to be true. After the orientation, we take again some photos. Our adventure included kayak, with Kuya Manny as our official photographer. But the strong waves prohibited us to enjoy more of the water. We tried to continue or fun at the pool, but it is bloody cold. Thus, we just ate our early buffet lunch. The lunch is already included in our day tour that costs PhP1,600.00. But first, we have to pat ourselves dry.

The food is superb. What I enjoyed most are the seafood (specifically the shrimp) and the garlic chicken (their sauce is the best I ever tasted). I hardly remember the names of those food. I even failed to take pictures of it since I am already starving. [giggle] [burp] Before the lunch ended, I was able to acquaint myself to a nun. She knew that it was my birthday, she overheard it during the orientation. We even had picture together. She requested the live band that it was my natal day. And so, they sang a song for me. I was even asked to stand with them. After which, they requested me to sing a song. (I love singing, but the song hates me, LOL) But since it is my special day, I gave them their request. I sang 'Time After Time' with my dear friend Cathleen. What followed next? Videoke at the top of our lungs!

With Sister

With the Live Band

Videoke to the MAX

At 3PM, we were supposed to return at RAQ. But our guide told us to just stay for the night since it is not advisable to pass by the waves. Before which, we had news of some group who were stranded at a ferry that needed to be rescued by our photographer, I mean the dive master. Oh my! We were stranded at Dos Palmas! Instead of being scared and all, we were jumping with joy, ha ha. We had free accommodation and buffet dinner at Dos Palmas!

Our room then was E3, and it is lovely. A double bed, a queen sized bed, a sofa bed (where I slept), and a folding bed welcomed us. If we were about to pay for our accommodation, it will cost us PhP8,000 per night. But because we're stranded, we got them all for FREE! So, we do our usual photo shoot. We then took a shower, change our clothes (good that I had brought along extra clothes), and have our dinner by 7PM.

Free Accommodation at Dos Palmas

At dinner, you'll be overwhelmed. It is much more bountiful than that of the paid lunch. Even though it was free, they don't cut off their budget. Original guests count is only 9, the rest were all 'stranded guests' which includes the our group, 3 nuns, 2 couples, 1 newly wed, and 3 single ladies (one of which is my 'tukayo', as in Irish Cruz).

Free Buffet Dinner at Dos Palmas

The food that we had indulged with included shrimp, crabs, potatoes with cheese, pica pica bread (shrimp, onion, cheese), choice of pasta (bolognese, pesto, carbonara ~ I prefered pesto), pastries, and whole lot more. I even got to have a photo with the cake so that I can really feel that it was my birthday. The usher there was so courteous, he even carried the cake as if giving it to me. Their staff is really accomodating.

My Birthday Cake

While eating, the same live band from the afternoon lunch performed. They sing songs of the APO Hiking Society. They, once more, sang a Happy Birthday for me. But this time, the staff brought a slice of cake with candle (but I failed to take home) with a written 'Happy Birthday' on it. Sweet surprise. It's as if I am the host of the evening.



We again sing along with the live band, this time with Ate Beth. She sang 'Twuing Umuulan at Kapiling Ka'. Another companion, Joseph, sang Harana of APO. The bartender, Bong, jammed along and sang 'Sleep All Day' and 'Unwell'. With that, we failed to do the videoke 'coz someone else got the slot.

At the Bar

So we just stayed at the bar. It's time to treat my friends. I was suppose to treat them dinner. We had cosmopolitan, cranberry, and another that taste like mint. We also have tequila worth PhP650 per pitcher. And again, since it is my birthday, the birthday gave me a free drink. I was so excited. The freebie is called "smioker's delight", a mixture of 151 bacardi (meaning, 151% alcohol, that hard), blue curacao (this one's sweet, I agreed because he told me that it tastes like cough syrup and tempra ~ which I drank like water when I was still young ~ my fave, ha ha), and amaretto. I just can't hide my delight. So, the bartender do the mixing, placed it in the wine glass, then a blue flame to make it extra special. He poured it to another glass (turned the empty wine glass upside down) which I finished right away. He gave me a glass of water and is kinda nervous, ha ha. He placed a straw on the upside down glass then he made me sip in. I think the gas from the flame is what makes the drink strong. I was good, and have a good laugh. He get some coffee and cold water. As for me, I brought out my cholocate. I guess I am already feeling the strenght of the alcohol now. My face is already turning red, and in super red. Almost likened to the color of my dress. And my eyes seem to turn around ~ and round. It is my first time to get drunk ~ you know what your'e saying but you can't control yourself from saying so. I even got the feeling of vomiting (and that would be the first time too). The bartender is sweating cold that time, ha ha. But it's okay, I'll be fine.

We got back to the room a little early because of what happened. I had to hug Cathleen, or shall I say, they have to carry me toward my bed. But I still managed to laugh, ha ha. They even put waste can beside my bed. Then everything was history. [zzzzzzzzzzzzzz, ngork]

It was 6AM when we head on our way to RAQ. The rain was still showering hard, but the wind is not that strong. I know it's safe now to travel. Beside, the nuns were praying intently, and so I joined them. My birthday was a blast in Dos Palmas. I got to meet a number of lovely people. And my surprise ain't over. The owner of RAQ got a cake for me too. And there's more! Rocksteddy got to check in the same hotel as we had. So, I never let the moment pass me by. I got picture with Teddy.

My Birthday Cake from RAQ

With Teddy

That day (September 27) was a city tour and firefly watching at night. The following day, we were able to have our underground river (even though the current was still raging).

Everthing's nice at Palawan. If you were planning to have a trip there, RAQ pensione is a good choice. It was owned by a couple (Ms. Marianne Yee and Mr. Stephen Yee) situated at 361 Malvar St, Puerto Princesa City with contact number 09209240763. We would probably be there next year for El Nido. They also got package for such that costs PhP8600 for 3 days and 2 nights. Their travel agency will arrange everything for us. But they suggested to be there by summer to make it extra fun.

-----------------------------
This is a guest post by my sweetheart, my cousin, Irish Cruz Ü It's her birthday last September 26. Be kind and do greet her. :D

There is Good News Here

Well I guess Manila Bulletin would be generous enough to lend me their tag line for my post title. I just wanted to create a positive outlook after what had transpired in the Philippines for the past few days, with Typhoon Ondoy as the culprit (Or maybe we were the culprit, and Ondoy is just the medium used by Mother Nature to have her vengeance).

Everyone is aware of the aftermath caused by Ondoy. Hundreds of lives were taken, the latest could have reached more than 300 as of this writing. A few hundred were still missing (those that were taken note of only), thousands of affected families were still at the evacuation areas (with no where to go 'home' to), and millions of pesos were lost (house, furnitures, appliances, and vehicles). But beyond those figures, I would want to look into the 'Good News' that Typhoon Ondoy had brought the Philippines. In this times, Filipinos, once more, showed our love for our countrymen.



Numerous volunteers plagued GMA Kapuso Foundation, Sagip Kapamilya, and Red Cross among others. And aside from the flood and mud, relief goods also flooded relief operations. And there's more...

Just yesterday, I heard and read the news about a man who loses his own life after saving dozens from flood. If I remember it right, the last one that he saved was a few months old child. After which, he himself drowned in the flood. His mother was interviewed and is very proud for having a son who done heroic deeds in times of tragedy.

Also, a woman that was about to give birth was saved and successfully delivered her healthy baby. If not for the outstanding help of the Filipinos, she, together with her baby, may face death too early.

There had been a lot of this kind of heroic stories. I may be teary-eyed watching the news about the havoc brought about Typhoon Ondoy. But my heart is crying (joyfully) for the generous and loving hearts of Filipinos. Despite the tragedy, There is Good News Here. Ü

Never Been Outside

I have never been outside the country. I have been restricted from going outside the Philippines. I have to render 5 years of work here before I could finally clear my name. Being a DOST scholar, you have to commit yourself to work for your country equivalent to the years they had paid for your school needs. Well, I already rendered more than enough service here in our country, but I am too lazy to submit the requirements and clear my name. *giggle* Maybe because, I still don’t have the intention to visit foreign countries. My aim for now is to tour the Philippines and be amazed on the wonder, beauty, and richness of my country. After which, I could start planning my out of the country trip.

If given the chance, or enough money to spend outside the country, my would-be dream is to travel Europe. That dream is contributed by the movie ‘If Only’ where Jennifer Love Hewitt is the lead character. I fall in love with the movie, and I fall in love with the place, specifically, the London Eye. The place is dearly romantic.

London Eye

Seeing the Europe map, I guess after visiting the United Kingdom, the spot of the London Eye, I will also be traversing Paris, France and the Vatican City in Italy.

Does the moonlight shine on Paris? That one I have to confirm once I get there. Anyhow, I am thrilled at setting my foot in Paris because I wanted to personally experience the romance brought by the place. Yeah, it is influenced by the recently Tagalized TV show, “Lovers in Paris”.

Next in line is the Vatican City. Being a Roman Catholic, I would surely visit this place. I know there were a lot of things to do in Europe, but paying a visit in this city is a must for me. Well, I might as well visit all the places shown in the “Angels and Demons” movie. That’ll be a great adventure.

But, I am not seeing myself in those places anytime soon, but later. Possibly I would be setting my foot on Davao and Palawan’s ground first. Then eventually, flying my way to Europe; that is, if I already cleared myself from DOST. *wink*

Trick or Treat Me

I am aware that it is hard to feed children with healthy foods. Well I guess adults are equally hard to feed. But, we must also be conscious that a healthy lifestyle is vital in being able to live life to the fullest. Enjoying every second of your life and being able to do what you love is attainable if you are generously nourished. And a healthy practice started from childhood would remain as a religious practice once we grow old. Hence, good nutrition for youngsters is important for them to live healthy lives.

Knowing how important good nutrition is, and just in time with the upcoming Halloween, a Trick Or Treat Me campaign had been launched to provide a number of benefits. Foremost, it serves as a resource for parents for wonderful tips with regard to healthy living. Also, they commit to provide some grand trick or treat ideas this coming season.

On top of this health concern, the said campaign is an advocate of ‘saving our environment’ too. They got Trick Or Treat Me on Twitter; which will donate 10c to the World Wildlife Fund for every tweet you send. This is so timely with what had transpired in the Philippines last weekend with the raging Typhoon Ondoy. It is just a matter of seconds to tweet; and it is a matter of life and death that we’ll be able to help.

Not My Usual Monday Mornings

Today is not my usual Monday mornings. It is not hard for me to ride a bus. In fact, upon arriving at Pulilan, I got to ride on immediately. Aside from that, there are so many vacant seats. I need not to stand for more than an hour. More so, there was no traffic, from Rocka to NLEX to Balintawak, until I arrived at GMA, there is no heavy traffic along the way. But am I happy with that? Definitely NOT!

I could have wished that there was heavy traffic at NLEX. It just means that there is no suspension of classes. It just means that there's no calamity that happened. The bus that I'm at is showing Unang Hirit of GMA7. And I am really holding back my tears from what I've been seeing. I am moved by this tragedy that happened. And I am among the lucky few who had not been affected by Typhoon Ondoy.



I am planning to be a volunteer of GMA Kapuso Foundation later, after office. Aside from prayers, it's the least that I can do to help those that are badly affected by the Typhoon.

I can't imagine how am I going to surpass that tragedy if I am among those who have to stay at their rooftops for 12 hours, with no food, no drinks, nothing, but soaking wet clothes. Mother Nature is already reminding us how cruel she might get if we continue to take her for granted. Instead of cursing our government officials, let us all do our part. After all, these officials were not the one's who are suffering from these calamities; but we, the common Filipinos.

Anyhow, I am delighted by those who have generous hearts who, in one way or another, extended their help to the victims of Typhoon Ondoy. Just shows that we Filipinos still love each other after all. May God Bless the Philippines!

Win Free Ugg Boots Each and Every Month

Wikipedia defines Ugg boots (sometimes called uggs or ug boots) as a style of unisex sheepskin boots lined with wool on the inside and with a tanned outer surface. Ugg boots often have a synthetic sole, although this is not universal. Uggs have been considered a fashion trend since the early 2000s.

So, if you want to win FREE Ugg Boots, check Whooga Ugg Boots and follow the 2 simple steps posted there. I just did Ü

Oftentimes, I don't feel like joining contests if it would require me linking a long list of sites, using other social networking sites, and a number of steps to follow before being qualified. At the same sense, I'm more into contests that would be chosen randomly rather than via pointing system. So, if you're of the same prerogative, this one's easy. Click on the image below to join.



Good luck to all of us!

Just Got Lucky

Yesterday is my lucky day. And let me tell you the story.

If it is only a dream, then I wouldn't want to wake up yet. It is Too Good To Be True. I had proudly confessed that I am a Chris Pacana fan. And it is through the blog I made for him that I got to show my support, thinking it could somehow add encouragement for him to play his best each game. And so, I have been religiously updating that blog as much as I could. But I never imagined nor dreamed that 'that simple blog' could bring me close not only to him, but to his parents as well.

Her mother does the first move of sending me message. And for a fan, that was a very pleasant surprise. She sent her deepest appreciation for the support I have been giving to her son. And that I had a special place in their hearts. WOW! That is so rewarding! And what could be a more perfect treat for a fan like me to have watched Chris playing while I am seated at the courtside beside his parents. The lovely couple is so so so nice that they had painted a smile in my face...until now. I had posted my fairy tale like encounter with Chris and his parents at his blog, please read it here (Too Good To Be True).

C'mon, you have to read it first before you continue reading the succeeding paragraphs. Thanks much!

--> Too Good To Be True <--

If you had read my Tatakbo Ka Ba? experience, you might recall that I had been star struck by Nonito Donaire. And so, I grabbed the chance to have a picture with him.

Me with Nonito Donaire

In the Hoop for Life, there had been raffle draws after every quarter. And unbelievably, I won a basketball.

Susie, Me, and Chris' Mom

Too bad, I was not able to ask Chris to have his autograph on it. I don't have a pentel pen that time anyway. Nonetheless, I completed my lucky night with a picture with him...

The fan and the idol

...and with his parents as well.

Chris' parents and me

Of course I won't be selfish not to let my companions (my angel and my highschool bestfriend) enjoy the event. So, we take photos of each player we bumped into after the event. I am forced to pose with other PBA players for my bestfriend. She's way too shy. But if I'd have a choice, I would only be posing with Chris Pacana and Kerby Raymundo, :P. Here you go with the pictures:

Gabe Norwood and my angel

Kelly Williams and my angel

My angel and Sol Mercado

Ali Peek and Susie

Jimmy Alapag and My angel

Susie, My angel, and Jared Dilinger

And as we sent ourselves home that night, I sent Chris' Mom, my fairy, a message extending my heartfelt gratitude for the nicest and sweetest surprise she had given me. If ever I'll be given another chance of meeting her, I'll surely bring something for her and her hubby. It's the least that I can do to show my gratefulness.

Oh well, blogging had already brought sooooooo much for me. With earning money online on the sideline, it is really the heart-warming feeling like this that cannot be bought by $$$. I so so love to be a blogger. I Just Got Lucky!

Maintain Your Weight

I had received the final result of my APE last September 10. And I was glad to find out that EVERYTHING'S NORMAL. More so, the recommendation indicated in my examination result is "Maintain Your Weight". WOW! That's something I am thrilled about. But I guess maintaining my weight is not that easy. Last year, I got the same results, but I was only 49.5kg then. This year, I weighed 50.8kg. If the same thing will happen, I would be 52.1kg by next year.

Well, me and my office mate got plans of having an "all fruits diet". I don't know if we could endure that, but I guess it is healthy anyway. Am I right Doc Z? :P

Flying Without Wings

Earlier, when I was on my way to work, the bus I am riding to played a sort of Westlife On Tour Collection. That makes me reminisce their songs that I had fallen in love with. And this one's my all-time favorite:

Flying Without Wings

I don't know if it's an original song, but I do love their version, as well as their music video. And while everyone's cheering for Shane, my eyes are glued at Mark's. I wonder if his eyes are true-blue, or is it just contacts. As for my favorite line:

Well, for me it's waking up beside you
To watch the sunrise on your face
To know that I can say I love you
In any given time or place

So sweet. My angel sang that song to me when we were at Music 21. Ü

What's the Popular Score of Your Name?

Ever wondered how many people around the world share the same name as you are? Or were you after knowing the most popular names over the net? Well, I am. I had found this Names Directory site and try how it works.

As I searched for my name, Madelin, the site returned a long list of common surnames for my name. Oh well, I found my name together with my surname there. And for entertainment, as what the site states, the popularity score of my name is 1,550,000. I also find there common misspellings and typos for my name.

With my curiosity, I checked the popular names page. I had found out there that the most common one is Saddam Hussein. Interestingly, it had been followed by Albert Einstein. And so I checked the popularity score of Saddam. Wow! It was 89,600,000. My name is too way unpopular.

How about you? What’s the popularity score of your name?

Fire Fall Down Promo Finalist

I had joined an online contest last June. My post then was entitled "Eternally". Surprisingly, I had been a finalist of the said contest. Yesterday, we had a photo op with the Fire Fall Down promoter. Since it rained, there were only a couple of us who had attended. The other one is the winner of the iTouch. Lucky him. As for me, here's what I got.




A small sized shirt of the Fire Fall Down and their album entitled Commissioned. Well, this is one of the many Perks of Being a Blogger.

Vegas MGM

I failed to watch yesterday’s episode of Kap’s Amazing Stories that featured top 10 luxurious honey moon destinations all over the world. I only overheard a few, but not sure if Vegas MGM had been one of the featured destinations. Have you watched the episode?

MGM Grand

From the above MGM Hotel Image, it already depicts why it had been stated as the second largest hotel in the world and second largest hotel resort complex in the United States. It would definitely be hard to spend only a day to tour all over the place. From the hotel’s amenities, you’ll surely have a blast pampering yourself. Its 30-floor main building features five outdoor pools, rivers, and waterfalls, convention center, the MGM Grand Garden Arena, CBS Television City, and the Grand Spa. On top of that are the numerous shops and night clubs, 16 restaurants, and the largest casino in Clark Country.

Hmmm, if I’m going to spend a day at Vegas MGM, foremost, I’ll take a plunge in its grand pool. Although I don’t know how to swim, simply enjoying the water will surely make me forget all the worries in my head. And since I will surely get hungry after that plunge, I’ll hop on a few restaurants and taste their mouth-watering specialties. And I won’t forget ordering an ice cream or brownie ala mode for dessert.

After filling up my stomach, I’ll spend the rest of the afternoon at the Grand Garden Arena. Hope there would be a concert there of my favorite band, or simply an athletic event. An Olympic would be a great one. Oh, shall I see Kevin Garnett there? That would really be amazing.

At the end of the day, when I get dead tired of my day’s activities, I will surely spend an hour or two at the Grand Spa before I lull myself to sleep. I could already imagine the steam bath, the ginger tea, the soothing massage, and my sound sleep. Oh, a day at Vegas MGM will really be a wonderful one if I had the love of my life beside me; plus, if we have all the money to spend there too. We will surely have quality moment at the showcased Entertainment at MGM. How about you? How do you picture yourself spending a day at Vegas MGM?

Build to Last

I had been long talking about My Bestfriend's Wedding and how excited I am about it. Yesterday is the day that she ended her single life to start a new family with her husband. I almost cried as I saw her walk down the aisle. Of course, I took a special part on her day, I am one of her Bride's Maid.


Even though there had been some mistakes in the ceremony (the veil and cord had been forgotten), it still end up well meaningfully. It is still their LOVE for each other that had transpired all throughout.

The reception that followed is well prepared. In the tables, instead of numbers, they had used names of places they had been instead. As the newly wed entered the hall toward their gazebo, their theme song had been played -- Build to Last by Melee.

They were really Build to Last

The food was satisfying, the host had done her part well, and the visitors also took their parts in the program. I did not took part in the catching of bouquet, I said I am already engaged, LOL! I believe that part is really made for 'certified singles' anyway. I am happy just being an audience of the simple yet lovely wedding of my high school best friend.

Congratulations Mr. and Mrs. Jose Recelsan Caisido!!! Take good care of each other. And keep the fire of love burning!

Interview With a Doctor

Finally, I would have the opportunity to meet Doc Z, the doctor and the poet who captured the admiration of girls. Whew! I was honored having the chance to interview him. There he was. Seated in a table for us - just on time. I wondered if he would recognize me. And so I approached him and said, "Hi Doc Z, it's me -- Madz. Thanks for accepting my invitation. I wouldn't take NO for an answer anyway." Then I laughed a bit.

Doc Z - as if he had read my mind uttered, "Hi Madz! Of course, I'd recognize you.I saw your running shoes as you tried to get inside the restaurant." Then we both of us burst into laughter.

To start of our interview session, I asked him to order our meal first, "So, what do you want to eat? C'mon Doc Z, it's your treat anyway," I giggled.

With a smile on his face, Doc Z replied, "Ah, since it's my treat and I am starved right now, why don't we order the main course already. I'll have Beef Salpicao please. We can share it Madz - 70/30 he he he. Okay, I'll add Enseladang Manga." We had placed our order to the waiter and then we headed on to my interview portion while waiting for the food.




"So Doc Z, are you ready for my first question?" I nervously asked. Then I continued, "Don't worry, I will allow you to ask questions back if you wanted to. My first question would be, since your favorite subject is Biology, can you name all the bones of the human body - from head to toe? What I just clearly remember was femur, the largest part. Am I right?" I tried to refrain from laughing, hee hee.

Surprised, he answered, "Yikes! What bones?" Then he laughs. "Geez, I may be a doctor but my memory wont be able to recall all those 206 bones. But you are right about the femur, it is the longest. Don't you also like Biology other than Math? I used to be good in Math, but you know the saying, "use it or lose it." I got a little, err, -- rusty. A friend of mine asked me to help her with Algebra and guess what? We got the wrong value for 'x.' He he he."

"Oh, it's pretty alright Doc Z, I'm a bit rusty too", and then we laughed some more. "Hope I could still remember the derivative of sine and tangents. Anyway, that wasn't really part of my questions. Just wanted to make you sweat - just what Jan had told me." Then I posed my silly smile, he he.

"So, if you could turn back time Doc Z, will you still be a doctor? Or would you rather be on a different field? Well aside from being a creative writer of course. I guess you will always be one despite your chosen field of endeavor."

"Uhm, Madz, I was temporarily distracted by the order of our neighbor. Can we also request for those yummy looking fried cheese rolls?" the doctor said. I peeked at our neighbors, "Sure sure, no problem," and then I smiled. We put on our additional order as our Beef Salpicao and Ensalada arrived.



Doc Z continued, "Okay. Ah, if did not become a doctor? Well, that would depend on two things. After high school I was accepted at Mapua Institute of Technology (MIT) in my first choice of Electronics and Communications Engineer (ECE). I guess that would have been what I had been doing for almost ten years now," And then he laughed out loud.

"That's interesting Doc Z! I almost shifted from being a Computer Engineer to ECE too," I interrupted.

"Another point where I could not have become a doctor was after taking my Pre-Med course. Then, I would have become a Biologist. Would probably have taken up a Master's Degree and taught at a University, I hope. Well, that's just being idealistic. Of course, there could have been a number of other professions I would have been. I was just lucky to have the support of my parents in my chosen field."

"You are indeed very lucky Doc Z. Well, I dreamed of being a doctor too in my younger years. I wonder how I lost that dream," I replied as I shrugged by shoulders.

"Maybe you were bound to become an Engineer than to become a doctor, Madz. I'm sure you are also happy with your chosen career."

"I am indeed happy Doc Z.", my eyes smiled.

"Okay, next question, how close are you with your family? Your parents and your siblings."

With enthusiasm, Doc Z replied, "There are only four of us in the family, so, we are kinda stuck together. he he he. We always say "I love you" to each other whenever we have the chance. Cheesy, huh? But that's how we were brought up."

"That's wonderful!" I exclaimed, "I totally understand, I always do too to my mother. Well, I guess we just have so many things in common, huh?" I paused.

"Let's put some spice now Doc Z, care to share EVERYTHING about your LOVE LIFE",
I teasingly asked him.

Then he hurriedly replied, "Waaaaa... I think you'll get more answers from me if we talk about the Universe or some other stuff. You will get bored with the love life of a poet slash doctor and would rather listen to the ramblings of a five year old," and then he posed a sweet smile.

"No poetic doctor, I cannot accept that answer!" shaking my head. "That's what all the girls who adored a Sen. Trillanes look alike wanted to know. C'mon, I am all ears here." I implored.

Seriously now, the Doctor replied, "Yikes! I wouldn't want to make my lovely interviewer all fired up. Let's just say that a lot of the inspirations from the poems I wrote from the heartaches and turmoils from my love life. So, it would be like torturing me if we talk about them." His tears welled up as if about to cry, then suddenly he blew his nose.

"Okay, can we just talk about the recent one?" I asked once more, trying to squeeze a little information out of him as he tried to wipe off an unfallen tear from his eyes. "Oh, I'm sorry, am I being rude now Doc Z?" I curiously asked.

With a quite husky voice, the Doctor replied, "I guess, the 'rub the onions in my eyes' routine doesn't work on you." He paused. "Yeah, I am really more comfortable if we'd rather talk about something else." then he flashed his sweet smile.

Moving on, I changed the topic. "Ayt, let's move forward Doctor Don't-Want-To-Talk-About-Love.," and then I giggled wishing to not create any friction on our conversation. "Honestly, I admire you. You're a doctor, you're a poet, you're playing badminton, and you're very close to your family. An almost perfect life, huh? So, my next question would be, what is that one goal that you are still pursuing? It could be that you wanted to travel the world, specialize in a field
of medicine, or anything."

Getting back on his feet, Doc Z replied with interest, "I am still pursuing my dream. As a specialist in Internal Medicine, I want to subspecialize further, something I had put on hold. Maybe somewhere in the line of Gastroenterology, but that would still depend on a lot of factors. If I get a chance to work on something different, say in a different line in Medicine, then why not. That part of my future is still vague and I would need to re-evaluate myself to find the answer to that question," and then he took a deep breath. I listened attentively as he continued, "In writing, I have dreamed of making a book. I just hope that would be in the near future. Maybe a compilation of poems, collection of short stories, or a novel. I just wish I have the means to do all of these stuff right now. he he he."

This brings curiosity to Doc Z, and so he asked, "How about you Madz, what do you aspire to accomplish?"

I was quite startled, I guess I was not ready to answer my own question, "Hmmmm..." I looked blankly from afar, "When I was still studying, I dreamed of climbing the corporate ladder. But as I submerged myself into programming, I felt like I am more of a team player rather than a leader. So, my climb had been put into a stop. I guess I am really destined to be a programmer, I always took pleasure in developing applications. In my current work, an office best friend had re-lived my dream of climbing the ladder once more. But as I saw them in that level being deprived of their social life, or worse, their family life, I already killed that dream," and then I paused, somewhat hesitant to continue.

Doc Z read my mind and told me, "Please don't stop talking. I am holding on to every word."

With the doctor interestingly listening to my answer, I continued, as if I was daydreaming, "Honestly, I am looking forward to exchange vows with the love of my life."

"That's great! Don't forget to invite me at your wedding," Doc Z interrupted.

I continued as if I didn't hear him invite himself, "First, we are still planning to build a house. Funny, but when I was in grade two, I dreamt of being a housewife. I didn't know -- probably women were given this kind of a heart. I wanted to wake up and prepare my Angel's breakfast, I wanted to take care of the kids myself, and I wanted to make sure that my angel would have a healthy dinner when he got home from work. But I wouldn't be contented being just a plain housewife, I wanted to be a full time freelance programmer with a lot of projects to deal with. As for something that I guess would be that far to reach -- that would be having my own small outsourcing company offering packaged software to companies. Want to try my services Doc Z?" And then I laughed, felt like I had said too much. I forgot that I was the interviewer, not the interviewee, LOL!

The Doctor got me there that time. "As for my final question, if you could talk to someone who already passed away, who would that be and what would you say?"

"That's a tough question Madz. Let me see,"he replied as he looked outside the window.

"There are two people in my family that I would like to talk to. The first one never knew me, but I want to talk to my great great grandfather. He is a poet in my father's side of the family. It was through his writings that made me want to continue with the family, err, "talent" in writing poetry. His name is Gabriel Andaya he wrote for 'Liwayway Magazine.' I kept looking for his works online, but there weren't any. Good thing that most of the clippings from the magazines were stored in a scrap book. Unfortunately, it's with my uncle at Sydney. I will get hold of them and make a blog about him one of these days.

Another one is a Grandfather on my mother's side, Isagani Izon, he won "Ang Bagong Kampeon" and he used to rival Pepe Pimentel during his time. Unfortunately he died of Liver Cirrhosis, I think."

Doc Z continued, "It would have been interesting to know them and finally appreciate my heritage. A singer on one side and a poet on another."

"Wow! So that explains why you are good -- great rather, in poetry and in singing too. Care to sing a Bon Jovi hit for me?" and then I laughed.

With so much enthusiasm, Doc Z replied, "Send in the band and make sure that the audience is ready with a tablet of Aspirin at hand so they can tolerate the headache that will come out of my singing. he he he. I am more of an Alternative Rock kinda guy, but that genre doesn't seem to suit me. So, most of the time, I just stick with writing poetry," and we both laughed our hearts out.

"That's my last question Doc Z. I really had fun knowing you more. You are a man of sense. So, let's play badminton?" I asked.

He replied, "Sure Madz!"

You Gotta See This Video Contest

I am supposedly doing my programming tasks last week. However, my installer just won’t work properly. With that, I got no other thing to do but to hop around the web all day. Suddenly, my interest in searching for contests finds its life.

My first few searches provided me a compilation of contests in a single URL. Most of them only accept residents from US. With much disappointment, I sighed for I am not qualified to join. Then, I had found out several more, but I am not fitted to join; simply because I am not that artistic, or shall I say, I am not confident with my artistic talent.

There are also contests all over the web that won’t require you to own a site. One of which is the iLASIK Video Contest entitled, “You Gotta See This”. The prizes were inviting. First Prize is an HDTV package worth $2,500. Second Prize is The Flip Ultra HD™ camcorder worth $199.99. The aim of the video contest is to show the world the importance of BETTER VISION for an IMPROVED LIFE.



To join:

1. Submit Your Video. The video should be relevant to one of the categories presented in their site.
2. Tell Your Friends To Vote. Similar to any other contests, a big factor of determining the winner is via votes. So better tell your friends to vote for your video to get a greater chance of winning.
3. Have A Chance To Win. Aside from the First and Second Prizes I mentioned earlier that will be given per category, there is also One Grand Prize of $5,000 to be selected from all the submitted videos, regardless of the category.

If you have the talent, imagination, and creativity, I suggest you join the contest and don’t let the opportunity to win slip from your hands.

A Level Higher

Last Wednesday, I attended the leveling for our company's Badminton Tournament. I was kinda hesitant to join the tournament for I really don't wanna go home late at night and have to go to work early the following morning (Well, unless it's a date with my angel, LOL!). But, since I am really into 'sports' now, because I wanted to be fit and eliminate excess fats in my body, I joined.

I had fun playing badminton that night. I had perspired a lot. And I did my best too. If my office mate saw it right, I am level 3. 'twas a level higher from my level 2 years ago. Wow! I never thought that I had improved even it was already a long time since I last played.

I still don't know when will the tournament start. But no matter when, I know I will be enjoying the game. I am not there to compete anyway, I am there to play -- and have fun.

Haven't got any pictures of the leveling activity, so I just have here my badminton pictures 2 years back. I am part of the Blue Team.

Travel Time

When I was still working at the Provincial Government of Bulacan, I had enjoyed the pleasure of having the minimal travel time from house to work. It will only took me around 45 minutes to 1 hour. Since I'll be out by 5PM, I was able to reach home even before 6PM. It took me 3 years of service before I finally decide to come out and challenge myself in a different company.

This time, I served Smart Communications. It was in Ayala at Makati. My travel time then, at most, is 3 hours. I have to leave home by 5:30AM just to reach the office by 8:30AM. It was so tedious. Feels like I already lost 50% of my energy from the MRT to the queue in the air-conditioned jeepney underneath the Ayala MRT Station. Not to mention my almost always overtime 7 times a week.

I had searched for a rent to own house that is ready for occupancy nearby, but I always failed. Until one day, I am in tears going to the office. I guess there's just no more reason for me to be happy there. I don't fit the culture. I don't fit the job (I am an Applications Development Analyst there. But I am a Programmer by Heart). My health is at risk. So, with only 7 months of employment, I filed my resignation.

My next service is here at my current company, where I enjoy the benefits of a super flexible time schedule. Hence, the travel time is not a factor at all. Most especially, I need not to toil for a seat at MRT. That is too much of a relief. I have been here for 2 years and 5 months now. However, just recently, I decided not to abuse my 'flexi' schedule by trying to be at office by 8AM, or even earlier (I can leave earlier anyway). Also, I wanted to discipline myself, for that 'flexi' schedule is just making me lazy. And it is not really a problem at all. But I guess, it is just human not be contented on everything.

With a little mathematics, I had computed the amount of time I have been wasting daily. My travel time is between 1.5 to 2 hours (one way). Thus, back and forth, my travel time amounted to almost 4 hours daily (provided there is no heavy traffic at Cloverleaf-Balintawak, Muñoz, and GMA-Timog). On top of that, is the recent increase in the bus fare (from PhP 59, now PhP 63). Add it up to my tricycle fare which is PhP 25. So, in a day, I have been spending PhP 176. Good it is that we have a PhP 120 meal allowance (strictly consumable at our company's canteen). So, how much is that for a week, or a month? Well, as for the money, I know I will still be spending that much just in case I decided to rent an apartment nearby. But how about the time? It simply deprives me of something more valuable to do, than sit on a bus and be forced to watch whatever is being shown on TV.

I had tried to look for a rent to own house and find the Francesca Towers really attractive, only to find out that is way toooooooooo expensive. I guess I will just be contented living in the province, than mingle with the chaos here in the city. My sister is my role model. She has been working at Makati City for around 5 years now (I think). And she has been travelling back and forth (Bulacan-Makati) DAILY. Where does she get all the energy to withstand it for 5 long years? I really salute her for that.

Well, I just got to have a little more sacrifice with regards to my travel time. Eventhough I have been depriving myself from a long sound sleep lately, I have been getting my encouragement from this thought: "I can have a lot of those (sleep) when I die", LOL!

Lady Gaga's Poker Face

Can’t read my, can’t read my
No he can’t read my poker face
(She’s got to love nobody)

P-p-p-poker face, p-p-poker face
P-p-p-poker face, p-p-poker face
(She’s got to love nobody)

The above lyrics is one of the latest craze today, popularize by Lady Gaga. The first time I hear it, I got lost with the lyrics, until I had watched it someone sang it with the lyrics showed on TV. So, the song’s title is Poker Face. With interest, I tried to look for information about poker in order to know what Lady Gaga is trying to imply. And Wikipedia answered me with these:

“Poker is a family of card games that share betting rules and usually (but not always) hand rankings. Poker games differ in how the cards are dealt, how hands may be formed, whether the high or low hand wins the pot in a showdown (in some games, the pot is split between the high and low hands), limits on bets and how many round of betting are allowed.”

I said, “What again?” I find it confusing that a high or a low or even between high and low can win the pot. How could that be? I am puzzled this time. As I browse further, I learned that the most popular poker game is Texas hold’em, hold’em, or simply holdem. It is such another mystified word for me.

Since words can’t help me make understand what poker is, even hold’em; what better way to educate myself than a video, eh? I found a “How to play Texas Hold’em video” from YouTube. It shows the basic rules of poker for beginners. It was posted by a certain website; which sooner, I learned to be a sort of learn hold’em school. Well, it’s understandable, I’m not into gambling. I am not fully aware of anything about it.

Alright, back to Lady Gaga’s Poker Face, I guess she was just using Poker as something that is synonymous to a relationship or situation that she is currently on. Well, as far as the song is concerned. I guess every song is interpreted depending on the listener’s perception. No one’s right or wrong.

It's Because of the Rain

I should have been in the Bonifacio High Streets right now, running in the Eco Dash Environmental Run, if not for the rain. I had prepared everything last night. I had woke up at 2AM. But the rain just keep on stopping me from going. I had already taken a bath, even it is cold. But the rain keeps on pouring. So, me and my cousin decided to just stay at home.

And since I had already killed my sleepiness, I had resorted to reading blogs of my friends and doing some blog hops to those who leave me some comments. Then I find these anonymous comments from my post I Will Not Watch Kimmy Dora. I would have wanted to create a post for it, but no, I already explained myself there. And it should not really be an issue.

Anyhow, until now, it is raining. I just waited for my hair to dry up before I lull myself to sleep once more. So how should I say good night now? It's already 6:30 AM! :D

Is Medical Field Your Endeavor?

When I accompany my mother in her check-up in a nearby hospital, she had undergone the general check-up. And as I escort her to each laboratory or room, I wonder why these persons have been inclined to medical science. I believe that their kind of work is hard, but very important. It also comes to my knowledge that there are a lot of specializations in the medical field that one can pursue. There are a variety of programs to choose from. A few of these programs include the Vocational Nursing, Psychiatric Technician, Ultrasound Technology also known as Diagnostic Medical Sonography (DMS), MRI Technology, and the Radiologic Technology. Each field plays a vital role in the medical field. If you pursue with such career, you will then, play a vital role in your endeavor.

Tag Time

I have been tagged by a blogger friend from Fe's Journey of Life. This tag included a number of questions (that is so random) that would enable your readers to know you more. So here we go:

1. What time did you get up this morning? 7am, I think. Yeah, I know, its too late.
2. How do you like your steak? Well done. Basta 'yung galing sa Snackaroo, the best!
3. What was the last film you saw at the cinema? If not Transformers, Ice Age 3 (3D). Sorry, poor memory.
4. What is your favorite TV show? I don't watch TV.
5. If you could live anywhere in the world where would it be? Beside my angel. (Cheesy!)
6. What did you have for breakfast? Rice, egg, fish, and milo.
7. What is your favorite cuisine? Italian.
8. What foods do you dislike? Strawberry, laing, ampalaya, sardines, too many to mention, ha ha.
9. Favorite place to eat? Trinoma food court
10. Favorite dressing? NA, ha ha
11. What kind of vehicle do you drive? Ni hindi nga ako marunong tumawid ng kalsada eh, magdrive pa? he he.
12. What are your favorite clothes? Jeans, shirt, rubber shoes
13. Where would you visit if you had the chance? London
14. Cup 1/2 empty or 1/2 full? Half full, positive thinker.
15. Where would you want to retire? At home, with my kids, and my angel.
16. Favorite time of day? uwian, ha ha
17. Where were you born? Pulilan, Bulacan
18. What is your favorite sport to watch? PBA, basketball
19. Who do you think will not tag you back? I won't tag any, so no one.
20. Person you expect to tag you back first? NA.
21. Who are you most curious about their responses to this? NA
22. Bird watcher? Yeah.
23. Are you a morning person or a night person? I guess I'm a night person.
24. Do you have any pets? At Pet Society, he he.
25. Any new and exciting news you'd like to share? Will be running at Bonifacio High Street this Sunday :)
26. What did you want to be when you were little? A housewife, no kidding. I still do.
27. What is your best childhood memory? Errr, probably every birthday I had that my father would always come back home from Saudi Arabia.
28. No 28 question?
29. Are you married? Hopefully, SOON!
30. Always wear your seat belt? Yeah.
31. Been in a car accident? Nope, and I never wanted to.
32. Any pet peeves? *blank*
33. Favorite Pizza Toppings? How about pizza flavor? seafoods pesto.
34. Favorite Flower? Rose whose color is a combination of white and pink. The first flower I got from my angel.
35. Favorite ice cream? Pistacchio
36. Favorite fast food restaurant? Paotsin and Chef d' Angelo
37. How many times did you fail your driver's test? Haven't tried yet.
38. From whom did you get your last email? From pEDo.
39. Which store would you choose to max out your credit card? I hate credit cards :D
40. Do anything spontaneous lately? Fixing my bed :D
41. Like your job? Next question please? ha ha.
42. Broccoli? Yes, yes, yes.
43. What was your favorite vacation? In Baguio, together with my family and my angel.
44. Last person you went out to dinner with? My angel, at Cafe Via Mare.
45. What are you listening to right now? Raindrops!
46. What is your favorite color? GREEN.
47. How many tattoos do you have? NO-NO.
48. How many are you tagging for this quiz? No one.
49. What time did you finish this quiz? 07:15 pm.
50. Coffee drinker? Caramel Macchiato or Java Chip Frap from Starbucks :D

Let It Snow

Do you want to feel the Christmas season while at work or blogging? An officemate had sent me this application that would create an artificial snow while you are using your computer. It will occupy your screen. But instead of getting annoyed, I am entertained the way it forms. Here, I had my screen captured.




I don't know, but it really fun to have it run while I'm working. I even got a Christmas tree on my Desktop too, ha ha. Merry Christmas! :P

Casino Online News

Been to online casinos lately? If you want to get updated, you must equip yourself with the latest online casino news.

It's Our APE Today

Today is our scheduled Annual Physical Examination. And what's my reaction about it? Let my twitter answer that for you.



Well, I don't know, but I just hate it when I have to have my urine and stool (although I haven't given yet one, he he) provided for them to be examined. I know I am the one who'll benefit with the end result, but the process really makes me hesitant in doing so. Plus, I also do not want to have my blood collected. Eversince I had my operation (don't ask where and why, I won't reply, he he), I would normally have a fast heartbeat whenever I think of going to the hospital (So Doc Z, I guess if ever we'll meet, it's better not to meet on your clinic, ha ha).

Anyhow, I still go on with my APE and here's the initial result:

1. I am 153cm tall and weighs 50.8kg
2. My left eye is better than the right (I wonder why, :P)
3. My BP is normal 120/70 (So I guess I have to welcome back Starbucks, yipee)

Everything's normal, so I guess I have to continue with my healthy lifestyle, LOL! By the way, I have taken a photo of my arms after I finished my APE. Here you go:

Final Destination

After jogging in the rain (literally), my cousin asked me to watch Final Destination, her favorite movie. Since it's a holiday (a long weekend), I prefer to have a rest rather than do programming all day. Hence, we (or shall I say, I) had a movie marathon of the Final Destination (Parts 1, 2, and 3); leaving some unexplainable beat in my heart.

I had remember that I already watched the movies while riding a bus. But since my travel time is not that long, I only got to watch the first part. The movie is interesting since it talks about 'Death', something that most of us fears about. At the same sense, the movie is not that recommended for those who can't take scenes similar to that of 'Saw'. Since I enjoyed 'Saw', then I can say that I also enjoyed 'Final Destination'.

My favorite among the 3
Eventhough it is a scary movie, I've got some realizations (Something that every quality movie should have) too. Definitely, I am scared to die. But I accept the fact that we never know when will our time be. I remember I had an argument with a Facebook friend. He has his status that 'Tomorrow will be a great day'. I commented that we cannot be sure if there will still be tomorrow. Then a long conversation follows. He even told me that he is sure 100% that he will still live 'tomorrow'. But NO. We are not God to be 100% sure that we will still be alive the following day (But YES, he did live the following day, he he). But what I am trying to impart is, if it is our time, 'Death' will find its way to haunt us. Just like what 'Final Destination' is trying to impart to us (in a very exagerrated and morbid way).

So, if we were given only 24 hours to live, how will you spend it? As for me, I don't think that 24 hours is enough to do the things that I wanted to do. BUT, we all should be reminded to live today as if it were our last. So that when we leave, we won't have any regret. But then again, let us all pray that God still continue to bless us the breath of life each day in order to spend meaningful and quality life with our love ones. God Bless!

I Will Not Watch Kimmy Dora

I guess I am the only one who'll refrain from watching Kimmy Dora. Last Friday, while Jabbawockeez Invades Trinoma, my sister watched the said film. And she rated it with 5 star for it surely gave them a good laugh. She even recommended watching it to her office mates, and to me too. But, with no hesitation, I answered "NO" and "EWWWW". Yes, the movie would probably make me laugh, but knowing the person behind, Eugene Domingo, I won't dare see it. So, how and why in the world did I hate this woman? It's all because of her interview in Kapuso Mo, Jessica Soho.



At the 1 minute mark, here's the conversation:

Jessica Soho (JS) : Maganda 'yung ano mo, 'yung mga facial expression mo. Naalala ko 'yung parang tumitirik-tirik 'yung mata mong ganyan

Eugene Domingo (ED) : Oo, 'yun.

JS : Saan nanggagaling 'yun?

ED : Ah, eh sa.. sa mukha ko lang, saan pa ba manggagaling 'yun?

I don't find her answer appealing. And I don't even find it funny. I find it ANNOYING. You may find it too shallow. But that mere answer, for me, speaks of her personality. I dislike it. So no matter how good Kimmy Dora maybe, I won't watch the film.

Go on, watch the movie if you want. I won't hold you back. But for me, I Will Not Watch Kimmy Dora.

Running Shoes 101

I just had a chit chat with my cousin a while ago. We agreed to have our practice jogging tomorrow at 6AM, still at Garden of Love. It is in preparation of the upcoming Eco Dash Environmental Run where we will be participating. She, just as I did, wanted to buy running shoes. Of course I had suggested her to buy the same shoes, the Adidas Clima Cool that I recently bought. However, she wanted to have something cheaper since she would be spending much from her travels this month.

Well, I just told her to buy real running shoes, not the casual one. I had told her the comfort that I felt wearing my shoes while running. It is light, and it is cool. Fit for physical activities. I got the information about athletic shoe that it is referred to as rubber shoes here in our country. But then, she has to be specific of the design. Rubber shoes that are made flat were basically for casual wear rather than any sports activity.

To further help her, I had looked on the web to find tips on choosing the right running shoes. Luckily I found an advice and features for runner’s blog. I decided to share it here too. You might find it beneficial as well. I was surprised as well to find these interesting facts. Here we go, running shoes 101.



Foremost, we all have to know what foot type we are – Neutral (normal feet), Overpronation (flat feet), Underpronation (high arched feet). I guess I’m more of the flat feet one. After determining your foot type, you are now ready to buy one. In buying, make sure that you purchase from a specialist. Don’t forget to try a few on before landing on your chosen shoes. (Well, that’s something that I failed to do.) Relatively, wear your running socks. Make sure that the shoes you fit is not too tight or too loose. Moreover, like what is practiced in purchasing other types of shoes, there should be room at the front.

Now, here’s what I find interesting. We have to replace our running shoes after between 300 to 500 miles of running. Hmmm, I guess my new chosen career is that expensive, he he. Nonetheless, I am looking forward at enjoying every running event that I will be participating on. Aside from the upcoming event on the 13th, we are already eying one on October, and another on November.

I am 100% Sassy

Do you now that I am
- - - lively and spirited...
- - - stylish ; chic...
- - - smart ; wise...
- - - great style, fun, cute and funky...

I don't, ha ha. But I am in SweetDonut's eyes. Thanks SweetSassySister(SSS).