December 25th

What a Christmas! Started the day opening gifts and watching the kids go gaga. At around 11:00am, we all flocked to Robinson's Metro East to watch ZsaZsa Zaturnnah Ze Moveeh, 17 of us, all including Lola, Hugo (2yo), my brother Earls' son, and in tow, his, and Diego's yayas. While Cak was queueing for tickets, nagkagulo na kami in taking 'souvenir' photos in front of the large Zaturnnah movie standee. Hay naku! Hilarious! Parang taga-probinsya! Hehe..!

Finally we saw Cak with this funny look on his face. "ANO BA YAN? ANG BABADUY NYO! Kakahiya! Parang taga-probinsya! Pa 'pose-pose' pa sa picture!" While he tagged mama and lola to join him and have their picture. He'd continue his battlecry while posing with us.. "KAKAHIYA NG GINAGAWA NYO! Parang ngayon lang kayo nakakita ng sinehan!! ang baduy!..." etc.etc. HAHAHAHA! The kids enjoyed the movie, lalo na ang mga yayas!

After the movie we headed back home to have a quick 'merienda' and started getting ready. Our house is usually the annual Christmas Lunch venue but just because of ze moveeh, it was moved to Christmas Dinner! Relatives came flocking in and whoa! riot! Especially now with a lot more toddlers than last year (obviously, since they've grown already), including cousins, nieces and nephews.

Mabenta ang aking Taco Salad, and Creamy Tahong-- umm, sorry don't have a more enticing name for it hehe. Red wine was flowing toward the evening and the last visitor left at 4am the next day!

Worth it!

Happy Christmas!

Before I get busy cooking with my mom for Christmas, here's wishing everyone a Happy Holiday!

Till next posting..


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First Christmas gift

Received my very first 'official' Christmas Gift the other day, a Lowell Herrero American Cat 2007 Softcover Engagement Calendar. I've been an affiliate of the SF Musicbox Company and Calendars.com for almost 2 years now, and by putting their link on your website they show their appreciation by sending you a gift of your choice. Nice no?

Way back in college and during the first few years working, I am used to have an organizer in tow. Punong-puno ito ng mga to-do's (probably because I was at the peak of my retail career). Everything was so -- organized. Until I took a wrong step. Well, about time I get back 'organized' and get my life back together. At least that step gave me two beautiful kids :-)

What I got at the Zaturnnah Premiere

I was oh so excited yesterday morning after work. We are to watch the Zaturnnah movie premiere at 7:00pm at Cinema10 in Megamall. And ummm.... we (me, my mom and my mom's aunt) accomplished a few things:

- got to leave the house early anticipating the Christmas rush afternoon traffic (we were right!) and arrived at Megamall around 3:00pm

- got to finally go around Megamall after almost a year! and checked out the newly opened Christmas bazaar at the Megatrade Hall

- got to be amongst the first to arrive (at 6pm) for the 7:00 pm 'Red carpet premiere show'

- got to spend 3 hours (yup, 3 hours!) standing, waiting for the celebrities to arrive, eventually also getting leg cramps and a very full and complaining bladder.

- got to spend another hour listening to the stand-up comics asking trivia questions to patrons para aliwin at para medyo makalimutan na ang 7:00 pm ay nagiging 9:00pm na

- got to finally see the cast arrive at 10:00 pm

- got to FINALLY watch the movie at almost 12 midnight. They change the MTCRB rating from PG-13 to GP

- got to sit at the reserved first row balcony (premiere) section of the theater and on the second row are the complete cast of ZsaZsa Zaturnnah the movie, behind us, most specifically Dolphy, ZsaZsa Padilla, Glaiza de Castro, Pauline Luna and Chokoleit.

What can I say about the movie? Well, aside from that loooong, loooong wait that had most patrons going home before they let us in, and have more leave when it was announced that the movie will start at 12midnight because of a certain 'problem', I simply just love the opening production number, Dodong's (Alfred Vargas') noodles, Rustom's acting, the confrontation scene between Queen Femina and Zaturnnah. What major thing I see here missing is comic timing. For me, it failed to get hilarious, never-ending tummy aches because of laughing sooo hard as in the musical. Some scenes were too long, parang gusto ko nang sumigaw ng 'cut!'.

ZZZ Ze Moveeh is very, very Regal Films... and I know A LOT will REALLY be comparing this movie with its theater counterpart (which will have, by the way, it's 4th run at the Huseng Batute Theater in CCP on January. Watch ulit!), though keeping in mind that this is a totally different medium, those who didn't have the opportunity to watch the play or read the book will enjoy. Toward the end of the movie, the audience were shouting 'Part 2!' already. So No further comment :-)

Pahabol: Oh yes, I still find the frog cute and adorable.

B.U.D.O.N.G.

B.U.D.O.N.G. The name we took for our college barkada. It is an acronym for Band of Unique, Demure, Outrageously Nice Girls. It used to be Naive girls... but we decided to do away with that... tanda na namin e.

We started out 8 in the group. One by one nawawala nalang, until finally we were down to 5. Last night we had our 16th annual Christmas Party at Gel's place. Apat na nga lang kami coz Nanette wasn't able to come. As always, we'd let our hair down. It's the time of year where we'd always make sure that we celebrate the season together. This year was different. It will be Gel's last Christmas with us since she'll be relocating to Michigan after her wedding this January. For the past 16 years, Gel's home was our home every holiday season. Her home was witness to triumphs, laughter, tears, wedding plans, bridal showers, new babies, etc. etc. Kakalungkot isipin. We practically grew up there.

Well, life goes on.
In top picture from left: Maan, Gel, Bambie and me

Zaturnnah musikal: More noodles?

Lifted from Cak's blog...:

Lauren Novero won't be able to make the 4th run of the Zaturnnah musikal, and Arnold Reyes can only do a number of shows, so Tanghalang Pilipino is looking for the right guy to alternate as Dodong. The guy should be able to act, sing, dance a bit, as well as possess the face and physique that would send audiences into a swooning fit (for the girls and gay men, at least). If you want to give it a shot, or if you know someone who'd be perfect for the role, (di ba pwede si Jan Nieto?) there will be open auditions this Saturday and Sunday (Dec. 16 and 17) at the CCP Conference Room. For more info on the requirements, call 832-3661.
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So far, there will be 10 shows for the rerun at the Huseng Batute Theater. That's January 19-21 and January 26-28. Enterprising individuals who want to make an extra buck can try buying a show and sell tickets for profit, but word has it that all shows have already been sold (wha....?!!?!?) However, you still can call Tanghalang Pilipino for ticket reservations. Kaya mag-reserve na! Now na! Pang-Christmas gift. :-)

More hugs needed

When was the last time you ever experienced a really warm, sincere, and affectionate hug that seemed to seep through every bone in your body? The one where you can feel how this person giving you this hug feels about you? Something that says, 'It's all right', or 'I am here', or 'I care'? Or maybe a hug that is so intense that it shouts 'I love you' so clearly that you feel so securely warm and eventually melt..

I can't remember anymore. Maybe 4, 5 years ago... from a person who might had thought he loved me. Or maybe 9 or 10 years ago, from someone who would'nt want to let me go.

Tonight is the eve of a supposedly 9-year anniversary of a relationship that, well, went wrong. The hugs that were meant before were not enough to keep this intact. But yet, for me, it's a loving gesture that should've meant everything...that is, when given to you sincerely. It is when you have the tendency to close your eyes, savor the warmth, and try to feel each other's heartbeat. (sigh) I've given out my emotions to the people I hug the most. My family, my closest friends. Maybe they can feel what I feel about them, or maybe not.

Right now there is only one person. He'd give it out without warning. Our eyes would meet and he'd come over and put his arms around me. His hugs are tight and very 'feeling'. It's an 'I love you' and 'I need you' all in one package. Damang-dama mo e. Parang ayaw mo ng bumitaw. The next thing you knew, he'd say, 'Labyu mama' and naiiyak ka na, cause it's been such a long time since someone really said it first, and really appreciated you....

umm..peace?

I had my hair cut today.. after 3 months. Yeh, it grew fast, and long, and wavy at the ends, and irritating cause nagwe-wavy nga e. Decided to get a trim..in time also 'sana' for Gel's wedding next month. Naku, for those who begged me not to do it?... you'd kill me! Ang konting trim... naging, ummm.....hehe?!?! Supposedly tatanggalin lang ang kulot..and ginawa niya... ni-layer ulit! Ayun... nagmukhang maiksi tuloy...

May magagalit ata.....
:-(

First Holy Communion

Dec. 9th is Andee's First Holy Communion.

I had to hurry home from work yesterday morning hoping to get a quick shut-eye. Communion starts at 1:30pm and will be held at the St. Scholastica's Academy Chapel. I had to admit, I was a bit stressed out.. for 3 reasons:

Number one, Andee insists that we will be fetched by her dad by 12:30nn which I really doubt it since there has not been a single text message or a phone call from him.
Number two, Baron's not yet home with the car and it was 12:30nn-- we had to be at SSAM by 1:00pm-- which made me realize that I should've had a 'plan B', that is, and said yes to an offer for a ride and to accompany me and Andee to school..,
and Lastly, I had to ask my mom to accompany us (this is a special occassion for Andee) even if it meant her missing an important meeting in the afternoon. Anyway, off we went... though I know how sad Andee feels....

I had quite a hard time getting dressed since I RARELY ever dress up anymore. And as a parent-reader during the mass, Andee wanted her mama to 'look maganda' (baby, di pa ba?). So, ok, fine.

During Offertory, the 'communicants' had a little 'surprise'. They got up and gave letters to their parents. I immediately knew what it was (naka! Kulasa trademark yan!-- personalized letters!!!) and I got teary-eyed. Andee had 3 letters. One each for me, Diego, and of course, Nikki. Yung sa tatay niya naka-special envelope pa, while mine and Diego's was a sheet of a stationary. "Ito kay papa ha.." she said, and she hugged me. Ouch! that hurt me inside... what more with her? I never read her letter until now. And again, as the balat-sibuyas as I am... luha, hikbi, luha.

I can't imagine how she is able to cope with this. I see in her eyes na malungkot din siya although she is (might be?) very aware of what is happening. There is a guilt feeling in a way that I may be responsible with what she is going through. I am missing something as a parent raising her by my lonesome. I've really failed to even try to let her know or understand what is going on between her dad and I. (Some psychologist you are, Yang!) I honestly don't know how to.

I'm taking Andee out later before lunch probably to Megamall or Galleria for her exchange gift at school. Bonding ito.

JustCats galore

What a big, big surprise when I checked my shop at Cafepress. As expected, my Here, Kitty, Kitty collection stole the spotlight. Never did I see this many "You've made a Sale!" notifications in my email before. What more if I REALLY spend time. Ka-career-in na!
Looks like the American Shorthair design ruled over Siamese this time! :-) Merry Christmas and here's to more sales!

Zsa Zsa Zaturnnah: Ze Moveeh

"WE’RE happy that Zsazsa Zaturnnah creator Carlo Vergara is happy with the movie’s trailer. Hindi nakarating si Carlo sa first general press con ng Zsazsa Zaturnnah Ze Moveeh ... " (read more)

Cak was really so hoping that the fight scenes won't be as corny as what we used to watch before. He was actually looking at something ala-Charlie's Angels style kind of fight scenes-- deadly and glamorous! This was the first thing I asked him after he saw the trailer. He was not disappointed. I then asked about the frog..( which always seem to be THE QUESTION everyone kept on asking even during the time preparations of the musical play early this year was ongoing) "..very cute" he says.

I'd like to thank Jheck for sharing the ZZZ trailer. I really enjoyed it. What's weird, though, is I can't view the full trailer in IE, but can view it in full using Firefox (which does horrors to my blog layout!)



"THE writers present at the presscon of “Zsazsa Zaturnnah, Ze Movie” applauded heartily after its full trailer was shown.." (read more)

We would have one of those family-bonding talks over midnight coffee with my mom and Cak; or during Sunday brunches when the whole Vergara siblings and family get together. ZZZ is an expected (and preferred) topic. Relatives already refer Cak as a 'celebrity' in the family and we agree.. hehe, well guess who does not agree. We are all hoping ang praying the the movie will at least meet expectations of all ZZZ fans since there are 2 basis for this: the grafic novel, and the musical play. The play, which had 3 very, very successful runs this year (4th run next year!!!), met and exceeded expectations. We are also confident, after seeing the trailer, that the movie will be GREAT.

And, yes bro, the frog IS cute!

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Andee's Communion was posponed today apparently due to the last typhoon, "Reming' who chose not to dwindle too much in Manila and decided to take a detour. In short, sayang ang VL! But at least I get to do other things. Andee showed her 2nd grading report card (sheet) and, whoa!!!! check this out:

Reading and Phoenix 91
Language and Spelling 88
Health and Science 93
Mathematics 91
Filipino 95
Araling Panlipunan 93
Music 97
Physical Education 93

Planning to take the kids out today before meeting up with my college buds. Gel's wedding is a month and a half away! :-)

Guess who's coming back to CCP...

I received this in my email this morning. The latest TPnews in my yahoo group: (teaser ito!)

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GUESS WHO'S COMING BACK TO CCP...
Posted by :Tanghalang Pilipino"Tues Nov 28, 2006 3:31 am (PST)

zeenoh zsa?

Abangan ang kanyang pagbaba-leeeek!
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Zaturnnah wait is nearly over!

The Metro Manila Films Festival opens Dec. 25th though there are news that it'll start one day earlier (weekend opening). News about having a premiere for Zsa Zsa Zaturnnah: Ze Moveeh is still, well, news... though I think Dec. 20th was the date set (buti nalang naka VL ako non!) . I could just imagine the crowd! When I first saw the pictures, wow... talk about an array of colors (thanks, bro)! I just needed to share this with ZZZ fans! Here's hoping the movie comes out as well as its play counterpart!

Cak was able to preview the movie trailer (expect the Filmfest movie trailers to show very soon!), and in his words:

"The Zaturnnah trailer was a lengthy, colorful monster. It didn't tell the whole story, thank goodness, but it showed a whole lot. It focused more on the kinetic scenes, so Rustom Padilla and Alfred Vargas figured in quite rarely. The trailer's not perfect, but it was fun in the Regal sort of way, with enough bits to turn curiousity into interest. And the frog was cute."

Naka! sobrang excited na ng nanay ko nito!

The play re-run is tentatively set January of next year, again with Eula Valdez at the helm. Don't want to miss that! (again)




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Officially Christmas

The tree is up and the lights are set. Finally... after all the whimpering, please-please, when-when?, now-now! As long as the kids see the tree up, I thought, no more stress! But lo, now they are insisting that I bring out the gifts!!!!

The only thing left to do is to add more lights to our yucca tree, and do finishing touches with our living and dining room. The tree had to undergo a make-use-of-whatever-is-left-from-decades-old-christmas-trimmings. The only thing different now is I let my Looney Tunes Xmas trimmings rest this year. The capiz tree topper is now history (poor thing.. lit up our tree for more than a decade!), and since Looney Tunes has to rest this year, the Sugar Plum Tweety Bird Fairy tree topper has to stay in his box. Had to make with whatever we had. I ended up giving the tree a sort of 'bouquet topper' with golden poinsettias and gold and red sinamay! Not bad.. though I wish we could add more trimmings there. Forgot to turn on the lights when I took this picture.. ...

Feeling kinda lungkot na. As I grow older, it seems that Christmas get more and more sad for me....

KFC Extreme!!!

KFC's Extreme Hotshots.

I love their ordinary Hotshots, it is 'hot' and spicy enough though most people I know can't take it. For those who can, and had tasted The Extreme, some say it is ridiculously 'hot', while others say that the taste of chicken was drowned by the taste of the chili powder. I've got to try this!

The box says/ shows it all. Sort of gives a warning to consumers. Was having second thoughts the first time. Went to KFC by my lonesome. Naku! pano kung bigla akong naiyak sa anghang?!? When I took a piece out of its box.. tadtad nga ng chili powder! Itutuloy ko pa bang isubo? baka kelanganin ko pa ng extra drink or something? No.. pananagutan ko ito. And I did.

Heaven!!!! hehe... :-)

Fearless Forecast

Was reading Nestor U. Torre's Viewfinder column at the Philippine Daily Inquirer's Entertainment Section entitled 'Prospects for MMFF 2006'.

He states that what still remains as the strongest bet for box-office is the fantasy production, "Enteng Kabisote 3: The Legend Goes On and On" which topbills Vic Sotto, with Kristine Hermosa. Any movie produced with Vic Sotto onboard NEVER fails to 'captivate'...hmmm, not sure if that's the tight word for that, entertain..? audiences. Mr. Torre did mention that 3 entires could be vying for the Best Picture slot..."Ligalig", "Mano Po 5", and... yey!.."ZsaZsa Zaturnnah".

After reading his column, my mom had a big smile on her face (of course!). What more is, if what is written is true, the festival will start it's run one day earlier.. Dec. 24th!!!! Double yey!!!

At least now we don't have to argue about Christmas Lunch (hehe).

Smart commercial

Overwhelming.

Don't know if that is the right word to use. A wife's constant love and affection for her husband, even if he is paralyzed from the neck down (with the exception of one of his hands), and a son, who constantly stays in touch with his mom with whatever important event that happens in his life -- a promotion, a recent break-up, or just simply 'baby-sitting' his sister. These are 2 new commercials from Smart. The husband says thanks and I love you's to his wife through texting, and the son, still texts his mom who already passed away.

Overwhelming. Jolts my the heart.

Hilong talilong

Today Sunday, aside from being quite busy, is 'hilong talilong' for me. Was awake for literally the whole day yesterday (got lots to do after work) .. met up with college friends, attended the internment of my friend's mom, talked about Gel's wedding plans, did a little grocering.

This morning it was market day with my mom. My sister-in-law, Carol, better-half of my brother, Earl, and my nephew, Hugo, had lunch at home today. Earl will be visiting from Dubai this Christmas and of course, all of us are excited to see him (and his few extra pounds!) even if it had been barely six months since he left. After that, me and my brother, Ron, had the task of checking all the Christmas lights at home. The kids are good in 'dictating' as what to do, or already 'planned' for us adults the EXACT date and time when all Christmas decorations MUST be up. The capiz lights decor on our yucca tree had to be re-positioned as the tree has grown. The tivoli lights were taken out and would have to be replaced. Garlands and other decorations were checked. Since neighbors had their lights up already beginning last week, the kids had been pleading that we do too. Our deadline? Nov. 25-26th.

During lunch we were talking about Christmas lunch menu since it had been tradition that relatives and family have lunch at home during Christmas. Cak suggested that hey, lunch out this time as we all will be watching Zsa Zsa Zaturnnah Ze Movie first showing. Oh yeh! December 25th is the start of the Metro Manila Film Festival. We were sort of having not exactly heated conversation on how we'd go about Christmas lunch...or Christmas Dinner? but by hook or by crook, Cak will watch. First Showing. Period. Oo nga naman. Where's family support here?!?! Amidst all the excited of watching, and how the movie would go.. we weren't able to decide what to do yet. Hehe..

...matagal pa naman e. :-)

Seeing things, feeling things

For the past 3 weeks, I've been 'seeing' again. Mostly in our living room and near the kitchen. It's still the same --- a figure, not really solid, can't see the face. What is different this time is, she (yes, I saw long hair) is in light blue. I can't really tell if it was a long dress, or a shirt that's light blue. I see her usually at the kitchen door, while I have my breakfast (actually, dinner.. when I get home from work around 7am), just standing there. Or sometimes near the telephone in the living room, or by my mom's bedroom door. Naku kinikilabutan ata ako habang sinusulat ko ito. Now I don't see her anymore. Hmmm... probably visited lang or had a pitstop before moving on. Oh well. The other night, before All Saint's Day, I was awakened na parang may nagwiwisik ng tubig sa akin. Weird.

Lately too, I've been getting these headaches again. Was not able to go to work for 4 days, but at least I have temporary normal sleeping hours. My closest friend claims being awake at around 2:00 am recently for unknown reasons. Weird.... Me too.

Sticker sale

This is my newest sale at JustCATS. Once again, from the Here Kitty, Kitty collection. Oddly, this customer from California just got one. Hmmm...

The sticker, Siamese- Here, Kitty Kitty Sticker, as described by Cafepress, are printed on 4mil vinyl using water and UV resistant inks – meaning no fading in the sun or bleeding in the rain. Hehe... promoting... :-)




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Of idols and dreams

I am never really fond of commenting on certain local shows I watch on TV. But in this particular case, I can't help it. I make it a point that I catch Philippine Idol.. if not Performance night, (which is on a Saturday and I'm usually not at home), at least on Sunday Elimination night. Today I got that chance to watch the show in its entirety. One of the show's judge, Ryan Cayabyab already expressed his sentiments in regards to voting because of talent and NOT popularity. I know a lot agree that the best singers lost their place in the competition because the not-so-good ones have garnered more votes either based on 'financial resources' or location-based vote monopoly (in this case, Australia). Gusto kong umiyak! when I heard Ken and Jeli sing (I was rooting for Mau, Arms and Pow) ... naku po! kung may gong lang ako na-gong na sila! Tama na!!!!

In between commercial breaks, I channel-surfed to Pinoy Dream Academy. Well, lo and behold. One on 'probatiobary' was Rosita (very 'masa'-appeal) and she was rendering her interpretation of 'Sana'y Wala Ng Wakas'. GOOSEBUMPS! She was soooo gooood! Effortless and the emotion, the feel of the song really gets to your bones! ito dapat and nasa Philippine Idol!

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Vacation Leave

I am on vacation leave today till tomorrow. Was supposed to go to Palawan for that much needed rest and 'other matters'. Mama has been there since October started. 'Naglalambing si Lola mo, gusto ng kasama' (Your grandmother wants some company). But because of some unforseen (unfortunate?!?) events at the office... well, sayang.

Spent the day making test reviewers for Andee. It's their 2nd Periodical Exams next week. Diego is getting along pretty well with his new yaya (nanny). Buti naman. Had time checking my mails and my store. Got hooked on playing games on the computer...specifically Rollercoaster Tycoon 3. Grabe, addict to the max!! I started playing this game (after Sim City4) more than a year ago. Ngayon lang ulit kami nag-bonding!

The air's getting cooler and it 'smells' like Christmas already. Well, not much is happening yet.... just a little blah-blah to get something posted hehe. Till next one!

We're all in this together

Barely had 2 hours of sleep yesterday. It was Family Day at St. Scholastica's in Marikina. Had to rush home from work yesterday morning to fetch Andee and take her to school. Was hoping to bring Diego along but since I would had not slept yet, I'm not seeing it as a good idea. The Grade 2-Thrifty class was assigned the color violet as the class official color. It was a nice picture when we arrived at the gymn for the Morning Mass. There was a sea of color-coded second grade classes, from violet, to blue, to yellow, to orange, to green, to pink! Yes, even the dads wore pink! very nice :-). After the Mass was a short program and we all went to the respective venues for each classes' get-together. After brunch, our kids treated us to a special dance number to the tune of 'We're all in this together' from High School Musical.

There were father-daughter and mother-daughter games. I watched Andee while she watched her classmates and their dads. Iba smile niya. I can't make it up if she was happy to watch or just trying to. I knew she wanted to join the games. May bigat and konting sakit sa dibdib sa akin when her classmates lined up hugging their dads in one particular game. She came over to me and hugged me too, muntik na naman ako mapaluha! Fortunately when her name was called, it was a mother-daughter game. We were 2nd place, not bad since she was also able to get her prize. Got home at around 3pm and tried to sleep. May office affair kami that night.

I was waiting for my ride when Andee asked me if I was going to the office. I said yes. "Sinong susundo sa yo?" (Who's gonna fetch you?) I mentioned the name. Andee said "..di kasi magawa ni Papa e" (..coz Papa doesn't do it ).

Natameme ako.

The saddest email..

"Jimmy, Answer me!! Please!"

Peksman! When I received this particular email at work, I cried. No kidding. My team mates thought I was joking. But no! Have you ever heard how loud and shrilling a lost chick calls for his mother hen?






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8th Birthday

Andee celebrated her 8th birthday yesterday, which went by oh, so quietly. Her request for a party was not granted (again...*sob*..I'll make it up to you, baby..) and the supposedly treat to Enchanted Kingdom didn't push through either, because of her school's Family Day activity which was originally scheduled for this morning, was moved to a later date.. because of typhoon Milenyo.

Andee and her Tito Cak went out this afternoon.. a bonding thing. When they got home late afternoon, out went the cake, on top went the lighted candle, on went the 'happy birthday' singing... and then Diego blew the candle out! Hehe... not until Andee blew the candle first. We had to do a second take so that Diego can have his turn!!!!

I still don't have a recent photo of her, unfortunately for some reason, my phone can't send pictures to my email anymore...so here I had to check old folders (if she sees that she doesn't have her photo posted, she'll make kulit lang! lol).

It's beginning to sound a lot like Christmas

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Went to Robinson's Metro East supermarket this morning with my mom. The kids were busy watching Sharkboy and Lavagirl DVD so it's a great moment to escape without them having to plead to tag along (which meant more unnecesary items in the grocery cart than usual).

It was only today that I really noticed that for the past few weeks I've been hearing Christmas songs/carols over the radio and establishments, Robinson's is no exemption. I remembered the first time I heard the carols was on Sept. 2nd, when our team at the office visited 8 Waves Waterpark in San Rafael, Bulacan. We kinda felt it was odd that time but then didn't really give it much attention. September na pala! The month where Christmas starts in the Philippines! Better start preparing that list!!!

Merci!

A lady from France gave me my latest sweatshirt sale at JustCats, and my very first sale from my Warhol inspired cat designs. She came next after last week's sale of two (2) ash-grey Siamese Here, Kitty, Kitty design t-shirts.

The Here, Kitty, Kitty collection is my most saleable. Same thing when I still had my store, JustCats in Ali Mall (Araneta Center, Cubao) way, way, way back. Most popular shirts then had a hand-painted cat clinging at the back of the shirt (drawn by moi of course!), and other varieties of that theme. Hayyy... sana tuluy-tuloy na!

Dixie Doo

I mention several blog posts before that one of the people that make me laugh is Dykee. He is my team mate at work and whatever one-liner he says, actually even one word that ever comes out of his mouth, never failed to make me laugh. Even a single facial expression can lead all of us in the team ache with laughter! He'd come to work in this fabulously wild-colored, or brightly patterned slacks.

Incidentally he hosts kiddie parties part-time... hmmmmm ... gotta ask if he does adult parties too! Anyway, for those who'd like to 'try him out' hehe, give this clown a favor, call him up! (wala akong referral fee dito ha?!?)

Dick Saraza 235-7924 / 0906-304-7518 (clown, party host, baloonist, party specialist)

*****update Sept.28: Dykee has just left for the US. We will miss him!!!! *hikbi*

My stress-reliever for the week

Ummm....

Lalo ata ako na-stress!

Hold my hands, please?

Could holding hands be good for you?

Researchers at Ohio State University found that holding a loved one's hand can help reduce levels of pain or stress. Holding a stranger's hand doesn't have the same effect, so no need to start making new friends when your train breaks down...

Taken from Psychologies magazine, June 2006 issue

Of High Grades and St. Benedict

It's Saturday and it's report card releasing time in Andee's school! Had a quick 'bonding' breakfast with my team mates at Yellow Cab after work, and at exactly 9:00am, zooom I went to St. Scholastica's Academy in Marikina hoping to get there before the card-releasing time ends at 10:30am.

Near the Registrar's Office was a mini exhibit of the "Kulasas of SSAM". One board has a collage of pictures. I went for a closer look and whoa! No wonder it was familiar! Posted was a picture of a 'Maria Clara' field demonstration way back when I was in 1st year highschool. And yup, there I was..with several classmates in a hot fushia Maria Clara ensemble!.. haha..longer hair and..ang itim ko pala! There was also one picture of our Glee Club, performing on stage, well can't see where I am... :-) hay.... !

I went to the Grade School Building and got Andee's 'card'..well, actually, unlike during my days when report cards are actually 'cards', this time it was more like a printed 'receipt'. Hehe, sorry for the fold there! Great idea.. lalo na for those, hehe during my time ha, who would erase their original grade and change it to a more satisfactory one. Hmm...not bad. Proud mama :-D..Andee's grades as follows:

Reading and Phonics 93
Language and Spelling 91
Mathematics 93
Health and Science 94
Filipino 91 (hindi ito nagmana sa akin!..good riddance!)
Araling Panlipunan 89

Galing! After this I dropped by the Tuason Center to see if I could get extra school blouses. While waiting for my 'order' to arrive, I was entertaining myself with the cute dolls in Scholastican's outfit, either in school uniform, or in P.E. uniform. There were also various shirts on sale, as well as rosaries and St Benedict medallions. St. Benedict, the twin brother of St. Scholastica, ...........founded the monastery at Monte Cassino, where he wrote the Rule of his order. His discipline was such that an attempt was made on his life; some monks tried by poison him, but he blessed the cup and rendered it harmless. He returned to his cave, but continued to attract followers, and eventually established twelve monasteries. Had the ability to read consciences, prophesy, and forestall attacks of the devil. Destroyed pagan statues and altars, drove demons from groves sacred to pagans. (information lifted here)<

The time when I was struggling with a 'visitor' during nights early this year, I was given a St. Benedict medallion, and I never had those visits again. I now wear the medallion everyday. It works. :-)

Uh...ok!

Enough of the sentiments I had the other day!!!! Sobrang drama.
A friend forwarded this picture which I find, hmmm... hehe, cute :-) So they really posted this huh?!?

Where is the real me?

Where is the real me?
Nikki came over to visit the kids and to also say that he'd try his luck abroad. I usually stay in my room or inside the house when Andee's and Diego's dad visit. I don't want to confuse myself anymore or stress myself out with whatever he has to say (again) in regards to his getting his act fixed, plans for the kids, or plans for us. I am angry with myself. After almost 5 years of blindly trying to move forward and trying to set a straight path..start a new life..again, it seemed I (almost) fell prey.

I still see remnants of the old me... or the 'original' me. Compasionate being, what not. You see, even if you've done a mountain of faults, a simple gesture of hope erases everything. Is there still a chance that this person, who has hurt me mentally, physically and psychologically, change for good? Deep inside, part of me believes that a person can change for the better, that there is hope, that perhaps my kids will finally grow up with their dad. But then, another part is shouting and cursing at me.. Are you out of your mind? It's clearly a complete cycle! A pattern! Didn't this happen not only once, not twice, not thrice before? How many times did I actually thought, or worse, convince myself that everything will be back in place?

When he is here, I see the new me. Someone I am not fond of. Someone I don't recognize. Someone that he made me become. I can't look at him. When he talks to me I stare out into space. My responses are merely a couple of words, a short phrase, one sentence. I can't smile or laugh at his jokes anymore. When he was 'hacked' the other week, wherever he was, by whoever addict it was, he showed a 10" long wound across his right shoulder .. I felt no emotion. What's this?!? And he has to show it to the kids! What's my responsibility then as a spouse? Honestly I don't know.

Ang kalaban ko ngayon is myself. I'm so tired. Suko na ako. I have to finish what I've started before I fall prey again. Before my old forgiving, compasionate self emerges again. Before it's too late. I needed to go on with my life. Yes behind that smile is something else. I am grateful to my friends and my brother for being there. And to those who have given me special attention... Thanks. For the attention. And making me smile.

Sigh!

This is the nth time I was unable to go to work because of this headache! And here I am complaining because...
#1: did you know how much per day is deducted from my paycheck?!? (hehe, no, I won't tell);
#2: attendance bonus just flew out the window; AND,
#3: it's sooo damn stuffy at home (believe me, this impending rain always gets the humidity up and the nose reacts!)

All this just because...
#1: I don't find time to get out and see a doctor (galing mo, Reia!);
#2: I think I'm Superwoman or something..; AND
#3: I can't get unnecessary things off my mind! (naku, kasalanan ko talaga!)

.....well, at least I get to rest, but then, look....I'm wide awake at this hour!!!! :-(
Sigh.....

One more time, ok...?

Hehe...
Ok, alright... my fault. I completely forgot! I am not able to post the supposedly every week incredible cat photo I promised. One of my resources, ...ahem, was not able to send my 'back-up' supply of this occassional stree-relieving, feline-preferred dose. He had spoiled me, kaya labs ko siya e, with this much favor that I completely had forgotten sharing it with you. Hehe, di naman selfish ano. Ito na po ang simula! Promise!

ZZZ again!

We were all excited this evening. The family (and that included Andee and Diego), at 9:00pm, gathered in the living room and had a sampling from the musical soundtrack from ZsaZsa Zaturnnah Ze Movie ( which, incidentally is one of the finalists for this year's Metro Manila Filmfest) .

For those of you who watched and re-watched the play, I figured you'd get goosebumps like I did (well, most of us did, including Cak) upon hearing the oh, so familiar tunes from the original muzical play soundtrack...pop version. Though we can't help but compare how Eula Valdez (for the play) and Zsa Zsa Padilla (for the movie), or Agot and/or Kalila ( for the play) and Pops Fernandez (for the movie), interpreted the songs, ( there is a huge difference, in my opinion), Vince de Jesus, as always, did a remarkable and brilliant twist, or switch, in regards to rendering the original R&B-gospel-blues version of the song/s to a pop-version, as what is required in the movie. A few favorites were included but we unanimously agreed that the Zaturnnah BattleHymn (Viktoria!Winner!Tagumpay!) should've been considered also. At any rate, we are all excited about this, and hopefully, though no news yet, the 4th run for Ze Muzical will push-on... wonderful come-on for Ze Movie too!

Let them say 'Yes'

My brother Cak, gave me this book to read. I call it the 'Diego Manual'.. hehe. I've never really started reading it yet, though I was able to browse through. It does say that it

"is a practical resource for parents dealing with children's resistance, stubborness, opposition, and defiance.....helps parents recognize, understand, and cope with child's resistant behavior--whether it arises as part of a normal stage of growth, stems from a child's temperament, or has developed from other, less easily definable sources..."

The book has a per chapter specifically for a certain age group, from one-year-old toddler, two-year-old toddler, even up to understanding school-age children, the preadolescent years (10-13 year-olds), and up to adolescent (14-18 year-olds).

Not that I badly need it, it just seem to be a promising read!

Di nila kinaya ang superpowers ni ZZZ!!!!

Congratulations to Tanghalang Pilipino!
Zsazsa Zaturnnah Ze Muzikal has been nominated for Best Musical Production in the 19th Aliw Awards. Also receiving noms are Tuxqs Rutaquio for Best Stage Actor (Musical) and Eula Valdez for Best Stage Actress (Musical). Sana manalo kayong lahat! :-)

The Aliw Awards is an annual event which honors achievements in live performances. The ceremony will take place this Thursday at the Manila Hotel.

Post lifted from Carverhouse

Lobat na ko

Coming home from work is most of the time, a relief. Though how corny it may sound, I usually enjoy getting a copy and reading the Libre tabloid given out at the MRT every morning. I do take a peak at its 'Kapalaran' or horoscope section just for kicks... and an occassional snort or giggle with my daily dose of Pugad Baboy.

This morning, the headline reads: Lobat na ko.

The word 'lobat', short for low battery (or battery low, for that matter) a term coined whenever your cellphone battery's almost out, was declared as the 'Word of the Year' during the Sawikaan 2006: Pambansang Kumperensiya sa Salita ng Taon, a yearly conference of the Filipinas Institue of Translation, National Commission for Culture and Arts, and the Blas F. Ople Foundation. This event aims to view the progress of the Filipino language (through new words, and or phrases) that have an effect or influenced Filipino's socio-cultural standing. The word 'lobat' won among other entires because of its witty or whimsical translation pertaining to a Filipino's likening to a cellphone's battery gone low-- in regards to personal problems, hard work, the society, etc. Other words 'nominated' are: botox, toxic, spa, orocan. Also spa, karir, payreted, birdflu and chacha. Interesting 'no?

Tears enough to rust metal

I was already crying when Diego sat beside me and gave me a hug. I heard Andee sobbed and saw that she had tears pouring out her eyes while trying to supress whatever she is feeling that very moment. I called her over. She sat next to me and buried her face in my chest. She then began to cry more...wawa naman baby ko..!

This was the scene my mom saw when she walked into the living room... her 30-something (hehe) daughter and her 7 and 4 year-old grandchildren huddled in a chair with tears in their eyes while watching a scene from Warner Bros.' The Iron Giant on VCD (which is incidentally one of my favorite animation flicks during my stint with Warner Bros., and I've got its wonderful soundtrack to boot! ..hmmm... now where is it?!!?!)

The Iron Giant tells us a wonderful story of a boy and his robot, with funny gags, poignant moments, and important messages. After watching, Andee was still so 'high' about it... her most memorable scene was when the Iron Giant left, or rather, flew away from the town because a nuclear warhead was about to hit him. She remembers the giant saying he was "Superman' and that we 'chose what we wanted to become'. Though there are some scenes that need parental guidance, like when Andee asked why the giant, when its dormant defensive systems kick in, suddenly (almost!) shot at the boy, Hogarth, while the latter was playfully pointing a toy gun at him. 'Akala ko friends sila?' (I thought they were friends?). Anyway, since Andee can't get enough of it, about an hour after the movie ended, and she has dried her tears and taken her bath, she asked permission to watch it again, this time, with my brother Cak.

And so they watched.

And this was the scene my mom saw when she walked into the living room the second time: Her 30-something son and her 7 year-old granddaughter huddled in a chair with tears in their eyes while watching a scene from Warner Bros.' The Iron Giant on VCD!

Botanical Art Peacock Tile Coaster

After what seemed like forever, I finally got another email notification from Cafepress that I had a sale from one of my shops, My Backyard Gallery.

This peacock design is the more popular one from my collection (hmm...I STILL have to frame the original botanical artwork!). It's been a long time since I've updated any of the shops with new designs. I've been so busy with work, the ZZZ site, and other things. I hoped to finally fix everything up into one big shop to maximize the designs as well as marketing them. But that's another story...

To the nice lady from New York who believed in the design and bought the tile coasters (4!), thank you!
Sa uulitin! hehe

Uno, Dos, Tres (tagged by Jheck!!)

3 People who make me laugh:
Uno: 4 year-old Diego
Dos: My officemate, Dykee
Tres: My mom

3 Things I love: (aside from my kids and family, of course)
Uno: Cuddling
Dos: Going out with a good friend
Tres: Sim City and Rollercoaster tycoon

3 Things I Hate:
Uno: Getting my feet wet when it rains
Dos: When time flies when you having fun
Tres: Conversations with people who think their God is better than yours

3 Things On My Desk (at home):
Uno: My 2006 365-page Cat Calendar
Dos: Photo Albums
Tres: 2 old wallets with old, old pictures and receipts

3 Things I Am Doing Right Now:
Uno: Reading
Dos: Smiling
Tres: Thinking

3 Things I Want To Do Before I Die:
Uno: Visit all amusement parks in the world!
Dos: See my grandchildren's children!!!
Tres: be seen in one of the billboards at Guadalupe, Edsa (hehe..tough luck!)

3 Things I Can Do:
Uno: Put on make-up in less than 5 minutes
Dos: Run in high heels
Tres: finish a sketch/art project in one sitting; an hour or two at the most

3 Ways to Describe My Personality:
Uno: hmmmm.....
Dos: ummm....?
Tres: well...... :-)

3 Things People Might Not Know About Me:
Uno: I dreamt of being a back-up singer (one of those "chuwari-waps" during concerts!)
Dos: I wear my skirts mid-thigh short (hehe.. lakas ng loob..!)
Tres: had a 12-year butch-femme relationship (gasp..!?!?)

3 Things I Think You Should Listen To:
Uno: Your conscience
Dos: Your best buds (sometimes you regret not listening to them in the first place!)
Tres: Your kids (esp. when they gotta use the bathroom!!)

3 Things I Don't Think You Should Listen To Ever:
Uno: Your conscience (?!?)
Dos: Your kids (esp. if they are begging for 4 orders of McDo's Happy Meals to get ALL kiddie toys available!)
Tres: 'I Love You's' from a person you just met!!!

3 of My Absolute Favorite Foods:
Uno: inihaw (any) with spicy soy and vinegar!
Dos: KFC's Zinger
Tres: fetuccini in carbonara sauce

3 Things I'd Like to Learn:
Uno: belt out a song
Dos: manage my time
Tres: secrets of google adsense!

3 Beverages I Drink Regularly:
Uno: coffee
Dos: Ehem...water :-)
Tres: Coke Light

3 Shows I Watched When I Was A Child:
Uno: Kaluskos Musmos
Dos: Electra Woman and Dyna Girl
Tres: Uncle Bob's Lucky 7 Club (grabe!!! antique na talaga!!)

3 People I Tag to Do This Crap:
Lahat ng nagbasa nito! (anyone who reads this!!!!)

Whew! more please!!!! :-)

PARENT - Job Description

This was forwarded to me by Ed. Thanks :-D

POSITIONS:Mom, Mommy, Mama, Ma, Dad, Daddy, Dada, Pa, and various other titles

JOB DESCRIPTION:Long term, team players needed, for challenging permanent work in an often chaotic environment. Candidates must possess excellent communication and organizational skills and be willing to work variable hours, which will include evenings and weekends and frequent 24 hour shifts on call.Some overnight travel required, including trips to primitive camping sites on rainy weekends and endless sports tournaments in far away cities! Travel expenses not reimbursed. Extensive courier duties also required.

RESPONSIBILITIES:The rest of your life. Must be willing to be hated, at least temporarily, until someone needs P100.00 . Must be willing to bite tongue repeatedly. Also, must possess the physical stamina of a pack mule and be able to go from zero to 60 mph in three seconds flat if needed. Must have ability to plan and organize social gatherings for clients of all ages and mental outlooks. Must be willing to beindispensable one minute, an embarrassment the next. Must handle assembly and product safety testing of a half million cheap, plastic toys, and battery operated devices. Must always hope for the best but be prepared for the worst. Must assume final, complete accountability for the quality of the end product. Responsibilities also include the fact that your charge can ultimately surpass you.

PREVIOUS EXPERIENCE:None required unfortunately. On-the-job training offered on a continually exhausting basis.

WAGES AND COMPENSATION: Get this! You pay them! Offering frequent raises and bonuses. A balloon payment is due when they turn 18 because of the assumption that college will help them become financially independent. When ! you die, you givethem whatever is left. The oddest thing about this reverse-salary scheme is that you actually enjoy it and wish you could only do more.

BENEFITS: While no health or dental insurance, no pension, no tuition reimbursement, no paid holidays and no stock options are offered; this job supplies limitless opportunities for personal growth and free hugs for life if you play your cards right.

Crisis Center

Around early this month, after work I passed by the Women's Crisis Center in East Ave. Was off from work at around 6am, and was still having second thoughts whether or not I should go. Appointments or consultations in regards to filing this case would either be posponed or cancelled. Maybe this would be a better option. So go I did. I was early and decided to have breakfast first. The center was at the 7th floor, or 'penthouse' of the EAST Ave. Medical Center. This is the only office at the 7th floor..and I'd say...the floor's CREEEEEPY!.. They have an auditorium there also... the door was open and there's this eerie feeling. Don't know if they still use this.. anyway..

I was made to fill out a form. It was one of the most gruelling things I did in as far as I can remember. There was a section for physical, and psychological details, where there are little boxes that you can place a checkmark in.... Like, punching, hitting, or slapping (among others) in the 'physical' section; and well, like unable to eat, fits of depression, etc.etc.etc. in the psychological section. Honestly, nakaka-trauma sumagot ng form. Naiiyak ako. While there was a handful of checkmarks under physical, most of the boxes under the psychological section had a checkmark in it. Never really knew how affected I was. Well, reality bites. If I really wanted to go on with my life, I had to get this done and over with. I could imagine how worse this can become in regards to digging up the past and recalling every detail.

What IS that?!?!?

The other Sunday, July 16th, we went to the wake of my uncle (my dad's brother)..and I'd say, the last of the original Vergara's in his generation. That Sunday afternoon, around 2:00pm, I was at the terrace waiting for Cak and Ron to finish dressing up. While waiting, Andee and I had a photo spree...or photo shoot, rather, with my camphone. So there we were, posing and clicking away with the camphone, taking around 15 pictures. While enroute to the funeral home in Sucat with my brothers and Andee, I started deleting and choosing pictures and finally have around 4 remaining.


It was only last Sunday, while browsing thru my phone's gallery did I notice something peculiar. Behind me and Andee was a dark figure..blocking the supposedly white grilled-window near the door (for those of you who've been to our house would know what window I'm referring to). It was in broad 2:00 in the afternoon daylight. I was trying to decipher what it is when I remembered that I can actually zoom in. And zoomed in I did. Suddenly, I felt all hairs stand up and a chill down my spine. WHAT IS THAT?!?!?

I sent the pic to Ron's phone and he sort of 'editted' it, and resent it to me. Now, can anyone explain to me what this is? We are all convinced that this is something more out of the ordinary... well, in reference to what I experienced before. I was wondering whether this has something to do with it (hay naku..long story..) Dark figure..probably looking over his shoulder?
Creepy. Spooky. It looks so solid..as compared with ghost photos I've seen online. I was thinking it might be my uncle (whose wake we went to that day) but, no.. not even a resemblance. Help??!?!

Please?!?!?

Earl

My brother Earl has finally left for his new job in the Middle East, after 2 unsuccessful attempts in a span of 3 weeks to go through immigrations at the NAIA. Apparently, the working e-visa his employer provided is not a valid pass. When he checked-in the first time, he was asked if he knew someone in Immigrations. Of course, my brother said 'no', thinking what the hell does that have to do with anything? Well, maybe it did. A week before Earl was able to finally go after his employer sent him his visa through mail, there was a feature on TV, I'm not sure if it was on ABS-CBN or GMA-7, where an overseas worker (former GRO) was complaining about the job that was offered to her also in the Middle East. During the interview, (my mom watched it), the GRO presented a similar e-visa that my brother also has the first and second time he was denied departure. The GRO apparently paid P6,000 or P7,000 to an Immigrations Officer to let her through. ..-- so THAT'S why my brother was asked if he knew someone from Immigrations!--- And according to her, this was already advised to her beforehand. Ano ba yan?!?!

Anyway, Earl emailed a few pictures yesterday to show off his room, his car, his flatscreen tv, his view from the window of his condo unit-- temporarily provided by his employer till Earl finds a place-- which left my mom crying! Hay naku... I'm starting to miss him na rin.

One great news

Great, good news comes along when you least expect it. Amidst my struggle in putting my life back to pieces, coping with raising two kids and attending legal appointments and counselling, I was elated when I heard this good news...

My all-time friend, Gel, whom I've known for, oh my, around 31 years!....: she was literally my classmate from Grades 1-5 (she was on the 'star' section in Grade 6), High School Years 1-4, College Years 1-4; even shared our first employment with the same employer for a year, and we've been constantly keeping in touch along with our college group ever since.... is now engaged to a nice gentleman from Conneticut! I can't help but cry with her when she called up Sunday afternoon, as I have been witness to several of her heartaches. I'm so, so happy for her!!!!!! So Gel, all the luck and the very best of wishes deep down in my heart!!!!!

Sunday bonding and Zaturnnah

Every Sunday gives us 'Vergara' siblings an opportunity to have lunch together and have a weekly bonding session in the garden under our decades old narra tree, over coffee or Coke for me and Ron, while Earl and Cak burn their lungs (me and Ron are CERTIFIED "second-hand-smoke" -ers) . Topics would be so diverse... from Earl's flash games, to Baron's cellphone downloads, to Cak's workout schedule, to my store, back to Earl's Dubai employment, to Ron's DVD's, to Cak's new project, to my Diego's new antics. From kids, to new jokes, to fashion, to beaches, just anything under the sun! But a normal Sunday bonding day won't end without us talking about ZZZ.

We would laugh about possible business opportunities for food like "Dodong's Hotdogs" or "Zaturnnah's Qwek-qwek"... or an apparel business, "Amazonistas Designs"... or even the more obvious "Ada's Beauty Parlor" or "Aling Britney's Internet Kape". We would bug and fish out latest Zaturnnah news from Cak. We would talk about the second book. We would talk about the 4th Muzical run. We would talk about the movie. Earl would come up with his zaniest ideas for a movie teaser that would keep us laughing till our bellies hurt. Yes, it is soooo obvious that we are sooo excited about this... And this (coming soon) too. BTW, better check this out, Zsazsa Zaturnnah fans Multiply site...

Cak has posted the Zaturnnah movie cast class picture in his blog already. Here's more...



Pops Fernandez (Queen Femina), Rustom Padilla (Ada) , and Zsa Zsa Padilla (Zsazsa Zaturnnah)













The Amazonistas!
Sitting, Pops Fernandez, (Queen Femina), from left: KitKat (Nora A), Giselle Sanchez (Sharon C), Glaizel de Castro (Dina B), and Say Alonzo (Vilma S)





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Diego at 4

It's Tristan Diego Romano's 4th birthday today!
















Happy birthday baby! How old are you?
Por
Say Four.
Por.
It's Fffffff...Four.
Fffffff...Por. (ok..whatever...)

I love you, baby.
I lab you, mama. (aww, shucks!)

Gano mo ko ka-love? ('How much do you love me?')
Hagan buwan nat babalik ('Up to the moon and back..')

Sing me a song, baby..
Tinan mo..babae na ako...

OMG!!!!!! I better hide those Zaturnnah soundtracks!

Long time, No see!....(no read, no write even!...)

Whew! It's been ages!!!!!!!!! I'd better learn how to blog through my cellphone in case the computer at home crashes again. I was surprised myself to see that this would be my 2nd June entry. That long, huh?!? To summarize this month's highlights....

June 5th was Andee's first day in school (and yes, she need not go to Palawan anymore. She's a second grader now at St. Scho in Marikina). And of course, first day mother-duty, I had to accompany my incoming-new-second-grader to school. After, eherm...over 20 (wha?!?!) years graduating from high school, my alma mater stands very much the same-- with a few new buildings-- and yes, even the manangs at the canteen were still there!!! The bell rang at exactly 7:15am, and we followed the class adviser to the respective classrooms. Andee would'nt allow me to help her with her bag as opposed to the other students who let their mommies or daddies carry their bags for them. Anyway... when their adviser asked us parents that we can now leave our daughters behind, I said goodbye to Andee. She smiled, but then, as I walked away and looked back, she wiped her tears off her face....

June 17th was the day I watched Zaturnnah for the 5th time. And as always, I try to tag along with me 'Zaturnnah Virgins' so to speak :-D Sayang, should've tagged along with Cak and my mom (and her barkadas at the Lion's Club) to the last show on June 18th. Mother Lily was there and so were the cast for the Zaturnnah movie...Zsa Zsa Padilla, Rustom Padilla, Pops Fernandez, and Chokoleit. Missed you, Zee and Jheck.. naku... see you on the 4th run!

June 23rd... last night I received a text message from Cak.. "Ate, nandito ako sa presscon di pa nagsisimula. Afraid ako!" He was at a presscon for the Zaturnnah movie. Naku! Ikaw pa! kayang-kaya mo yan! I texted back. At the back of my mind, I couldn't imagine how my fantabulous 5'10" tall kid brother would get cold feet and even butterflies in his stomach after all he has gone through! ... and a LOT at that! Everytime I think about him, where he is right now, how far he has gone as far as Zaturnnah and other projects goes, he still has his feet planted firmly on the ground. Kung tutuusin, mas mature pa siya sa akin in some aspects. Hugs, bro.. Love you.

X-men Idol?!?

Jollibee has X-men toys given out with their kiddie meals and Diego, my three year old, of course, got his own (Wolverine was unavailable). He proudly showed us his treasure.
Me: Wow, Diego, what's that? Diego: Toy.
Me: What's the toy's name? Diego: Taylor Hicks!

Yu samamabits maderpaker shet!!!

Decided finally to share this. Most of you know that I've been posting some designs I've sold on Cafepress from any of my stores..JustCats, My Backyard Gallery, or KHB.

ZsaZsa Zaturnnah does have a few pages on my JustCats store for those who were able to find it, as I was still deliberating with myself whether to set-up a separate one for her/him. To get permission from Cak to use some of his designs was through gunpoint... LOL kidding! No, it was easy :-) as this was specifically for those living abroad who had read and loved ZsaZsa Zaturnnah. This ever-famous quote is a top-seller!

It is expensive as it is listed in dollars, especially when you add shipping. That's why I haven't the slightest idea on how thick the material is, or how nice the print is. (still saving up?!) But at any rate, do enjoy these as I do and as others had, too! Oh yeh, you do would need plastic to order, but hey, no worries... a big surprise is coming up for all local Zaturnnah fans! Promise!!!

Ten Simple Pleasures

I was tagged by Ganns!

Instructions: Name ten of life’s simple pleasures that you like the most, then pick ten people to do the same. Try to be original and creative and not to use things that someone else has already used

1. taking camera phone shots of Andee and Diego
2. the P10.00 cup of Nescafe coffee with sugar and cream from the vendo machine
3. sitting at the terrace with a best buddy
4. being kissed by the sun
5. observing Tygra as he sleeps in the garden
6. flower and plant window shopping at the Manila Seedling bank
7. sitting down with Cak and Zsazsa Zaturnnah updates
8. tank top and fitted jeans
9. reading other blogs
10. laughing with friends about decade-old, corny jokes (especially THE elephant and giraffe jokes)!!

Roll-call! You're next.... Cak, Earl, Angge, Jheck, Doris, Alec, Vicky, Homer-Jay, Marge, and Gel!

*******************
Interestingly, while speaking of elephant and giraffe jokes, my mom and I were reliving the series of jokes these two animals were known of (well, during my time...).

It would start with the decades-old, corny question of "How do you put an elephant inside the refrigerator?" Answer: Open the refrigerator door, put the elephant inside, then close the refrigerator door!. Ummm, okay.

Next question, "how do you put the giraffe inside the refrigerator?" Answer: You open the refrigerator door, take out the elephant, put the giraffe in, then close the door!

Then there was this joke about Tarzan calling a general assembly in the jungle and while doing an attendance call he found out that there was one animal missing. What animal was it? Answer: Well, it was the giraffe because he wasn't able to come out of the refrigerator yet!

LOL And the sequence went on and on and on and on...with us adding more to the story..(how many elephants could fit inside a Volkswagon? etc..etc..) My daughter Andee was eavesdropping during our talk. When it came to the question on how we put the giraffe inside the refrigerator, she blurted out..."eh di..putulin ang ulo!" (well, then, cut its head off!!!) LOL enough said! :-)