Shaped up Through my Amazing Past

Just recently Domz instantly hooked me up on a chat and it was all awe-inspiring to have two of my closest friends way back in university who are not married with 3 kids. Technically, the third kid would take it’s place next year.

We never had an official group name (You have to admit that it was the fad before….) but the group was composed of the following: Rowena and Ryan Bustamante, Paul Salipong, Myself, Leah Antonio and Loida Pereyra.

Left to Right: Loidz, Owen and Ryan, Paul and Me

Both of this people were from the university choral group where we used to belong. Things that I enjoyed doing aside from academics. I could not imagine life during my younger years without these people.

I haven’t heard much from Paul and Leah. They were also part of the bunch who had so much passion for music. Loida is now married with a kid and according to Owen, Paul had a kid from a girl in CDO but then there was too much of a complicated love story going on that the relationship got doomed.

Anyway, no matter how good or bad the latest developments were, it was just enough for me to know that these people I always had the best time with were still alive and kicking.

Here are some things we really enjoyed doing before:

- We hang out at a park after practice sessions because we just wanted to sing. We couldn’t stop.

- We caroled way back 1996 (I am not even sure of the year….) where we earned Php 1,000.00. According to Owen, I was a little upset because the earning barely made it to the 1K mark so I had to tell everyone not to go home until we make it. We ended up going to Dunkin’ Donuts having 1 piece of donut and hot chocolate drink.

- We went to this spring pool somewhere near Owen’s place. We did some trekking until we found a spot where we would eat and sing. It was so much fun.

- We were kids around 16 or 17 and were practically studying away from our parents. So if at some point we ran out of budget, we surely had someone to go to. Ryan was our favorite. He was frugal and really knew how to manage his money. Of course, we took turns at some point but most of the time, Ryan was the first stop….Makes me really laugh remembering it because I am the one who usually had some problem with finances.

- We would find time to schedule house visits and Owen was gracious enough to accept and fit us into their lovely and humble home at a remote place where there were a lot of spring pools. Paul was also eager to have us in his home. The food was amazing. I wouldn’t bother saying YES especially if I am already out of budget since there would be free food.

- I would say that we were the life and soul of the group since we were so close that we almost had the group on our hands. In a good way. Ryan was the president, I took turns as the Vice or Secretary (grrrrrr….), Loida, Leah and Owen were the librarians who would make sure that all musical pieces were account for.

I almost literally cried remembering it while I was chatting with Owen and Ryan together with Domz last night. It had to end because Owen had to rest since she’s pregnant. I also had to keep myself busy. I had to train myself not to sleep in the evening since I work graveyard.

I am taking this opportunity to thank these people who shaped my life by providing me with the best childhood experience. If not for the friendship and the love for music, we would have not molded ourselves into the best career men and women right now.

My gratitude remains to be indescribable. The memories are so vivid that it feels like it never ended. That the fun would never end. It had but it left us connected.

I miss you all and I hope to meet you anytime soon.

Keep in touch guys!

Shining even when my lights are OFF!

Yesterday and Today is a torture. I cannot make sense of all the things that are happening and I am pretty pissed off. I am really resigned to the idea that the day may bring a lot of frustration if I continue to sulk in it. I could only think of one thing. Get it all out through this!

- I had my day planned last night for a drinking session with some recently known friends and yet I didn’t get any confirmation that it may not happen at all despite me making an effort to know what’s going on. WTF!

- My brother promised to do my picture cards. These cards are to be used to officially relaunch my work team for the month of October. All I had were promises. Yet I am still hoping he would have it finished soon. I am frustrated because it is only my brother whom I have a lot of respect when it comes to this stuff.

- Another friend of mine who is coming with me to Palawan at the end of November, could not even call Cebu Pacific to have the name changed/updated on his ticket. Why? Because none of the phone numbers I gave him work. WTF! Am I supposed to hand it over all the time? Come on! I will be so disappointed if matters are not taken care of when it’s time to leave. Definitely something that will really piss me off.

- An eye-candy of mine wants to be wooed. Are you serious? You are not the “and all and be all” of my fantasies. Stop acting as if you’re god’s gift to me. Maybe take a look at the mirror and start feeling what you’re supposed to feel.

- YOU! With the main picture of ADIDAS on your Friendster. STOP PRETENDING as if ill die not seeing you one day. Geez, there’s so much good stuff going around that’s worth dying for. Definitely you don’t make the cut.

To avoid staying pissed off, I decided to sleep my anger away. I just don’t understand why people cannot pay me the same courtesy I afforded them. Isn’t it hard to do? A little effort can really make a difference.

I am whining and I will continue to whine.

Jory, you have been a constant counsellor amidst my insanity and thank you for keeping me grounded. If you read this, you will truly.

Jules, I would have wanted to come to the party last night with your boo. I was just not in the right state of mind. I would ruin your party. Ill make it up to you soon.

I have been pretty lazy and bad with my sleeping habits lately. I have been constantly late for work and I must say this is something that is making me a little pissed off too.

Okay, I really don’t want to ruin everyone’s day just because I am not having fun myself. Yet again, these are just moments I really wanna blurt out.

To the people who continue to inspire me:

My Team Orlando (BEH!)…..stay strong. We will sail through the month. Let’s hold on to what we achieved last month. I am very proud of you. Love you all!

Candy, retention may bring some good vibes for you so make good!

I feel better now!

OCTAVA and My Wonderful Memories

Last Mid August, I came across several group messages from my Yahoo groups and I learned that the resident university choral group I used to be with was coming to Manila for an “engagement” (this was what our conductor used to say that meant ACTIVITY). Oh yeah ladies and gentleman! I LOVE SINGING!

I was a little excited as I was to meet one of the most influencial people who shaped my musical talent. To make it more exciting, I was on leave. Now that made it more special!

Where to?

It was to be at 1 Esplanade just beside the biggest mall (I hope I am right by stating this….) in the Philippines, Mall of Asia. So I decided to prep up, wear something that would at least contrast what I used to be before. Take note, I was this tiny and lanky Tenor 2 who used to take charge of the group while our conductor was away.

Frank, of course, have grown old. Yet the same confidence and cockiness that made him loved by everyone never changed. He was still continuing the legacy he started during the 70’s. His passion never wilted. He may look tired all through these years but music makes him stronger and younger.

This was what I was waiting for…I had to see it for myself how the group progressed all throughout these years since we left the university. There were talks about permanently ending the group’s existence since there were constant concerns on funding. The group was always limited to having university concerts and mini out of town presentation. I was one of those who witnessed the struggle of each team to come up with funds to come up with decent costumes. Money earned during engagements were saved up for equipments needed for future concerts. We were like circus people wandering from one place to another in the hopes of getting more exposure. IT WAS A STRUGGLE. Sad to say it is still the same struggle up to this present time. I have nothing but praises for the perseverance. This is all for the love of music.

Music brought people together to create harmonious tunes. The Dimalen’s were there (Dave, Pie and Riccia) including Robert, Gen and Diomel. It was fun to sing with them. Well, one thing’s for sure, we were missing some lines of the

songs we liked before. Every moment spent together was worth like a diamond handed to a bride. Moments were special. I could go on describing but that wouldn’t even make a perfect picture of what was 8 years ago like with the group.

Much has changed since then. The vocal quality has improved on the soprano section which I am really very impressed. I guess I would be biased to mention that our batch had the best Alto, Bass and Tenor singers. Sopranos were struggling but were good too. Talents were hard to find. We might get a lot of people who auditioned during our time but we end up with less people making the cut.

The love for music continues……even on my third decade of existence and it shall stay strong. I couldn’t thank Frank enough for the legacy he left while we were with the choir.

Firsthand Experience with Frank

Id like to tell you that it's not an ordinary Frank I got to have my experience with. He has this air that makes everyone stare in awe! yeah! with all the hooplas he's

causing, I can definitelysay, I had a very interesting experience with him.....

To let you into my experience, let me show you how he has brought a little commotion to every place he passes by......

You can always click the picture for the bigger version. See! what I am saying? He literally caused a little anxiety especially to motorist. Because of him, no one would even dare mess up with his power....He's cold but when he warms up, you have to

run for cover..... Another picture shows how Frank left me with cold feet. My other man "chuck" was treated in such a way he would never forget. Chuck will not retire and will never grow tired of taking care of my feet despite what Frank did. That something he has promised me for two years now. Frank didn't stop though, he wanted to make sure his presence was felt so badly that he wanted to climb more to my knees. He had to lambast my cheap jeans and not only that, he'd leave me dirt and spew me with god knows what disease it would be in this picture (again! you can always click on it for a bigger view). Despite what he did, i can only let him conquer me for a

few minutes as I was about to leave his path. I'll just treat this a cool experience coupled with not so good feeling. Ironic it may seem but i guess Frank just wanted to be noticed. I am a big believer that we can avoid the same wrath Frank left. I am a big believer of change. I have already spent 29 years of my life and new generations will start taking over in the next couple of years. This is something that everyone has to take consideration that Frank will be back. We can tame him though.....Do you share!

A date with my Mom!

After so many years have passed, I finally got a chance to spend at least 5 days with my mom.

It was a little nerve-wracking since it was a long time since I used to go out with my mom shopping, My mom teaches at the same high school that I graduated from so I was constantly a specimen magnified 1000x all the time.

I was practically booked to be with her and it was a little uneasy since I am no longer a kid. I am not complaining though since being with my mom was one of the best things that happened to me this year.

I saw my mom grew stronger each year and I can really say that she grew old gracefully. Except for the fact that hearing was not one of her best talents. I had to kept on repeating myself a lot of times to get my point across her. It was tough but that was one of the cutest and hilarious part. My mom was so selfless to admit that she was indeed getting old.

We went to places she was curious about like Mall of Asia, Ocean Park and Trinoma. Of course we couldnt miss MEGAMALL. Since I havent planned things, we stumbled into this big event held at the Quirino Grandstand called ALIWAN where we saw different cities and municipalities across the country showing off their festivities with elaborate dances and costumes. Floats were outstanding too.

I didnt like the idea of going to Naic, Cavite becuase its too far and I dont have the patience to stay in a bus for an hour and get

to a remote place. Not that I hate the place but Im not much of a easy go getter when it comes to travelling. Yet, I was obliged to come with her.

With her are pictures of my sister and I am glad that my sister finally graduated from college. My sister was the spoiled brat and everyone loved her. I love her too but she can be a bit annoying. THen again, what can you do when youhave a sister who happens to be the only girl (aside from my mom) and the youngest of three. Here's another look of my sister.

I gotta go now guys. Just wanted to let everyone know that I am still in touch with my folks....

Life At the Beach.....

Me at the beach? Hmmm, I guess I'll have to think about it next time. However, despite the fact that I cannot enjoy the beach because I have fear of the deep (yes! I know how to swim!), the sun was at it's worst. I have no problems with getting tanned because im naturally tanned so tanning is out of the question. Ok! ill let you in on an idea of what it's like in the beach... GETTING BAKED!

I was with Lucille, better known as PCIL...just dont know why.... and her friend, KATHY. There was always this

excitement when taking a vacation. This is my second time in Galera and mind you the first time was bittersweet. This time there were no hangups and emotional baggages to go with me.

The trip was about to be spoiled when the boat stalled for an hour from the Batangas Pier. I was a little concerned about the amount of money we all had and getting to the island early would give us guarantee of a nice and cheap place. That wasnt the case which I hoped for...I still kept my fingers crossed.

The pic on the right will give you an idea of the place we stayed in. It was affordable at a price of Php 1,500.00. It was airconditioned and was enough for the three of us. Toilet did not have a flush but that was okay. It was totally fine. Who said we would need a toilet flush all the time. We were cowboys. By the way, don't place too much face sunblock because you'd look like a fag.....how funny.

All of the pictures I am about to post will be seen on my albums but then you would need authorization espcially if you're not on my contact list....not that I had to hide but then I'd like it that way...

Having a break with a bottle of pilsen (yes! I started loving pilsen) and the mango shape was a commodity no one can be left out with otherwise youll drain yourself of water.

Lucille was as cool as a cowgirl...I would even dedicate this blog for her. She was a total sport on everything. We just had this way of sharing everything. It didnt matter who was paying what as long as we sail through the expenses together. For that, I thank you very much. I was starting to be a bit annoyed with the idea of being in an island with less "dough". Pcil was just there to make me feel secured. I couldnt be thankful enough.

Let's continue with the adventure........

This was the penultimate at the beach. Here are some of the things you can do while in a bar having a shake or beer:

1. Check the crowd. Take out the uglies and spot the goodlooking people.

2. Rate them from a penny to a peso.

3. Get an agreement with your friends.

4. Start flirting (for singles). For those with partners, be careful hahahaha

5. If you get them (talk to no one, unless its a good catch hahahah).

6. Start fantasizing (let your minds wander).

We had fun and it was worth the view. We saw some flirts as well and we flirted and well I got mine...hahahahaha

It was time to go home and the disappointment didnt end even when it was time to leave.

This was the face of the sky and it was scary to the point that I was had a picture in my head like I was about to be drowned. The sides of the boat were covered in plastic to avoid rain from getting us wet and it was so tight that if the boat cap-sized, there was no way of escaping it. "Can you find any sharp objects that we could use in case of emergency? I asked lucilly and kathy. They shared my paranoia and yes! they tried to check their bags of any sharp stuff.

In the end, I made a fool of myself. Principle is, i'd rather die a fool, than being caught dead for not using my head.

This was the case inside the boat. It's full, overloaded with just one hot couple and the rest were just not a lovely sight to look at. We couldnt smoke because there were oldies beside us who abhored the smell of cigarettes. That's how worst it was. But then we all glowed with smiles on our faces because we made it. We were literally relieved that the whole trip was a mixture of emotions everyeone could ever imagine. In the end, we said "thank you" to everyone who made the trip awesome. I would not trade this trip for anything else. It was quite a ride. Thank you Lucille, Kathy, Pistacho and the cross and the Belgian biological engineer....hahahah that's another story PCIL would tell.

If you really want to enjoy the beach, go on a crash diet. Get some disciplin. Go to the extreme. Feel sexy. Having excess weight feeling sexy is well a good excuse but then sometimes it's nice to be admired.

I LOVE GALERA!

Dear Life

I am grateful for all the wonderful blessings. I am debt free and I am now more in control. I am single but not miserable. Im losing weight not because I wanna please everyone but I am crazy enough to admit that my insecurity ball is increasing each day that passes.

I love life and that life loves me.

I am outspoken....I am irrational but I am wise. I have good company and I am not alone.

I am grateful for each day makes me feel that I should not be worried getting old.

If this blog finds me by the age of 60.....kill me....life will no longer be fun by that time....yet again I am grateful......