Today I received an email from an old friend. It was really nice being able to catch up on each others' lives.
I realize it's been a really long time since I last posted anything here. I don't really know if there's one thing that kept me from writing. It's more like a combination of things... work, the summer, laziness, lack of creativity...lol ewan ko ba, it seems like whenever I attempt to post, my mind goes somewhere else or I get caught up doing other things and I just never get back to it. So ayun, lack of posting for months is what resulted. So here it goes..
Sad to say, I've totally slacked off on reading as well. My parents lent me two books which they said they enjoyed reading and thought that I might enjoy them too. The books are currently lying on top of my dresser, untouched. Everyday, while I am getting dressed, I look at them and I tell myself, "Today I will start reading..." and then I go to work and come home and forget about it. Instead, I sit in front of my laptop and play games or watch TV. Really sad, isn't it? I've become one of those people consumed by their love of games.. not that anything's wrong with it. I just feel like I should probably be more balanced about my activities.. with no particular activity dominating all others to a point where I'm always doing just one thing. Sayang naman kasi ang brain cells ko. I think it's better for me to expose myself to other, more fruitful hobbies.
The summer is almost over. Meh! I always feel somewhat forlorn going into the fall and winter seasons. It just seems like a really long time until it's summer again. This summer, though, was extremely hot. We've been having temperatures of 30 degrees Celsius and with the humidity, it feels even warmer. There were days when I just felt like sitting in the car all day where there's air conditioning. We don't have AC at home so it's been really uncomfortable with the extreme heat. Perhaps you're wondering why we don't have AC... we tried to buy a few units... but they didn't fit our windows so we had to return them. And so here we are.. stuck with our fans for now. We have AC at work but our CEO likes to keep it cooler than what's comfortable. It always feels like we're in the freezer. I've had to bring a scarf or a sweater with me at times just so I don't freeze at my desk. It makes it difficult deciding what to wear to work because it's very hot outside but it's extremely cold in the office.
This summer has also been a busy one for us - socially. We went jet boating at Niagara Falls, water rafting at the Ottawa River and went to Long Point Beach a few times. We also went to some picnics, BBQs, festivals and played tennis and beach volleyball. I'm not particularly good at sports but thankfully, my friends are patient enough to just let me play and enjoy myself. Steve always says, "it's not about winning, it's about having fun".
Work has been hectic, to my surprise. I usually find the summer months quiet with the exception of this year. It seemed like I had a mountain of work in front of me and I was climbing it slowly while pushing a wheel barrel. Not only was I training a lot, but an important member of our team had decided to leave the company and I had no choice but to take over her responsibilities. I'm just glad that most of the big work load's done and I can move on to other tasks. I've been so tired that there were days when I felt like no matter how much sleep I got, I was just as exhausted the next day. I literally felt like I needed to just do nothing but sleep for a week.
Steve and I were invited to two baby showers this past weekend..both on the same day. I gotta tell you, of all the days to have a baby shower, I don't know why they both had to be on the same day. As usual we found ourselves running around like maniacs, getting ready for both showers, picking up presents and preparing dishes and driving to and from places. We were already exhausted before we even arrived to the first shower. I don't know how we survived both on such little sleep. Although we were both beat, I have to say that we did enjoy them. Coincidentally, aside from the fact that they were on the same day, they were also both co-ed showers and were designed more to be BBQs. So Steve got to go with me to both. I don't know if he was necessarily thrilled about it but he went anyway. It was kinda funny how he discreetly excused himself from the room when it was time to open the presents. He casually sneaks out and heads over to the backyard to hang out with all the other husbands. I, on the other hand, look forward to this part of the shower. I love watching new mothers and mothers-to-be open each beautifully wrapped present to find out what cute little thing is waiting inside.
Let's hope the temperature's ease up soon... as I sit here typing, I'm practically melting.
Tuesday, August 31, 2010
Wednesday, March 03, 2010
Tough
It's the little things I accomplish that sometimes makes me the happiest. Yesterday, one of our technicians was off sick and so I had to "man the post" so to speak. I was a bit worried that I would either get an email or phone call with an issue that required something beyond what I could do or what I knew how to do. Buti nalang I only received 2 support calls and I was able to resolve both issues.
We have 3 new employees - a tech, a salesman and a receptionist. Sometimes I can't help but feel a bit stressed because I worry that they're not going to work out and I always feel terrible when someone's being let go. It really bothers me especially if I know the person is the bread winner of the family or if it's someone's who's older. There have a been a few instances where we've had to let go of people for various reasons and I felt really sorry for them (well, most of them.. there were a couple I was glad to see go). I'm just glad I'm not involved in any of these activities. I would hate to have to do the "firing"... I would hate to just be in the room when they do it especially when I've heard stories of some begging to be given another chance. I don't think I can handle it.
Our new tech reminds me of my dad. Something about his mannerism and the way he carries himself just makes me think of my dad. I don't work closely with him because the side of the company that I belong to isn't the same one that he belongs to so we really have nothing to do with each other. I also do not know how easy or difficult it is to learn the product that the other side of our company sells and supports. But I do know that he is struggling and I can't help but cringe everytime they give him a hard time. I honestly can't tell if he is the problem or if management and the other people on the team maybe have unreasonable expectations. Pero nakakaawa talaga. The other day his manager gave him such a hard time that I had to leave the room because I couldn't stand it. If he were my dad, I know there's no way I would stand for it. But anyway, I really hope he works out.
I know business is business... and that sometimes you have to make tough decisions for the sake of the success of the company. Pero that doesn't keep from feeling for others.
We have 3 new employees - a tech, a salesman and a receptionist. Sometimes I can't help but feel a bit stressed because I worry that they're not going to work out and I always feel terrible when someone's being let go. It really bothers me especially if I know the person is the bread winner of the family or if it's someone's who's older. There have a been a few instances where we've had to let go of people for various reasons and I felt really sorry for them (well, most of them.. there were a couple I was glad to see go). I'm just glad I'm not involved in any of these activities. I would hate to have to do the "firing"... I would hate to just be in the room when they do it especially when I've heard stories of some begging to be given another chance. I don't think I can handle it.
Our new tech reminds me of my dad. Something about his mannerism and the way he carries himself just makes me think of my dad. I don't work closely with him because the side of the company that I belong to isn't the same one that he belongs to so we really have nothing to do with each other. I also do not know how easy or difficult it is to learn the product that the other side of our company sells and supports. But I do know that he is struggling and I can't help but cringe everytime they give him a hard time. I honestly can't tell if he is the problem or if management and the other people on the team maybe have unreasonable expectations. Pero nakakaawa talaga. The other day his manager gave him such a hard time that I had to leave the room because I couldn't stand it. If he were my dad, I know there's no way I would stand for it. But anyway, I really hope he works out.
I know business is business... and that sometimes you have to make tough decisions for the sake of the success of the company. Pero that doesn't keep from feeling for others.
Out of Shape
Gah! How come some people are just so darn photogenic?! I spend hours and hours pouring over all of their pictures because I can't get over how good they look regardless of where they are and what goofy expression they're wearing on their faces. Some people are just effortlessly good-looking and the fact that it shows on their photos just kills me. I know it's not good to be stinkin' jealous but I can't help it! Ang daya naman kasi! I always look weird in my pictures...make-up or no make-up! Others can have their photo taken as soon as they get out of bed and they'd still look really good.
While having dinner with my family last Sunday, JR said, "wow ate, ang dami atang food sa plate mo ah! mauubos mo ba yan?" I looked at the food on my plate and I was surprised because I thought I was being conservative with the amount I put. Apparently I used to eat so much less than what I eat now. That, I think, proves that I'm consuming so much more than I used to. That would explain the extra meat in my middle area. I really need to start watching what I eat and I really need to start learning to exercise. Kulang lang talaga ako sa discipline. Puro reklamo, wala naman akong ginagawa to reverse it.
I admire those people I see jogging on our street early in the morning even when it's really cold outside. It's like they don't feel the bitter cold at all! If it were me, I'd be frozen like a popsicle stick. In fact, the moment I step out the door and feel the cold air, I'd probably walk right back in. Steve always teases me because I don't own a proper pair of running shoes. He says all my shoes are made for matching my clothes but none are good enough for participating in sport or any form of exercise. He says all you need to do is take one look at the pairs of shoes I own and you can pretty much tell I don't exercise... at all. I told him I don't need shoes to go on the Wii Fit anyway.
But I think this time, I really am going to try getting some exercise. I seriously am considering buying a pair of running shoes and I'm thinking of running around our neighborhood during the spring or the summer when the temperature outside is mild. If that doesn't work, I can always use the running shoes and try playing tennis or maybe enrolling in a gym. It would be a lot easier if we lived in a condo that has a gym... that way I don't have to go out. It would be so convenient. We have a gym at work but it's really small and our CEO likes to use it and he doesn't like to share. Plus, it's tough having to go to work early to work out and then staying late at the office to work out. There's just something about being at the office that makes everything seem like such an ordeal. Even when I'm not working, if I'm in the office, it still feels like work. It seems to suck the fun out of exercising. I think that it would feel a bit different if I were in an actual gym where they offer dance classes as well. I think it would give me a different perspective and I can actually enjoy it. Of course, this is all in my head and the reality maybe different than what I perceive it to be. Who knows, maybe the moment I step into a real gym and try it out, I might hate it. Ewan...
I don't want to be stick thin.. but I want to be fit and healthy.
While having dinner with my family last Sunday, JR said, "wow ate, ang dami atang food sa plate mo ah! mauubos mo ba yan?" I looked at the food on my plate and I was surprised because I thought I was being conservative with the amount I put. Apparently I used to eat so much less than what I eat now. That, I think, proves that I'm consuming so much more than I used to. That would explain the extra meat in my middle area. I really need to start watching what I eat and I really need to start learning to exercise. Kulang lang talaga ako sa discipline. Puro reklamo, wala naman akong ginagawa to reverse it.
I admire those people I see jogging on our street early in the morning even when it's really cold outside. It's like they don't feel the bitter cold at all! If it were me, I'd be frozen like a popsicle stick. In fact, the moment I step out the door and feel the cold air, I'd probably walk right back in. Steve always teases me because I don't own a proper pair of running shoes. He says all my shoes are made for matching my clothes but none are good enough for participating in sport or any form of exercise. He says all you need to do is take one look at the pairs of shoes I own and you can pretty much tell I don't exercise... at all. I told him I don't need shoes to go on the Wii Fit anyway.
But I think this time, I really am going to try getting some exercise. I seriously am considering buying a pair of running shoes and I'm thinking of running around our neighborhood during the spring or the summer when the temperature outside is mild. If that doesn't work, I can always use the running shoes and try playing tennis or maybe enrolling in a gym. It would be a lot easier if we lived in a condo that has a gym... that way I don't have to go out. It would be so convenient. We have a gym at work but it's really small and our CEO likes to use it and he doesn't like to share. Plus, it's tough having to go to work early to work out and then staying late at the office to work out. There's just something about being at the office that makes everything seem like such an ordeal. Even when I'm not working, if I'm in the office, it still feels like work. It seems to suck the fun out of exercising. I think that it would feel a bit different if I were in an actual gym where they offer dance classes as well. I think it would give me a different perspective and I can actually enjoy it. Of course, this is all in my head and the reality maybe different than what I perceive it to be. Who knows, maybe the moment I step into a real gym and try it out, I might hate it. Ewan...
I don't want to be stick thin.. but I want to be fit and healthy.
Tuesday, March 02, 2010
An Oldie But Goodie
Everybody loves somebody sometime
Everybody falls in love somehow
Something in your kiss just told me
My sometime is now
Everybody finds somebody someplace
There's no telling where love may appear
Something in my heart keeps sayin'
My someplace is here
If I had it in my power
I'd arrange for every girl to have your charms
Then every minute, every hour
Every boy would find what I found in your arms
Everybody loves somebody sometime
And although my dream was overdue
Your love made it well worth waiting
For someone like you
If I had it in my power
I would arrange for every girl to have your charms
Then every minute, every hour
Every boy would find what I found in your arms
Everybody loves somebody sometime
And although my dream was overdue
Your love made it well worth waiting
For someone like you
Everybody Loves Somebody
- Dean Martin
Everybody falls in love somehow
Something in your kiss just told me
My sometime is now
Everybody finds somebody someplace
There's no telling where love may appear
Something in my heart keeps sayin'
My someplace is here
If I had it in my power
I'd arrange for every girl to have your charms
Then every minute, every hour
Every boy would find what I found in your arms
Everybody loves somebody sometime
And although my dream was overdue
Your love made it well worth waiting
For someone like you
If I had it in my power
I would arrange for every girl to have your charms
Then every minute, every hour
Every boy would find what I found in your arms
Everybody loves somebody sometime
And although my dream was overdue
Your love made it well worth waiting
For someone like you
Everybody Loves Somebody
- Dean Martin
The 2010 Winter Olympics
The Winter Olympics held in Vancouver is finally over. Now we can go back to watching our normal TV shows. The only thing is, in some small way, I kinda miss watching the different events. I've never followed the Winter Olympics before so most of the events I've seen were new to me. I used to belittle the Winter Olympics saying that it's not like the Summer Olympics - the real Olympics. But now I realize that the Winter Olympics is no small feat. I am very impressed with the skill that these athletes showed and I'm even more amazed at the type of sports involved like the ski jump and the mogul. I mean, who thinks to themselves to go down a hill at a speed of about 140 kilometers per hour and then fly through the air and then land on their feet?! How do you even learn to do that?! How many falls and bad crashes must one undergo to get to that level? Who invented these extreme sports?!
Although I really shouldn't be very nationalistic, I couldn't help but feel proud for Canada to have won the most amount of Gold medals compared to any country in the world during the Winter Olympics. I think that the Canadian peopel cheering on their athletes really helped push them to do their best and encouraged them to go for gold. I really think that teams that play in their hometown and end up winning is proof that positive encouragement does wonders for people.
The hockey game finals for gold between Canada and the US last Sunday was very intense. Steve and I went over to my parents place to watch it with my family. To say that we were on the edge of our seats is an understatement. With 24 seconds to go, team USA scored their second goal which tied the game. The last thing any Canadian wanted was for the game to go on overtime. We just wanted to win period. Believe it or not, somewhere along the game, I had begun to doze off. I hadn't had enough sleep and my parents' couch is just so darn comfy that I couldn't help closing my eyes despite the loud yelling and cheering. When Sidney Crosby scored the goal that landed us the gold, my entire family yelled at the top of their lungs (which woke me up) and when I opened my eyes, all I could see is my mom, my two brothers and Steve in a group hug jumping up and down in our living room while yelling at the same time. It was super funny! It really was a sight to behold.
I heard that Quebec is bidding to host the Winter Olympics in 2022. I would be close to my 40s by then! But if they do, it would be cool because it's only a 5-hour drive from Toronto so we have a shot at going and seeing the games.
Although I really shouldn't be very nationalistic, I couldn't help but feel proud for Canada to have won the most amount of Gold medals compared to any country in the world during the Winter Olympics. I think that the Canadian peopel cheering on their athletes really helped push them to do their best and encouraged them to go for gold. I really think that teams that play in their hometown and end up winning is proof that positive encouragement does wonders for people.
The hockey game finals for gold between Canada and the US last Sunday was very intense. Steve and I went over to my parents place to watch it with my family. To say that we were on the edge of our seats is an understatement. With 24 seconds to go, team USA scored their second goal which tied the game. The last thing any Canadian wanted was for the game to go on overtime. We just wanted to win period. Believe it or not, somewhere along the game, I had begun to doze off. I hadn't had enough sleep and my parents' couch is just so darn comfy that I couldn't help closing my eyes despite the loud yelling and cheering. When Sidney Crosby scored the goal that landed us the gold, my entire family yelled at the top of their lungs (which woke me up) and when I opened my eyes, all I could see is my mom, my two brothers and Steve in a group hug jumping up and down in our living room while yelling at the same time. It was super funny! It really was a sight to behold.
I heard that Quebec is bidding to host the Winter Olympics in 2022. I would be close to my 40s by then! But if they do, it would be cool because it's only a 5-hour drive from Toronto so we have a shot at going and seeing the games.
Monday, February 15, 2010
Tidbits
While taking an afternoon nap today, I dreamt I had gone home to the Philippines and was in the car, driving through the neighborhood I grew up in. Although brief, it was such a nice dream. It made me miss home all the more so.
Steve and I have been following the winter olympics on TV all weekend and I never thought I'd enjoy watching the diffirent events but I found myself cheering on the Canadian athletes. I have to say I'm quite impressed with their skill and I can't help but marvel at the speed these athletes go with their snowboards, skis and skates. Nakakatakot talaga!
I`ve been so lazy all weekend. I planned on doing some house cleaning but I didn`t accomplish any of my chores. All I wanted to do was chill and sleep. It was nice being able to see my family as well. My mum made tacos for dinner which was absolutely delicious. Tacos and me - we`re good together.
I find myself tearing up so quickly these days. I cried when I saw the new Tim Horton`s commercial, cried when I was hearing the stories of some of the olympic athletes, and cried while watching a dvd. Goodness, I`m so emotional! Nakakahiya but I can`t help it!
Steve and I went to the mall on Friday and Saturday evening. I got him a new suit, a dress shirt and a tie as gifts. It was so tempting to just go out and spend money since there were a lot of really good sales. But I held back (with Steve`s help of course!) and for the most part, stayed close to my budget.
Why is it so hard not to shop!!
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Steve and I have been following the winter olympics on TV all weekend and I never thought I'd enjoy watching the diffirent events but I found myself cheering on the Canadian athletes. I have to say I'm quite impressed with their skill and I can't help but marvel at the speed these athletes go with their snowboards, skis and skates. Nakakatakot talaga!
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I`ve been so lazy all weekend. I planned on doing some house cleaning but I didn`t accomplish any of my chores. All I wanted to do was chill and sleep. It was nice being able to see my family as well. My mum made tacos for dinner which was absolutely delicious. Tacos and me - we`re good together.
-----------------
I find myself tearing up so quickly these days. I cried when I saw the new Tim Horton`s commercial, cried when I was hearing the stories of some of the olympic athletes, and cried while watching a dvd. Goodness, I`m so emotional! Nakakahiya but I can`t help it!
-----------------
Steve and I went to the mall on Friday and Saturday evening. I got him a new suit, a dress shirt and a tie as gifts. It was so tempting to just go out and spend money since there were a lot of really good sales. But I held back (with Steve`s help of course!) and for the most part, stayed close to my budget.
Why is it so hard not to shop!!
Thursday, February 11, 2010
For My Husband.
This is not our favorite song
But the night's moving right along
May I have your hand, may I have this dance?
I sense that you are amused
But you just bought those brand new shoes
It would such a shame, not to give us the chance
And oh, my love
There is only so many dances
We can take across the night
So while it's just me and you
I thought I might say to you
You put the beautiful in life
I know at times that you feel alone
When I'm here and I'm never home
You said it before, it's the price that you pay
On matters of clarity
It's no secret you carry me
But you disguise thoughts of fall, I will keep you safe
And oh, my love
There's only so many dances
We can take across the night
So while it's just me and you
I thought I might say to you
You put the beautiful in life
And oh, this is not our favorite song
But I wish it go on and on
It's moments like these singers do all they can to stop time
So let me just say to you
Before the DJ changes the tune
You put the beautiful in life
You put the beautiful in life
This Dance
- Five For Fighting
Home-cooked Adobo and Other Things
Steve made chicken adobo for the first time last night and I was really impressed with how good it turned out to be. I've been bugging him to cook some Filipino dishes and so he finally relented. We decided to use a recipe in an Asian cookbook that my cousin had given to us as a wedding gift. I told him I wanted to see if the recipe was any good so that way we know if the cookbook is any good. I told him that if it turned out to be a disaster, we can always use my mom's recipe next time we make it.
I was curious if it was going to taste differently since we used a different brand of vinegar and soy sauce (I'm used to Datu Puti and Silver Swan - lol). We also decided to use only ground pepper instead peppercorns (I dont' really know if that was going to make a difference - as you can probably tell, I can't cook so everything is foreign to me). But alas, it tasted just as good. Steve liked it a lot and he kept saying it was super tasty. I think we will add it to our weeknight dinner rotation.
I should have taken a picture of it but I forgot! It would have been nice to post the end product.
While listening to my iPod, Lea Salonga's song, "Two Words" came on and I can't help but reminisce about the time we were planning our wedding. I considered walking down the aisle to it at one point. I just love the lyrics and how well she sings it.
In a while, in a word,
Every moment now returns.
For a while, seen or heard,
How each memory softly burns.
Facing you who brings me new tomorrows,
I thank God for yesterdays,
How they led me to this very hour,
How they led me to this place...
Every touch, every smile,
You have given me in care.
Keep in heart, always I'll,
Now be treasuring everywhere.
And if life should come to just one question,
Do I hold this moment true?
No trace of sadness,
Always with gladness...
'I DO...'
Now a song that speaks of now and ever,
Beckons me to someone new,
Unexpected, unexplored, unseen,
Filled with promise coming through.
In a while, in a word,
You and I forever change,
Love so clear, never blurred,
Has me feeling wondrous, strange,
And if life should come to just one question,
Do I face each moment true?
No trace of sadness, always with gladness,
'I DO...'
Never with sadness...
Always with gladness...
'I...DO....'
I eventually decided to walk down the aisle to Pachelbel's Canon in D because I felt it was more appropriate for our setting.
I miss watching music videos. Yesterday morning I heard on the radio that MTV will no longer be called Music Television and it will just be known as simply MTV. They said that it probably meant that MTV will no longer be playing music videos and will instead stick to their other programs and reality shows. That SUCKS! I don't know how others feel about this but I, for one, will be sad. When I was still living in the Philippines, I remember watching music videos all the time! Now we'll have to rely mostly on YouTube.
I love love love watching Modern Family. OMG it's hilarious! I know some people will disagree with me on this but I actually like it more than the Office (please don't hit me! lol). I don't know, maybe I just haven't watched enough episodes of the Office to really like it? It's not to say I hate the Office... Basta, I like Modern Family more.
I realize that having a shopping budget prevents me from buying impulsively. Now, before I buy something, I really think about it. I consider how much the item is, if I really need/want it or if I can do without it. Knowing that I only have so much money to spend, I hesitate on spending it right away. Ngayon, if I see something I like in a store, I look around other stores first and if at the end of the day I still want it, then I come back for it. That's how I know I really want it. But if after walking around for a bit, I forget about the item, then that means I didn't really want it that bad. I figured, if it wasn't memorable to begin with, then it's probably not worth spending the money on it.
It's so nice and sunny outside! Although it's still very cold, it's nice to atleast be able to look out the window and get some sunshine. The last thing we need during the winter months is really cloudy weather. It just makes everyone feel gloomy.
I borrowed the Wii from my family and I am considering using the Wii Fit again. It's been a really long time since I last used it. I bet when I turn it on, it's going to scold me and tell me I've been very lazy. Better late than never, right?
I was curious if it was going to taste differently since we used a different brand of vinegar and soy sauce (I'm used to Datu Puti and Silver Swan - lol). We also decided to use only ground pepper instead peppercorns (I dont' really know if that was going to make a difference - as you can probably tell, I can't cook so everything is foreign to me). But alas, it tasted just as good. Steve liked it a lot and he kept saying it was super tasty. I think we will add it to our weeknight dinner rotation.
I should have taken a picture of it but I forgot! It would have been nice to post the end product.
_____________
While listening to my iPod, Lea Salonga's song, "Two Words" came on and I can't help but reminisce about the time we were planning our wedding. I considered walking down the aisle to it at one point. I just love the lyrics and how well she sings it.
In a while, in a word,
Every moment now returns.
For a while, seen or heard,
How each memory softly burns.
Facing you who brings me new tomorrows,
I thank God for yesterdays,
How they led me to this very hour,
How they led me to this place...
Every touch, every smile,
You have given me in care.
Keep in heart, always I'll,
Now be treasuring everywhere.
And if life should come to just one question,
Do I hold this moment true?
No trace of sadness,
Always with gladness...
'I DO...'
Now a song that speaks of now and ever,
Beckons me to someone new,
Unexpected, unexplored, unseen,
Filled with promise coming through.
In a while, in a word,
You and I forever change,
Love so clear, never blurred,
Has me feeling wondrous, strange,
And if life should come to just one question,
Do I face each moment true?
No trace of sadness, always with gladness,
'I DO...'
Never with sadness...
Always with gladness...
'I...DO....'
I eventually decided to walk down the aisle to Pachelbel's Canon in D because I felt it was more appropriate for our setting.
_____________
I miss watching music videos. Yesterday morning I heard on the radio that MTV will no longer be called Music Television and it will just be known as simply MTV. They said that it probably meant that MTV will no longer be playing music videos and will instead stick to their other programs and reality shows. That SUCKS! I don't know how others feel about this but I, for one, will be sad. When I was still living in the Philippines, I remember watching music videos all the time! Now we'll have to rely mostly on YouTube.
_____________
I love love love watching Modern Family. OMG it's hilarious! I know some people will disagree with me on this but I actually like it more than the Office (please don't hit me! lol). I don't know, maybe I just haven't watched enough episodes of the Office to really like it? It's not to say I hate the Office... Basta, I like Modern Family more.
_____________
I realize that having a shopping budget prevents me from buying impulsively. Now, before I buy something, I really think about it. I consider how much the item is, if I really need/want it or if I can do without it. Knowing that I only have so much money to spend, I hesitate on spending it right away. Ngayon, if I see something I like in a store, I look around other stores first and if at the end of the day I still want it, then I come back for it. That's how I know I really want it. But if after walking around for a bit, I forget about the item, then that means I didn't really want it that bad. I figured, if it wasn't memorable to begin with, then it's probably not worth spending the money on it.
_____________
It's so nice and sunny outside! Although it's still very cold, it's nice to atleast be able to look out the window and get some sunshine. The last thing we need during the winter months is really cloudy weather. It just makes everyone feel gloomy.
_____________
I borrowed the Wii from my family and I am considering using the Wii Fit again. It's been a really long time since I last used it. I bet when I turn it on, it's going to scold me and tell me I've been very lazy. Better late than never, right?
Tuesday, February 09, 2010
Stop and Smell the Roses
You're gonna miss this
You're gonna want this back
You're gonna wish these days hadn't gone by so fast
These Are Some Good Times
So take a good look around
You may not know it now
But you're gonna miss this... (You're Gonna Miss This by Trace Adkins)
I was listening to my iPod while working and this song came on and I couldn't help but feel somewhat nostalgic. It's so true, we often fail to look at the blessings and positive things that surround us despite our difficulties. Our tendency is to always want to move forward, always eager to take the next step and failing to be grateful to just be in the moment. I think this song is just a good reminder to cherish the present as much as we can even though times may be tough.
You're gonna want this back
You're gonna wish these days hadn't gone by so fast
These Are Some Good Times
So take a good look around
You may not know it now
But you're gonna miss this... (You're Gonna Miss This by Trace Adkins)
I was listening to my iPod while working and this song came on and I couldn't help but feel somewhat nostalgic. It's so true, we often fail to look at the blessings and positive things that surround us despite our difficulties. Our tendency is to always want to move forward, always eager to take the next step and failing to be grateful to just be in the moment. I think this song is just a good reminder to cherish the present as much as we can even though times may be tough.
Thursday, February 04, 2010
Love This
"I think one thing sort of defines it which is, it's not how much you love someone when you love them, but it's how much you love them when you hate them. It's when you're in that moment where you cannot stand what the person you're with is doing, but you still love them. That's when you need to show it -- not just say it, but show it." (Ashton Kutcher)
Wednesday, January 27, 2010
Just Tired.
Sometimes I am still taken aback by people’s inability to read and follow simple instructions. I begin to wonder if the person’s (a) just busy, (b) confused, (c) slow, or (d) inept.
I’ve had a rough day at work today. Come to think of it, I’ve been a bit unhappy at work lately. To be honest, I just feel unappreciated and taken for granted. It just feels like the longer I stay with the company, the more unhealthy it’s becoming. I love working with Steve – he’s great and he’s probably one of the few things I love about my job. Aside from the paycheque that pays the bills and helps us afford a few things, he’s one of the reasons I’ve stayed for as long as I have with the company I work for. But everything else that surrounds us is becoming more and more unbearable as time goes by. I don’t know if it’s because we’re getting busier by the day and everyone’s stressed out and have the tendency to take it out on others. I’d like to believe the when all the stress-inducing factors go away, people would be less edgy and there would be less tension around the office. But I know the problems go deeper than that. It seems like every day, Steve and I have to talk each other into staying on the job. We both know it makes sense to stay for now... but there are days when we’d love to just hand in our resignation papers and walk out the door. Sometimes when I am so frustrated, I daydream about winning the lottery and being so stinking wealthy that I wouldn’t have to take BS from anyone anymore. That lottery ticket would be the slap in the face I am dreaming of giving them.
On the other hand, I can’t help but also be grateful that I am employed... that we are both employed. I watch the news and read about the lives of those affected by the recession and I feel extremely guilty for even complaining about my circumstances. By their standards, I have no right to complain. And to be honest, at the end of the day, I think to myself that it is better to have a job that I somewhat hate but pays the bills than having no job and worrying about where the money is going to come from. Despite all my work-related frustrations, I do feel blessed to have what I’ve been given.
I guess I’m just venting. It’s almost midnight and I’m tired. I am thinking of the things I need to do tomorrow as soon as I get to work. I am thinking of the little spat I had with one of my managers. I am thinking of all the things I need to follow up on and trying to prioritize my tasks so that nothing false through the cracks. I am trying not to screw up. I am trying.
I’ve had a rough day at work today. Come to think of it, I’ve been a bit unhappy at work lately. To be honest, I just feel unappreciated and taken for granted. It just feels like the longer I stay with the company, the more unhealthy it’s becoming. I love working with Steve – he’s great and he’s probably one of the few things I love about my job. Aside from the paycheque that pays the bills and helps us afford a few things, he’s one of the reasons I’ve stayed for as long as I have with the company I work for. But everything else that surrounds us is becoming more and more unbearable as time goes by. I don’t know if it’s because we’re getting busier by the day and everyone’s stressed out and have the tendency to take it out on others. I’d like to believe the when all the stress-inducing factors go away, people would be less edgy and there would be less tension around the office. But I know the problems go deeper than that. It seems like every day, Steve and I have to talk each other into staying on the job. We both know it makes sense to stay for now... but there are days when we’d love to just hand in our resignation papers and walk out the door. Sometimes when I am so frustrated, I daydream about winning the lottery and being so stinking wealthy that I wouldn’t have to take BS from anyone anymore. That lottery ticket would be the slap in the face I am dreaming of giving them.
On the other hand, I can’t help but also be grateful that I am employed... that we are both employed. I watch the news and read about the lives of those affected by the recession and I feel extremely guilty for even complaining about my circumstances. By their standards, I have no right to complain. And to be honest, at the end of the day, I think to myself that it is better to have a job that I somewhat hate but pays the bills than having no job and worrying about where the money is going to come from. Despite all my work-related frustrations, I do feel blessed to have what I’ve been given.
I guess I’m just venting. It’s almost midnight and I’m tired. I am thinking of the things I need to do tomorrow as soon as I get to work. I am thinking of the little spat I had with one of my managers. I am thinking of all the things I need to follow up on and trying to prioritize my tasks so that nothing false through the cracks. I am trying not to screw up. I am trying.
Monday, January 18, 2010
Shopping Online - Love and Torture
I really have to stop window shopping online (if there is such a thing). It’s driving me nuts! I want to buy buy buy! But I can’t!!
Oh man, this is the hard part when you live in a place that has 4 seasons. You always feel the urge to check out the new stuff coming out for the coming season. The temptation to spend is so strong!
Arrgggh! Someone should just put some sort of security setting on my computers to prevent me from even visiting online stores. It’s pure evil.
Oh man, this is the hard part when you live in a place that has 4 seasons. You always feel the urge to check out the new stuff coming out for the coming season. The temptation to spend is so strong!
Arrgggh! Someone should just put some sort of security setting on my computers to prevent me from even visiting online stores. It’s pure evil.
A night to remember
I’ve had an interesting weekend.
Last Friday, we celebrated my father-in-law’s birthday by going to a dinner/dance event at this banquet hall he frequently goes to. I asked Steve what the name of the place is so that I could “Google” it in advance. “Googling” is something that’s become a habit of mine. If I wanted to check out a restaurant or a nail spa or a hair salon or even check out a store, I would go online and search for the website first before deciding on whether I should physically go there. Steve says I’m a little nuts for doing this but I tell him it’s perfectly reasonable to want to know whether the place I am going to is worth my time and effort. He finds it funny that if I wanted to check out a shoe store, I would first go their website and see what they have online and then call the store to see if they carry the styles I am interested in and if they have my size in-store. He calls it crazy, I call it research.
Anyhoo, the website for this dinner/dance event specified that there was a dress code which made me a bit uncomfortable. Any event that calls for a dress code always has the tendency to make me feel anxious. I’m not particularly good at doing my own hair and make-up so any event that’s fancy enough for me to have to do my hair and make-up is somewhat stressful. I did eventually manage to pull myself together and go to this thing.
I later found out that this dinner/dance is actually a single’s mixer. But it wasn’t a mixer for the young and the hip… rather, it was a mixer for the 50 and over… Steve calls it “the geriatrics mixer”. I felt out-of-place… Steve, my sister-in-law and I were probably the only ones under 50 there if you don’t count the bartender and the personnel selling the tickets by the door! At first I thought, “hey this isn’t so bad, we can grab dinner and maybe dance a bit and then go home”. Boy was I wrong! I had barely finished eating when a guy in his early 50’s (maybe?) asked me for a dance. I usually decline dances with strangers (I just find it so uncomfortable) but because these men were older, I thought it would be disrespectful to do so. I mean, how much harm could it possibly be if these men were old enough to be my dad or even my grandpa right? So there I was on the dance floor with this man and the first thing he says to me is, “I couldn’t decide who to ask first… you or the other girl.. I wasn’t sure which one of you was with the guy…” OMG I couldn’t believe it! I just laughed and told him that he asked the wrong girl. I was with “the guy” and that I’m actually married to him. He then said, “Oh.. okay.. I’ll ask the other girl later”. I couldn’t help but grin widely. I knew how feisty my sister-in-law can be. I politely answered all of his questions, danced the entire length of the song (despite the fact the he smelled strongly of cigarettes), thanked him for the dance and then went back to my table. Steve found it amusing because he knew how uncomfortable I was.
Shortly after, another man approached and asked if I would mind dancing. I politely declined but he was rather insistent and since Steve told me to go ahead, I decided to once again venture out into the dance floor with yet another stranger. The first thing he asked me was whether I came to the mixer often. I told him no, it was my first time and that I came to celebrate my father-in-law’s birthday. He seemed surprised that I was married although I don’t know why he would be since I was beside Steve the entire time. I joked with Steve later on by saying that maybe my engagement and wedding rings weren’t big and sparkly enough for people to notice. Hahahaha!
I didn’t mind the dances – they were innocent. But what made the entire thing uncomfortable was how aggressive some of these men were and how often they kept coming to our table and trying to get phone numbers and such. It really was very, very weird. One man even told my sister-in-law that he could “take care” of her and that he had the means to do so. It’s like these men had no shame saying these things in front of Steve and their dad!
I couldn’t help but feel bad for some of the people there. What if they’re lonely? I couldn’t help but think that maybe some of them have lost their spouses and are now single and are in want of another life partner. Granted, some of the men there were strange and aggressive and unbelievable but I’m sure some of them were decent and are maybe there for the right reasons – to meet someone they can potentially have a relationship with.
In any case, this was definitely a memorable experience... for so many reasons.
Last Friday, we celebrated my father-in-law’s birthday by going to a dinner/dance event at this banquet hall he frequently goes to. I asked Steve what the name of the place is so that I could “Google” it in advance. “Googling” is something that’s become a habit of mine. If I wanted to check out a restaurant or a nail spa or a hair salon or even check out a store, I would go online and search for the website first before deciding on whether I should physically go there. Steve says I’m a little nuts for doing this but I tell him it’s perfectly reasonable to want to know whether the place I am going to is worth my time and effort. He finds it funny that if I wanted to check out a shoe store, I would first go their website and see what they have online and then call the store to see if they carry the styles I am interested in and if they have my size in-store. He calls it crazy, I call it research.
Anyhoo, the website for this dinner/dance event specified that there was a dress code which made me a bit uncomfortable. Any event that calls for a dress code always has the tendency to make me feel anxious. I’m not particularly good at doing my own hair and make-up so any event that’s fancy enough for me to have to do my hair and make-up is somewhat stressful. I did eventually manage to pull myself together and go to this thing.
I later found out that this dinner/dance is actually a single’s mixer. But it wasn’t a mixer for the young and the hip… rather, it was a mixer for the 50 and over… Steve calls it “the geriatrics mixer”. I felt out-of-place… Steve, my sister-in-law and I were probably the only ones under 50 there if you don’t count the bartender and the personnel selling the tickets by the door! At first I thought, “hey this isn’t so bad, we can grab dinner and maybe dance a bit and then go home”. Boy was I wrong! I had barely finished eating when a guy in his early 50’s (maybe?) asked me for a dance. I usually decline dances with strangers (I just find it so uncomfortable) but because these men were older, I thought it would be disrespectful to do so. I mean, how much harm could it possibly be if these men were old enough to be my dad or even my grandpa right? So there I was on the dance floor with this man and the first thing he says to me is, “I couldn’t decide who to ask first… you or the other girl.. I wasn’t sure which one of you was with the guy…” OMG I couldn’t believe it! I just laughed and told him that he asked the wrong girl. I was with “the guy” and that I’m actually married to him. He then said, “Oh.. okay.. I’ll ask the other girl later”. I couldn’t help but grin widely. I knew how feisty my sister-in-law can be. I politely answered all of his questions, danced the entire length of the song (despite the fact the he smelled strongly of cigarettes), thanked him for the dance and then went back to my table. Steve found it amusing because he knew how uncomfortable I was.
Shortly after, another man approached and asked if I would mind dancing. I politely declined but he was rather insistent and since Steve told me to go ahead, I decided to once again venture out into the dance floor with yet another stranger. The first thing he asked me was whether I came to the mixer often. I told him no, it was my first time and that I came to celebrate my father-in-law’s birthday. He seemed surprised that I was married although I don’t know why he would be since I was beside Steve the entire time. I joked with Steve later on by saying that maybe my engagement and wedding rings weren’t big and sparkly enough for people to notice. Hahahaha!
I didn’t mind the dances – they were innocent. But what made the entire thing uncomfortable was how aggressive some of these men were and how often they kept coming to our table and trying to get phone numbers and such. It really was very, very weird. One man even told my sister-in-law that he could “take care” of her and that he had the means to do so. It’s like these men had no shame saying these things in front of Steve and their dad!
I couldn’t help but feel bad for some of the people there. What if they’re lonely? I couldn’t help but think that maybe some of them have lost their spouses and are now single and are in want of another life partner. Granted, some of the men there were strange and aggressive and unbelievable but I’m sure some of them were decent and are maybe there for the right reasons – to meet someone they can potentially have a relationship with.
In any case, this was definitely a memorable experience... for so many reasons.
Thursday, January 07, 2010
Feeling a little frustration
Uh oh, I’m feeling the shopping itch again… tsk tsk… very bad. I did a bit of shopping during our 1-week stay in Virginia and my primary objectives were to buy a pair of nice, comfy black leather boots and a sweater dress to wear during the cold season. I specifically wanted to buy boots that would look nice with a dress or a skirt, preferably with heels and one that covered my leg up to just below my knees. Who knew it would be so impossible to find a pair that looks good and fits me well at the same time?! I tried on so many different pairs but none fit right. I’m beginning to think that maybe I have odd-shaped legs. I have really small calves which makes it extra difficult to find a nice fitting pair since most of the ones I do find don’t hug my legs well enough and there’s always a bit of a gap between my legs and the boot. Not flattering at all. Over-the-knee boots are what seems to be dominating most shoes stores and those just make me look even shorter than I actually am. I also find that scrunch boots seem to look best on me but I don’t know if they look good with dresses or skirts.
I found a nice sweater dress at Banana Republic here in Canada before we left for the States. I had seen it online before and had always wanted to buy it and it finally went on sale for $100 at the store. But because I had planned to go shopping with my cousin in the States, I wanted to wait until I was out with her before spending money. And so I didn’t buy it. As it turns out, I didn’t really find any nice sweater dresses during my stay in Virginia so when we got back to Toronto, I checked out Banana Republic to see if they still had the dress. As expected, it was gone. Not a single one left in the store. Bummer.
I saw this one very cute dress at Esprit in the States but they no longer had my size. It was on sale too which was a bonus. I checked online to see if they maybe still had sizes on their website but as it turns out, they’ve completely run out of my size.
I can’t help but get frustrated because when I have the means to shop, I can’t seem to find what I need and there aren’t a lot of nice things out. But when I’m completely tapped and shopping is out of the question, the stores will be filled with nice, shiny items. Why is that?
I found a nice sweater dress at Banana Republic here in Canada before we left for the States. I had seen it online before and had always wanted to buy it and it finally went on sale for $100 at the store. But because I had planned to go shopping with my cousin in the States, I wanted to wait until I was out with her before spending money. And so I didn’t buy it. As it turns out, I didn’t really find any nice sweater dresses during my stay in Virginia so when we got back to Toronto, I checked out Banana Republic to see if they still had the dress. As expected, it was gone. Not a single one left in the store. Bummer.
I saw this one very cute dress at Esprit in the States but they no longer had my size. It was on sale too which was a bonus. I checked online to see if they maybe still had sizes on their website but as it turns out, they’ve completely run out of my size.
I can’t help but get frustrated because when I have the means to shop, I can’t seem to find what I need and there aren’t a lot of nice things out. But when I’m completely tapped and shopping is out of the question, the stores will be filled with nice, shiny items. Why is that?
Tuesday, January 05, 2010
Holidays in Virginia
I spent the last few months looking forward to our trip to Virginia and I can’t believe it’s all over now. Ang bilis talaga lumipas ng panahon.
The drive to and from Virginia took 12 hours and I managed to stay awake during the entire drive there but I slept during the drive back. We were worried because our car hasn’t been running well lately and we didn’t know if the car would make it. We held our breaths as we drove through the Appalachian Mountains. Getting stuck in the middle of nowhere would have been catastrophic. Thankfully, the car survived the drive and we didn’t experience any car trouble during the entire trip. We even made it back to Toronto just fine and dandy.
It was nice being able to see my relatives again. It’s been a while since we’ve had a big family reunion like it. Although we still weren’t complete (we were missing one family and my dad wasn’t able to come because he had to work), it was still just as enjoyable. I finally got to meet my nephew – Aiden (who’s over a year old) and my new niece – Jacqueline (who’s about 6 months old). I’ve only seen them in pictures and I was really excited to meet them. I was also happy to see my other nephews (Chris and Cjem) and my niece (Charis) who I haven’t seen since May of 2008 (or was it 2007?). I always have to remind myself that Alicia (who is 2 years old) is my cousin and not my niece. It never fails to surprise me to see how fast they’re growing. I swear they grow an inch by the minute. The last time I saw Alicia, she had already started talking but she was so shy that she’d burst into tears whenever someone looked at her. But when we walked in the door at my aunt’s house in Virginia the night we arrived, the first person to greet us was cute, little Alicia with her squeaky little voice. A very high-pitched “Hi Tita” and “Hi Tito”. I couldn’t believe how tall she’s grown and how social she is now. She’s still a bit shy but she’s very cheerful, very friendly and very polite. I can go on and on and on about how adorable the little ones are! Aiden’s charming smile, Jacqueline’s chubby cheeks... so cute!
While we were there, we visited the Smithsonian museums (the Natural History and National Air and Space Museums – both located in Washington DC which was about 20 to 30 minutes away from where my relatives lived). We were quite impressed with the museums... all very big and free! Yup, no admission fees (which was awesome by the way)! I went shopping with my cousins a few times while Steve and my brothers visited the different monuments in Washington DC like the Lincoln Memorial, the White House, etc.
We played a board game one evening which was total chaos because we were all laughing so hard and it was really fun because our aunts and uncles joined the game too. We played a bit of Scrabble too so our lola can join (the other game was too fast and chaotic for her). It was quite cute watching everyone play and just have fun. The entire clan seems to enjoy playing board games. As far as I can remember, we’ve always either played cards or a board game whenever we’d get together for reunions or birthdays or holidays in the Philippines. It was always either a game or watching the Sound of Music. Hahaha
I couldn’t help but feel a bit sad going back to Toronto. Sure I missed home and my routine but it was nice being able to spend time with my relatives. I can’t help but envy how close they live to each other (generally between 15 to 30 minutes apart). They can easily come over to each other’s houses for lunch or dinner or they can meet up and go shopping together if they wanted to.
The trip was a bit exhausting because we slept at 2 am and woke up at 6 am almost every morning the entire time we were there... but I have to say, it was all worth it. I would go back and visit again in a heart beat.
The drive to and from Virginia took 12 hours and I managed to stay awake during the entire drive there but I slept during the drive back. We were worried because our car hasn’t been running well lately and we didn’t know if the car would make it. We held our breaths as we drove through the Appalachian Mountains. Getting stuck in the middle of nowhere would have been catastrophic. Thankfully, the car survived the drive and we didn’t experience any car trouble during the entire trip. We even made it back to Toronto just fine and dandy.
It was nice being able to see my relatives again. It’s been a while since we’ve had a big family reunion like it. Although we still weren’t complete (we were missing one family and my dad wasn’t able to come because he had to work), it was still just as enjoyable. I finally got to meet my nephew – Aiden (who’s over a year old) and my new niece – Jacqueline (who’s about 6 months old). I’ve only seen them in pictures and I was really excited to meet them. I was also happy to see my other nephews (Chris and Cjem) and my niece (Charis) who I haven’t seen since May of 2008 (or was it 2007?). I always have to remind myself that Alicia (who is 2 years old) is my cousin and not my niece. It never fails to surprise me to see how fast they’re growing. I swear they grow an inch by the minute. The last time I saw Alicia, she had already started talking but she was so shy that she’d burst into tears whenever someone looked at her. But when we walked in the door at my aunt’s house in Virginia the night we arrived, the first person to greet us was cute, little Alicia with her squeaky little voice. A very high-pitched “Hi Tita” and “Hi Tito”. I couldn’t believe how tall she’s grown and how social she is now. She’s still a bit shy but she’s very cheerful, very friendly and very polite. I can go on and on and on about how adorable the little ones are! Aiden’s charming smile, Jacqueline’s chubby cheeks... so cute!
While we were there, we visited the Smithsonian museums (the Natural History and National Air and Space Museums – both located in Washington DC which was about 20 to 30 minutes away from where my relatives lived). We were quite impressed with the museums... all very big and free! Yup, no admission fees (which was awesome by the way)! I went shopping with my cousins a few times while Steve and my brothers visited the different monuments in Washington DC like the Lincoln Memorial, the White House, etc.
We played a board game one evening which was total chaos because we were all laughing so hard and it was really fun because our aunts and uncles joined the game too. We played a bit of Scrabble too so our lola can join (the other game was too fast and chaotic for her). It was quite cute watching everyone play and just have fun. The entire clan seems to enjoy playing board games. As far as I can remember, we’ve always either played cards or a board game whenever we’d get together for reunions or birthdays or holidays in the Philippines. It was always either a game or watching the Sound of Music. Hahaha
I couldn’t help but feel a bit sad going back to Toronto. Sure I missed home and my routine but it was nice being able to spend time with my relatives. I can’t help but envy how close they live to each other (generally between 15 to 30 minutes apart). They can easily come over to each other’s houses for lunch or dinner or they can meet up and go shopping together if they wanted to.
The trip was a bit exhausting because we slept at 2 am and woke up at 6 am almost every morning the entire time we were there... but I have to say, it was all worth it. I would go back and visit again in a heart beat.
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