Miss Tasia's got a CD!!

Tasia, originally uploaded by bocceli.

photo courtesy of http://www.fantasiabarrinoonline.com

Yee haw!! The CD I've been waiting for. Finally, Fantasia Barrino has a CD and it's fantastic. I got to hear a few tracks and true enough, she's just amazing. Great performer and a one of a kind voice. The next Aretha.

At the Grand Palace grounds

At the Grand Palace grounds, originally uploaded by bocceli.

Asked Nallie to take some pictures so at least I can really say I was in Bangkok. I had to do this touristy thing in Bangkok for the experience so I spent like half an hour touring the Grand Palace and another half an hour going to Wat Po (the Reclining Buddha).

Nallie & I at an Irish Bar in Bangkok

Nallie & I at an Irish Bar in Bangkok, originally uploaded by bocceli.

Of all the places I can think of, Bangkok never really came to me when I started craving for a pint of Guinness. Thank God for Irish migrants, I got a taste of one of my fave beers in the world. Yummy!!! :) I want a few more pints please. Hahaha. (and no, I ain't drunk)

The Bangkok trip pictures

Finally found time to upload the pictures I took during my trip to Bangkok. They can be viewed by clicking this link

Enjoy!

In Bangkok? Wat Po (what for?)

MeAtWatPo, originally uploaded by bocceli.

To see various sights and feel the vibe of this incredible city. Behind me are temples at the Wat Po compound. Wat Po is the temple for the Reclining Buddha. This 40+ meter long Buddha is one of the longest in the world. Will post pics of it soon.

Here's what the place I stayed in looked like. My friend owns this serviced apartment so he let me use the place. Don't you just love the classic use of warm tones and dark wood. Close to Zen actually.

A friend of mine who lives in Bangkok now. We just finished gobbling on Thai cuisine. Amazingly cheap. $15 for 3 people and that includes dessert.

What I love about the temples in Bangkok is their grandiosity and ornateness. I love how "gold" this structure is. Simply fascinating.

UCC Lunch in Bangkok

Siam Center Mall, originally uploaded by bocceli.

Took this photo with my phone while waiting for my pasta from UCC at the Siam Center Mall. I was alone as you can see. I kinda liked the fact that I was able to go around the major part of the city by myself most of the time. It did have an effect on my phone bill since I'd normally call friends back in Manila to tell them of something I just saw that interested me, or if I saw some cute guy. Hahaha!!

Nallie eating this amazingly hot dish at a bar in Khao San in Bangkok. I was having a rather large bottle of Singha Beer... yum yum!

The Mediterranean 600 ft above sea level

One of the highlights of my trip was going to this bar called Sirocco. Let's just say the pictures will speak for the bar.





- courtesy of The Dome At The State Tower

Being back

After almost a week away from Manila, I'm now back. Not really sure I'm liking it. Ain't that weird. :) I'll write several articles about that trip soon with pics included. Watch out for that. I'm just waiting for them now so I can recount my trip. Thanks to all the well wishers. Over-all, I really had loads of fun.

To the land of Golden Pagodas

I'm off to Bangkok tomorrow. Wish me a great time y'all. See yah in a few days baby. I love yah! MWAH!

My high for the day

This article came out on the online zine my global company has. It's audience is over 100,000 employees all over the world.




Television singing competition lets analyst shine

For bocceli, it wasn’t just his show-stopping voice that snagged him a top-10 spot in the Philippines' popular Star in a Million television competition -- it was the rousing support of his colleagues.

As one of 50 contestants in a monthly slot for the flashy singing contest (50 contenders competed in monthly spots for a six-month period before the finals), bocceli made it into a “Top 10” slot based on talent and high-voltage colleague support.

“The company supported my time off to compete in this once-in-a-lifetime experience,” reported bocceli, who has been belting out numbers in local choral groups since childhood. “When it came to calling in votes, which is how the winners are picked, I had all my friends and managers from work calling in and supporting me. It was great.”

According to the 26-year-old, Manila-based tenor, the ability to pursue passions outside of work is key to a balanced life, and to his solid contribution on the job.

Dazzling a television audience and committing to the discipline of singing has honed bocceli’s job skills in terms of pressure and flexibility. Since starting with the company six years ago, bocceli has easily moved from consulting to working as a technical programmer and developing IT systems.

Whether on stage or at a computer hub, clear, honest expression is another key to bocceli’s success.

“Every time I sing, I am expressing a part of myself strongly,” he said. “I have never had any trouble balancing work with my singing. They support each other very well.”

While bocceli did not make it past the top 10 into the finals, the experience garnered the attention of a local talent scout who already has booked bocceli at area events. Beyond that, the experience was in a word: unforgettable.

“This is an experience I will never, ever forget,” bocceli said.

Finally...

... here's a video of my Star in a Million performance. The link is for people who have high speed internet access. Just click here to access the video.

My movie of the moment...

I'm currently loving "Before Sunset", a sequel to Richard Linklater's "Before Sunrise", with Ethan Hawke and Julie Delpy. A not-so-typical sequel, this movie just hit me hard. What's with me and tugging scenes. I actually cried in this movie (note that I didn't shed a tear with the movie "The Notebook"). Hahahaha. You can listen to the song Julie Delpy's character, Celine, sang in the movie. Super love it!

My song for the week...

A Waltz for a Night... from Before Sunset as sung by Julie Delpy
(listen to the song by clicking this link)

let me sing you a waltz
out of nowhere, out of my thoughts
let me sing you a waltz
about this one night stand

you were for me that night
everything I always dreamt of in life
but now you're gone
you are far gone
all the way to your island of rain

it was for you just a one night thing
but you were much more to me
just so you know

i hear rumors about you
about all the bad things you do
but when we were together alone
you didn't seem like a player at all

i don't care what they say
i know what you meant for me that day
i just wanted another try
i just wanted another night
even if it doesn't seem quite right

you meant for me much more than anyone
I've met before
one single night with you little Jesse
is worth a thousand with anybody

i have no bitterness, my sweet
i'll never forget this one night thing
even tomorrow, another arms
my heart will stay yours until I die

let me sing you a waltz
out of nowhere, out of my blues
let me sing you a waltz
about this lovely one night stand

thanks to Nelz for the lyrics.

THE STAR IN A MILLION (2004)

Presenting, Frenchie Dy... (my friend, Star In A Million batchmate, a STAR)



Listen to her sing Tamyra Gray's Raindrops Will Fall --> updated link.

Today's High...

... laughed out loud from Tennister's posts. Nakakaloka!!

Hear me sing Peabo Bryson's Love Always Finds a Way.

Damn damn damn... it's already 1:40AM Sunday and I still can't sleep. Had a fairly smooth Saturday. Mom and I went to the spa since she had two treatments left and she asked me to get one of them. I ended up having a "detoxification" massage which was by all means very much welcome these days. I haven't been to the spa in ages and the last massage I got was months ago.

After the spa, we headed off to Greenbelt for my mom's hair appointment with my hair stylist. I'm paying so she can do anything she wanted. She had her hair done as well as got a manicure and pedicure. While waiting for her to finish though I just spent time alone at Cinnzeo eating a cinnamon roll and having a decent cup of cafe mocha.

Headed back to the salon to meet up with my mom since she texted me saying she was almost done. I bumped into my good friend Angelo who was having his hair cut as well and might I say, what a fab do he was getting. Chatted a bit about ICON and then said our "see you laters".

With mom in tow, we headed to Glorietta to pass by Jose, a shoe store, where I ended up buying mummy dearest a nice pair of white pumps. It's her birthday in a few days so I thought why not get her something she picked for herself right?

Driving like crazy along the highway, I had to drop her off at our house then meet up with my honey and the Flipster for dinner at Yellow Cab. A decent meal ended and it was off to Alabang Town Center for some coffee time.

Not a bad Saturday, if I may say so. :) Hope you guys enjoyed your weekend!

Now that I’m actually going to write something (an article), I’m all torn between what I actually should write about. I am leaning more towards the fact that I gave all my team members quick make overs (mostly a salon trip with my favorite stylist. By the way, my stylist just upped his price simply coz he won in a prestigious competition and will now be representing the Philippines in a world competition in Paris this coming November. My God. Do I get the best of the best or what!?!?! =) I’m quite happy for him actually. Also, his assistant is now promoted to junior creative artist in the same salon. She was even “baptized” with a new name. How cool is that! It’s mostly reason for me to have a decent week simply because I know that these people who have slowly started becoming “friends” of mine are actually doing well in their chosen field. I just hope that it’s just a start for both of them. Now where to get my hair colored… hahahahaha! (just kidding)

Just testing this. --> wrote this from my phone but apparently the jpg image I attached to my MMS didn't get uploaded. Hmmm... does anyone know how I can upload the jpg images as well?

Over the weekend I chanced upon a movie while channel surfing. Alexandre Payne's About Schmidt to me is a film I won't normally spend enough time on. But at that exact moment, I couldn't help myself but be absorbed in the movie's intense feel. Emotions would be played with as I would find poignant scenes, quite simple but striking. Then there'd be funny situations that even as a Filipino, I was able to related. It didn't matter that the character in the movie (played by Jack Nicholson) was a 60+ widower who's travelling the midwest in his Winnebago. I still felt the fact that he was in a crossroads of having lost his wife and now moving on after the loss.

What to do when things change... drastically? To be honest, I am not in a state where I'm comfortable with my life. I have yet to gain emotional stability hopefully on my own but wishing I'd get enough courage to live through this life with my loved one. And what's after having spent decades together, I guess we would be apart again. Does this frame of thought justify the question, if I'm in a relationship that will eventually fall apart because one day we won't be together anymore (death) why stay? It's because I have always believed that a person's life is just like a traditional story of beginning with an ending. The plot can thicken but one must go through each and every line just so that they can truly say, they've finished "the story".

TREND ALERT!!!

After numerous hours of research I have come to the conclusion that the colors in season are greens (darker ones like forest), browns, and pinks. Classic cuts would still be a safe option but for men, it would seem that gypsy-like or hippie cuts are coming back. If memory serves me right, the Gucci collection even had caftans.

I can't stress enough how much accessorizing is a big neccesity especially if a person really wants to dress up. Bags, belts, and even hats should never be an absentee when it comes to your wardrobe roll call.

On a personal note, I don't know if I ever got to say how much I'm allergic to certain kinds of chocolates. Really, I am. Odd isn't it. I have, in the last decade, narrowed my chocolate selections to those that are made in either Belgium, the UK, Ireland, and Japan. So this means no Cadburry, Hershey's, Mars, Lindt, etc. Sucks!!!

Just a quick post.... I'm just sooooo loving this Spring 2005 Gucci collection. I love this underwear, uhm, trunks, or whatever it is... and I love the bags for the season. Looks like it's going to be browns and whites. Now where's that brown mohair doctor's bag I use.

GUCCI COLLECTION --> check out the trunks

The Complete Collection

The blah that was...

I have been sick for the past three days from gulping a Mocha Black Forrest of Coffee Bean and Tea Leaf. I honestly don't know if it's from that or from fatigue. I actually saw friends of mine from a distance but it seemed they were in a meeting so I just waved at them. I'm so excited for them with the whole ICON magazine and all. I wish I would get the chance to be a contributor for the next issues.

So anyway, I just vegged at home the entire weekend as well as today (Monday) but I'm guessing I need to go to work tomorrow. Too bad. Just when I'm starting to like working from home. What sucks is the fact that I haven't seen my baby in ages. To my friend Mr. Sondheim, remember the 7 weeks, add 3 to that. hahahahaha.

To other things, I'm peeved at the fact that some people call Sarah Jessica Parker's hit show, Sex IN the City. HELLO?!?! Earth to some people... it's Sex AND the City. I'm sorry but I just can't stand viewers fucking up a show title when they talk about an episode to someone. They yap about the different episodes and so on but can't ever remember the friggin' title. That's just totally sacreligious. I cringe when I hear the wrong title. The next time I hear another person giving out that Sex IN the City crap, I swear to God I'll make sure that person gets it right and remembers.

On other things, I got to thinking about how I was before I got into my present relationship. If my memory serves me right, I was actually a psycho bitch. I'd be all texting and calling when a guy doesn't return my call. I think I end up being that way when I don't feel like my efforts weren't being reciprocated. Now, as to why I thought of that, hmmm... nothing really. Was just feeling sentimental about how STUPID I was before! Hahahaha.

Have a great week people!

Alrighties... my blog my world. I'm having much to talk about in the last erm... few days.

I had just celebrated my 26th birthday. It was one fab party after another. The most memorable of which was on my birthday itself (September 26). My closest friends from my choir came to our home upon my invitation for the group to sing at a mass celebration at our parish. With 19 members, the group sounded amazing. I have never felt so impressed with our choir in so long and almost forgot how good we sounded.

After the church my mom prepared a simple luncheon at our place. Pasta, chicken, barbecue, salad, and dessert. Yum. Had my fill of food that day actually. I forgot about whatever diet it was I've been on. Hahahaha.

The day ended simply with me hanging out at the nearby mall with a few friends watching a basketball game. Nothing fancy.

=========================================

Remember that phone I was showing off a few posts back? It got stolen yesterday morning without me knowing it. I believe it was picked off my bag while I was hopping on to a bus. Damn these people making a quick buck (or $900). They just don't know how much pain they cause.

So now I'm detached from the world because I have yet to think of what phone to get, or what phone to borrow. If my friend Phillip (I got the spelling right) will sell me his spare, I just might purchase it from him. No more expensive phones for me starting yesterday.

*SIGH*

Ok. Can someone please explain these pictures to me like i'm a two-year-old...

An Atenean mom being very supportive and seeking for God's help (with the rosary) to continue blessing the Ateneo Blue Eagle's basketball team.

(picture removed upon request of the photographer)

Uhm... ok, this is normal coz I'm sure it was just a simple fan gesture.

(picture removed upon request of the photographer)

IS SHE GIVING THE FINGER??? (WHOA!!!) where's her rosary?? oh it's there tied to the railing... :(

In true blue fashion guru ... uhm... fashion, I would like to spread the word... GAP style...

On Shirts:
- show your stripes. add some color to your wardrobe with a bold shirt in bright stripes.
- cool & casual. liven up your favorite jeans & T with a colorful shirt... leave it unbuttoned for a relaxed look.

On Blazers:
- modern style. go from the office to the weekend in style with a blazer, crisp button-down, and jeans.
- relaxed style. layer your blazer over an unbuttoned dress shirt and a cotton T.

On Jeans:
- layer in style. a bright shirt layerd over a T and paired with your fave jeans is a great way to welcome the weekend.
- graphic designs. dress up denim for a night out with a smart-looking blazer and a bold graphic T.

On Khakis:
- work it. a shirt and tie doesn't have to be stuffy... just throw on a denim jacket over this classic look.
- loosen up. give your khakis a laid-back vibe with a half-zip sweater and add some color with a printed button-down shirt.

On Sweaters:
- the modern approach. for an urban look that's still sporty, pair a double-zip hooded sweater with an untucked button-down shirt and T.
- dress to impress. get that smart, prep school style without looking like you tried by throwing on a blazer and leaving your shirt untucked.

For more visuals on these great new looks for the coming "Ber" months, check out Gap.com.

...................

I love the fact that my favorite personality is the new endorser for GAP. No, not Lenny Kravitz, the other endorser... Ms. Sarah Jessica Parker. *whistle*. She looked fab in the commercial. If I were given the day to be whoever I'd want to be, I'd be her. Hahahaha. Kidding.

Accidental Messages

Messenger apps are quite interesting especially when someone pops a message... someone you don't really know and turns out to be someone you'd want to get to know.

I just got into a pretty short conversation with someone over Yahoo Messenger. It was a "wrong number" chat. God knows how he got my account. Anyway, in thirty minutes I felt like I was talking to someone I've known my entire life. Plus the fact that he's cute. Hehehehe.

Told him I'm in a relationship now and he was all happy about the fact that I'm hitched (but he had to place a cute D'oh! smiley). Funny funny. I never realized one could actually have a quick intellectual conversation about food in 15 minutes. Quite interesting.

Off to lunch now. Yummm... chicken barbecue. :)

Change in my life

Once again, I got a new phone. I sold my Nokia 6600 and got me an O2 Xda II. I'm a happy customer. I am really liking this phone. Aside from the fact that it's free with the plan I got from Globe Telecom, I think it's really worth the change. Getting used to Pocket PC 2003 was an effort but it pays off. See it and weep. :)

Queer Eye Fevah!

I am just so happy that a lot of people are enjoying the show Queer Eye (QE). I've had my share of Carson-Kyan-ish sessions with friends of mine and it's just so invigorating as well as fulfilling. Making the world a more beautiful place to live in, one person at a time.

I just finished the entire season 1 within one week. Don't ask me how. Hahahaha. 17 episodes. Damn. I like the Holiday Season episode where they had four of their "projects" go over to the QE pad for a party. These four straight guys were screened prior to coming. They had to have absorbed some good points that were imbibed into them by the Fab 5. They were all given surprise visits by a member of the QE troupe to check if they've been naughty or nice.

I was so surprised at how much these guys made such an effort to really stick to their "new selves". I feel a bit teary eyed at how they've really changed for the better. Seeing them actually buying nice clothes and skin/hair products.

I also found out how much I actually love Kyan. Hahahaha. He's such a hottie!

Going back, I was thinking of making some initiative within my current project that would lean towards self improvement. I'm going for the whole "all about you" theme. You know, making the changes for oneself. It should be fun. I need to raise this to the managers though before anything else so I'd know if they'll approve of this. I would need a budget. Hahaha. Salon styling don't come cheap you know.

I could probably use my skills in buying good clothes at affordable prices too. I once helped a friend of mine get several button downs, a few shirts, a pair of jeans all for P2,500 (around $45). Not bad eh? Hehehehe.

Must think of a way to raise this to the managers... hmmmm...

A Singing Career...

Star in a Million was a truly memorable experience for me. I had the privilege to sing "professionally" for a few weeks.

After the Top 21 round where they got the 10 finalists for the month of May, I was a busy artist. We had our first video shoot that was on location outside of Metro Manila. We went to a club house of a village owned by one of the corporate sponsors of the show. There, we made shots of us in the pool as we gave one liners to introduce ourselves, shots of us going down a slide, clips of us fooling around, doing karaoke, everything you can think of. They also taped us individually as we were interviewed by the segment producer. It was one showbiz experience. Surreal.

Once that whole outing was over, the next few days were hectic. We had pictorials at a studio of one of the more famous photographers in the country, Jomar Abesamis. Here's a shot of the May Batch from the photoshoot. I'm the one on the extreme left at the back row.


(Front Row - Ashley, Noemi, Michael, Sandy, Laarni; Back Row - Robin, Richard, Frenchie, John, Bocceli)

Then we had to come up with the songs we were going to sing for the pilot episode of the May batch. After numerous debates with myself, I chose Peabo Bryson's "Love Always Finds A Way" using Regine Velasquez' arrangement. It had a pretty solid bridge and the ending would be climactic.

The day before the competition we did our band practice. It was so much fun actually singing with a professional band led by Homer Flores, one of the most reputable musical directors here in the Philippines. I was contestant number 2 hence being second to rehearse. It was exhausting coz I honestly felt like I had to sing out loud. The microphones at the rehearsal venue weren't that good I thought. That day had to end and off we all go back to ABS.

I went home with Richard and John but had to pass by a thrift store to check out some clothes for the show. We all saw fantastic shirts and pants but I opted to stick to what I had planned as my costume for my performance. I thought of wearing my Banana Republic tomato colored shirt layered with a camel shirt. Black pants and camel leather belt and shoes. During the show itself I thought it looked really cool. Anyway, I begged John to take me home after we were through with the thrift store.

I couldn't sleep that night. I was too damn excited. Morning came and I leapt for the shower and finished everything I needed to do. Packed my bags with all my clothes I thought of considering in case they didn't want my costume. I almost thought I brought too much but what the heck, why be a fashion guru if you're not prepared for a fashion emergency, i.e. my shirt getting dirty or my pants would not look good under the t.v. lights.

Off to ABS with my dad driving me all the way to Quezon City. I was so excited as I entered the audience entrance. People recognized me. It was cool. I made my way to the dressing rooms where the rest of the contestants (now my really close friends) were waiting. Apparently they were just waiting for the people in charge of hair and make-up. We were just chatting the entire time until the hair and make-up artists came in. We continued chatting as each contestant would get their hair ironed or lips colored. We had rehearsals at the studio around 4PM (the show is supposed to start at 6PM). I honestly believe I did really well during rehearsals. I was so confident with my song. I was happy. 6PM, we were being called in for a quick rehearsal of the production number where we will be singing with guest artists.

The show proper, we were all quite nervous. Laarni started as she was number 1. She sounded weird that time. It was as if something's wrong. Then I had to hurry over to the stage area where I was blocked initially. I had no time to spare as my name was immediately called. No time to gain composure. I still started. I felt weird. Something's wrong. Fuck. The microphone's not working properly, or at least it was too damn weak. I had to compensate. The chorus of the song comes and I was almost projecting my voice like I've never done. I still couldn't hear myself. I'm just glad I didn't panic. I couldn't make the volume of my voice any louder as I might go off key. I stuck with the right projection. My ending was quite good. I wasn't tense any more. The judges comments...

Judge No. 1 ... "I couldn't hear you towards the climax of your song but I still like your sound, in a Broadway kind of way"

Judge No. 2 ... "there was nothing wrong with his volume, it was just right. I like your voice. You're (me) good!"

Judge No. 3 ... "I would have to agree with judge number 1, I couldn't hear you that well... (doing some actions with his face)... if star quality were considered, you don't... (I point to my get up)... your get up is nice but your face isn't so nice."

GASP!!!!!

God I hope my mom didn't hear that! Did I even hear that correctly? He just insulted me! UGH! I'm so glad my microphone that time was no longer turned on or I would've answered back.

The night went on with memorable performances most especially by my favorite, Frenchie, singing an all Aretha "R.E.S.P.E.C.T."

Amazing woman. Great voice. She'd give Fantasia Barino a run for her American Idol crown.

The show ended with the people getting the boot... Laarni, John, Richard, and moi! UGH!!!

That was it. The experience I'll never forget. I don't wanna get into the other things because I thought they weren't relevant. All I could think of was how much I was thankful for all my friends who went.

Xochi, Angelo, Sharon, Lisa, Vina, Mel, Normie, Nescel, Jack, Stephan, Adjeng, Tegs, Dennis, Wilma, Jet, Paolo... to all of you, Thank You!

To all those who supported me in this endeavor, thank you. May God bless you!

To my baby, thanks so much for the support you gave me during this competition. I know it was hard for you not seeing me that much during those times and I'm thankful for that. Besides, you did miss quite a lot of my other performances... hehehehe... kidding. I love you and thanks for being there. :) MWAH!

I'm pretty sure this has been posted in other sites before but I just really really absorbed it today. I hope this helps a lot of you... and hits other people as well.

GUIDELINES IN KEEPING MEN TO MEN RELATIONSHIPS

* Treat the man you love with love. Always. Anger, jealousy, and fear are valid emotions, but they are not valid excuses for treating him with non-love.

* You may not yet live together and maybe never will, but make your house or apartment his home as well.

* Don't take out your work frustrations on your boyfriend.

* Don't refer to your love as your "future ex-lover." That kind of sarcasm and pessimism is destructive.

* Do you empty you boyfriend's pockets to check for matchbooks with other guy's phone numbers? Check his phone bill to see whom he's calling long distance? Don't. If you distrust him so much, then enough is wrong with the relationship that spying won't set it right.

* Think twice before tattooing your boyfriend's name on your biceps (think thrice if it's a place where the sun don't shine). Sometimes the tattoo lasts longer than the love. And if you think getting rid of a boyfriend you've fallen out of love with is painful, try getting rid of a tattoo.

* Don't place your man on a pedestal. Sooner or later, he will lose his balance and fall off.

* Nix the nagging. Nix the whining.

* Don't finish his sentences.

* Don't expect your boyfriend to trust you automatically. Why should he? Trust must be earned.

* Be honest. Keep your promises. Don't make commitments you know you won't keep. If you can't honor your promises and commitments, renegotiate them.

* Phone when you'll be late for dates.

* Never take advantage of his emotional fragility.

* Try not to be too possessive. It can be toxic.

* Let him have a new friendship that's only his.

* Let him go to the movies without you.

* Let him dance with other guys.

* Always make time for him. Being too busy is not an excuse.

* Let older men into your life. Youth worship is self-defeating. We will all grow older. Don't deprive yourself of elders' hard-earned wisdom and love.

* Stand by your man. Unless he's the Unabomber. In that case, what are you doing with him anyway?

* Take care of him when he's sick. Put on your Florence Nightingale cap and be the best damn nurse he'll ever have.

* You don't have to suffer silently. Let him know when you're hurting.

* Put his photo on your desk at work if you're so inclined.

* If your partner doesn't want to come out at work and introduce you, accept it. He knows his work situation and the possible repercussions of coming out better that you do.

* Dare to use the royal "We" every now and then. it can strengthen your love to refer to yourselves publicly as a couple.

* Stimulate him intellectually.

* Encourage him in his work, his creativity, and his personal growth.

* When you vacation together, go somewhere you both want to go.

* Be a considerate son-in-law.

* If he has children, be a good stepparent.

* If he has an ex-wife, be friendly to her.

* Love should improve the quality of your lives. Do whatever you can to make his life easier and better.

* Sometimes making love and sex overlap, and sometimes they don't. Sometimes a fuck is just a fuck and has little to do with love. Learn the difference.

* As an act of faith, buy condoms in bulk. (But don't forget they have expiration dates.)

* Don't be greedy in bed. Give a damn about his orgasm, too.

* Wonder if you're satisfying him? Ask. Be prepared to deal with him saying no.

* Ask him what he likes. Tell him what you like.

* Do it outside. Do it inside.

* Explore a sex shop together. Show each other what toys and images turn you on.

* If you give him a sex toy as a gift, keep it private.

* Ask before you insert any sex toy. Wait for an answer. Respect the answer.

* Smear him with ice cream and enjoy dessert. (This guarantees thirty- one variations without even changing the flavors.) Let him be your flavor of the month.

* Try body paints. Experiment with applicators. Don't use a paintbrush.

* Learn from the lesbians: Keep your fingernails short.

* Plan sex.

* Have spontaneous quickies.

* Release your inner slut for him.

* Overwhelm him with your passion.

* Let all five of your senses throb with sensuality.

* Kiss him gently.

* Kiss him like you mean it.

* Lick his inner thigh.

* Suck his fingers.

* Rub. Nuzzle. Slurp. Nibble.

* Do it silently.

* Do it like thunder.

* Sometimes let sex be an aerobic workout.

* Sometimes let sex be slow, lazy, and relaxed.

* Teach him your best sex tricks.

* Tell him your sex secrets.

* Perform a striptease.

* Read erotic passages to him.

* Be gentle. Be wild.

* Be passive. Be bold.

* Reciprocate.

* Make love to him above the waist, too.

* Don't leave a hickey first without asking.

* Don't use your lover's handles as love handles.

* Tell him he's a good lover

I know i know... I'm so out of it... Give me time. I will most definitely start again soon. I'm just not really in the mood to talk about my fucked up life right about now. I'm not in a stable state of mind so I might just end up fucking things up. All I got to say for myself is I'm not just about to give up. I'm just revving up my motor. Will have to get back to my stupid life now. Laterz.

Am I cool or uncool? [CLICK] You are Super-Cool! Woah! Step back - the future's so bright for you it's blinding me! You are the coolest of the cool. Everyone looks up to you as the benchmark for being coooool. The fonze was your grandfather. Any cooler and you'd freeze! WOO it's chilly in here. Cool quizzes at Go-Quiz.com

Hi all. I'm pretty sure you are aching to find out what I think of the May 15 competitions. I honestly can't talk about it yet. Maybe after the month ends. I can give comments and stuff. But I found out something last night. People here in Manila can actually download my pics on their phones via WAP. Here's the picture i was able to download.



Cool huh. :)

Last minute thoughts before Saturday's competition...

- I'm really really nervous.
- I am dying to kick ass.
- I hope the new key of my song won't be too low or too high.
- I hope my get up this Saturday helps me get good reviews.
- Band rehearsals tomorrow would give me what I need for Saturday... assurance.
- My stomach's turning like crazy.
- Although I've been on bigger performance arenas than Saturday's, I'm finding it more and more difficult knowing that this is all me. I'm in this thing as a solo artist. Not with a group.
- I'm so glad a lot of my friends are there giving me support. Being beside me all the way.
- I can't wait to get pumped up for Saturday.
- I wanna go home and sleep and wake up and head for band rehearsals.
- I hope I won't get eliminated that easily. Not on the first round. I wanna be part of the Final 3... I really just wanna...

Pray for me.

I just wanted to formally inform you of news from what’s happened in the last couple of weeks.

As some of you may know, I auditioned for Star in a Million last April 23 (Friday). I was with 120 or so aspirants to get into the show. After the taxing six hours of waiting (thanks to my friend for waiting WITH me), all the “auditionees” were called back into the studio for the announcement of those who got in. They called people number by number and suddenly I was realizing that they were calling the numbers of the people who won’t make it. I was number 89 and when I did not hear any mention of those digits, I was relieved. I got in as part of the Top 50 for the month of May. We were then asked to go back on April 28 for the taped “Grand Auditions”. I had to choose a new outfit of course. Hahahaha. I came in thinking positive and when word got out that we were going to sing a capella, I had to look around for the nearest 3000 series Nokia to get my pitch (or key). I was singing “Someone Like You” from Jekyll and Hyde using A-flat. I was humming the chord the entire time as the Top 50 hopefuls waiting agonizingly for hours and hours. I was number 44. I got called in the studio and it actually felt exciting. Seeing the judges for the May batch (Vernie Varga, Fritz Ynfante, and Mel Villena) and waiting to sing in front of them. I gave it my all and got rave reviews from the judges. I was so elated with the score they gave me. Three stars. (They would give a star each for a contestant they felt should go on and if one gets two stars they’re automatically in for the next round). Dang was I happy. Off to the red carpet leading to the exit where Ryan Agoncillo would be waiting to get me interviewed.

We were 21 out of 50. The competition gets tighter as friendships grew stronger. May 1 was the last round of auditions and it was going to be at the Star in a Million main set. I will be singing “Say That You Love Me” by Martin Nievera with a Regine ending. Hahahaha. I was able to extract the music from a VCD that I recorded on to tape. Adjusted the key a little and voila, instant minus one. We all picked our numbers and to my surprise, I got no. 1. I’m the first person to perform?? WHOA! I was able to keep calm the entire time. We caught the Live Show of Star in a Million April Finals. 9PM, friends of mine came surprisingly. I wasn’t really planning on inviting them yet coz I felt it wasn’t too much of a big deal, yet. But I was touched with them coming with my honey.

So anyway, the taping started at around 9:30 (I think) and I came up on stage with enough confidence to last me the whole night. I was in a pretty spiffy get up. Hahahaha. Started the song but got cut coz Direk Fritz couldn’t hear my voice so he requested for the sound to be lessened and a monitor to be place on their area. I started again and finished quite strongly I thought. I won’t give away what the judges thought of my performance so you could watch it this Saturday. Hahahahaha. After no. 21 finished we all had to change outfits. We were lent short sleeved button down shirts (guys) and I don’t know what you call those things (women). Let’s get to the main attraction. They all lined us up on stage at around 2AM for the announcement. I was as stiff as a cadet officer (at least that’s what my friends said). I was trying to stay calm when Edu Manzano was starting call the numbers of the contestants who will be part of the Top Ten Finalists for the Month of May. #7, blah, blah…. #1… FUCK… is that my number?? DAMN!... I got in. Shit! I was relieved, ecstatic, trembling. I did not realize how much this contest is so important to me until that very moment. It was euphoric. But all that had to end when reality struck. This is just the beginning.

So to you my friends, I hope to go down this road with you guys by my side. I hope you’d support me in this endeavor. Your prayers will be mighty helpful as I start this journey hoping it won’t stop too soon.

Catch the first episode of the May batch on May 8 on Channel 2, 6:30PM. The start of the competition for the 10 May Finalists is on May 15 Live from ABS CBN Studio 2. You are free to come if you wish. Thanks again to everyone for all your support. This is just the beginning.

On TFC (The Filipino Channel)

North America
EST - Saturdays 6:35AM Replays on Sundays 1:30AM
CST - Saturdays 5:35AM Replays on Sundays 12:30AM
Pacific Time - Saturdays 3:35PM, replays at 10:30PM
Hawaii Time - Saturdays 1:35PM

My own "how to go about summer" post... yipee... :)

Tone Up NOT Down
Knowing you could probably afford to lose a few pounds and/or tone up a bit makes you do yourself a favor. Do this by first taking a long look at yourself. See anything moving as you slowly shake? If parts of your body tend to be a bit active with this check, it should be time to do at least twenty minutes of exercise here or there. Trust me, this will go a long way to changing what you see now into what everyone will see this summer.

Suits-me up Scottie
I’m pretty sure most of us are not going to hit the beach wearing a thong in this lifetime, unless of course you actually like being buried in the sand. This does not mean however, that you need to forget about showing off what you got. Oh come on, don’t be shy. Just try to keeping in mind that less is not always more. This should be your key to finding the perfect get up for some fun in the sun.

Mix it nicely
Most of the time accessories end up being the last thing thrown in one’s bag. It should never be the case coz once on the sand it is the little things that can make or break your look. Even if you plan to more or less live in your beach outfit, a hat, sunglasses, beach towel, walking shorts or wrap, flip-flops, an assortment of T-shirts or tank tops and even a good book are essential. Sound complicated? Consider a trial run in front of the mirror at home. You can leave out the book.

I don’t wanna Burn baby
If you’re just too perfect and look exceptionally good in red, a picture perfect day of sun and fun — not to mention your entire vacation — can be absolutely ruined by not being prepared to deal with sunburn. Spare the lobster jokes and the painful cycle of burn, bubble and peel by catching some rays in the backyard. Hey it’s worth a try. By doing this, you can actually look already tanned when you hit the beach and off to the applying sun screen.

Hair apparent
This is a fact. Both men and women have to deal with unwanted body hair and beach season is the time to do it. Giving yourself the Beach-once-over from all angles before heading it out on the sand could be the difference between a look to remember and one you would rather forget.

Speedo Dido
Unless you are a competitive swimmer, you really don't need the aerodynamics. It doesn’t matter how confident you are, everyone makes a decison based on first impressions. So for the guys, my advice doesn't stem from men's points of view, but rather women's. Let's just face it, not all of us have the body of an Adonis. So by wearing a Speedo, you might be revealing a little more than you should be and covering up might not be such a bad idea.

That's all I could come up with for now... hope that helped.

Just a quick post for those in dire need of knowing what to where...

here's a rundown of some of the must-haves to load up on:

- striped button-down shirt (worn with striped or patterned tie)
- polo T-shirt
- dirty and/or light denim
- hooded sweatshirt or track jacket
- gray pants
- floral patterns
- bright colors like pistachio green, bright orange, light pink, sky blue

Etiquette shmetiquette

This is probably a weird post for me since I never realized how big a deal this whole "being a man" really is. I got to go through my usual research and found an article that caught my attention. It focused entirely on being a man with etiquette. Wow! Here's my take on proper decorum... I think men are more manly with etiquette.

Knowing what to say...

... yeah sure, it's fun to go slang but sometimes it's not so good to have a limited vernacular. Go for the basics or even go for more. I highly suggest reading up. You have a wide selection of magazines, newspapers, novels and even biographies to build a better vocabulary.

Knowing the buzz...

... since we're on the topic of reading up, conversation is always key to knowing a person more keenly. If a person knows what's happening around him (i.e. news) it's a good indication that he's not self-centered. On this note, however, try to also accept new information when being spoken to. Try not to think you know everything, you just might surprise yourself.

Drop it...

... like I said, slang is not the norm. Catch phrases are fad-ish. Lessen usage of these phrases so you won't get into a conversation using words or phrases that are from 10s of seasons ago.

I hate to admit it...

... but going to the gym does produce wonders. You see, maintaining physical fitness shows a lot about you. It means you take care of yourself and you want to project your very best to people you normally see day-in and day-out. Note to yourself, also, that a good disposition will "surge endorphins" which make you seem like you just came from a weekend vacation in Boracay.

One funny thought...

... "cybersex is permissible as a masturbatory aid, not unlike the recent Falcon or Bel Ami videos you recently acquired, but under no circumstances should it be a substitute for the real thing."

On dating...

... if you asked for the date, foot the bill. It shows that you are responsible enough for your actions. He he he. It's also plus points for you to do so. Three words come in handy in this situation, "I got it." Make it a point to reassure your date that you are wholeheartedly offering your generosity and that you wouldn't have it any other way. You'll be getting a mental smile from your date immediately.

Past is past...

... never ever inquire about your date's past relationship/s. That's why they are called skeletons in the closet because they should always be in it (at least for the next year or so). Just concentrate on what is most important, the here and now. This will get your date marvelling at the fact that you're not too nosey and in turn won't do the same to you. I'm sure we all have deep dark pasts we'd want to hide for the meantime.

Work hard, drink hard...

... ever wonder what it's like to have a date with someone who's having a drink with a little umbrella in it? I'm sure you wouldn't find that the least bit appealing. Do the same, just go for the clean drinks. A nice vodka tonic is a safe and easy enough hard drink to start the night. Even better, go for a glass of wine (red or white, it's up to you).

Shake it baby, shake it...

... handshakes can give away impressions too. Quick tip, never go for a loosey-goosey grip. Firm and reassuring is always a winner.

Look 'em in the eye...

... not being able to look at someone directly in the eye could send out signals that you're hiding something. If you have noble intentions, what's wrong with doing a cornea to cornea session with the person you're talking to? You wouldn't want your integrity to be in doubt, would you?

That's all I got. It's all about yin and yang of being a man and having manners. It's sometimes tough to do both together, in harmony but know that this world can instantly come up with conclusions about you based on your manners. Don't worry about not getting all of this in one swing. You'll be able to evaluate if what you are doing is helping, this is done through interaction.

Know that what can you do makes sure impressions and conclusions of you are accurate and that people know the kind of man you really are.

Zwei Jahre

Vielen danke mein schatz.... (thank you my honey)... I love the fact that I can say "in the last couple of years" every time I refer to our relationship and what we've been through. That Saturday when I first met up with you was most unexpected. I never would've guessed that I will be meeting up with you for two years and still don't get tired of doing it.

Like a moth to a flame, I'm drawn to you. Every single day I'm constantly thinking of you. Good thoughts, bad, nasty, or just plain ole kinky. You are my Yang! I'll never get tired of being with you... Cheers to more years together! I love you!

OK... just so I won't forget, the things I wanna write about:

- 2 years...
- relationships...
- the next best thing to look out for...
- 1999...
- shopping spree...
- my choir...
- my mom...

... OK, I'll start on one of these after the day ends. =)

Signing off for a few days due to Holy Week. Hope you all have a reflective weekend.

Wee hoo! Summer’s here. Thank God!

With summer comes all the amazing things you can do to get hot and sweaty. Yeah! Ok, I’ll calm down now.

What I love about summer is the fact that I can and will wear shorts when I can. But the funny thing about wearing shorts, you can’t just put on a pair as if it were nothing. You still have to coordinate. I mean, none of those Bermuda shorts with like a pink linen top… uhm, maybe if it was an Ungaro button down polo I’d forgive you.

Ok, what does one wear on a toasty summer day? If it were up to me, men should wear shorts (just shorts… tee hee…) kidding of course. Since I’m a corporate dude (yuck!), I’ll go for lighter fabrics for my shirt and then less layering. Hell, I’d even wear lighter or cooler types of underwear… i.e. less of boxer briefs more of silk boxer shorts.

So anyway, I would wear lighter colored shirts to work just coz they feel cooler (I don’t know why). I think the only reason why I’d wear something dark is if I feel dark that day… like really butchy. Ha ha ha… Otherwise I’d go for pastels. If I had more of the lighter shades for my pants I’d wear them but since I made a mistake of investing in a lot of darker shades, I’m paying the price. One must remember that in buying things, think long term especially expensive purchases.

Now weekends are a totally different thing. One should be more mindful of what they are wearing. Like I realized this weekend, the Jagard was wearing something quite casual for my taste and I thought, wait, we’re going to Podium. That’s like the Power Plant of the Ortigas area. It dawned on me that it was fucking summer. We all have the license to dress down. That eventually calmed me down. Ha ha ha. Sometimes I forget that I’m in the tropics and that we don’t get winter or spring here. I forget that April and May = Summer… not Spring. Ha ha ha.

So shorts are totally cool. I love the new board shorts they have in Banana Republic. I especially like the Kiwi color which I already saw last February. I’m just glad that they’re carrying it over through the summer. It’s such a refreshing color. Love it, love it, love it!

For shirts, I would normally go for a light colored ringer-T or something in a light shade of blue or green. Other colors will do fine as long as the fabric feels light. Abercrombie and Fitch always has nice distressed shirts that are oh so lovely to wear. They’re sooooo thin and cool.

A tip I got from Carson of Queer Eye is that to have the distressed or worn look for a shirt, wash a t-shirt in a washing machine with rock salt. Apparently that gives a real nice look to the shirt. I haven’t really tried it but he swears by so I guess it should work.

Moving on, so you’ve got the shirt, the shorts (or nice draw sting pants)… footwear. I’ll have to say that thongs are still preferred by moi. I love thongs especially leather ones. I’ve been dying for at least the Banana Republic version of the leather thong (for ages now). I got a pair from a nice store near my area and it just cost me P800 ($16). They’re leather of course. It’s a nice addition to my 8+ pairs of sandals and slides. Ha ha ha. I’m such a freak.

Accessorize this summer. Hmmm, I remember I bought a necklace and anklet set from Boracay years before. Those don’t work for me now coz I have uber layers of anklets on me. Necklace wise, I’d still go for something light colored to enhance the skin tone especially if you get a tan from bathing too much under the sun. But it really depends. I just realized that darker colored necklaces can also work if you are fair skinned and don’t get tanned easily. The rest of the accessories should really be up to you. All I say is, don’t over accessorize. It’s harmful… really!

Hmmm… can’t think of anything else but no more of that neon crap. Whoever wears them should be banned from ever going out!

FOR THE LOVE OF GOD!!!

If I see one more guy wearing BLACK SHOES with a BROWN BELT... or vice versa... I'd seriously SCREAM!!!!

All about hair...

Had a fun time Friday night. I went to the salon to have my hair cut. As I made an appointment that afternoon with my stylist, I checked in with a couple of friends if they wanted to go on with the hair make over. They all confirmed so I made appointments for them as well. I got in touch with the other good stylists of the salon. I made it a point not to get my other stylist as I think my friends would run and hide if they knew how much that guy charged. Ha ha ha... But I got them good ones just the same at lower cost.

Went in at around 6PM (this was so that I could have fab hair for the evening since I have dinner with friends). I was waiting for my friend who I scheduled for the same hour (6PM). He was a tad late but that was ok. I was conversing with my stylist after my hair got shampooed and was actually consulting with him what style would suit me for the look I wanted. I wanted short slightly cropped but still edgy. He told me he will do this new style on me. I was ok with it. It seemed harmless. An hour later, I felt ultra fabulous. It was amazing how my hair actually changed. It looked very Tony & Guy. Yet, I can do a fun and casual look with it too. Coolness!

I waited for my friend after my haircut and was just checking out what the other stylist was doing on his hair. I thought it was coming along well so that got me out of panic mode. When I saw the finished product, I was amazed. Thank god he allowed me to take him to the salon (needless to say he doesn't know what to do with his hair now so I told him to get hair wax).

Anyway, the day went by with fab dos and the two other buddies of mine went in with long hair, got out with chopped locks and fab crops. You guys looked amazing in your new dos. Fantabulous.

So, I got home and the next morning I was contemplating on how I was going to fix my hair. I did some shampooing with conditioner (just like I always do with newly chopped hair). I use different brands of shampoo so my hair won't feel heavy. I change brands every month. I use different types of conditioner too but I do love Cream Silk's Scalp Care Conditioner. I don't know why. Its just that it has been there for me through thick and thin (hair that is). It's saved me more times than any doctor. I love this brand.

So on with my hair rituals, I pat my hair dry (not roughly coz that'll just ruin your scalp and the roots of your hair, I don't want to stress how falling hair is soooo not IN). After my hair's a bit dry, I take out my handy dryer and use the cold dry function to just air dry the strands and my scalp. I don't dry it too much as I don't want to get flakes on me. I then realized that using a hair iron on my do would actually be helpful, so I did. I ironed my hair (just like I did when I sported long hair). It helped thin things out. Make it more soft. I don't suggest doing this often though... hair damage ring a bell?

I'm ready to fix my hair now (after 15 minutes). I am using a local brand of hair paste/gum/wax. I have used several products and liked every single one. I've used this shining wax from Kerastase - Paris (that cost me $15 and lasted like three to four months, not bad). I've used the Gatsby Hair Wax (blue container -- this I loved totally). Now, I saw a new product from Bench so I thought I'd try it. It isn't so bad. It smells ok. It does it's job not to make my hair get into clumps. I hate clumped hair (you know how gel makes your hair clumped if you put it on while your hair's wet). I put on the product with my hair dried up nicely. I learned that one should work the product (i.e. rub it with your hands) before working it into your hair. I also learned that you should work the product on your hair from the back to front. So I do that, religiously. I develop a faux hawk but subtle it down a bit. Make it less, er... prominent.

Done. Get on my red shirt, Zara shoes and Gap jeans and I'm off to meet my mildly depressed baby. I'm off to cheer him up. Yipee...


... report, I got to cheer up my baby and loved the after cheering up sex. :) Bwahahahahahaha!!!

Let's face it. People get deeply affected when it's love that's being talked about. More so if it is about falling out of love.

That's not what I am trying to write just about now though. I just want to let out my thoughts on what I think should be done in the current situation my friend is in. I won't necessarily have to relay what has been happening as I might make certain mistakes on some points or scenarios.

I guess all I want to say is, it is ok to express one's love. It is ok to let the other person know what you feel, to let all the emotions pour out from inside you. But, I believe that we all have limitations. That we all should be mature enough to supress ourselves from going all out. I think there's a line between mad about love and just plain mad.

As I always think about predicaments in a manner where I try to imagine what Carrie Bradshaw (Sex and the City) would do, I try to recall what she thinks on the above situation. What would Carrie do if she loves someone who's already attached. A ha! Mr. Big. She had sex with him. More than once. She even ended up being caught by Big's wife (then). Ugh. So do I tell a friend that he should fuck the love of his life. Add to this the probability of him being caught by the boyfriend. Complications complications.

Anyway, I'm trying now to think what I'd do if I were out hitting the clubs with the guy I absolutely have a huge ass crush on, nee, almost love. Knowing how much I want to let him know I'm this fabulous person and that I could do so much better, I'd probably flirt with him till the wee hours of the night er.. morning. But then, knowing me, my friends would be there (and I would be pretty sure they know my situation), I'd be told to quit it. I'd end up crying. Crying for myself. Crying coz I know I can't have my candy. I can't have my Prada shoes. I can't have him. But then, it will dawn on me. If I can love someone I can't have this much, what more someone that I can actually have.

I'll feel much better. I'd pick myself up. Go up to him. "I know that you know that I love you. God knows why but I do. I'm not a bad person, really. I made a huge mistake. I really want you to be happy and since I can see that you are, I'll leave you be. I will have to keep you on my phone book just in case I want to meet up with you again for coffee or whatever, but right now, I think it best for me not to see you, yet." I seal those words with a friendly kiss on the cheeks and forehead. Walk away like the diva I am.

*Sigh*... wow, that was one amazing scene. Hmmm... oh well, I'd go do that or copy something off of the move "My Best Friend's Wedding".

To you, my friend. I hope you'll find the light bulb moment with your current situation. You know how I hate good people being in a horrible slump. Labs yah buddy!

Let me stray from the usual posts I've been making. I'm just a little pissed. It's one thing to be fab, it's another to be stabbed. (hmmm... nah, that's too much)

Anyways, I received the worst comment from a friend yesterday. Talking to him and the other people gathered around us was nice until, "oh, I saw your bag when I went to the Kenneth Cole store. It was in the SALE section. Apparently, it's out of season."

WHAT THE FUCK ARE YOU TRYING TO SAY SWEETHEART?!?!?!?!?!

I just retorted, "well, the thing is, totes are in, so technically, my bag is actually IN season."

I honest to God hate it when someone says something like that to my face. I would have appreciated it if he said that to someone else. Man, that really burst my Berkin bubble.

I was also thinking I could've done a better come back line like, "oh really? it was probably displayed next to YOUR TASTE... so last season." But then, that would've been really bad... I wouldn't mind.

Fuck it! I will probably slap him once I get my hands on those new Jack Spade totes. See how the straps would look around his neck as he goes blue from asphyxiation.

Never mess with a fashionista. We could be damn bitches!

The clothes make a man... but what makes another man (or woman) make love to the man?

Scent. If you are blessed with an amazing personal aroma (as I know there are who have that gift) then you should not be worried with finding the right scent for you. But for commoners, other people end up recognizing you by your trademark scent. It can be sometimes good, or bad.

I remember, there was a time I knew a friend of mine would be nearby when I could smell her. Literally. Her scent was, let's just say, head turning. It was the most pleasant of odors but it was her. This just proves the statement, you are what you smell like... hahahaha (I just made that up).

If you are the type who wears the same cologne year after year and realize that it never works for you, you may be in need of a slight change in personal fragrance. Just throw away your Old Spice and take a look at what's new at the fragrance counters of a nearby department store.

I can't state enough how essential it is to know that every scent or cologne smells different on every person. The way your body blends with the scent is a question of chemistry, and has to do with the chemical reaction between you and the particular fragrance. While your friend smells great in the latest Calvin Klein cologne, it could make you smell more like a gym locker. Honest.

With this in mind, it's very important to try on a scent before purchasing it and never ever assume that what smells good on everyone else will smell good on you. You would never buy a pair of shoes before trying them on, right? Well, the same goes for cologne.

To do this, just go to the store and spray different types of cologne on one of those card thingies. The reason behind this is if you try them all on your arm, your arms and wrists will be drenched by the other scents by your fourth cologne. You will never know the right fragrance unless you put each one on different cards or pieces of paper. Note to yourself that when one of those annoying counter people standing in front of the cologne section at the department store is ready to massacre you with a spray from a bottle of cologne, you should stand back. Just tell them to spray the cologne on a card instead so your wrists remain scent-free.

Try to test the different scents by smelling the various cards to check which fragances you like, and which ones smell more like RAID. You can throw away the ones you really don't like. After having sniffed and smelled all the cologne you are interested in -- or until you feel faint, whichever comes first -- take a breather and walk around the shopping center or outside the store for a while. It would also prove helpful if you sniff coffee between each cologne. This will help give you the full effect of each scent since coffee refreshes your sense of smell. So if you're walking around the department store with a cup of Starbucks, you don't even need to take a break from sniffing. You want to give your nose a little bit of a rest so that your sense of smell is rejuvenated before returning to the store to make your final purchase.

When you are finished "resting", go back to the store to make your decision. This time you can test out how the cologne smells on you. You shouldn't have as many options since you won't be as bombarded by an assortment of scents and fragrances, after having already gone through an elimination process.

That should get you started. Now, from the scents I know of, these are my favorites (on me or on another guy)...

Hugo by Hugo Boss --> get's me worked up... he he he... did I just say that out loud?

L'Eau D'Issey Pour Homme by Issey Miyake --> this is one classic smell. It has that tangerine twist which is just divine. I do feel bad for a friend who had his Issey stolen. I do hope you'll get something soon to at least lessen the pain from being parted with your scent.

Happy for Men by Clinique --> this is what I'm using now. I like it because it smells so fresh and clean. Straight out of the shower type of clean. :) hmmmmm... smells good!

Others I can't really remember. Basically, just like anything, choose something you'll feel comfortable with. If possible, ask a friend to go with you when you're buying a new scent. A second opinion helps. Happy sniffing.

Days have been oh so annoying for me. Add to that this cellular phone that keeps on beeping (alarm). Apparently the owner left it on his desk and we can't shut it off coz it's asking for a code. Argh!!

Digressing from my emotional stress, I think of shoes. How my newly polished black square-toed pair look on my black flat fronts. Damn, I need newer socks. The pair I'm wearing now are a tad plain. I have to remember to drop by M&S at the mall later today.

As I type this entry, my eye catches my ring finger on my left hand. I see a ring. Silver. My honey gave this to me. He bought it at a silver shop in Baguio (a city far north of Manila). It seems like it has Egyptian symbols. Really interesting. My hands and arms pretty much have jewelry that are silver or stainless. I always wear two essential pieces (plus the ring for sentimental reasons). Watch and bracelet. I never leave home without the two. I'd feel naked if either one was absent from one of my wrists.

I remember having left for the U.S. last month and realizing when I got on the plane that I left my bracelet. They're the Italian kind, stretchable. Really nice. They match my watch's steel band. Boy did I feel horrible not having anything on my right wrist for an entire two weeks (I'm right handed so normally I have my watch on my left wrist and the bracelet on my right).

I did compensate. I had on me a really simple necklace. Circular cut out puka shell that looks just like a white LifeSavers with a leather cord. A small wooden bead is on one end of the leather cord and a loop on the other. They serve as the lock for this really simple necklace. A friend gave it to me. So basically, I still have two pieces, my watch, and my necklace (oh and the ring).

This leads me to accessories. Is it even proper? How much of it can someone wear?

Let's start with jewelry. For me, rule of thumb is men should have just enough jewelry to accentuate their "limbs" or anything long (no pun intended). Arms, fingers, legs, toes, neck, etc. I'll start with the basic.

Watches. Everyone pretty much knows that a watch is an essential. The thing here is that, the type of watch you have can reflect who you are or, if you have dozens of watches, it can reflect your mood for the day. Like I said, I only have one watch. It's silver-ish in color. White face. It's a friggin' company watch but I like it. It's simple. Very minimalist. People mistake it for some expensive brand until they see my company's name on the face. Ha ha ha.

I would suggest to go for a watch that speaks "this is me". If it were a Rolex oyster, a Cartier Tank Francaise or Pascha, a Baby-G, or a Nike Triax, it's really all up to you. I would suggest however to get watches that have a classic design. For dressy yet not so expensive, I'd go for Kennet Cole time pieces. I love their collection. Go check it out on KennethCole.com. Fossil also has a good collection. But if you are on a tight budget, I have to admit that Timex carry a wide array of pretty decent watches. Just get the ones with minimal visibility of the Timex brand.

Rings, necklaces, bracelets. This is a toss up. I personally love bracelets. I like how they look on my wrist. I would go for something similar in color to the combo of your watch. If you have a two tone (gold-silver) watch then go for a two tone bracelet. It would be nasty to see clashing wrists. Ruins the balance. If you are either a ring person, I'd suggest to wear one if you are wearing a metal banded watch. Otherwise, it would look weird. If you are wearing one, go for the tones of your watch's band. Here though, you don't have to do a two-toned ring for a two-toned watch. You can use either silver or gold as long as it's of the same shade (silver or gold).

One can be more relaxed with necklaces. The only thing I try to remember is the whole tone thing and shade thing. This only applies if your wearing a metal banded watch and a chain necklace. Other than that, any coordinating necklace would do. It's an accent piece to some. A part of the wardrobe for others. I go for accent. Suggestions for summer. I'd still go with the white shell necklaces, but something simpler would always have more impact. If you want to accentuate that amazing tan, a necklace with a light shade would look hot. Something darker would not even do anything for you. Trust me. And, no more fucking buddah beads on someone's neck! You are only allowede this if you are a Buddhist monk, like my dad's youngest brother (that's a different story).

I'll get into other accessories after more time has been spent doing actual work than posting blogs. As if!! hahahahaha!!

Being vertically challenged has never been more fun... fashion wise. I made some amount of research (while I was working here in the office) to find some decent tips for peeps out there who are clamoring for some good advice on dressing up if you feel you're a little, err... a little low.

If you follow the items I outlined it could help in some way... and it won't hurt. :)

Just go for a simple wardrobe. This will help you avoid standing out in a crowd.

Avoid designs and patterns. These break up your outfit's vertical lines that normally make you look taller. (applicable to jackets, shirts, or a pair of pants, etc)

Vertical lines in shirts, suits, pants, and sweaters help in extending the facade of a shorter frame or body.

A uniform top and bottom will make your body look longer. (i.e. if you're wearing blue jeans, wearing a similar blue shirt will make you look taller)

Essentially, clothes need to fit perfectly. Wearing something tight or loose will emphasize your physical flaw.

Jackets and blazers should fall slightly below your buttocks and not above it.

Avoid blazers or cardigans with more than 3 buttons. Remember that these are designed for taller men and will end up making you look shorter.

Never wear your pants too high. Wear them just above your hips for maximum results.

Buy pants that are low-rise (a short distance between the crotch of your pants and the top of the waistband). Levi's has them.

Avoid any kind of puckering around the hips caused by full pockets, tight and badly designed pants especially pleated ones. They will make you look wider, hence shorter.

Your pants should break just above your shoes so your socks don't show.

V-neck t-shirts and sweaters will also make your torso look longer.

Avoid tucking baggy tops because they will make you look like an ice cube (wide and short).

So there. Thanks to websites i was able to gather the information above. I have to say that was enlightening for me to. :) This is new territory. Hope this helps someone at least.

Queer eye for queer guys....

The Wednesday party posed an opportunity to watch an episode of Queer Eye for the Straight Guy... a show I absolutely love. It's a show I can truly say would be a dream come true if I were given the chance to be in it as a member of the Fab 5. I know I may not be as wise as Carson in terms of Fashion but I am equipped. It's been my life.

The episode was quite old as the tips Carson mentioned were a bit hmmm.... gazillion-seasons ago. Also, I would've went for something less trendy but more hip clothes for their episodes' "straight guy". I did like what Thom used for the bedroom cum office. I'm pretty sure that was an IKEA high bed (the ones where the bed is like 10 feet above the floor and there's space below to put up an office or an entertainment center. I also liked what Kyan did with the hair. The highlights idea was just right. So anyway, enough about them, I do like the whole concept of "making over" people. I've resigned myself to being a stylist for my close friends. Offering them solicited (mostly unsolicited) advice. I'm so into that. I also compliment people I know on how they look and special pieces in their get up which I think was a good choice for an accent.

A good example was The Doc's watch. I loved his watch last Wednesday. It was a BVLGARI with a silver face and camel wrist straps. Amazing touch and went well with his shirt. I also noticed Arjae's look. The half tucked shirt is so good on him. (I try to do this as well after having done it for quite a while... since like ages ago). The thing with the half tucked shirt is that it adds something special to one's look. It also emphasizes the belt (so if you're going to try it, please wear a nice belt) and waist area. Makes your shoulders look broader. Just really simple but hip. Very Ethan Hawke/Gap model kinda look.

Now, to a part of ones look I can never say enough of... shoes. Cardinal rule of dressing for men, shoe color should match belt color (if any). The only time this can be broken is if you're wearing sneakers, wearing a blue and yellow adidas with a blue and yellow belt just spells fashion disaster. Also, a tip, white belts are the latest fad... maybe a staple. Going back to shoes... I feel it is my obligation to help out the population by promoting good shoes. Shoes are an investment. Don't settle for a cheap pair. Go for something classic, sturdy and comfy. The trendy designs, hmmm... I'd say you can buy the cheaper ones but not on say a black lace-up. That's sacriligeous. If I were to suggest a pair of black shoes for someone looking for something for both work and play (i.e. partying)... I'd probably suggest shoes from Mendrez (Philippine brand). Get the mildy square toed ones. I'm not saying that square toed shoes are going out of style coz that will never happen. The mildly squared toe ones don't look too trendy. They are just right for the versatility the person using them is looking for. I would suggest however not to get the ones with humungous soles. Please give me a break. Slimmer soles are nicer and look cleaner. If you have enough kerching kerching, I'd probably go for Traffic ones. (Right angelo?). They're not really that expensive but they are just so divine.

With shoes, I think a guy should have at least 10... 2 black, 2 brown, 2 sandals (thongs, etc. as long as they are leather), 2 sneakers, 2 fun ones (either loaffers or something trendy). Lemme see, I have the two black Ballys, this pointed pair that I just absolutely love (been dying to get something like this for months), the black boots that helped me last winter, the pair I bought in Greece (hmmm, I wonder where those are), the Italian ones I bought for a bargain at P1000 ($20), my brown Oleg Cassini boots, a new brown buckled pair for also ($20), my RAVEL camel pair I bought in Dublin that I always match with my Burberry socks, the new Asics sneakers I got for ($20) at Marshalls (hahahaha), the Presto and the Cons, and my five millions sandals (I especially love the Kennet Cole pair, the Ralph Lauren and the cheap leather thongs I bought from Sari sari for $15). Ha ha ha ha...

So... I think with this, I need a new shade of brown shoes... Hmmmm...

Come to think of it, this post reminds me of an old entry I made eons ago. This just proves how much of a shoe fanatic I am.

The Gentleman


Deliberate
Gentle
Love
Master
(DGLMm)

Steady & mature. You are The Gentleman.


For anyone looking for an
even-keeled, considerate lover, you're their man. You're sophisticated.
You know what you want both in a relationship and outside of it.
You have a substantial romantic side, and you're experienced enough
sexually to handle yourself in that arena, too. Your future relationships
will be long-lasting; you're classic "marrying material," a
prize in the eyes of many.


It's possible that behind it all, you're a bit of a male slut.
Your best friends know that in relationships you're
fundamentally sex-driven.
You're a safe, reliable guy, who does get laid.
In a lot of ways,
you're like a well-worn, comfortable pair of socks.
Did you ever jack off into one of those?
All the time.



Your ideal mate is NOT a nut-job. He is giving and
loving, like you, but also experienced. Avoid the The False Messiah
at all fucking costs.


CONSIDER: The Gentleman, someone just like you.

I had an interesting night so to speak. I dilly dallied off to Glorietta (the nearby mall) to meet my honey. Looking at store windows every so often. I pretty much noticed that the mall shops were on sale. I kinda wondered why I'm not shopping at that exact moment. Oh yeah, I still have $1500 worth of credit. Bugger. So off to where my honey told me we'd be meeting (Gaming Headquarters?). I suddenly heard a whistling sound (Twisted Nerve from Kill Bill)... shit that's my phone. I saw the words "Call" on my phones screen. Yikes, international call. I have a feeling this would be... "Hello?"... "Oh, hi Roberto"... "I'm not in the office anymore"... "I'll try to send you the email tomorrow". Bugger. Our counterparts in South America. Eek. I so don't like talking to them. I always feel so pressured. Most of the time we're not understanding each other. I sometimes think it would be better if they'd just talk in English AND Spanish.

Finally saw my honey. We're off to have a quick dinner at "Spam Jam" where they serve various types of dishes made from Spam. I don't know why my honey likes this. Well, I do know. He likes really salty stuff. He he he. Anyways, the food wasn't half bad. But for 100 pesos I'd rather make my own Spam concoction (don't get upset hun). We finished quite quickly. Off to the parking lot near my office building. We venture off to Paragon Plaza where a mini party will be held. I don't have to emphasize how horrible the EDSA traffic is. Damn this major thoroughfare. I honest to God need to know where all these people are going? Are they off to their own versions of a Paragon Party. On the road, my honey and I could see this CR-V with the front passenger window down. Inside was this crazy ass guy waving to everyone on the road. What the fuck! Is he crazy? I must say it was kinda funny watching him making a fool out of himself. Buses filled with people were just cracking up at the site of the free show.

We arrived at Paragon 30 mins after leaving Makati. That's quite a long time for a place that's probably 2 miles away. Horrible traffic really. After parking at basement 2, we had to get up to the 38th floor. Inside I was all excited to actually be at the infamous Paragon Plaza party. We're meeting my honey's group of friends. You see they've always partied here and I haven't been to any of those infamous parties. I'm all excited as we knock on the door. Holy cow. There are quite a number of people here, and it's only 8:30PM. Considering it was a work day the next day, there was a pretty huge turnout. Did my rounds with the people I know. Got introed to the ones I don't know. (Did I mention everyone in the place is either gay or gay? ha ha ha)

Fun party even without booze. I got to quickly catch up with almost all of them. I honestly had fun. (I don't have to tell you about the call from South America while I was already at the party... he he he) People were doing karaoke (videoke). Cool! My honey was engaged in a Magic game with the other Magic peeps at the party. I wanted to try out the Magic Mic. Did my staple "On The Wings Of Love" where I asked to adjust the pitch. Apparently I made a mistake on the adjustment. I asked for 2 levels higher (pitch) but it was still too low for me. I just compensated. It was fun to sing with these guys. They're so into it. It's all so cool.

I didn't notice how much time we've already spent at the party that when it was about time for us to leave, I didn't seem to want to go. Bugger. Oh well, all good things must come to an end (as the cliche goes). It was such a great party. I do hope I get to talk to the other people there who I just met when I was about to leave also chat more with the other peeps I already know. Good times. Hope to see them soon.

I'm really liking the new look of my blog. It's so, hmmm... fresh and clean. Just like me. Ha ha ha!

A song that's been playing in my head for the past four days... FUCK... I so want to sing it!

Come On In Out Of The Rain
by Wendy Moten

Ooo-ooo-oo
Ooo-oo-oo
Ooo-ooo-ooo-oo

You said you believed that we'd
Find love together happily
After all the wrong I've done
You feel that I'm still the one
To give your loving to
So bring it home to you

Chorus
----------
You told me that you'd love me if I'd ever change
Welcome me into your arms again
Come on in out of the rain, hey
There's a place in your heart to love me again
Happiness and joy you bring
When you call my name
Come on in out of the rain

I loved no one but you
But I strayed, I know I made you blue
You spoke unto my very soul
You warmed my heart that once was cold
Now I'm so glad to know

Chorus
----------
You told me that you'd love me if I'd ever change
Welcome me into your arms again
Come on in out of the rain, hey
There's a place in your heart to love me again
Happiness and joy you bring
When you call my name
Come on in out of the rain

Bridge
---------
Some people spend a lifetime looking for love
And I had love right here all the time
Why did I try to deny it
Deep inside I just couldn't fight it
You turned my life around
The love I lost is found
So let the rain come down

Chorus
----------
You told me that you'd love me if I'd ever change
Welcome me into your arms again
Come on in out of the rain, hey
There's a place in your heart to love me again
Happiness and joy you bring
When you call my name
Come on in out of the rain

(Come on in out of the rain)
Ooooo-oh-ooo, yeah, yeah, yeah
(Come on in out of the rain)

Baby, come out of the rain

I find myself sitting on a couch at my aunts’ apartment. They’re three old maids you see. My dad’s mom (paternal grandmother) lives with them. Needless to say, she’s the only living grand parent I have. All the rest have died without having known me or were too senile to even recognize who I am. Anyway, back on the couch, my “a-ma” (that’s grandmother in Chinese) would just look at my relatives and my mom as they yap about anything and everything.

Occasions like this always bring me back to my childhood. It’s always me going to where my a-ma lives (together with my aunts) and just sit there. Talking shop a few times with an elderly cousin or my dad’s oldest brother is expected. This is so Chinese of my dad’s family. Not that I don’t like it, in fact I find it interesting. It’s just that, I’m always not in the mood to be with them.

My cousins are different though. They’re all pretty amazing. I have a cousin who’s in the US Military service, just not sure which one. Anyway, he’s in California now. Another who works for Nissan as some VP or Head of something. The other cousins are either a diplomat, an architect, dentist, private school professor, etc. They’re all pretty accomplished. The cousin who’s closest to my age (I’m the youngest in our generation) works for Microsoft in Seattle and graduated from Carnegie Melon University. Gosh!

I’m not the least bit insecure of any of them. I am just really glad that our generation is doing well. You see, my dad’s family used to be part of the Chinese elite here in the Philippines. My mom told me once that my a-ma would shop at Rustan’s (the Barney’s of Manila) with several store personnel waiting on her, a socialite indeed. My dad and his siblings each had their own car, by the time they were 16. Let me remind you that this was back in the day… 1950s and 60s. Cars don’t come that easy for teenagers. My ang-kong (grandfather) was the chairman of the Chinese Chamber of Commerce in Manila, which was why my dad’s family was accorded with much respect.

Also, I remember my mom told me my dad’s siblings are split in two, by where they were born, those who were born in China and those who were born here in the Philippines. My dad’s family had a mansion somewhere in China (I saw pictures, amazing). Before my dad was born, the family moved to the Philippines where my ang-kong had business growing. My a-ma also had family members here as she is also a member of an upper class nobleman whose business was in hardware and construction. Anyway, so all my dad’s siblings starting from him down (that’s my dad, and 2 younger brothers plus two younger sisters) were born here in Manila.

My mom explained that all the siblings born in China were stiff and responsible. The rest (my dad included) were reckless, undisciplined… and spoiled! Ha ha ha! I knew that much about my dad. He was the worst! Mama’s boy. My a-ma’s favorite. Was splurged with anything he wanted. He was like a prince. Owned more cars than any of the lot. Got into the University of the Philippines, got out coz he thought he was better than his professors. He never did get any scolding from that. He put up his own business. Traveled. That’s pretty much it really. I do remember pictures where he had this really large dog, a german shepherd I think. I always try to think where that dog could have been. Oh well.

More later on. :)

Bocceli... hello... Bocceli!!
Wake up! What's with you today? I can't believe I'm actually talking to myself as I attempt to regain some amount of mental and emotional strength. This day has not been good to me. I think it's from being here at work for the last... erm, 10 hours. I'm so not feeling anything. Not a single thing to at least boost me out of this dry spell. Damn.

Ok that was interesting. I just flipped my Sex and the City calendar to show the new month. March. That actually did something. I'm now texting my friend Rony to see if he can meet up with me from say 6PM to 9PM (I have a conference call by 10PM). Don't know if this will push through yet.

I start to think now what I really want to do in life. I'm so sick of it. Really really sick of it. I hate what I'm doing. I wanna just drop everything and start all over. I wanna do something I actually like. I wanna wake up every morning constantly looking forward to what my "job" has for me that day. The shitty thing about this though, I really don't have a fucking clue what that "job" is. I"m so fucked up today.

I wonder if I have male PMS. They should research into that. Men with weird emotional distress at certain times of the year. Hey, at least it's not monthly. I honestly just need something (hell even someone) to tell me just what the hell is wrong with me.

WAAAAAHHHHH!!!!

Just in, Rony can't make it tonight but it was sweet of him to give me a call to check up on me. Thanks buddy.

WARNING... this is quite a long post. I was in the mood

7:00 fucking AM... and I've been here in the office for almost half an hour doing nothing. My mail isn't replicating (I access my mail offline so going through them would be faster). For some reason the stupid server doesn't want to get accessed. DARN BITCH!

The weekend was ho hum. I can't believe I was already home by 9ish last Friday. Really... could I be more of a loser!?!? Holy shit, wait a minute. What am I talking about. I have the last episode of Sex and The City with me, in my bag. I reach for the cd and plug it in on my fabulous home theater system (might as well get my money's worth right?) Gladly, I was able to catch the second to the last episode of the show when I was still in Illinois. As I focus my eyes on the television, I hear the familiar tune... just like my phone's ring tone (god I'm soooo gay it's not even funny). I see that the show is starting from where it left off on the episode I caught in my hotel room two weeks ago.

...That's it... The show's over. I can't believe the series is over. I am one huge Sex and the City fan. I even have calendars of the show godsakes. I love Carrie Bradshaw. I can honestly say to myself that I were a woman, I'd sooooo be her. But I'm not and I know I can still be fabulous. :) The show ended as expected. The producers were kind to the viewing public. They gave us what we wanted. I like the fact that the show ended with no "closure" so to speak. You would know from each characters' ending that their lives will go on. That it's not a "they lived happily ever after" sorta deal. I feel weird about this whole last episode bit. It's too unreal. I can't take this. I'll get back to my reading.

The weekend saw me reading a book. Yes, a book. Confessions of a Shopaholic by Sophie Kinsella. All too funny. Three thumbs up (if that's even possible). I really related to the character, Rebecca Bloomwood. It was honestly quite eerie. I never loved reading so for me to actually finish a 300 page book in less than five days means I really loved the book and admired the story. I lapped up every page, every word, every letter. It was all too familiar. The story, the character. She's me. I'm her.

Saturday was lunch with my aunt, cousin-in-law, mom and dad. Teriyaki Boy was fun. It's kinda like a Japanese version of CPK (or maybe not, anyway...) I had my tummy filled with too much Norwegian salmon and California Maki. I almost wanted to barf. But I obviously don't. I paid for lunch ($25... not bad at all for five people). Went around the mall with the troupe and ended up at an optical shop where I remembered that my dad needed to get new eye glasses.

We go inside an optical shop where we asked for assistance from one of the store personnel. I told them to bring out frames of different shades preferrably dark, something rustic, and silver... all matte. I asked my dad to wear each one. Dad and I both decided that the silverish matte frames look good. So now I asked the lady to get us some silver matte frames that have a rectangular shape to them. Like me, my dad also has a slightly big face. Our heads don't seem that proportioned with our body. Weird. Given this physiological "abnormality", a squarish or rectangular frame would be in order. Also, for bigger faces (cheeky or whatever), lighter frames like silver or gold(both should be of a matte finish) or even clear ones are a better choice. Dark frames make your face look bigger because it will actually show the size of the frame in proportion to your face as opposed to the "invisible" quality of a lighter colored frame.

The lady comes back with several frames and my dad tried each and every one of them. I let him take his time as I browsed through the frames (my mom was doing the same at the "want to buy rack"). My eyes lock on a particular pair. Are those clear frames? My god. I signal another store personnel to help me out. I asked her to get the frames I just saw out of the display case. I wear them the moment she gave them to me. In a split second I saw myself in the mirror with these really amazing pair of glasses. I looked really fab. They looked really classy. I check out the price... damn!!! They were only P700 less 15%... = P600 (That's like $11). Oh. My. God. I immediately remembered where I placed my old pair and thought of just getting the lenses out of them...

"Those are nice". My mom comes up to me admiring the glasses I'm holding. She tries them on. Loves them, immediately buys them. All this time I was stiff from how quickly things just happened. I'm apalled at how my mom totally disregarded the possibilty that I would be buying the pair. FUCK! I suddenly remembered, I could ask the store if they have extra stock of those glasses as I honestly didn't care if my mom and I had the same frames. The lady behind the counter said that they don't have one then and there but they could call one fo their branches to have a pair sent in by Monday. I was relieved, all feeings of annoyance faded. Whew.

Early afternoon went by, my dad finished his "eye check-up" and I obviously had to pay for his glasses ($100) for unbranded glasses. Those damn progressive lenses can be so expensive. Thank god for company allowances (we get an optical allowance at the company I work for). Took all of them home and read my book for a few minutes. Then I was off to meet my man at the Alabang Town Center. It was our usual Satuday night. Towards the end of it though, we both met up with friends of mine at a Chinese resto stayed a bit then off to the near by Seattle's Best Coffee shop.

Got my second dose of Javanilla. Amazing drink I tell you. It's made out of blended mocha ice cream. Conversation was quite light. A friend from Singapore called us up and we all got a chance to chat a bit with him. It was a nice evening.

Sunday... hmmmm... why am I up so early. Oh my goodness, mass at 8:30AM. Think think, ok, red shirt, Gap jeans, white belt and sneaks. Fabulous...

... mass was done and the next thing I know we were at the Manila World Trade Expo for the Philippine International Furniture Show... aptly entitled "Obra" (masterpiece).

We got in on the first day because my mom used to work for a company that had a steel department and they're one of the suppliers tapped by various furniture manufacturers. The first day is usually for corporate buyers, you know, those who buy stuff for their hotels, million dollar houses, corporate offices, blah blah blah. Anyway, I made my run through the various booths in an organized manner. Start from one end, end on the other. Ha ha ha. Easy right? Finished the entire thing in less than an hour. I have to admit I had a fun time oggling at the amazing displays. These Filipino designers are uber talented. One of my faves was a retro designed seat (almost Herman Miller-ish) but using woven bamboo as base and nice warm colors for upholstery. They all looked so European but warm and cozy because of the Filipino touch brought by the weaves.

Wish one day I'd have the guts and gold to get me those damn furniture. I'd love to hibernate in a house filled with amazing things. *sigh*... I dream....