Remembering Pagsanjan Falls

The title is a misnomer. It's not that the place had gone stagnant or inactive, it's just that I have forgotten to talk about it hehehe. Yeah, a couple of months ago I went to Pagsanjan, Laguna and saw its prime tourist attraction, Pagsanjan Falls. Well it's been two months you know, I'm gonna try my best to relive everything.

Well first of all, my friend Dindee invited me to her company's (now my former employer) annual IQA outing. She always does, but this is the first time I accepted the invitation ever since I resigned. I thought it should be a good time to catch up with everyone and it would be really great to check out Pagsanjan. It was indeed great to see her and some old friends from the hospital. I gotta say though, so many people have gone somewhere else and I think I can only remember 4-5 faces when I joined the group. In a way, it felt a little weird to be there. For a moment I thought I'm not gonna have a good time. I was wrong anyway. I had a blast... uhm sort of...

We checked in at Pagsanjan Lodge, I can tell, without doing further research that it's an old resort. According to the locals, it was the biggest resort in town, but yeah, it's old, you can't expect five star amenities. I didn't really spend time examining the place, as soon as I got into our room, I took a shower, greeted some old timers and then I went to back to bed and sleep.

Reception desk of Pagsanjan Lodge

The next day was the best part, the part where we went to see Pagsanjan falls. A quick fact about the falls, it's actually located within the boundaries of Cavinti Laguna, but to get there, you have to take a boat ride originating from Pagsanjan river. So there. Who owns what is not my business, still I wonder who gets the money from the tourists hehehe.

Anyway, going back to the boat ride. what's amazing about it was, the two hour ride didn't seem that long despite the limited movement I could make while in the boat (you can lose balance if you move too much, and that can make the boat flip). I guess it's being one with the nature that's really fun. When you hear nothing but the trickle of the water, the rustling of the trees, the tiny chirps of the birds, the cry of the boatmen (that serves as a horn to warn approaching boats), and well, occasional side comments of my friend. I heard from one of our boatmen, while paddling, that in summer, the level of the water is so low, like neck deep, that locals cross the river by foot.

Another amazing thing about this boat ride are the boatmen themselves. Everytime rapids approach, they quickly jump out of the boat (there are boulders to step onto) to push the boat against the rapids. I would imagine that it takes a lot of strength to do that, well I can tell it's hard, because everytime they got back in the boat, I hear them gasp their heart out.

About halfway through the trip, there was a stopover point, called the Talahib Falls, it's a much smaller falls and it serves as a rest area for tourists and boatmen. There were food and soda vendors but none of us bothered to buy any.

Stopover at Talahib Falls

It was at this point that I regret not bringing any money, I would have wanted to buy our boatmen some drinks, I knew they were tired but I could not impose on anyone else to buy something for them either. At least I knew my friend gave them something at the end of the boatride, that should cover for everything, but sometimes, I feel guilty when I can't do anything for these hardworking fellows.

About half an hour ride after the stopover, the main falls started to loom before us. Growing up in a town that boasts our very own Daranak Falls, my first impression of Pagsanjan Falls was nothing out of ordinary. I thought it looked great, but nothing majestic. But things are about to get better as we approach the waterfalls.

The most exciting part was going under (well not exactly under, but almost) the water falls by means of a bamboo raft and boy was that exhilarating. I can no longer open my eyes when I felt the strong gush of water pour before me. It was cold and quick, the next thing I know, we were inside the cave behind the waterfalls, and it felt like going against a super typhoon.

Whoohoo!!!

After a while we started our journey back to the lodge. The boatride this time is a lot easier and faster since we're going along with the rapids.

I got to check some areas of the lodge, they have some sort of an adventure camp site. According to one of the staff there, it's perfect for team building activities. I'm not much of an outdoor stuff fan but I really liked the presence of Rambutan trees. I indulged myself in picking and eating, it was delicious and it felt really nostalgic. I remember a time in my childhood where I would spent time picking all sorts of fruits in my neighborhood and relatives' place (Camias, Indian Mango, Aratilis, Guava, etc.)

Avic, enjoying the Rambutan fruit

unusual insect I found at the adventure camp site

There weren't much to be done afterwards, we had our lunch and prepared to check out. One of the things that made me feel this trip to be incomplete was I didn't get to explore the town itself. Pagsanjan is the tourist capital of Laguna, there's got to be more stuff to check. I would have wanted to see the cultural aspect of the town, but again, who am I to impose the itinerary. I was just invited. At least I get to see Pagsanjan church. It's kinda odd though, because it was closed even though it was a Sunday. Hmmm...

The greatest thing about this trip though, is that I didn't spend a penny! Except for the pasalubong I bought for my family, everything was free. I want to thank Dindee for inviting me here, I enjoyed everything. I hope I could join the next IQA outing again. :)

The Groupies!

I miss hanging out with my friends that I decided to feature the different groups I hang out with.

The Magic 5

For some reason we are called such. No particular reason. It just so happened that we gave “nicknames” for various factions in the Hospital. There’s a group of doctors called Voltes 5 and there’s another one called Teletubbies. These names are actually meant to ridicule them but I don’t think they’ve ever known. Anyway, in one of our “trips”, we were talking about these groups and we suddenly wondered what our group will be called. Then Ren suddenly blurted MAGIC 5! with a caption “watch your back”.

This is the OLDEST group, and I don’t mean the longest I’ve stayed with, but in terms of age. Unlike the other groups I’m with (which I’ll be discussing later), I’m actually the youngest member in this group. The weird thing about this is we are completely different from one another. I’m into anime, Frances is into clothes, Ren is into antiques, Aris is a gambler and Dindee is always “roaming”. I think the only thing that draws us to one another is our deranged personality hahaha.

But despite differences, I had a lot of fun with Magic 5. We rarely get together now but back then, we were always laughing. Thinking about our days makes me wonder, what were we doing back then?

Being the adult people that they are, this group is FULL of green jokes! Plus I’ve learned a lot of dirty language from them, especially Ren. Despite me being the youngest, I’ve always believe that I’m the most mature. They can be immature in a lot of ways sometimes and they remind me so much of my SIBLINGS!

The Bubbly Group (a.k.a the Cosplayers)…

At least that’s what I want to call this group. I think this is the best description that fits these people hehehe. The members varies from time to time, but the consistent ones are Chris, Nagi, Jam, Lee, and Aish. We all started our love with ANIME and eventually branched out to J-music, J-drama, Games, cosplays and almost anything Japanese. We have considered anicons to be the venue of our reunions. Thanks to this groupie, despite the lame performance of the conventions, I manage to have fun during those events.

This group hast the most COLORFUL and creATive people I’ve ever met. Everyone (excluding myself) has a high sense of fashion and artistry. But one thing I like about them is, other than anime and Japan, they can generate engaging discussions out of anything under the sun and even the moon hehehe. Although most of the time I’m passive, I enjoy just listening to them. I’ve learned a lot of things from this group, be it about anime or reality. Love them!

Birds of the same feather flock together

I can’t think of a good name to fit this group. Genshiken. The nerdy group. The autistic ones. The blue otakus?

I’m talking about social implications not just the typical anime attachments or expertise as what some elitist would claim. If you’ve seen (or read) Densha Otoko then you’ll understand what I mean.

This is the group were I can compare myself with most numbers of similarities. For one thing, everyone in this group is single. Our love life is equivalent to coke… ZERO hehehe. (Ewan ko na lang ngayon ha who knows they might have made some progress hehehe)


We also consider anicons and concerts as a venue for reunion, sometimes this group can merge with the Bubbly Group but even though that’d be the case, I’ve always thought that a barrier exist between the 2 groups.

We lack social skills. We are quiet most of the times we’re together, but even with the presence of silence, we know that we are having fun. Weird huh?

The 3 pork butts?

OMG I had longer hair! I can’t think of a name for this group. But we always sing our own rendition of 3 blind mice and replaced the lyrics with 3 pork butts. It was heavily influenced by Cow and Chicken hahaha.

Sherry and Sri are probably the friends I’ve known the longest. Thanks to them my college days was a blast and remains the best days of my life (so far). I MISS THEM SOOOO MUCH!

They are the very first people who made me realize how wonderful it is to have friends. Back then we were also all about anime and other crazy stuff.

We dream a lot.

We create our own world. Our own language.

We sing a lot.

We made fun of other people (without them knowing of course).

We stole a Geographic magazine from the library.

We collected tons of McDonlads straw (I’m not that earth friendly before) and store them in our locker. Eventually we popped all of them.

We borrow books for the sake of leaving our name in the Library card, every single book that nobody really cares.

We were always at Comic Alley spending our allowances for our dearest anime.

We were always excited whenever we’d discover a new anime shop.

We were excited whenever AXN would do an “Anime Marathon”

We were excited for new anime to be shown on TV.

We hate mushy things.

We love sweets.

Sri brings Skittles and candies. Sherry brings the chocolates (courtesy of her suitors hehehe). I bring Pistachio nuts and Gummy bears.

Every summer, we’re always on the telephone and we never seemed to run out of things to talk about.

The only thing we ever worried was where to eat our lunch or dinner. It seemed like the hardest decision to make.

We were like kids. We never took things so seriously. Everything seemed so simple. My life with them was like an extension of my childhood with so much excitement.

But we have grown up and we rarely see each other anymore. We talk about serious things now. Before we used to dream of going to Japan together. We all wanted to spend a vacation there and do what we’ve seen in anime. When we graduated from college and parted ways, we realized it’s not as easy as we thought. But I would always be thankful meeting them. They are the very first people who accepted me as a FRIEND and the first time I was ever IN a GROUP.

******

There are other friends I have not mentioned because they are not part of the group. But I miss them as well...next time I'll make another feature for them hehehe

I just got back from Manila. I went to see my friends in MDH. I printed CD stickers in the office. I had my gift to Colleen sent through LBC shipping. But the most important thing I did was I took my toys which I temporarily stored at Aris’ place. I had them stored there when I moved back to Tanay after I resigned from the hospital. I didn’t want to take them home at first for 2 reasons.

First, I don’t want an argument with my Mom or my brother Richard. I’d always get a negative reaction from them whenever I’d buy something to add up to my collection. They find it unreasonable for me to spend much for something that is not a necessity. If only I could, I wanted to tell them:

hey this is my money,I worked hard for this
why can’t I spend it on something I really like
do you know I’m a lonely soul and these stuff are my little source of happiness,
blah blah blah
blah blah blah

But I didn’t and I won’t. I prefer to keep quiet to end it all. An argument requires “transparency“ on both parties which I’d prefer not to get into. A set of words would lead to an explanation that leads to another story and eventually would lead to another explanation. Who knows, it may never end. It’s always best to keep your mouth shut. Less words, less mistakes! Or so I thought. It’d be best for me not to let them know that I spend more on anime and toys than food and clothes hehehe.

Second reason, at that time, I didn’t want to leave Manila for good (duh like you’re going abroad?!?). I wanted to go back. I thought I need to leave something important behind to make me go back. I told myself, I’ll get another job and get another place and move them (toys) with me again.

But then I realized that I was only being emotional. For crissake I’m only 2 hours away, that with or without a job, I can always go back. And I MISS the toys I left SOOOOOOOOOOOOO MUUUUUCCCHHH!

Surprisingly, my mom knew all along that I still have some stuff left in Manila.
She asked me:
“so what are you going to do with all of this?”
And I said:
“collection. I’m an ANIME FAN and I work hard and I deserve to be pleased”
End of discussion. Teeheee…

Now they’re back to join the others. We’re one BIG family again. It’s not like I feel complete inside. But at least for now, I’m satisfied.

The rest of 2oo7...

I don't really have much time to tell an epic now. I know I have a lot of stories to tell... I owe a lot from my blog hehehe. Definitely I'm missing a lot of updates in my life but I'm trying my best to catch up... a lot of pics to upload too -sigh-...

Anyway, everyone, we have 9 days to enjoy before moving forward to a new year. Let's all give our last blast. I'm trying to enjoy it as much as I can because I feel that I may never have the time to do so in the coming year. So let me start with events!

2007 Komik Con - I barely last an hour, I didn't really plan on coming here...

Neil Gaiman in Manila - I sacrificed going to the UP-AME (can't go out in 2 consecutive days hehe) event just to see Gaiman! Too bad no book signing, but his words of wisdom of enough. He acknowledges the Filipino talent in writing! Way to go kabayans!!!

2007 Hanep Hataw Hero - I love the venue and the booths! They did a good job of making me feel to be in an "anime convention" - the loot bag and freebies was really something new. But still needs to improve on the program of activities... and the cosplay... well I didn't finish it, I can't find anything new.

Let's move on to the wedding bells, my friend Weng just got married to her long time boyfriend Ruel, and I'm really happy for her. While my eldest bro Richard will tying the knot next month! Now here's another significant event in the family, and don't get me started with reminiscing my childhood again hahaha!

And so far, what keeps me busy is the different Christmas parties that I attend... attending the parties at MDH makes me feel like i didn't really leave hehehe.

And yeah, Oliver got home and all I got from him are RK manga vol.3, coins (yen), ballpen from the Tokyo Motor Show, and chocolates. Well knowing him I really didn't expect anything hehe. I'm just thankful he's back safe. I love his laptop and it made me really feel I should upgrade my laptop soon hahaha...

Last but not the least, my Christmas Wishlist:

The Sandman library vol. 6-10

RK Manga vol.9, 20, 25-26

Clamp No Kiseki Vol.1-3

PG Wing 0 custom model kit

so long...

Today is my last day of work in MDH. In 5 hours or so, it’ll be over. A couple of days ago, during my farewell party I confessed that I’m delighted to be honored but a little sad since I have to go. Surely I’ll miss everyone from the Hospital who, in one way or another, had touched my life. Honestly, I’m feeling bluer than ever, thinking I’m leaving a place I could call another home. But it’s inevitable if you have different aspirations. I have my reasons and I feel it’s high time that I leave and find the true path I’m seeking. Still, I’m thankful for almost 4 years of stay in MDH, it’s not always blissful. There were good and bad times. There were even moments that I couldn’t decide if I should be thankful or regretful. But the important thing is that I’ve learned a lot and meet different kinds of people.

2 more days to bear...

Today is my farewell party at MDH. I find this exciting since not everyone gets the chance to have a farewell "honoring". And that makes me what? A very important/special person indeed hehehe... I still have no idea what's gonna happen after this but i guess there's no turning back. I'd say, I need all the luck in the world...

I’ll be out of reach for the next 9 days I suppose. My phone’s batt is busted so I can’t use it. And it’s the start of my 9 days vacation leave. I wanted to take a break, I just got well from sickness. Great huh. But I think of it as a good time to wind up, in my good ‘ol home with my parents and collection. To be away from the business of the city, I hope I’d achieve something… something like a major discovery hehe. I don’t have much to do. This vacation wasn’t planned, I really don’t have any particular thing to do except to read books and watch anime videos. Summer vacation is about to end and the classes are about to start. Isn’t it a good thing that the all through this very busy period of transition, you’re home relaxing. It’s best for me to have a break, now I remember, I’ve got a lot of thinking to do… to think what’s gonnna happen…. Because I’ve finally decided to go… to leave... I will be resigning from the hospital I’m working. I’m taking a lot of risk for doing this, I’m a regular employee and I have nowhere to go if I quit my job. What would happen if a family member gets sick? How do I pay my bills? My loan? I have no savings. But it’s time to embrace all those risks. To get away from your comfort zone is one of the bravest acts to do. I have this strong need to find out what’d make me happy. And I feel that I can no longer find it in Manila Doctors. I’m going out of the wild and find myself. May God help me in this pursuit…haay… I really have a lot of thinking to do… Murakami-sensei pls. help me…

I’m gonna miss that old place… where I used to relax and pass my time before going home from work… huhuhu, today’s the last day of Starbucks Pavillon! They are transferring to SM Manila, but we rarely ever drop there. I’m gonna miss that good ‘ol staff with warm greetings of “hi Kid”… haayyy… in the place where friendship grew… even doctors are affected. Just this morning when I met Dr. Blas in MDH lobby, other than the usual “hi” I automatically blurted today’s Starbucks’ last day… and he reacted “oh no, where are we going to stay na”…Oh well, so much for the regrets, might as well switch to Figaro since Starbucks Bayview is too far for a walk (NOT!).

Yesterday I attended the 3G Gigabyte Lan Party at Market Market. That was actually my first time going there and what a hell of an adventure I had been. Nothing scary or serious, just exhausting. When I arrived at the event, I hardly had the strength to enjoy. Besides, the event turned out to be for beneficial for online gaming enthusiasts in which I admittedly cannot relate. There were very few cosplayer whom I cannot recognize the characters. If they are not from online games, then they must be the latest anime. Whatever, the bottom line I did not enjoy. But for the sake of experience (I think 3G is also held annually-I’m not sure), so this is what goes on at 3G and other related events. Simply put, stick with anime, manga, toy, and J-culture events. Well, it’s never too late to enjoy, tomorrow’s Ozine fest, this’ll be the first time I’m attending an Ozine event, I just hope I’d get the smoke of my money’s worth.

Holidays are almost here (2 weeks to go) but I can really feel it coming. The silence for one thing is a sign eh. Why of course it’s Saturday hehehe. But just to share my surprise, a while ago on my way to Frio Mixx to eat my lunch, I took the ER exit and lo and behold, no patient bed was occupied and the ER people are really benign! Maybe it’s not much of a phenomenon but for 3 years working in this hospital, never have I seen the ER unoccupied of px. But I think that’s a good thing, means the number of sick people has declined for this particular day. But then my pessimistic side is pointing that perhaps financial concerns caused this particular event. Or whatever… I just want to have my vacation!

Anyways, a couple of days ago, I was trying to confirm this Hobbiworx event which was supposed to be on the last day of March, but to my surprise it was moved on the 12th of May. Geez, how can an otaku event be coincide with the heat of elections???? Further (i-net) research made me realize (again) how outdated I am with otaku related events. Geez! There are lots in line right now, just to mention, Gigabyte Lan Party on March 30, Ozine Fest 2007 on April 1, J-crunch Ripiito on April 12, Hobbiworx Tagcom convention on May 12, Mangaholix Animangaming convention on May 19, and of course don’t forget the Toycon which is being held every June ( I haven’t got the final schedule). Whew, I only hope I could attend all of those… though part of me would only get sad for not being able to participate in cosplay. Until now I haven’t got any inspiration. Most anime I’ve seen recently are set on real time and characters and costumes don’t vary much with ordinary clothes (except for Yuuko of XXX Holic). Anyway, the most recent I’m watching right now is School Rumble, a highschool love story comedy. One of those boy-loves-girl, girl-loves-another-guy-and-this-guy-seemed-not-to-care plot. What do you call that again? Love Polygon! Hahaha. And of course varieties of friends to support the girl are always present and so far I couldn’t get myself amused. The only thing that keeps me with this anime are the translation notes which was being flashed before the start of the show and from time to time on the duration of the series. Thank goodness I have the fansub version. Now I’m not a critic here, all I’m saying is that I haven’t found the engaging side of School Rumble (if there is). There must be since my friend recommended it to me…

Ahoy! It’s another month and it’s gonna be a helluva month for everyone! Why, of course it’s the love month! But for those who does not see the significance of Valentines day, for whatever reason, there are other events to take note of - National Month for the Arts (art lovers?!?), Dental Medicine Month and of course… Kid’s Birthday! Yay! And I have good news and bad news for me:
Good news: my vacation leave extending my birthday was approved. Bad news, only for 3 days, and that’d be 7-9. I’d say, not bad eh.

Good news: It’s JCIA training month in MDH and I’m gonna be attending most of them and that would mean more learning for me (and more credentials to put in my CV hehehe). Bad news: training days include Mondays which is my off, and that’d mean that I’d have to adjust my schedule for the month of February and March. It’s a very intoxicating part of my work life –sigh-.

Good news: my credit card limit had increased, therefore I can purchase some items in my birthday wishlist. Bad news: that means more loans for me.

Good news, the megane I left at Dr. Joson’s Beach house in Anilao was found and returned. Bad news, my eye grade have increased and I’ll have to replace that megane eventually…That’s all I could think of for now.

Haay… Life is both blissful and miserable I’d say… paradoxical! And speaking of Dental Month, I haven’t got time to have an appointment with my dentist to fix my dental problem. In fact we’re both very busy –sigh- I hope I could slot an appointment with her during my 3-day vacation.

Events, events! Bad news, I won’t be able to see Peter Pan the Musical Play due to lack of time to get a ticket. But good news is this coming Sunday, Feb. 4, I’ll be attending the Read or Die (ROD) Literary Convention. I’ve had hardly any idea about the event but I expect to have tons of books for sale, and I hope to find the titles that I’ve been looking for ages hehehe. Also I heard that the Radioactive Sago Project and Up Dharma Down Bands will be performing. More about events, I hope I’d get to watch the “Philippine Bedtime Stories” organized by Sinag Arts Foundation on the 25th. The play features Japanese stage actors hehehe.

By the way this month, I pledge to lessen my caffeine intake. NO COFFEE for 28 days! Hehehe, The past three months I’ve been a real coffeeholic. Thanks to the traditional Starbucks Planner promo. For the record I’ve got 6 planners. I have one for myself, the others I gave to my mom, dad, Ate Cherie, Ivy and Dr. Ramirez. But of course, the stub completions are all group effort and most of our coffee sessions were sponsored by Dindee. Going back to my pledge, I won’t be drinking a single drop of coffee but I would still drink hot and iced choco and sodas. Hey I said LESS caffeine neh?) Anyway is the love month and therefore chocolates’ month! HAPPY FEBRUARY everyone!

Pyrolympics Aftermath

Yipeee!!! I just discovered that the wifi signal of our virtual library extends to our office! Now this is absolutely free internet! The good news is I have finally uploaded some pics to my multiply account. Haay, that’s one task down. Okay you could view it HERE!

Last weekend I watched the 2007 Pyrolympics with Dindee and Fars. As expected millions, upon millions (hehehe), Filiponos came, every road and commercial establishments were jam packed. You could just imagine. And that was just the price we had to pay for the two 15-20 minutes fireworks display. Until now I could not decide whether it was worth the time and energy. Okay, the fireworks were magnificent especially that of Philippines’! Man I was really stunned! I was able to see two other competing countries last week, and I was not that amazed (and the no. of people was also lesser). But China and Philippines’ exhibition of pyros were really amazing. We situated at the MDC Campus which was really convenient because the guard did not allow non-Manila Doctors/Metrobank people to come in. Anyway, the China’s started at around 9:00 in the evening. Man, China’s fireworks were really grand! Though I couldn’t really explain exactly how they surpassed the other countries. But what really surprised me was the Philippine’s exhibition. At first I was very jaded, I do admit that I have this “I’m -impressed-with-Japanese-only” attitude. But entered the first shot of Pinoy’s fireworks, I was really… ohmigosh! That was soooo coool!!! Our fireworks were really big and loud and bright and colorful and… and… okay, just like the others huh. But we had this spontaneous effect that reminded me of our mixed-influence culture that resulted from different regime of various nations. Well anyways, my favorite part was this sperm cell-like fireworks and the final piece which was a continuous big sparks then leaving colorful light bulbs suspended in air for more than 30 seconds. It was really cool!!! Okay after the show came the hardest part of all – going home! The vehicles hardly ever move, you’d think the road was a parking lot. So my friends and I decided to stop for a bite and wait till the jam fade off but lo and behold every damn food chain and restaurant was full house! And I was really needing to pee!!! Yes the toilets were also fully booked with millions of ladies in the line. Haaay, it was 2 hours after when I finally settled for a pee. I got home at around 2:30 in the morning and take note that it the traffic was still slow moving at 2:00 that you’d think it’s only 7:00 in the evening. Before I went to sleep, I thought to myself was all this energy draining day worth for the fireworks? Yeah you bet. For experience’s sake, yes. But I swore that this’ll never happen again. I won’t go to pyrolympics next year. Unless… hehehehe

Darn, am I really that busy?! I was thinking if I really had no time or I’m just too lazy or I have weakened my writing skills… awww… anyway, I wanted so badly to update my blog, so to start with, I must summarize the what happened the previous year. Then later I’d report the recent happenings in KiD’s groovy and gloomy life hehehe…

So how was the year2006 for me? Good and bad, happy and sad… maybe I could start after that resignation of Ma’am Shella last September. After she went off, Ma’am Marits assume the position as the Officer-in-Charge in our department. Everything went smoothly with our Surveillance Audit and was able to maintain our ISO certificate. Prior to the Audit, we moved to a new and better office, along the Executive Offices, BDD and HRD. Ma’am Marits is also a member of the IQA team, former Lead Auditor, and was a part of the legendary Docs Team. A very diligent and professional person, to be under her supervision was a good learning experience for the QM Staff and her tamed personality was a good example for all of us. It was a regret on our (QM) part that she preferred practicing her profession (Physical Therapist) and eventually let go of her OIC position as per her agreement with Dr. Joson.

The year 2006 was the year that I got to socialize more with other MDH people, in and out, of the hospital. I guess it all started when Frances was on the verge of emotional depression that I got connected with different icons in the hospital hehehe. She had this very frequent emotional shift that we named her “pakto” (topak) hehehe. I won’t go on the details since I wouldn’t want her personal problems to be aired, I’ll never know who’s gonna read this journal anyway. But anyway, it all started with her that I got close with Dindee, Aris, and Ren. And who would forget our late night escapades using Dindee’s car. We would go to different places whenever it popped in our mind regardless of time and location hehehe. I really enjoyed their company that I’d forget my own emotional problems. And the ironic thing about it is that (I think) we don’t share the same interests. Minus the fact that we’re all “not normal”, each has his/her own set of interest. So what brings us together? STARBUCKS!!! Hahaha…

This new set of friends may have been the reason why I am not so updated in anime/ manga for so long. I hardly had the time to watch anime, read manga and attend anicons. After the Toycon, the next event I was into was the UPAME Matsuri… and I wasn’t even able to join the Cosplay. Waahh, I didn’t cosplay in 2006?!?! Now that was really depressing –sigh-… but it’s all worthwhile since I get to learn new things. And though I’m not so updated with the latest anime, manga or event, I still manage to update my Toy collection, yay! Some of the best I got since I acquired that Kenshin figures that I craved for so long (see my July 26 entry) were Vincent Valentine, Ohm model kit, 1/144 HG Wing Gundam 0-custom Metal clear edition, 1/100 MG Gundam 0-custom (read that “MG”!) Rei Ayanami in white santa dress,Tsubasa Chronicles mini figures, etc…

Late 2006 was also the time that I am really confused with myself. What I want to be, where I want to be, what I want to achieve, etc… I am talking about my career. Now that we're on the middle of a big project that entails much of my time, I’m having second thoughts if I’d still push through with my manga artist dream. Maybe I should just study intensive nihongo, or maybe I could push through with medical studies, etc… but one thing remains clear, I want to go to Japan. I want to work there. I want to have Japanese friends… when and how, I don’t know… I really need guidance on this matter…

Okay, that would be all for a year recall. What makes it hard for me to document everything that transpired is the feeling that nothing significant changed in me. I’m still on the same base… I’m still confused, still depressed, still broke –sigh-. I haven’t matured a bit! I’m still that same foolish kid!!!! And my blog layout still sucks!!! Arghhhhhh!!!!!

But perhaps, the coming year would be better... it's the year of the boar! Hey Kagura!!! I'll try my very best to be active in the virtual reality hehehe... And i'll try to be more Japanese, hey I'm speaking of "discipline" here. Be more focused on my goals. Reach for my dream!

By the way, as I try to be more active on the web, from now on i'll be posting my pictures in my Multiply account... Geez.. having different web accounts is just as tedious as multi-tasking. But really, on my 10-day vacation next month, I'll try to fix my account! That'd be all for now! Mata ne!!!! (",x)

Last night was just so unexpected. The QM staff together with Dr. Hogar, Dr. Carnate and Frances spend the night at Pier One in Mall of Asia. It was really unplanned. It all started when Dr. Hogar was dragging Frances at Tien de Citas, dragging Aris, dragging Dr. Carnate, dragging Ma’am Shella, and ended up dragging everyone hahaha. Aris wasn’t able to come along though. He said he had some matters to fix. So we dine out at Pier One. This was the first time that we had Dr. Carnate in our gimmicks, so I was really surprised that he’s actually easy to get along with, very approachable. He has this “untouchable” aura whenever I’d see him. That is to say he’s very professional and formal when dealing with us, so I never really thought that he could have a casual conversation with us. He’s very generous indeed and I was quite surprised (again) that he can actually crack jokes hehehe. Now he’s one of those doctors that I respect very well. He’s very professional, diligent, intellectual and I believe he has achieved so much at a young age yet he keep his low profile and he gives due respect to other people. Unlike some people I know who holds so much power and fortune, yet they enjoy humiliating other people, discriminating who they consider “below” their level. The kind of people who enjoy other’s respect out of sheer fear. They are the kind of people who are not contented with what they have. They must have had a disturbed past that led them to such behavior. They are pathetic. Geez, I hate it when I become opinionated of something that is not worthy of my attention hehehe. Going back to our night out, again I broke my pledge not to eat much. It’s so damn hard to resist when so much delights is in front of you. Worst, I was able to drink alcohol again! How many times do I have to remind myself that I have this skin allergy whenever I drink. I drank 4 variants of alcohol!!! There’s this drink that they call “Blow Job”, just a one shot drink, with 3 layers of fluid - Bailey, chocolate and gin, topped with blue flame (that’s literally fire). The thrill is sipping the drink straight with the flames on (but I still don’t get it why it’s called BJ hehehe). And how was it? It feels hot in the throat like any hard drink, but it has this sweet taste. It’s actually good. But after drinking it I knew I had to stop or I’ll be suffering (from my allergy) later. But then Dr. Hogar ordered Margarita and another drink called Zombie (some sort of punch). And lastly, for all we’ve ordered, we got free San Mig lights hahaha… and that kept me drinking until I finally felt dizzy and sober. Hahaha, I’m such a wimpy. But I never really had so much alcohol intake. The last time was more than 2 years ago, during Ivy’s birthday, when I literally drooped in the couch and had to give up. Last night was even worse, other than feeling dizzy, I wanted to throw up so badly, but I didn’t. I wish I did because the feeling was even worse. Frances and I went up ahead of the group, though I wanted to stay longer, I felt the longing for my bed so badly… I am a wimpy after all *sigh* The worst part was yet to come. At around 3AM, my allergy came to attack! With so little space (my cousin’s back), I struggled for relieving my back from skin itch! It was really pissing! But that was my fault and I really can’t blame anyone but myself. So again, I’d like to pledge not to drink alcohol that MUCH. Yeah right. But I don’t feel any regrets, after all I had fun with everyone last night, and that matters the most. I didn't came to class though because i'm still not feeling well... *sigh*

Waii, it’s been so long! I’ve been suuupppperrr bishie, I mean busy hehehe. I got busy both in work and school (what’s new?). Yeah, but it’s been really fruitful this past week. Hmmm let’s see, my accomplishments… Dr. Joson gave me an assignment, to make an IC poster for our (MDH) Disaster preparedness program. His usual point person is on leave, so he gave the assignment to me. I know very little of Photoshop, so I thought he wouldn’t like my work, but when I showed it to him this afternoon, he was satisfied and he gave me another assignment. He told me that he’d rely on me from now on with this kind of tasks. Awww, this is good, I can work more frequently on photoshop and so I can get better. But I have to thank Mike, my good friend and sensei for teaching me the basics. Thanks dude! Now moving on, I’ve been missing my family. I haven’t gone home for 3 weeks now. And I won’t be able to come home tomorrow because our class will be going to a resort in Cavite for a photo shoot. It’s a requirement for our computer 2 subject. And I regret that I can’t attend Tam’s christening rites, I’m one of her godmothers =( …oh well, next week, I have to come home at any cost! Okay, now to my favorite topic… I finally finished Death Note! Of course, I have expected how things will end, but how it was done was truly surprising. I really hate to spoil it, so I’m keeping my mouth shut. All I could say is that any manga otaku would miss half of his life if he won’t read Death Note! Hail to Light Yagami hehehe… also, I’ve finished Slamdunk manga, of course, I started reading where the anime left me and most avid watchers hanging, the Interhigh competition! Starting volume 24-31, and yes, I read it in one day. I loved the way it ended, they (Shohoku team) didn’t make it on top as they have envisioned, but they were able to beat the reigning best team (Sannoh) for years. And I just love that scene when Rukawa and Hanamichi tapped each others hands –then turn away after haha- wow, it’s still fresh on me, I still got those goosebumps whenever I’d think of it. I’m currently reading Magic Kinghts Rayearth, ironic, this is the manga that made CLAMP really popular but this is the CLAMP series that I like the least… then again, this is CLAMP we’re talking, so it’s worth the time, besides there’re only 6 volumes… I’m currently at volume 2. oh yeah, I’m so excited on Monday, I’ll be getting my anime and manga orders from BJ. I’m so excited I can finally watch TRC movie, XXX Holic anime, and read Furuba manga –I ordered the 19 volumes!!! Yay!

Haay, my vacation leave is over. I’m back to work. I didn’t really go anywhere (out of town) during my 2 weeks vacation except in Anilao, Batangas. I got exhausted but man, my 2 days stay at Anilao was really a blast. There were so many things that I’ve done for the first time. Cool stuffs! But first, let me acknowledge Dr. Joson’s family. They were very generous and accommodating, and just like him, they are very meek people. They are a very ideal family indeed.

Okay, on to the activities, we went snorkeling, and I find it really cool to see various kinds of fishes under the sea. It may not be as cool as scuba diving, but it’s what we could afford hehe. At least I know how it feels to be in an aquarium, very huge aquarium haha. Damn, I accidentally drank sea water, salt water that is, and the feeling really sucks! I felt a tinge of pain ran through my throat, darn I hate it. But it was just a little amount, I just hope I won’t get any GI disease. Then I also did paddling using wind surfing board. It was much more fun than swimming, I was able to get at least 1 km – 2km (I think) away from the shore, and it just felt like I’m in the middle of the sea, and I’m surrounded by mountains, and it was raining… my! What a perfect mood to get emotional… my only regret was I didn’t have any pics while doing those things, our cams are not water-proofed –sigh- well maybe next time. As expected, I’ve eaten more than I should, so I expect to gain weight again! Oh no! Then I played Two Hits and Poker with Aris and Ren, just a friendly game, our bet wouldn’t exceed P3 hehehe. Damn, I lost P20, I should’ve never played with professional gamblers hehehe. But it was really fun. At night, a power failure occurred so all of us stayed at a mini-cottage and had a chat. We were just crapping at one another hehehe, our discussion didn’t make any sense, but we had fun

Haha, I forgot to tell that June 24, 1983 is the official birthday of Azunodignis Mikaenki… it’s a world that Sherry, Sri and I created. The name itself means anime. The language is something we created for ourselves hehehe, but the name actually means “anime” and it’s birth is just a numerical combination of our birthdays. Hehehe, I just want to write it here so I won’t forget… (",x)

Ahoy, it’s another month and it has been very fruitful this past few days…

The other day we had a blood donation drive here at MDH. Hehe, our office had a 100% participation! It was the first time I ever donated blood, and it didn’t turned out right (quite)… well, donors undergo screening and physical examination… I passed the screening… and everything was ok… until I’m done with blood-letting. I stayed in the bed for 15 more minutes, then I went back to the office, then I went after my colleagues who’ll be donating blood too. Then I told Dr. Hogar that I’d take pictures while she’s “bleeding”. Then my dizziness started… I felt my vision deteriorating, and the noise seemed toning down… and there I go, I went after Fars and complained that I feel dizzy… she texted my boss to ask for assistance, but I couldn’t bear anymore, I swear I wanted to lie down because I knew that I might collapse at any minute, so I opted to go up. On our way to the office, my boss ran into us, and then we went straight to ‘other’ QM office. There, we have bed foams, which we used during surveillance (for our overnight duties). The moment I saw those beds, I couldn’t wait to lie down… haay, what a relief (back then)… then our Chief Medtech and one of the Head Nurse came to the rescue. Ma’am Sonia administered first aid measures, while sir Arvin took my blood pressure… it appeared that my BP fluctuated from 110/70 to 80/60 *sigh* I’m such a weakling…

And then yesterday I went on leave, I went to PAG-IBIG again, only to find out that my check isn’t prepared yet. One of their staff told me to come back today –again- damn, I just hate these government offices! Anyways, I was also about to apply for TIN ID, but I noticed that it was almost 12:00 NN when I got out of PAG-IBIG, I decided I’ll just defer the ID application, I’m sure those government employees would shun me, because it’s almost break time.. and I’d be instructed to return after lunch…. Really, government offices sucks! I just don’t understand, they have better compensation and benefits, yet they deliver poor service!

Anyways, the reason I defer the TIN ID was because I got a sudden notice of interview from Accenture. The venue was at Cybergate building along Pioneer, Mandaluyong. Of course I didn’t know how to get there so I dropped by at the office just to go online, and have some of my credentials photocopied. I asked my friends how to get there. I got the directions and headed to Cybergate. The interview lasted 1 hour –whew-. There were two interviewers, one was via speaker phone while the other one was right in front of me. It went alright, I swear I was much more confident than my interviews here in MDH. However, I don’t think I’d be considered for further screening. Considering I told them that I would prefer a flexitime schedule, to accommodate my studies of course. I am being eyed for the PMO group, I forgot what it meant, but it basically is in-charge of resource management for Accenture clients. But like I mentioned, I stressed my high priority on my studies, instead I told them was that I may consider deferring my study plans if the offer is RIGHT. Right? It’s too early to assume but I’m not keeping my hopes up. hmmm, maybe I should just grab those call center offers (damn, I ditched 2 call center interviews already!) just to accommodate my demand on schedule. And speaking of schedule, my 12 NN – 8 PM sched in the office is back! Anyways, whether I passed the interview or not, I don’t regret coming there, I felt that the interview was fruitful and was a very good learning experience.

Aww, finally our surveillance audit is through. The auditors are currently convening a closing meeting with the unit heads at the 12th floor, I’m supposed to be there but somebody influential reprimanded me for not wearing uniform. She’s currently in the meeting too, I’m just avoiding another reprimand from someone who doesn’t even have the right to… I honestly intended to wear one if I wasn’t so busy this morning. FYI, Dr. *toot*! I’ve been here in the office since 8 AM yesterday! No sleep! Just to prepare the documents that the auditor might look for! Damn, some people are just so narrow minded… besides, she’s not in the position to reprimand me! Oh people… anyways, the audit went on fine… I honestly would not want to talk about work right now… I just want to rest… I’ve been deprived of it lately… anyways, I got a new book, (second hand of course hehe). It’s “The Last Samurai”… it’s completely different from the movie okay… it’s a story about a mother and boy… about finding his father… I’m glad that I have something to read and make me sleepy at night hehe… my PC only makes me more alive, and therefore eating my sleeping time hehe… for now, I’m just relieved that I can get MORE sleep! Yay!

Ahhh, it’s my 5th cup of coffee, I’m still at the office, loaded with paper works (mountains of papers hehehe)… and it’s gonna be like this for the next 6 calendar days –sigh- anyways, I have the June 13 to look forward to, the start of my long VL hehehe… this afternoon I was unexpectedly called by my former boss, and he was asking me a favor, he wants me to work on the unmarked newspapers in his office, which was taller than Mt. Apo –sigh-… I’m starting to hate all kinds of papers hehehe… aww, how exaggerating, well he still is my boss in principle (indirectly), besides he’s giving me the choice at my own convenience. And I have to admit that I owe him for everything I’ve learned when I was still in his office. And let me clear again that I don’t hate papers, my greatest inspirations originated from papers (manga characters) ehehe… anyways, wish me luck for our surveillance audit –crossing fingers-

aww man, i need a hair cut...

Haay, my limbs are aching… and it’s so damn hot! I am not feeling well. I mean, I have cold, cough, skin allergy (triggered), aching limbs, insufficient sleep, and thanks to the heat, I swear my temper is up by 100%! I’m warning you when I’m like this, do not touch or talk to me, or I’ll just yell at you with a very sarcastic tone hehe… my siblings we’re already affected with my current mood… but updating my journal like this cools me a little… anyways, I came from Pansol Laguna, it’s the IQA Outing, we were less than 20 ( I think) –Dr. RJ, Dr. Hogar, Ma’am She, Fars, Aris, Neil, Robin, Cherry, Vani, Mariel, Sheann, Sir Nestor, Sir Celso, Sir Bong, and the van driver. We used Dr. Hogar’s friend private pool. They got three, but we only used one. It’s an overnight swimming, but only 6 of us (all girls) stayed all night long haha. It was fun actually, lots of food, “drinks”, karaoke and of course swim swim swim… I don’t know how to swim but sir Nestor taught me how to float while breathing… and I’m grateful I learned something hehe… but it’s also the reason why my limbs are aching.. geez…

Bad news… well not really, it’s actually good. A friend of mine was accepted at Yokohama Tires Corp. it’s a multinational Japanese company based at Pampanga. Aside from the fact that it’s near her home, I heard that the benefits are much better (of course, it’s multinational). Plus, she’ll be working with a Nihonjin! Cool! But it’s just that I’m gonna miss her… What’s more, Jona is taking her maternity leave starting today. And that leaves me alone in the room we’re renting, huhuhu… well sure the room’s all mine now and I’d have bigger bed space…better sleep.. but that also entails additional cost for me! I mean I’ll be taking the room charge all by myself. I need a roommate!

But anyways, I’ve submitted my resume to Ma’am Minda, Jona told me she was laughing when she received it. I was always being teased because of my underage looks, and I may not look convincing if I’d be a college instructor hahaha! Oh well, the cons of looking young…

what else, tomorrow is the IQA outing, which I’m not so excited. We’re going to Pansol Laguna, thanks to Dr. Hogar’s connections we were able to get a place for free. We’re shouldering the food expenses only. What’s frustrating is that majority of auditors will not be able to come because their own departments will be holding their outing on the same day –sigh- now is there something to be excited? Well, I’m not feeling so well, but I’m definitely coming. Also, tomorrow I’ll be the assigned trainee for the Document Awareness of Business Development Division, I’ll discuss All the controlled procedures of BDD the whole day *sigh* how toxic. And I have to accompany my mom for check up and stress test at 10:00 AM…. Geez, too many things to do tomorrow… and I have to do them simultaneously! Oh please, I thought I asked for a break? –sneeze-sniff- see got a cold already?! haay, i really need a rest... i'd probably just spend my time (during the outing) reading "Black Lotus" hehehe...