One Day Break 1 November 2006
Posted by Sasha in Mood Notes, The Brooder, The Rambler.8 comments
It’s been a while since I truly felt how a holiday is treasured by normal working people, er, since I’ve been out of the corporate scene for quite a bit now. Yes. I’m once again braving this world of powersuits, meetings and endless white papers — the typical 9 to 5 job. Gah.
The past couple of weeks were a blur and all I can distinctly note is that I’m now re-learning how to commute mainly with the use of the shuttle that services Ortigas-bound Paranaque folk and basically trying to get to know this part of the metro that I’m not really familiar with. Let me tell you, it’s a real experience. Whew.
When I learned that we get to spend this day off from work, I’m a bit relieved since I’ve been swamped with work. I’m not kidding. Add that to the fact that I’m still adjusting from my former state wherein I used to own and manage my time with an already established routine. Sigh.
Today is a good day. It’s a nice break. Even when a major part of it was used to do some more work, I appreciated the fact that I got to sleep in. I got to spend my “holiday” last night anyway, which was fantastic because I needed some time away from all the things that needed to be done. I needed time to de-stress. I’m thankful for the dinner and the company. Teehee.
Now, the day’s almost over but I’m off to do more work. Gah. I’m looking forward to the weekend.
Coffee makes my world go *poof* 18 September 2006
Posted by Sasha in Mood Notes, Photo Gadgets, Photography, The Rambler.3 comments
This photo is a current favourite.
Rico took it with Raissa‘s cam when the three of us went out last Friday. Thanks for the Brooklyn pizza, Rico.
Wait a minute — did anybody thank me for Figaro??? Sheeesh. What ever happened to common courtesy? Hmpft! 😉
I digress.
The photo’s quite messy at the beginning but I worked on it till I was able to achieve the look that it has now. My main objective was to make it presentable enough so I can upload it to my Flickr.
So — what do you think?
A photo says a lot, don’t you agree? [Subtext. Subtext. Hahaha.]
On Moving and other changes.. 9 September 2006
Posted by Sasha in Mood Notes, The Brooder.18 comments
I just got settled [sort of..] in a new place. It’s a place that I’d like to call my “bachelor” pad. Hehehe.
I’ve been packing and un-packing — moving my arse around — so much that it’s becoming funny. It makes me feel like I’m a nomad.
But I’m seeing this as an opportunity to be more grounded and sane. Perhaps it will do me a whole lot of good, now that I’m in a different place. I’m hoping that it’ll provide a new perspective in my life.
And oh, it comes with a perk… I’m now on ADSL. Heeheehee. 😉
Simple Things That Entertain 4 September 2006
Posted by Sasha in Blogs & Blogging, Films, Gallivanting Episodes, Mood Notes, Muscle Cars, Photography, The Brooder, The Car Enthusiast, The Rambler.7 comments
I’m one of those people who live a pretty laid-back lifestyle. I don’t take everything too seriously — but that doesn’t mean that I can’t because I can. I guess I’m just saying that it would take a lot to ruffle my feathers and I take pleasure in simple things. Heehee.
I’m guilty of not posting much lately. I can’t come up with a good enough reason — sorry. Heh.
But I’d like to enumerate the things that entertained me these past couple of weeks.
Gig Night. Shared a couple of beers with Rico at 1740 Bistro to hear my friends play. Finally a gig that’s not in Tagaytay! Hahaha. Though, I would’ve enjoyed the roadtrip. Anyway, it has become a ritual that every new friend goes through — sort of like an initiation — meeting these 4 guys [Ram, Joey, Joel and Oliver] of Streamline. Don’t ask why. I’m not telling. Hehehe.
DVD Marathons. Note: emphasis on it being plural. I actually finished 2 seasons of Grey’s Anatomy and 7 seasons of Sex and the City. I’m now on the first season of The OC. I’m keeping my mind off blogging for a bit. Don’t hate me. Hahaha.
Photography. I had the opportunity to do a lot of it over the weekend. It was a bit challenging since I was expected to cover an actual event — a kid’s birthday party. Heehee. But it certainly felt good getting behind the camera once again. Plus the fact that a friend said that he didn’t realise that I was actually really good at it [he got it wrong perhaps? Hahaha.] and went on to ask for pointers. I was so flattered. Hahaha.
Dicovery Channel’s RIDES. I caught the episode, Foose’s 69 where they worked on a Chip Foose-designed 1969 Camaro. I saw a lot of Mustangs like the Eleanor [seen in the movie, Gone in 60 Seconds], Shelby G.T. 350 [my dream car] and the amazing Shelby G.T. 350R [the exact car that Joe Johnson drove].
Random Quote Javascript. Adding it on one of my blogs is a cause for a small celebration. Hahaha. I’ve been wanting to do that for ages.
Driving. I’ve been driving a lot recently, ergo, I’m now NOT cooped up in my house most of the time. It always brings me comfort when I’m behind the wheel. It’ll always be one of my favourite things to do. AND getting to drive a BMW 540 Automatic was certainly a real treat! It was the highlight of my week. Hahaha.
More on cars. Getting a call from a friend [you know who you are. hehe.] to ask for my help cuz his car wouldn’t start. I wanted to laugh at the ludicrous-ness of the situation cuz never in a million years did I expect that a guy would call me about a car problem. Btw, my instructions did help start the car. So — am I good or what? Hahaha. 😉
Of course, writing will be a staple thing and will always be a source of entertainment in my book. So, what about you? What are the simple things you do that brings you pleasure and/or entertainment? 🙂
Angry Silence Theory 7 August 2006
Posted by Sasha in Mood Notes, Quotes, The Brooder.add a comment
“If there’s one thing your loved ones have learned over time, it’s that you don’t express feelings the way others do, especially when it comes to anger. In that case, your preferred method is to shut up — completely — for days, if need be, or until you prove your point. That’s what’s going to happen now. You’ll let the world know you’re displeased through your silence, which, as it turns out, is every bit as formidable as an outlaw brandishing a weapon.”
Purple, Black and Blue 2 August 2006
Posted by Sasha in Mood Notes, The Brooder.7 comments
Purple is the colour of royalty. Black is the colour of sophistication. And Blue is the colour of loyalty. These three colours are such lovely hues seen all around us.
Purple flowers.
Black sky studded with stars like twinkling diamonds.
Blue sea.
Memories from places I’ve seen floods my mind. I need these memories. They remind me that life is beautiful. These colours are meant to be beautiful.
Even if they’re not so attractive when left on your skin. They cease to be royal, sophisticated and loyal like they’re meant to be.
I’m such a stupid idiot! 28 July 2006
Posted by Sasha in Mood Notes, The Rambler.6 comments
Okay. Darnit. I’ve been around computers for more than 15 years — that’s, like, more than half my life — and for the past 3 days, the machine and I had this quirky love-hate relationship and I ended up wanting to kick myself [yes, not the computer!].
I started noticing some weird characters showing up whenever I punch certain keys, i.e. “1” – the date and time appears, “A” – the currency symbol, €, comes with it, etc, and the weirdest thing that ever happened was when I’d punch the “Tab”, it’ll shut the computer down! It was disastrous!
So, I’ve bugged my brother, my cousin and even, Rico, to help me fix it [and all three on the last day]. On the first day, I spent 14 hours downloading and updating my Anti-virus and Ad blocker. I’ve run to and from my cousin’s house to use his DSL connection for faster download time cuz, sadly, I’m still on dial-up. On the second day, I probably checked, cleaned and restarted the friggin’ PC gazillion times that I grew sick of it. On the third day [yesterday] I didn’t let up till my brother gave in to format the sucker. I feel bad cuz he was in dire need of sleep since he hasn’t been getting much lately.
So there we were, him, fixing it and me, supervising. Ha. I was happily anticipating the outcome of the project since I knew it will definitely end my problem. There wasn’t much I can do but wait so I went to a late dinner at Sinangag Express in BF with two people who’ve mistakenly replaced Sinangag with Sinigang. On separate occasions. Hahaha.
When I got home, my brother updates me on how everything turned out and yes — surprise, surprise! — it’s not fixed.
Aaarrrgggh! Nooooo! Kill me, please!!!
But wait. Solution to the problem was quite simple, he said. Buy a new keyboard.
Whaaat??!? That’s it?! Focusing a venomous stare on the monitor, “Who’s the sucker now, eh?” The computer mocks me.
I didn’t need to have spent all those days, errr — nights, waiting for those 1-hour downloads to finish? [but having an updated security software helps me sleep better] or missing out on precious work time? [I’m no workaholic, mind you] OR us formatting the computer? GAH. Goodbye files. Your early demise was all in vain.
At least the computer looks clean, my brother said cheerfully. Oh, the poor thing. He lost sleep doing what I asked him to do. Sigh.
I can only laugh and call myself a stupid idiot. Heh.
So now, I’m back online and tapping my fingers on a brand new keyboard that my brother bought earlier. Halleluiah! I’ve been gone long enough. 😉
The Ideal Guy: A Blog Tag 12 July 2006
Posted by Sasha in Blogs & Blogging, Dating & Relationships, The Neo-Blogger, The Rambler.15 comments
I had to laugh when my sister tagged me to do this. I’m now forced to sit down and mull it over. Hahaha. When I started reading hers, I had this sinking feeling that I’ll see my name at the bottom of the post. Why? We’ve talked about this several times and she can only shake her head cuz I can’t seem to make up my mind on what my “Ideal Guy” is. She’s been telling me to make a list so I can focus on the important things and drop the rest. Just so you know, I did try! So, it didn’t turn out as expected, I ended up making fun of it but I’m now trying to redeem myself, right? Hehehe.
Okay. I need to highlight 8 things about a guy that I can consider my ideal. Hmmm. Fine. I’m listing them in no particular order.
I simply have to be attracted to him!
Like what my dear friend, Trini, and I were talking about a couple of days ago, it’s basically a given that you’ll get tired of the guy after you’ve been married for a bit so I wouldn’t want to end up with someone I can’t stand looking at when I wake up in the morning! Heh. Don’t ask me for details cuz that’s a whole other list! Hahaha.
He has to be passionate.
May it be about a particular cause, a dream, his work — more importantly about me and our life together. Oh, yea — he acts on it.
He has to be learned and articulate.
I love a good conversation. I love engaging in a good argument for time to time or just bouncing off theories left and right. I have a deep passion for learning. My man should be able to keep up or better yet, he is able to offer more than I am able to. This includes grammar and pronunciation. I find eloquence sexy. Hehehe.
He has to have a great sense of humour and wit.
A guy who takes himself way too seriously is boring and downright selfish. Heh. It’s admirable if I see that he can laugh about things and doesn’t break under pressure. It doesn’t hurt if he can make me laugh and entertain me with stories about what makes life beautiful.
He has to be sophisticated.
I’m heavily attracted to a guy who’s worldly, someone who’s completely aware of what’s out there. This means there’s a sense of adventure. It doesn’t really matter if he’s well-traveled or not, he only has to have that desire to see the world. There’s something about a refined guy that’s so magnetic.
He has to be sensible and affectionate.
I love hugs, cuddles and a thousand sweet kisses everyday. I want a man who’s able to offer them when able and necessary. I’m uber-sweet and I want that to be reciprocated. I’m moody and have irrational expectations on certain occasions so it is “ideal” to be with someone who can deal. Hahaha.
He has to have talent.
It can be that he plays a sport, he writes, he dances, he sings or he plays an instrument. It shows that he’s creative and won’t stand around letting life pass him by. Actually — I’d love to end up with a footballer or a rockstar but I know that’s reaching. Hahaha.
He has to be responsible.
It encompasses the following traits: committed, trustworthy and secure. He knows what his responsibilities are so I will feel secure that my life with him is set and will not be easily shaken.
Now for the fun part! The 8 people I’m tagging:
Ron – because I know underneath the player, lies not a naked woman but a guy looking for an ideal. Well, it’s just me giving you the benefit of the doubt. Heh.
Mel – even if I know you’re married, I’m curious cuz we haven’t had this conversation before.
Matt – oh, you know I’m curious about you, right?
Chris – because I want to know who the lucky girl might be, dear cuz!
Karl – I hear you’re getting married so this must be an easy one for you!
Armi – I know you’re dating Mr. Perfect, sweetie, but still! I want to know your ideal.
Jonas – because I’ve noticed how gorgeous the women in your drawings are, now I’m curious if they epitomise your ideal.
Zoe – because I know the person behind the camera has an eye for beauty, I’d like you now to focus that artistic eye on a guy and tell me what you see.
Sunday at the Town 27 June 2006
Posted by Sasha in Current Events, Family & Friends, The Rambler.4 comments
Sunday at Alabang Town Center, I had a late lunch at Italianni’s with my highschool friends. It was actually a feat that the rest of us who are still here in Manila are present.
It was just last Friday that I decided to schedule this meetup. It was a first since it’s always been Mel who does the inviting. But this time since she and her husband might be leaving for the US next week, I decided to take over.
A quick shout out to the very preggy, Mel and her husband Jon, our unanimously elected big sis, Candice, Atty. Ricky Moldez II and his wife, Ai, who happens to be a lawyer, too! The always late, Jo, next is Joanne, our resident accountant, and the “prodigal” friend, Jason. Hehehe. And oh, Ricky’s 3 year-old son, Third, who complained that he had an itchy bum. Teehee.
Actually, Mel already mentioned this meet up on her blog but I thought it’ll be cute to reminisce bits about it that’s so classic!
Care for some unstoppable dalandan juice?
It was Jo’s doing. He actually asked me if the juice [pointing to his glass] was “unstoppable”. I almost choked, I thought, he must be kidding, right? Oh, you have to understand… it’s something you can actually expect from him. I just said, you mean, refillable, right? Laughing. I dared him to order a refill using the description, “unstoppable”. And he did! We tried [but failed miserably] to control our laugh. Good thing the server was a good sport. Hahaha.
“What? You left for Australia again and you didn’t tell me?”
Said Joanne. Apparently she wasn’t informed that I had left the second time. Hahaha. They teased me like crazy on how “last minute” my goodbye was last January. They found out that I was leaving when I sent them an sms informing them that I was already in the airport. Candice called and she couldn’t believe it. I was all defensive about it since on my end, it was unexpected as well! I can’t help it if my booking fell through the last minute, can I?
“Who’s pregnant? What? You’re pregnant?”
Another one from Jo, he clearly had no clue that Mel was almost 6 months pregnant. I had to make room for him to see Mel’s growing tummy. So this brings me to the next one —
“The problem with you two is that perhaps the Group list you use to send messages, must just included both your names! How come the rest aren’t getting any of the messages you claim to have sent?”
That’s Candice teasing Mel and Ricky to having their own “group list”. Hahaha.
After lunch, we walked around a bit and I did a little shopping — I bought my cranberry lip balm and concealer with tea tree oil at The Body Shop — before we had our caffeine dosage at Starbucks and to continue our walk down memory lane.
“I’ve got ESPN!”
Candice gave me a blank stare probably thinking that I’ve gone nuts. I was laughing uncontrollably and I was like, are you there yet? Haven’t you seen Mean Girls? It’s a joke for crying out loud! Hahaha. The others were teasing her and she cussed like crazy when she got it, she kept telling me how she thought I lost my marbles. She said something like, “I almost lost my respect for you, Sash. ESPN when it should’ve just been ESP… I knew you’re better than making quips like that!” Okay, I guess I have to work on my dumb blonde act more. 😉
And yea, I bombarded Joanne with direct questions about the current status of her lovelife, hitting the target, unknowingly — hence, the ESPN quip. It was hilarious!
We spent over 4 hours together and if only each of us didn’t have to make it to other appointments, we’d probably hang out a couple of hours more! I wish Donna and Ethylene were with us. I love these people. 🙂
Taking a deep, deep breath 5 June 2006
Posted by Sasha in Mood Notes, The Brooder.4 comments
If I let go of all the anger in me, I’m afraid to face what’s left. Who will I turn out to be? Thoughts like these never cease to plague me, which brings me to conclude that I may just not change.
A dear friend has seen and heard almost everything about me. She has seen the blackest side of me and the vulnerable side, too. I know how much she wishes I’d just drop whatever I’m holding on to so I can continue with the rest of my life but she knows how stubborn I am. I’m resolute to living through mistakes and face the meanest thing that life may bring my way head on. It seems stupid. I know.
Does that make me brave and strong? Admittedly, I think I’m just too scared to face disappointment so I’d rather have the lowest of expectations than the grandest of hopes. Call me stupid. Again.
It’s funny how I snap at the slightest sign of shady behaviour. I guess I’ve grown way too suspicious of people I know, old and new. Like I’m a good judge of character! Duh.
But I do wonder what lies beyond the anger. This moment clearly gives you a taste of the many times I’ve thought about the ‘what-ifs’ and the ‘should-i’ questions. I’m still searching for a hint of the ‘what’s in it for me’ thingie that the surefooted me expects.
I’m thinking of giving it a try, trashing that expectation and just winging it. Will I land on both feet once I do decide to jump? Will I like who I’d become once I find myself there? It’s quite an obvious answer for most but hell, it’s easier if you’re not in my shoes; if you didn’t go through what I went through.
It’s difficult. I don’t know how I can understand, forgive and love someone whom I’ve loathed for a long time. How can I forget all the things that broke my heart and spirit? How can I unlearn the cold, hard truths of filial, platonic, and romantic relationships? How can I accept the role I have to play as I go on living life as a girl learning to be a woman?
I always feel I’m late for this life. My life.
The Parody™ 