Random Musings of a Tall Single Man

Welcome to the Family

2005-05-30T15:30:00.000+08:00

Acute Respiratory Track Infection. What a fancy name for the flu. Anyways... after being bedridden for almost 2 days I could not help but be restless. I was so desperate to get out of the house for some fresh air. Thankfully, there was a welcoming seminar for me to attend. Now what is a welcoming seminar, you may ask, well it's a ministry in the apostolate that's in charge of making people feel, err, uhmm, welcome.

Essentially we become God's GRO's. I didn't imagine that even welcoming people to the community has a discipline to it. But there it was... apparently its not as simple as just smiling and telling people that they are, uhm, err, welcome. It's also all about showing them Christian warmth. So plans have been made, over all it was an interesting talk.

After the talk I went home to rest a bit before proceeding to the Singles Prayer meeting at night led by my friend Chris Berenguer and Ian Santillian. The prayer meeting was all about the passion and resurrection. Over all I think the topic was very poignant for me because personally I have felt that I have gone through my own passion. As of today, I am still waiting my resurrection. I hope it comes soon so that I would be able to say "Resurexit sicut dixit!"

Oh well.

We ended the night with a party thrown by May birthday celebrant Mike Guillermo at his restaurant LoKaldero. I must say, I simply adore the BALOT!!! Sarap!!! My cholesterol level has just increased ten-fold!

Death Warmed Over

2005-05-29T15:26:00.000+08:00

Ugh...

Still sick. Can't eat. Being sick really has this effect on you. Emotionally, I feel so low. It's as if I feel like I was dying. Well, a perfect opportunity to offer up this illness for my mother's intentions. Being sick is no joke. It's like I want to rest, but I cannot because I feel so miserable. And of course, it does not help that the weather is so not cooperative.

Thank God I have Star Trek DVD's to keep me company. I can't imagine how I could've survived this horrible day without my good old Star Trek disks!

Infectious Personality

2005-05-28T15:17:00.000+08:00

I feel like I want to die. This is the worst illness I've had in a long time. It's so incredible. Every bone in my body is aching, I have a cough, a cold, absolutely no appetite and a fever which turns on and off with the regularity of a Christmas light.

I feel like death warmed over.

This is what being close to death's door must feel.

When It Rains It Really Really Pours!

2005-05-27T15:13:00.000+08:00

Ugh, what a horrible day. First, my van breaks down in the middle of South Superhighway. Talk about embarassing! To top it all of, it gets towed thereby causing me P1,200 bucks just when I was trying to save some money. And of course, to add insult to injury, I discover that it will necessitate a complete overhaul which will set me back 20,000 bucks...

Is there no end to this misery?

Nope, because hours later I get the flu.

Perfect way to end a week!

Nasgul and his Prey

2005-05-26T22:23:00.000+08:00

New Worlds
Originally uploaded by Francismir.

Captains Log: Stardate 052405 2015 hours.

Don't come between the Nasgul and his prey...

My Starfleet Family and Me

2005-05-24T19:30:00.001+08:00

New Worlds
Originally uploaded by Francismir.

Captains Log: Stardate 052405 1930 hours.

Me and my Starfleet family, posing for posterity.

So what do you think? Will this make the cover of the next edition of Star Log?

Borg Queen and her Drone

2005-05-24T19:30:00.000+08:00

New Worlds
Originally uploaded by Francismir.

Captains Log: Stardate 052405 1930 hours.

You will be assimilated... resistance is futile... or as Lyndon said "Resistors are pundi."

Q and Q2

2005-05-24T19:00:00.000+08:00

New Worlds
Originally uploaded by Francismir.

Captains Log: Stardate 052405 1900 hours.

While on my away mission I was visited by one of the galaxy's most mischievous beings... Q2. This little demi-god din a lot of damage until I managed to snap my fingers and cut him off from his powers.

Here's hoping for some good behavior!

Khan!!!

2005-05-24T18:30:00.000+08:00

New Worlds
Originally uploaded by Francismir.

Captains Log: Stardate 052405 1830 hours.

KHANNNNNNNNN!!!!

You'd have to be a trekker to understand this.

Bacolod Mess Hall

2005-05-24T18:00:00.001+08:00

New Worlds
Originally uploaded by Francismir.

Captains Log: Stardate 052405 1800 hours.

You can imagine the shock of the Bacolod Chicken Inasal waiters when 4 Starfleet officers sashayed into their restaurant demanding their fair supply of roasted Targ, este chicken inasal and baticolon!

Ahh, nothing like Chicken Bacolod with some garlic rice to enervate tired hungry officers!

Modern Elvish Communications

2005-05-24T18:00:00.000+08:00

New Worlds
Originally uploaded by Francismir.

Captains Log: Stardate 052405 1800 hours.

Who needs runes when good old texting works wonders for the residents of Middle Earth?

Okoy and Lumpia Galaxy

2005-05-24T17:30:00.000+08:00

New Worlds
Originally uploaded by Francismir.

Captains Log: Stardate 052405 1730 hours.

Infinite Diversity in Infinite Combinations. That's what I thought when I saw these two Starfleet officers, Lt. Emil and Lt. Jerome at the Okoy booth. This intergalactic delicacy is not meant for the faint of heart or the weak in stomach!

Away Mission Day 2

2005-05-24T17:00:00.000+08:00

New Worlds
Originally uploaded by Francismir.

Captains Log: Stardate 052405 1700 hours.

After my duty shift at JimenezBasic ended I immediately rushed to the Glorietta System for the second day of the New Worlds Convention. It was there that I met this eclectic mix of Starfleet officers from Enterprise, Voyager and Deep Space Nine!

Let the mission begin!

Chowking Mission

2005-05-23T21:00:00.001+08:00

Lost Worlds Convention - 95
Originally uploaded by Francismir.

Captains Log: Stardate 052305 2100 hours.

And where do all good Starfleet officers congregate after a day of hardwork and clean geeky fun?

Why in the mess hall of course or in this case, better known as Chowking.

Even at this side of the galaxy, I am such a Chowking fan!

Pareng Grievous and I

2005-05-23T21:00:00.000+08:00

Lost Worlds Convention - 84
Originally uploaded by Francismir.

Captains Log: Stardate 052305 1900 hours.

Met up today with my dear friend Grievous. Obviously he was grieving about something. Thankfully, I was there to offer a listening ear. After some consultation he decided he would not give in to anger and kill the two security guards who have been doing consistent security checks on him...

Then again... I seem to be missing 2 of my security details.

Kilt Bill

2005-05-23T20:00:00.000+08:00

Lost Worlds Convention - 94
Originally uploaded by Francismir.

Captains Log: Stardate 052305 2000 hours.

This is what happens after an intensive away team mission. Poor Bill, a casualty of exhaustion and too much Romulan Ale.

The Emperor Strikes Back

2005-05-23T15:30:00.000+08:00

Lost Worlds Convention - 83
Originally uploaded by Francismir.

Captains Log: Stardate 052305 1530

Learning my lightsaber techniques from my new master... Lord Sidious...

Merienda Time

2005-05-23T15:00:00.000+08:00

Lost Worlds Convention - 81
Originally uploaded by Francismir.

Captains Log: Stardate 052305 1500 hours.

My crew and I were so hungry... luckily we encountered this mamalian bipedal species. Hmmm... sarap.

Nothing like roast ewok to fill your stomach.

Kaya ninyo ba iyan?

2005-05-23T14:30:00.000+08:00

Lost Worlds Convention - 76
Originally uploaded by Francismir.

Captains Log: Stardate 052305 1430 hours.

Nuff said...

Book Worms

2005-05-23T14:00:00.000+08:00

Lost Worlds Convention - 70
Originally uploaded by Francismir.

Captains Log: Stardate 052305 1400 hours.

After ambulating around the site, we discovered the Galactic Library of Fully Booked which was stuffed to the brim with yummy nerd books. Thank God, I resisted the urge to use the Card. It's difficult to get ensconed into the Dark Side of Debt.

Oh well, just sit back relax and enjoy the merchandise...

Close na Kami

2005-05-23T13:31:00.000+08:00

Lost Worlds Convention - 60
Originally uploaded by Francismir.

Captains Log: Stardate 052305 1331 hours.

A minute later... close na kami...

So better be nice to me, or else...

Dental Test

2005-05-23T13:30:00.000+08:00

Lost Worlds Convention - 65
Originally uploaded by Francismir.

Captains Log: Stardate 052305 1330 hours.

The weirdest thing happened to me... Darth Vader, the dark Lord of the Sith approached me. Without warning he immediately grabbed my neck and demanded to see my teeth. I believe he was looking for something and I sincerely hope its not a left over kangkong from my lunch. Being terrified to face the dark Lord I immediately acquiesed to his "request". After being convinced that the plans to the battlestation were not to be found in my retainers he let me be.

Security Check Lang Po

2005-05-23T13:00:00.000+08:00

Lost Worlds Convention - 64
Originally uploaded by Francismir.

Captains Log: Stardate 052305 1300 hours.

On my way to the john, I was accosted by these storm troopers. They were asking me if I was the droid they were looking for.

I said: "I'm not the droid you're looking for."

They replied: "He's not the droid we're looking for."

Then they moved along.

Away Team Pose

2005-05-23T12:30:00.000+08:00

Lost Worlds Convention - 53
Originally uploaded by Francismir.

Captains Log: Stardate 052305 1230 hours.

The Away team and I decided to pose with our traditional greetings of peace. Live long and prosper goes the adage.

I just hope we live long and prosper today with a lot of membership sign ups.

Grievous Errors

2005-05-23T12:00:00.000+08:00

Lost Worlds Convention - 15
Originally uploaded by Francismir.

Captains Log: Stardate 052305 1200 hours.

Lunch came. The away team and I decided to eat in the cafeteria of this being called General Grievous. The food was delicious yet I still feel my stomach being a bit unsettled.

Upgrade Time

2005-05-23T11:30:00.000+08:00

Lost Worlds Convention - 14
Originally uploaded by Francismir.

Captains Log: Stardate 052305 1130 hours.

Continuing our exploration we came upon a super computer that was capable of destroying all life. This computer possessed an intelligence that we never thought possible...

Plus, those two spools looked cool as they turned around and around.

Cartoon Characters

2005-05-23T11:00:00.000+08:00

Lost Worlds Convention - 11
Originally uploaded by Francismir.

Captains Log: Stardate 052305 1100 hours.

Today I had the distinct honor to meet two distinguished authors, Sheri of Carpool fame and Lyndon of Beerkada fame. The first contact with these two individuals was catastrophic for my wallet. I watched helplessly as my money disappeared into subspace.

The Ring and I

2005-05-23T10:30:00.000+08:00

Lost Worlds Convention - 07
Originally uploaded by Francismir.

Captains Log: Stardate 052305 1030 hours.

My precious... my precious!

Qu'Pla DuQuoth!

2005-05-23T10:00:00.000+08:00

Lost Worlds Convention - 05
Originally uploaded by Francismir.

Captains Log: Stardate 052305 1000 hours.

I have made a disturbing discovery today... A Klingon grammar book.

I sincerely hope no one actually took time to learn this.

TakBet! QuoNoth K'Tinga doth Beth!

First Away Team

2005-05-23T09:50:00.000+08:00

100_7337.JPG
Originally uploaded by Francismir.

Captain's Log: Stardate 052305 0900 hours.

Me and my crew have landed on a New World and have been ordered to explore it. Right behind us is a gate which Lt. Allan has determined to be a "Guardian of Whatever." Our initial scans indicates that this gate is a sort of a wormhole that will bring us to strange new worlds...

Let the adventure begin!

Mos Activity

2005-05-23T09:45:00.000+08:00

100_7363.JPG
Originally uploaded by Francismir.

Captains Log: Stardate 052305 0945 hours.

Mos Activity Center... You will never find a more wretched hive of geeks and nerdistry...

Cavite Feast

2005-05-22T00:10:00.000+08:00

Cavite Feast
Originally uploaded by Francismir.

Stuffed. That's a word to aptly describe the gluttony that I indulged in when we went to Cavite to celebrate the debut of Jackie's daughter.

Who would have thought that a province would seem so near our house.

When we got to Cavite, the air was so hot but there was the unmistakable scent of the ocean wafting through the air. Make no mistake. This is a fishing town through and through.

In any case, we settled down to non-stop eating of delicious seafoods like mussels and prawns. I had to losen my belt by one knot!

Happy Birthday Keena and I hope your mother can invite us again to your lovely home to sample your lovely food!

Tea Empire

2005-05-21T23:02:00.000+08:00

Blogpic(317)
Originally uploaded by Francismir.

And what's a movie without the mandatory after movie coffee?

I just love Coffee Bean and Tea Leaf's teas.

And no... I still hated the love lines from Star Wars!

Scared of Falling

2005-05-21T22:15:00.000+08:00

Blogpic(313)
Originally uploaded by Francismir.

Time for a weird insight. Actually as I was watching Episode III, I couldn't help but think about my responsibilities as a shepherd... Obi Wan Kenobi was a great Jedi Master yet he failed to properly shepherd Anakin which led to his fall to the dark side.

This brought out a fear in me that maybe, just maybe, I could fail my lambs.

But as quickly as these thoughts formed, I made a conscious decision to banish them away after all if God chose me then there must be a reason. And so he will give me the strength and the Force to see it through...

Fear not, I shall.

Return to the Sith

2005-05-21T21:12:00.000+08:00

Blogpic(312)
Originally uploaded by Francismir.

Ahh, any excuse to watch Star Wars III again is a good excuse. Today, the excuse was: "We're so tired from a day long seminar on shepherding that we need to unwind." And with that excuse we trooped to ATC to catch the 6pm showing.

Who needs the force to convince you to do stuff like this?

Mac-in-Thai

2005-05-20T23:59:00.000+08:00

Blogpic(309)
Originally uploaded by Francismir.

After our night of Mac-ing, we decided to hit a few beers at a Thai restaurant in Filinvest whose name escapes me now. I just love their sofas... they are simply the most comfortable sofas I have tried in my life.

Being full from all the mindless eating I've been doing, I decided to just have dessert. They had this thing called Sago Surprise. The pictures were deceptive though because it looks like an icy dessert. When it was served to me, it was steamy, not cold but steamy hot!!! A freaking hot dessert for the summer.

Sigh. And with that note I end my very first ever PhilMug wala lang meet. Poorer in money because of all the eating I did but richer in new friends!

Meet of the Tigers

2005-05-20T23:53:00.000+08:00

Blogpic(308)
Originally uploaded by Francismir.

What is it about Mac users that spur them to congregate and talk about all things Mac? Take PhilMug, or the Philippine Mac Users Group for example. Here are a bunch of friends who meet up on weekends to talk about... computers. Not just any computers mind you... but Mac computers.

I have attempted to attend some of these meets but often my hectic schedule or unfortunate circumstances have prevented me from meeting up with them. That was until tonight. A "wala lang" meeting was set up in Gloria Jean's coffee in Petron. 7 people showed up each armed with their own hardward. We oohh-ed and ahhh-ed over seeing Tiger. Those widgets are so delightful. Then again, this is something I cannot imagine non-Mac users to understand. Oh well, to cut a long story short, we gathered as geeks around our beloved computers.

Ahh, la alegria de geek-hood!

Cake Monsters

2005-05-19T08:41:00.000+08:00

pic1
Originally uploaded by Francismir.

Look at the SE men lusting after that delicious chocolate cake.

Well you know what they say about SE8 people... where the food is, there they are.

Hala sugod mga kapatid! Kain na!

Happy Birthday May

2005-05-19T08:36:00.000+08:00

Blogpic(306)
Originally uploaded by Francismir.

Here's the surprise. Hope the wish was a good one and most importantly hope they do come true.

Thanks for everything Shep! You have been quite a blessing to this class!

Blinded by Love

2005-05-19T08:33:00.000+08:00

Blogpic(305)
Originally uploaded by Francismir.

It's CC night and we decided to do things a little bit differently in SE8. Blindfold our sheps.

Now wait a minute. Stop thinking dirty thoughts, this is not what you think it is.

It's simply a prelude to a surprise. Today we decided to celebrate our beloved Shep's birthday with a surprise. So a blindfold here, a song there and you get what you set out to do:

Make May cry.

Tears of joy mind you. Thank God, I had the foresight to use toilet paper as the blindfold.

Windblown

2005-05-19T08:29:00.000+08:00

Blogpic(304)
Originally uploaded by Francismir.

The real reason why my hair was a mess today...

Big ass fans!

The Force Be With You

2005-05-18T20:26:00.000+08:00

Episode3Teasermidsize
Originally uploaded by Francismir.

The force was with us tonight as we finally watched Star Wars Episode III which will be etched in my consciousness as the last Star Wars I will ever watch. Here ends a journey which has taken 23 years to finish. Almost my entire lifetime to be exact! And now it is over.

And what are my views about it?

Reserved elation.

How can I describe the eager anticipation building up within me since I first saw those teaser trailers? Then the thrill creeping up my bones as I saw the familiar 20th Century Fox and Lucas Films title card. Finally the music and the ever present Star Wars scroll. Star Wars III had everything that I wanted about Star Wars and yet ironically everything that I didn't...

Beautiful scenery. Engaging space battles and of course who could forget the swashbuckling Lightsaber battles? Seeing the Jedi at their peak form... slashing away at their foes. I felt like a kid again, visualizing myself as a Jedi. Thank God I left my lightsaber at home lest I accidentally made a fool out of myself.

However, at the same time I was underwhelmed. I guess the story as a whole was not as robust as I wanted it to be. The cause for the downfall was flimsy in my opinion. I mean how selfish and arrogant Anakin Skywalker is. I mean, God, stop looking at your life for once and think about the others. Killing kids to save your wife. Really now.

And of course, the universal critique HORRIBLE LINES. George Lucas may be a master of special effects but he certainly cannot write. Can you imagine how I cringed when I heard lines such as "Ani, hold me like you did at Naboo..." Ughh.

Oh well, some people have pointed out that maybe the reason why we were underwhelmed is because we are now adults. But I beg to differ. I still watch the original trilogy from time to time yet I still get that sense of wonder and awe, despite the fact that the special effects were cruder.

So it's over. I've seen it all. Was it a happy experience. No because of the nature of the story. I mean he becomes evil. How can you be happy after that? Will I watch it again? Definitely because I can't wait to be brought to a galaxy far far away once more!

Feliz Cumpleanos Juan Pablo!

2005-05-18T08:13:00.000+08:00

jpda
Originally uploaded by Francismir.

Today marks the birthday of our former Pope John Paul II. I would like to share with you this photograph showing the Pope embracing the then prelate of Opus Dei Alvaro Portillo. This was held after the thanksgiving mass for the Beatification of Josemaria Escriva.

Yesterday, I gave thanks for all that Opus Dei has done for me. Today, I think it's fitting to give thanks to all that Pope John Paul has done for me and for the church.

I think the most important thing that I am thankful for is the Pope's teaching of love for suffering. He has suffered so much yet, he carried on with the full strength of love. It's by looking at his example that I was able to forge through these trying months.

As he now looks down upon us from heaven, I'm sure that the Pope continues interceding for us. I still have not lost faith that a great miracle is still about to happen!

Juan Pablo Segundo, sigue intercesando por nostros para podemos servir nuestro Senor como tu.

Totus Tuus! Felix dies natalis!

Cumpleanos Companeros

2005-05-17T22:48:00.000+08:00

Blogpic(303)
Originally uploaded by Francismir.

Here's to more of these things. Birthday party with friends. Delicious food. Good laughter and good health.

Despite all I've suffered and gone through this trying year, I'm still optimistic that the year to come still has some undiscovered blessings that I have yet to encounter.

Star Wars countdown: 1 DAY TO GO!!!! I can feel the force flowing through me!

Happy Birthday to Us!

2005-05-17T18:31:00.000+08:00

Blogpic(301)
Originally uploaded by Francismir.

Happy Birthday to us! Ahh, look at all the people of the office massing around the pantry for a delicious merienda feast. Today, we, the May celebrants of JimenezBasic held a party for the office. Nothing fancy, just pancit, ice cream and pichi-pichi.

Well, nothing is as enjoyable as seeing your officemates having a great time!

13 Years Ago...

2005-05-17T08:06:00.000+08:00

stpeterh
Originally uploaded by Francismir.

A great man was beatified. St. Josemaria Escriva the Founder of Opus Dei. Seeing this sight of St. Peter's Square filled to the brim made my eyes a little bit misty. Imagine 300,000 people gathered from all over the world to honor a man who in one way or another touched their lives.

Although I no longer am Opus Dei, the lessons that I learned in the Work still stay with me to this day. Lessons such as sanctifying one's work and doing it well, improving one's prayer life through a life of prayer, offering up your sufferings to God, dedicated study of one's faith and love for the Pope.

And today, I am reminded of all that the Work has given me. I think I would not be the person that I am, nor would I have grown and developed as fast as I have without Opus Dei's help.

Muchas gracias San Josemaria. Ayudanos continuamente!

Dry Spell

2005-05-16T09:50:00.000+08:00

Dehydration. Something that I hear from diarrhea patients but something I never quite expected would be applied to me. Well there you have it.

Apparently, the cause for my consistent headaches and aching eyes is nothing more than a like of liquids in my diet. So the doctor immediately ordered that I take at least 10 glasses of water everyday. Coke Light and coffee do not count.

So to this end I bought myself one of those fad-like water bottles. An orange one to be exact. I will swear to drink all the water that I can even if it means more trips to the loo.

In zee words of the Merovingian of the accursed Matrix Reloaded: "Cauz and eefect. I tuk too much wine... I muzt take a peeez."

Star Wars Countdown: 2 days to go! Confirm my tickets, I should have.

Sweet Burdens

2005-05-15T11:26:00.000+08:00

Today, I was given an assignment that literally made me fall off my seat.

I was peacefully surfing away in the Internet when Tito Manny, our Singles Encounter Couple Adviser, buzzed me in Yahoo. He asked me if I was sitting down and relaxed. Of course statements like that succeed in actually making you more tense. But anyway he dropped the bombshell...

I was asked to be the Tricord of the Life in the Spirit Seminar of St. James the Great.

My first reaction was: "Why me?" I reflected upon my misery, woundedness and wretchedness and was forced to conclude that there must be 20 billion Singles out there better qualified for this monumental task. Why me? A poor sinner. An inconsiderate jerk. An insensitive prick?

Then it dawned on me. God never calls anyone based on their qualifications. We are all sinners and broken instruments. Walking wounded who would continue to wallow in misery if not for God's grace. From there, a burst of confidence emerged. If God calls, surely he will give the graces to carry on this task as well as the grace of conversion to correct whatever sins and faults I have unfortunately heaped upon myself.

So the answer to the call came rather quickly.

Yes.

Here's hoping and begging for the grace to see this through!

Star Wars Countdown: 3 days to go!! I sense much impatience in me!

Diet Busters

2005-05-14T22:23:00.000+08:00

Kulits Namin
Originally uploaded by Francismir.

When two or more singles gather, you can be sure that there's food among them.

And the Kulit's gathering is no different. Dencio's at Sucat afforded us beautiful views, fresh sea infused air and delicious foods. Sinugba platters, sisig, adobong kangkong and laing coupled with great people, fantastic stories and a ton of laughs... perfect recipe for a perfect night!

Star Wars Countdown: 4 days to go! Learn to master the Dark Side of the Force and you will achieve a power greater than the others!

Nangugulit sa Dencio's!

2005-05-14T21:19:00.000+08:00

Kulits Namin at Dencios
Originally uploaded by Francismir.

Eto na ang mga makukulit! The SA Kulits Team met today for a "wala lang" gimmick to bond and get to know each other better.

What's the SA Kulits Team? Well this is the new nomenclature for the famed Secretariat Team. In the true tradition of SA and acronyms Kulits simple means Kasamahan Union sa Laganap ng Impormasyon Tungkol sa Singles.

Before you stone me to death, let me say my piece... I had nothing to do with this acronym. Hahaha!

Anyway we all met up and had a night of fun and storytelling. It feels so good to laugh so much after many many days of stress and tiredness.

Here's to more "Wala Lang Meets!"

Self Gift

2005-05-14T17:06:00.000+08:00

dvd8
Originally uploaded by Francismir.

I went off and did it. I bought myself another gift. The complete boxed set of Star Trek Deep Space 9. More DVD's to cause my eyes to water and my eyebags to sag!

My gosh! How will I get along watching over 150 Star Trek DVD's? Arrghh!!!

Shoe Happiness!

2005-05-14T15:12:00.000+08:00

Shoe Happiness!
Originally uploaded by Francismir.

I'm also happy about my shoe purchases! Katas ng bonus as I say!

I can't believe that I actually felt happy about buying shoes!!

What do you think about them? Aren't they so pretty?!?

Friday the 13th Indeed

2005-05-13T23:55:00.000+08:00

Prayer meeting is over. I got my first gift ever for my birthday! A nice religious book from May! Thanks a lot dear shep! It really made my day!

After the prayer meeting, we were supposed to have a "party" to celebrate my birthday. But lo and behold. The two persons who spearheaded the party were not there.

One fell asleep and the other one didn't think that the party was serious so the person did not go. Sigh.

I must be honest here. I really felt hurt by what happened. Oh well, maybe this is my punishment for being such an insensitive jerk recently.

Oh well, time to forgive and forget...

Star Wars Countdown: 5 Days to go and I can already feel the dark side brewing within me!

Friday the 13th

2005-05-13T17:52:00.000+08:00

Thank God it's Friday.

My pitch went well. I think we got the client. Here's to crossing our fingers and hoping for the best. The team worked so hard for the last 2 days and I must say that I was so proud of them. From nothing to something in no time at all.

Well time to go home early and prepare for tonight's prayer meeting and party!

Kababuyan

2005-05-12T20:46:00.000+08:00

What's been preoccupying my thoughts these days?

Mga kababuyan to be exact. Now before you get your underwear all crumpled up... i'm not talking about perverse things. Quite simply, I'm talking about pigs.

The agency is pitching today for a pig feeds brand and yours truly was tasked to do the below the line plan. It's freaking 8PM and I haven't thought of anything yet... sigh...

Ok, stop blogging and get back to work!

Star Wars Countdown: 6 Days to go!!! I can feel the force building in me!

Soon

2005-05-11T08:44:00.000+08:00

Blogpic(307)
Originally uploaded by Francismir.

Soon... you will be mine. Patience!

One week to go before Star Wars!!!

Day Aftermath

2005-05-10T08:36:00.000+08:00

It's the day after my birthday and I must say that it sucks. Being 29 is not all that it's cut out to be. Maybe it's simply because of something that happened between me and a very close friend of mine. You see, I offended and hurt a very close friend of mine and IT WAS ALL MY F-ING FAULT!

Words can't describe the agony I feel. It's like my heart is being wrenched into a billion pieces. I hope I can repair the damage caused by my thoughtlessness.

A lesson has to be learned here. Be very careful about what you say. You could hurt the ones you love.

Thoughts at 29

2005-05-09T23:26:00.000+08:00

One more year before the big triple XXX. Well I turned 29 today and what are my thoughts about the subject? First and foremost, I of course, gave thanks. Another year of life. Another year to do stuff I like doing and another year of being of service to others. It's odd because I ordinarily would not have thought of being this happy today with all that has happened to me, but surprise surprise. I was. I guess it was due to the nice texts, e-mails and calls I got from friends. Chief among them were from the top three texters of the day. Alelee, Ernest and May. Alelee actually wins by a mile because she texted me on May 1, a full 9 days before my birthday! Thanks Alelee!

Anyway to start my day, I got greetings from my family. Headed off to pick up my carpool mates, when lo and behold... THEY COMPLETELY FORGOT MY BIRTHDAY! The entire duration of my trip from the house to the office, not a word. Although the look on their faces when Reuben (our security guard) greeted me happy birthday was priceless. Well, all offenses are forgiven. It's the thought that counts after all.

The morning was filled with text in greetings and answering e-mails as well as preparing a pitch about PIGS no less!

Lunch was with Minnie and Ernest whom I promised to treat out to lunch for reasons I will explain. Minnie has been my listening board for the longest time. So I felt I owed her a libre for being the ear that listens to all my angst. Ernest, I owe a libre because he predicted something last week that uncanilly came true the next day.

Anyway back to the office for more work. Felt really exhausted but I accomplished a lot.

Time to go home for a nice dinner with my family which turned into a series of unfortunate events.
1. Stupid SUN CELLULAR REDIRECTED MY LINE AGAIN! I hate it! They've done this 2 times this week now considering I should be excempted from this.
2. I go to Shell to get gasoline. The gas boys could not open the cap. Turns out some damn fool in the other gas station placed the wrong gas cap on my car. Shit! After a few minutes of attempting to pry it lose it finally came lose.
3. I got the gas and attempted to start the car. Shit! It doesn't want to start. What's wrong now?!? Arrghh! I'll be late for my family dinner. Jumper cables from the taxi cab didn't fix it. Did I do anything cosmically wrong to deserve this?
4. Pushed the car to the store. Called Wheelers Club. Waited anxiously for an hour for the tow truck. When it finally arrives, my car miraculously starts! ARRGHHH!!!
5. Rushed home to find that my family ate my birthday dinner because I was too late.

And of course, no presents. Yup this was the year that I didn't get a SINGLE gift. Oh well... maybe there are gifts that I have yet to see.. Let me try to find out what they are...

1. My mom is finally out of the hospital.
2. My dad is on the way to recovery and he FINALLY went to confession after a long time.

I guess I did get great gifts after all! Thank you God! Time to sleep and prepare for my second day as a 29 year old. I guess it's not as bad as I thought it would be!

Slim Shady

2005-05-08T22:25:00.000+08:00

100_7155.JPG
Originally uploaded by Francismir.

How do you like my sunglasses? Funky!

Family Lunch

2005-05-08T22:23:00.000+08:00

100_7150.JPG
Originally uploaded by Francismir.

It was nice to have the family together again and not cramped inside a microscopic hospital room.

We had a nice lunch at Cafe Lupe. I swore to myself that I would eat healthy but lo and behold, we ordered crispy pata. Patay na naman ang diet ko!

Pero di lang diet ang namatay. Pati wallet ko na rin! This is what I hate about growing old...

When I was a child, everyone TREATED ME on my birthday and gave me gifts. This year I TREATED EVERYONE and didn't get any gifts. Alas!

Happy Mother's Day Super Mom!

2005-05-08T22:14:00.000+08:00

100_7149.JPG
Originally uploaded by Francismir.

After being cooped up in the hospital for 3 weeks I decided to give my mom a quick trip up Tagaytay for a pleasant view and some great weather. Our trip was meant to celebrate 3 things.

1. A thanksgiving pilgrimage for the successful operation of my mother
2. Mother's Day
3. An advanced Happy Birthday to me!

As luck would have it, the weather cooperated. It wasn't as hot as I thought it would be. Nothing like Tagaytay coolness and fesh air to wash away the antiseptic smell of the hospital.

DVD Haven

2005-05-07T23:24:00.000+08:00

I decided to reward myself today with a little indulgence. I think I
deserve to give myself a little gift and in this case, it's a complete
set of Star Trek Voyager DVD's! Complete from Season 1 to 7. The inner
Trek nerd in me jumped for joy, fumbled with my ATM and promptly
withdrew all that it took to get this prized set. I must imagine that
this is what a nymphomaniac feels when seeing a stack of all the porn
he can muster.

Anyway as I went home and did my trek marathon, I was brought back to
wishing that i had been born during those times. You see, Trek for me
is more than just science fiction. It's a vision of a world filled with
optimism. A world where people are at peace, diseases like cancer, are
completely cured. Until the world comes to reality, I prefer to sit
back, turn on the TV and dream of a future filled with great promise!

Beam me up Scotty!

Heat Escape

2005-05-07T23:10:00.000+08:00

100_7143.JPG
Originally uploaded by Francismir.

Never have I experienced such tiredness as what I experienced today. From the moment I woke up, till after lunch, I could not muster a single iota of energy. It's as if the accumulated emotional and physical fatigue of the last month has finally caught up with me causing my body to crash. Furthermore, this coupled with the crippling heat only served to exhaust my body further. So what does one do when one's engine is strained and one's systems are overheating?

Why swim of course. My siblings and I headed posthaste to the nearest swimming pool in an attempt to stave off imminent death due to heat exhaustion. I swam a few laps but I was so surprised at what happened. I was so tired that I found myself sleeping in the water. Dangerous!!!

So there, I decided to rest and sleep on the tanning beds. After a nice swim we decided to head off to BF Ruins to buy some DVDs upon which I came upon a nice surprise...

Resigns of the Times

2005-05-06T22:59:00.000+08:00

I wonder me what's happening in the office. It's as if we have a massive resignation drive. The other agencies have stepped up their poaching of grade A agency talent and to date they have already taken 12 people from us. Chris Dinglasan had his last day today as he moves to clientside to sell the Filipino consumer more pizzas. However, he was not the most recent departure. The latest casualty of this spate of piracy is my friend Minnie. Minnie resigned today to pursue a better offer at FCB. Frankly, I can't blame her. The offer is too tempting to resist and personally, I think it's time for her to move on. I, of course, have mixed feelings about this. On one hand I'm sad because I will be missing a dear friend but on the other hand, I'm happy because she is following where her heart tells her to go, and I'm all for that. So Minnie, as you go to try your luck in another agency, keep in mind that your friends here will always be with you!

We'll miss you but we're happy for you!

The Ionic Woman

2005-05-06T14:47:00.000+08:00

Blogpic(293)
Originally uploaded by Francismir.

My God! What is wrong with the weather? Manila's temperature has been consistently soaring to unknown heights. It's uncanny, really. I find it hard to end the day without a headache or an eyeache due to the brightness of the sun.

Today was a Unilab day for me. Meetings at Unilab the entire day. The highlight of which were 3 things.

1.Getting an FHM ad approved. I was so happy with this print ad and i personally think that it can win an award. What is it? You'll have to see at the next issue of FHM. Yuck! I can almost see my mother's eyes boring holes into my soul for advertising in such an immoral magazine.
2. Seeing my Ionettes in action. The Ionettes are our unique sampling personnel for Revicon Ion. Our newest energy drink. I was so pleased with their costumes. They were bright and certainly attention grabbing!
3. Long lunch with Tina, Reggie and Ernest at CPK. Chicken salad and 5 cheese pizza. What more can you ask for!?

After this great day, I headed home to uncharacteristically stay at home. None of the going out except to watch a movie with my sister. As a whole a fulfilling friday to cap a long and arduous week.

Sharing Your Sufferings

2005-05-05T22:51:00.000+08:00

Blogpic(286)
Originally uploaded by Francismir.

My first CC in over a month. I cannot believe how much I've missed and needed the CC. It's incredible how much pressure is taken away from you just by sharing your thoughts and pains. The CC's are like release valves for pressure cookers. Sometimes, life's pressures can take their toll on you, building gradually until you are at the bursting point. It's during these moments that you have to try and let out some steam and for me the CC has been precisely that.

All of the pain and anguish that I have suffered during this month just flew out of my mouth. The CC's are a blessing, really.

Tonight however was rather special as we were joined by Tita Sari who hasn't attended a CC in over a year and by Justin and Tanya whom we haven't seen since the year started. Their presence was like a blessing of which I am extremely thankful for.

Fast and the Ludicrous

2005-05-05T22:43:00.000+08:00

Blogpic(285)
Originally uploaded by Francismir.

Before heading over to the CC, May and I decided to meet in AJ's motorshop. Rina, AJ's wife to be, decided to join us too. While waiting for our ride inside Ayala Alabang we decided to try out AJ's baby bikes. It's incredible how small this thing is. I'd ride it if it didn't entail scraped knees and broken bones after. Oh well. Our ride is here! Off to the CC!

Bumbay Food

2005-05-04T23:34:00.000+08:00

Bumbay Food
Originally uploaded by Francismir.

Tonight, me, my officemates and friends attended a mass for the eternal repose of the soul of our friend Millette. It was held in the Stella Orientis Oratory of UA&P. I couldn't help but be teary eyed during the entire proceedings because I saw how sad the family of Millette was.

After the event we all gathered in a Persian restaurant in Pasig to reminisce the good old times and to share and swap stories about Millette. The food was funtastic but the conversation and company was so much more!

Mad Cow Dish-ease

2005-05-04T14:44:00.000+08:00

Mad Cow Dish-ease
Originally uploaded by Francismir.

Never have I thought that I would end the night eating cow brains... yum yum... tastes like balot. Delicious but deadly to my heart. Thank God I only took a few bites!

Reminiscing Millette

2005-05-04T14:40:00.000+08:00

Reminiscing Millette
Originally uploaded by Francismir.

It's 11PM and my eyes are already about to drop! I guess I am getting too old. Or is it simply my body crashing due to all the fatigue that has built up for the rest of the week?

Maybe...maybe...

Freedom!

2005-05-04T14:25:00.000+08:00

After 3 weeks in the hospital my mother finally is home! Yes, we took her out today and never have I seen her that happy. Being cooped up in that microscopic room must have been very claustrophobic for her. But now she is out, 15 pounds lighter but still having that fighting spirit.

Before everything, I would like to thank everyone who has helped us during these crisis. Our friends and relatives who supported us by means of monetary benefits, pasalubongs and most importantly prayers. These allowed us to survive this crisis with a smile on our faces.

My mom is heading home to rest and recover. We still have a battle ahead of us... chemotherapy and my dad is still in the hospital. Let's keep praying and being strong!

Boombastic Lunch

2005-05-03T22:42:00.000+08:00

I can't believe how good it feels to be back to work. Being in a hospital for 2 days can have a stressful effect on you. Alex, my boss, is right about the fact that in occasions like these, work becomes therapy. So as soon as I arrived at work at 7am today, I plunged straight into intensive work. Spitting out one JO to another. It was power time at its finest! Of course my work day was capped by news of numerous resignations in JimenezBasic. A lot of people are moving on. I have always believed that people must go where they are happiest so good wishes to these folks. As for me, I am still very much happy in the company so I don't see myself moving in the near future.

All of these of course just took place in the morning which was capped by lunch in New Bombay restaurant with my new friend and officemate Ernest. Getting people to eat in New Bombay is a challenge for me... not many people appreciate Indian food with its spiciness and curry undertones. Well thank God, I found a lunch buddy to appreciate this food with me.

Afternoons were filled with meetingsone after the other and discussion with my officemates over at McDonalds about life in general and changes in directions.

Then good news! My mom is going home tommorow! At last, her Odessy is at its end. By tommorow night she will be at home. Ahhh....

Little and Not So Little Miracles Part 2

2005-05-02T23:10:00.000+08:00

Truly the power of prayers is amazing! Claire called me up tonight to report that my dad's stroke was a mild one and that he is expected to make a complete recovery.

Of course, a stroke is no laughing matter but hopefully with God's grace this is another crisis that we will weather. My dad is currently in the ICU but he is completely conscious. There was bleeding inside his brain but the doctors said that it's small and that it should heal itself. My dad though has to modify his diet. About time really, maybe this is a wake up call for him and maybe even for me. I too have not been quite healthy in my eating habits and my exercise regimen in almost non-existent.

Well I hope my dad recovers soon because I have no idea how i'd survive without him and my mother.

BTW my mom hasn't thrown up since yesterday so this is a really good sign. Thank God for these miracles. I am sure this is a crisis which we most certainly will be able to weather once more!

So for those reading this. Please keep on praying.

The Cross Again

2005-05-02T07:56:00.000+08:00

I guess last night's miracle was a respite our Lord gave us before he gave us another cross. This morning my sister Claire called me to the US to tell me that my father was rushed to the ER for a STROKE.

"Ano ba iyan? My mom na nga has cancer and my dad suddenly was felled by a stroke! What else do you want from us God?" was my first reaction. But what surprised me was my mom's immediate reaction. "Francis, let us pray," she said. And immediately we prayed the rosary from her hospital room. Afterwards, we went to chapel to pray before the blessed sacrament wherein I prayed the prayer that my mother taught me not through her words, but through her example:

"Lord, I do not understand why this is happening, but I accept and surrender myself to your Divine Will."

And true enough, peace came upon me once more.

Furthermore, the rapid text brigade of the SE family and my Opus Dei family assured me that the heaven's were being stormed and that my dad was not alone in the ER thousands of kilometers away.

My gosh, receiving all those calls and texts really gave me the strength to carry this cross again with a smile.

Off I go to carry the cross once more!

Little and Not So Little Miracles

2005-05-01T22:52:00.000+08:00

Praise God! We got the surprise of our life! The surgeon dropped by tonight to check on my mom and was surprised to see her NGT tube clear of vomit. This means that my mom's intestinal track has suddenly opened up. He cancelled the operation for tommorow and ordered my mom to eat some food.

If my mom does not throw up tonight and tommorow then there is no longer any need for surgery. The power of prayers are really astounding! Miracles do happen and are in fact happening as we speak!

Gratias tibi Deus!

The End of a Tough Month

2005-05-01T10:44:00.000+08:00

Thank God April is over. This month has been a rather trying month for me and so many people I know. My first instinct when writing this blog entry was to say that that was an accursed month due to all the accidents, illnessess and deaths that happened to people near and dear to me. But then again, in the grand scheme of the Divine Will, nothing is an accident and everything can be sanctified.

My siblings and I visited my mother today at the hospital. So far her spirits seem to be up despite the fact that they are going to operate on her tommorow. I think I was even more nervous than my mom which just goes to show how much more mature my mom's faith is compared to mine.

Visitors came and went and it was a pleasant afternoon. I really love my mom and admire her. I hope tommorow's operation turns out okay.

Dinner with Friends

2005-04-30T23:37:00.000+08:00

Ahh, just exactly what I need. A night out. After the prayer meeting,
me, my sister Maymay and my singles friends went out for dinner and
some conversation. The location? Brother's Burgers in Westgate Alabang.
It was such a nice feeling to sit back, talk mindlessly and enjoy the
evening breeze which was surprisingly cool for summer.

Night outs like these are surprisingly like an oasis for me. They
refresh me and give me respite and just enough strength to keep
trudging on.

Peace Pills

2005-04-30T22:36:00.000+08:00

Prayer meetings are what I sometimes call as peace pills. It's incredible. It's as if all of the tension of this week just evaporated into thin air. I guess it's the power of grace. Furthermore, tonight's prayer meeting just hit the spot. As the prayer leaders, Jack and Tisha spoke, it was as if arrows were hurled into my heart. But instead of giving me a heart attack, it gave me peace.

The prayer meeting reassured me that no matter how difficult our problems seem, with God there is always a solution.

After the prayer meeting, we all met up for dinner at Brother's Burger. I really needed this night out!

Operation Time Again

2005-04-30T18:41:00.000+08:00

Lord, we may not understand your will, but we accept and embrace it fully.

My mother's doctor just called me today. Her intestinal track has not loosened up. In fact they discovered a blockage. As such they need to operate once more. The doctor assures me that it's not a serious operation, but nonetheless, an operation is an operation.

This last week we have been praying earnestly that this procedure not be necessary, but I guess God has other plans. I feel he needs to purify us some more.

Lord, give us the strength to see this through and with your graces we can conquer once more!

May The Force Be With Us

2005-04-30T18:38:00.000+08:00

This has been a trying week. Words cannot express the
stress that I have endured. During moments like this I
can't help but reminisce about this saying that
someone told me: "Problems are temporary. Character is
forever."

Well I hope I have the strength of character to brave
this trying week. Thank God that the force is with me.

Off to practice my lightsaber skills.

Only a few days to go and it's Star Wars time!

Mission Accomplished

2005-04-28T00:06:00.000+08:00

It's 12 midnight and my eyes are about to drop, but I can't rest just
yet. I have duties to perform. Key among them is the SE Newsletter
called Single Space. I cannot believe that I was able to perform a
genuine miracle with this one. Imagine... 22 pages of single spaced
text, compressed into 8 pages with photos and layout. Well here is my
baby for you to see. I hope the apostolate likes this newsletter as
much as I enjoyed doing it!

Now enough of the blogging. Sleep now before you collapse!

Requiescat in Pace Millette

2005-04-26T12:27:00.000+08:00

Anna Carmela Caudal
1979-2005

Words cannot express the sorrow one feels in losing a
friend. It's as if a treasure in our life has been
ripped away from us. As I look at her empty cubicle, I
cannot help but compare it to the emptiness that I
feel in my heart.

Gone is a valued comrade but more important than that,
a good friend. A person whom I shared countless joys
and even sorrows with.

Once more, we are reminded that life is short.
However, at the same time we should hold on to hope.

Vita mutatur, non tollitur. Life has changed not
ended.

Our paths will now take separate routes Millette.
However, I harbor in my heart a deep hope that we will
see each other again up there.

We love you very much and we will miss you. Let's not
say goodbyes but rather see you laters.

Hasta luego amiga mia.

Unanswered Questions

2005-04-26T01:55:00.000+08:00

It's 2AM and I can't sleep. How does one sleep after finding out that your friend unexpectedly moved on to the next life? That's exactly what happened tonight. A colleague, a schoolmate and a friend of mine passed away. As I type this blog entry a million and one questions are racing through my mind. For most of them I can either give an answer or at least speculate on one. All of them except for one simple question.

Why?

I've asked myself that question tonight so many times. And yet, I still fail to come up with an answer. These are dark times for my soul. It's at moments like these when I am tempted to doubt the existence of a loving God, yet it is precisely at moments like these when I feel the need to cling to him closer. If there's one thing I learned recently is that we will never fully understand God's plan and most of the time we probably will not agree with it, but in the end we have to accept that good will come out of it. As nebulous or as far fetched as it may seem.

Will we find answers to this particular why? Probably not. But what we can find is comfort in the acceptance of the Divine Will.

Requiem aeternam dona eis Domine, et lux perpetua luceat eis!

Requiescat in Pace my friend...

We will miss you and we love you very much.

The Effects of Drunkeness

2005-04-25T22:09:00.000+08:00

SE8 1st Anniv!
Originally uploaded by Francismir.

My my my... what do we have here. I was looking for something to scarf down yesterday morning when I saw this peculiar sight.

A pack of cards in the refrigerator. Ahh alcohol really does wonders for your mind eh.

Lesson For The Day

2005-04-25T07:37:00.000+08:00

SE8 1st Anniv!
Originally uploaded by Francismir.

Always put on high protection sun block no matter how dark you are and especially if you are bald.

Nothing beats the feeling of a sunburnt scalp.

Madam Maauring!

2005-04-25T07:35:00.000+08:00

SE8 1st Anniv!
Originally uploaded by Francismir.

Nakeketah ko ang enyongh mga kapalarah sa akeng mahewagang bolhang boliball!

Ayohn sa mga espereto kayoh lahat ay malelegayahan mamayang ghabe kapag nakapagehnuman na kahyo!

Dahel ditu malalasheng khayo tulad ko na kumakausap ng mga Mikasang bhola!

Under the Sea

2005-04-25T07:32:00.000+08:00

SE8 1st Anniv!
Originally uploaded by Francismir.

I've decided to try scuba diving. Low and behold! A maanfish decided to pass me bye.

Maanfish are among the smallest fish in the world.

Talagang maganda ang ecosystem ng pinas!

Row Row Row Your Boat

2005-04-25T07:31:00.000+08:00

SE8 1st Anniv!
Originally uploaded by Francismir.

Since I ran out of money, I had to earn my keep by fishing.

It's nothing like the USS Enterprise but it gets the job done.

The Old Man of the Sea

2005-04-25T07:27:00.000+08:00

SE8 1st Anniv!
Originally uploaded by Francismir.

Just when you thought it was safe to go back to the water...

When some of my SE classmates were swimming they discovered this sea creature just standing there. Well anyway Arnel, was happily snorkling when he accidentaly moved close to this old man. Talk about finding Nemo! He saw the dirty old man of the sea doing something unmentionable in my blog.

What is it? Use your imagination! But you can bet it wasn't simple frolicking in the surf.

Well, that's a good a sign as any to get out of the water!

New Learning Techniques

2005-04-25T07:21:00.000+08:00

SE8 1st Anniv!
Originally uploaded by Francismir.

If you want to memorize vast amounts of material, do apply the Nicole Lim Learning Technique. It's quite simple. Get the book that you are attempting to memorize like Gray's Anatomy or the Webster Dictionary. Put it over your head and sleep with it.

By the morning, you will have a spectacular headache that you'll stop worrying about what you needed to memorize!

Weight Watch

2005-04-25T07:18:00.000+08:00

SE8 1st Anniv!
Originally uploaded by Francismir.

After a morning of swimming, now comes an afternoon of eating! Our first meal in Sabangan! Delicious adobo, scintillating liempo and lip smacking bulalo!

Well, my doctor already said that i'm officially overweight. So I guess a few extra pounds wont hurt!

Bay Watch

2005-04-25T07:16:00.000+08:00

SE8 1st Anniv!
Originally uploaded by Francismir.

Well, might as well beat the heat by taking a swim. The waters off Sabangan were nice and clear, although I was sure that there were some microscopic Jellyfish present because all of us felt some stings in different parts of our bodies. The sand is a bit coase though and you feel that you are walking on a giant foot spa because all your callouses are scrubbed off, but all in all, the breeze, the clear skies and the splashing oceans make for a perfect weekend!

South Beach

2005-04-25T07:13:00.000+08:00

SE8 1st Anniv!
Originally uploaded by Francismir.

After 2 and a half hours of driving through highways and dirt roads, we arrived rattled but generally unscathed at Sabangan Resort. The first thing I uttered was "Oh my Lord! It's sooo hot!" The second thing I noticed was "Oh my Lord! There's so many people!"

Well, the cottages wont be available till 3PM so might as well while away the time and do what SE8 does best.

Pose for pictures!

Beach Bums On the Way!

2005-04-24T20:11:00.000+08:00

SE8 1st Anniv!
Originally uploaded by Francismir.

It's 6am! Time to head off to the beach to celebrate SE8's first year anniversary! Where is everybody? Hay nako late na naman!!

(As if we didn't arrive late!)

Happy Anniversary SE8!

2005-04-23T05:47:00.000+08:00

I can't believe that it's been a year since I met my marvelous friends in SE8! One year of laughter, tears, joys and even sorrows. A year of new friends and deeper relationships with God.

Today, we celebrate as a class by going to the beach. Nothing as fancy as, say Boracay. A simple beach called Sabangan.

Having acquired permission from my mother to go (she told me to just go and relax after a harrowing 2 weeks in the hospital) I'm all set to bond and do that most important of activities that you do at the beach.

Sleep!

See you tommorow!

TGIF

2005-04-22T14:31:00.000+08:00

Thank God for a generally light friday. After rushing an entry to an awards, I just decided to kick back and relax today. This has been a rather hectic week for me. Filled with a ton of things to accomplish. At least now I can wait till 5 and just relax.

So what did I do? Well after a week of scrimping with Jollibee foods, I decided to reward myself today with a nice lunch. Thank the heavens for the ivitation of Ernest and Reggie to eat in Italiannis. Although the food was a bit expensive, it was okay. I felt so healthy after that delightful salad!

It's nice to have some new lunch mates. New stories to share. Plus its fun to get to know some of your officemates a little bit more.

Alas, I hope more easy going days come my way. The last 2 weeks have been extremely taxing to me.

Here's to an optimistic May!

It's a Unilab Day!

2005-04-21T20:38:00.000+08:00

Whew. What a day. I spent it all in Unilab. Meetings left and right. Even lunch was a meeting. Who would've thought.

At least when I got back to the office a little surprise was waiting for me!

Yey! What is it?

Secret!

Midnight Prowl

2005-04-21T09:43:00.000+08:00

Blogpic(262)
Originally uploaded by Francismir.

It's 11pm. We're all standing by the street talking about things Trek and whatnot.

I am so sleepy yet still smiling. But I yearn for my bed...

Brash Decisions

2005-04-21T09:42:00.000+08:00

Blogpic(263)
Originally uploaded by Francismir.

This is Brash. The site of my Trek communion. Every wednesday we members of Via Astris gather here to chit chat, watch our favorite Geek show Star Trek, tell jokes, plan, and just enjoy each other's company.

New friends were made like Bill the Ferengi, Chris the Barister (not Barista), Suresh whom I tacklesly asked how low he was in the Philippines (apparently he was born here! Shame on me!), the head of Mechaphilippines and of course the person who sold my condo my faucet systems (curse my failing memory!)

I really needed this night out of bonding with this new friends of mine. I hope this club lives long and prospers.

Little Things that Make a Difference

2005-04-20T09:37:00.000+08:00

Blogpic(261)
Originally uploaded by Francismir.

After a very harrowing Wednesday, I returned to the office to see this thing standing on my desk. What the heck is this, I thought. Upon closer inspection, I discovered that it was a get well soon card for my mother.

My officemates, God bless them, did this "initiative" and came up with this cute card. However, it's not the card that makes the difference, it's the messages contained within and the thought behind it.

In advertising we do initiatives based on objectives. Insofar as hitting them, this little initiative hit 2.

1. It made my mom so happy that she had to text me to tell me that she is praying for everyone who sent the card as well as their families.
2. It made me happy to see that I have great friends in the office.

God bless you all!