On friendship and changes

It just hit me how much I'll be missing my team at work. I have found friends in them. I guess the hardest part of coping with changes around me is going out of your comfort zone and losing the persons with whom you've grown so accustomed to. Well, I'm not really gonna lose them cause we can stay in touch. But you know, when you're not around one person for awhile, you get used to it and eventually you go your way without being a part of that person's life anymore. It makes me heartbroken to realize that a friendship is about to end before it even blossoms.

I recall a part of the song I really love and I think it poignantly echoes my sentiments. It goes like this:

"We're on the road We move from place to place And oftentimes when I'm about to call it home We'd have to move along Life is a constant change...
The friends we know, we meet along the way Too soon the times we share form part of yesterday 'cause life's a constant change And nothing stays the same, oh no..."

(excerpt from the song, "Constant Change" by Jose Mari Chan)

"Have you ever..." Tag

I got this tag both from MsRay and Ane. Thanks to you two! How can I claim to have blogger's block when friends always give me ideas on what to write about? =)

1. Have you ever been on TV?

No.
2. Have you ever sung in public?

No, but I did sing in front of the class as a "punishment". We were on training and we agreed not to use mobile phones during classes, so I set my phone in 'discreet' mode but to my utter dismay, my cellphone's alarm went off.

3. Have you ever dyed your hair blond?
No, even if it was once a fad here in the Philippines.

4. Have you ever eaten frogs' legs?

No. I don't think I ever will (But then again, I read in Ane's post that it tasted like chicken, which happens to be my favorite, so I might change my mind. I'll probably take a bite with eyes closed).

5. Have you ever received a present that you really hated?

No. But when I was in high school, during our christmas party's exchange gift, I received the exact gift I just gave away. Imagine the disappointment. I can't say I hated it, though.

6. Have you ever walked into a lamp post?
No. I hope not.
7. Have you ever cooked a meal by yourself for more than 15 people?

No. The most number of people I cooked for is about 10. I don't usually cook, unless compelled to, hehe.

8. Have you ever fallen or stumbled in front of others?

Yes! I was walking so fast on my way to work when I slipped and fell in front of the building. I got up immediately and walked away as if nothing happened. (I did not dare look who saw me with that "stunt")
9. Have you ever done volunteer work?

Yes. When Franklin Graham visited the Philippines, I was one of the coordinators during the evangelistic rally which was held at the Quirino grandstand.

Cultivating Gratitude

I have God in my life and I can rest assured that all my needs, physiological & spiritual, will be provided for.

I have a mom who has unwaveringly supported us all through the years of growing up without a father.

I still have a job even with all the threatening effects of economic deterioration around the world.

I just found out that my housing loan was finally approved. Now, we'll get a chance to live in a house we can truly call our own.

I have a 20-20 eyesight and I feel so grateful for that. :)

"I will give thanks to the LORD because of his righteousness
and will sing praise to the name of the LORD Most High." Psalm 7:17

Whew! That was not a long list but it took time for me to complete it. Sadly, it just goes to show how much I've neglected cultivating a heart of gratitude in me. Thanks MsRay for this tag! It made me see all the blessings I have.
Please feel free to grab this if you want to participate. Enjoy!

I'm voting for Lainy!

Great news here! Jessie of Technology Talks is hosting this contest so we get the chance to vie for a free web hosting of Wordpress blog. I'm not into popularity contest, so I'm joining as a voter. And with this post, I'm casting my vote for the very well-known blogger, Lainy. There are two ways to join, you can either be a VOTER or a CONTESTANT. Here are the exciting prizes up for grabs:

FREE Wordpress-only blog hosting for 1 year with 1500MB web space plus unlimited monthly bandwidth. (Domain is not included)

CASH Prizes for top 3 winners:

1st Prize: $25 (via Paypal) + 2,000 Entrecard credits

2nd Prize: $15 (via Paypal) + 1,500 Entrecard Credits

3rd Prize: $10 (via Paypal) + 500 Entrecard Credits

For those who are interested in participating as a CONTESTANT, here's what you need to do:

1. Subscribe to RSS.
2. Post about the contest in your Blog.
3. Encourage other bloggers to join so you can earning points.
4. Convert your readers to join as contestant
NOTE: Deadline for submission of entry is December 25.

For VOTERS only, all you have to do is post about this contest in your Blog and mention who you're voting for. NOTE: Deadline for submission of entry is on December 30, 5PM

There will also be five voters who will receive $10 each (via Paypal) plus 500 EntreCard credits. See, I also get the chance to win! I hope Lainy and I get lucky! :)

Get paid for what you love doing!

For most young professionals like me, we depend on our job pay to sustain our daily necessities. But with prices of commodoties continuously rising, this may not be sufficient. So many of us are in search of ways on how to cut back on our expenses. In our household for instance, we strictly monitor water and electricity usage to make sure that we only pay for what we actually are consuming. We strive to bear in mind that we must learn to live within our means and if possible, below our means.

If you feel that you are already saving enough and can't stretch the budget no more , another way to live a better quality of life is by increasing our income. With the advent of internet and blogging, I think one of the best ways to increase finances is through opportunities offered by blog advertising. Paying Post is one of those companies that offer bloggers and website owners the opportunity to earn additional income. This is a brilliant concept that creates a win-win situation for both bloggers and advertisers. Bloggers are required to showcase their creativity and hone their writing skills to come up with an article that would promote an advertiser's product or service. On the other hand, the advertisers get their products endorsed at a more affordable cost and in a non-conventional way.
As for me, blogging has been a very rewarding experience. Not that I've already earned much out of it but because it provides me the avenue where I can truly express my thoughts. Besides that, I get to know other people in the blogosphere; Fellow bloggers who inspire me and oftentimes provide me a reason to crack a smile after a very tough day.
This is the first of the many (I hope) other online income opportunities that will come my way and I will definitely take advantage of them. So, if you love publishing your thoughts on the internet, why not grab the chance to increase your financial resources by doing what you love. Sign up here, if you haven't registered yet.

Emotions

(This short poem was written several years ago at a time when I was struggling with some personal issues. Thought I'd share this to you all.)

photo from this link

Invincible as a majestic mountain
Overwhelming as darkness
Swift as the passing time
Dynamic as the rhythm of music
Emotions, oh my emotions
Why can't i get a hold of you?

Changes, Changes.

No one gets a reprieve from the ongoing global financial crisis. Just when I thought that we won't be impacted, the abrupt announcement came that merely confirmed the speculations of some. Three days ago, we received the devastating news that our account will cease its operations in the metro and will be moved entirely to our provincial sites. We'll then have to transfer to another account and undergo the usual application process.
I tried to convince myself that it's gonna be alright, but my melancholic nature got the better of me. I'm again sulking and wondering how my plans are falling apart. I had so much hope when I started out in this company, but somewhere along the way, the light I saw ahead started to flicker and now I'm in darkness. The tiniest optimism in me hasn't completely vanished though, somehow I believe that these changes will allow me to rethink my goals. Perhaps this is God's way of saying, "Move forward. Take on a different path." Right now, there's still disbelief in me about what's going on but soon I have to take a step and make the best out of the circumstances.

"God, let your peace be manifested in me so I will not be bothered by such a trivial situation. Grant me strength of spirit and may your light show the way for me."

Friendship awards

I received this award sometime last week from Allena of In the Eyes of the Beholder & I want to share it to Ane of Life according to me.

And lovely are the blossoms
That are tended with great care,
By those who work unselfishly
To make the place more fair.
And, like the garden blossoms,
Friendship’s flower grows more sweet
When watched and tended carefully
By those we know and meet.
And, if the seed of friendship
Is planted deep and true
And watched with understanding,
Friendship’s flower will bloom for you.

Two days later, MsRay of Woman on a Journey accorded me yet another recognition which I would like to share to Ninie of Someday she will.

I find it so amazing that I get to know real people here in the blogosphere especially that I'm not a very social person. Thanks guys! You never fail to make my day! =)

10 Things about me

I haven't been blogging these past days so this one is in response to the much overdue "10 Random Things" tag by MsRay.
So here are ten not so interesting things about me...Read on.



1. I once worked in a semiconductor company where I got to fix giant machines. hahaha...

2. I'm an ophidiophobic.

3. I'm not into wearing accessories or any other jewelries but I just can't do without earrings.

4. I once was a service crew at KFC. Had very good memories of it. =)

5. I'm a bit of an OC (obsessive-compulsive) when it comes to brushing teeth. It takes me about 10-15 mins. to do the brushing. I would start off with flossing and then run through my teeth and gums twice and do another for the tongue.

6. I was awarded a scholarship grant from DOST (Department of Science & Technology) and finished college through its assistance.

7. I took up a stenography course as an elective way back in high school and until now, I still know how to write in shorthand. (Who needs that skill nowadays?)

8. I don't own a single high-heel shoe. I'm most comfortable in flats.

9. I'm both a coffee and a milk drinker. Love 'em! =)

10. I got sweet tooth. Just can't resist ice cream and cakes.


I won't be tagging other bloggers for now but please feel free to join if you want.

I don't get it

photo courtesy of Google

So I've officially joined the Twilight bandwagon. I got to watch it last Sunday in the all-too-crowded cinema at SM MegaMall. Here's what I think about the movie. I probably missed the whole point or perhaps I'm just plain weird but what struck me the most in the movie was not the romantic scenes in it but the instance when Bella had to hurl hurtful words to his father so he could spare him from the impending danger. This may sound so lame but I shed tears for that scene, especially the "I just got you back" part. Here's how their conversation went:

Charlie Swan: Did he hurt you?
Isabella Swan: No.
Charlie Swan: Break up with you or something?
Isabella Swan: No, I-I broke up with him.
Charlie Swan: I thought you liked him?
Isabella Swan: Yea, that's why - that's why I have to leave. I don't want this. I have to go home.
Charlie Swan: Home... Your mom is not even in Phoenix.
Isabella Swan: She'll come home. I'll call her from the road.
Charlie Swan: Your not going to drive home right now. You can sleep on it. If you still feel like going in the morning I'll take you to the airport.
Isabella Swan: N-No I want to drive, it will give me more time to think. And if I get really tired I'll pull into a motel I promise.
Charlie Swan: Look Bella, I know I'm not that much fun to be around but I can change that. We can do more stuff together.
Isabella Swan: Like what? Like watch baseball on the flat screen? Eat at the diner every night? Steak and cobbler. Dad that's you, that's not me.
Charlie Swan: Bella come on. I-I just got you back.
Isabella Swan: Yea, and you know if I don't get out now I'll just be stuck here like mom.

Last month's top visitors...Thanks!

November just ended and as we draw closer to the end of the year, I would like to send my heartfelt thanks to these fellow bloggers who, despite me not regularly returning their visits, have consistently gone through my site and dropped me an EC.

In The Eyes Of The Beholder
Wesnlani
Spicybugz World
My Crazy Life With A Toddler
Big Boys Have Toys Too
And Life Goes ON for a Filipino MOM
The Certified Fashionable Chic
Woman On A JouRney
Glue 4 Families
Couple's Footprints

New look!

Great things come for free, I must say. If you have been to my blogsite before, you would notice that I just had a total overhaul on my web layout and it's all without a cost. This fabulous and wonderful webpage design is courtesy of Lena. Her site offers an array of creative designs and I'm sure you will find something that's totally you. I myself had difficulty selecting which one to go for. But I prioritized mostly a three-column layout so I'd be able to maximize the space. After careful consideration and much deliberation, I finally chose this one (it took like an hour for me to choose, hehe). So, if you're on the lookout for a no expense web design, please do visit the link above. As for me, it's another change in my site. First, a domain of my own, a banner and now an almost personalized web design! Not bad for a one-month old blogger, eh? =)

Blogger's block?

photo courtesy of Google

Just two weeks ago, my mind was brimming with ideas I wanted to write about. But in the past days I could barely come up with a post. I still had a lot of things going through my mind but somehow I don't want to publish them online being aware that I have of an audience, even if it's just a handful. So here I am, blogging about not being able to blog just so I could update my site. How does that sound??

9 Gifts That Do Not Cost A Cent

In the spirit of the Christmas season, I think it's timely to share this. We must remember that gifts that count usually do not have to be something expensive. Here are nine gifts that do not cost a cent. Read on.


1) THE GIFT OF LISTENING
But you must REALLY listen. No interrupting, no daydreaming, no planning your response. Just listening.

2) THE GIFT OF AFFECTION
Be generous with appropriate hugs, kisses, pats on the back and handholds. Let these small actions demonstrate the love you have for family and friends.

3) THE GIFT OF LAUGHTER
Email funpages to your friends. Share articles and funny stories. Your gift will say, "I love to laugh with you."

4) THE GIFT OF A WRITTEN NOTE
It can be a simple "Thanks for the help" note or a full sonnet. A brief, handwritten note may be remembered for a lifetime, and may even change a life.

5) THE GIFT OF A COMPLIMENT
A simple and sincere, "You look great in red," "You did a super job" or "That was a wonderful meal" can make someone's day.

6) THE GIFT OF A FAVOR
Every day, go out of your way to do something kind.

7) THE GIFT OF SOLITUDE
There are times when we want nothing better than to be left alone. Be sensitive to those times and give the gift of solitude to others.

8) THE GIFT OF A CHEERFUL DISPOSITION
The easiest way to feel good is to extend a kind word to someone; really it's not that hard to say, "Hello" or "Thank You".

9) THE GIFT OF SALVATION
It doesn't cost us a cent but it has been paid for in full at the price of God's own Son, Jesus. "The gift of God is eternal Life through Jesus Christ, our Lord." But, in order to receive this most wonderful of all gifts, you have to accept it through faith.

"For it is by grace that you have been saved, through faith- and this not from yourselves, it is the gift of God - not by words , so that no one can boast." (Ephesians 2:8-9)

My net corner

I am excited to tell everyone that I just bought my own domain! Though I haven't really planned on purchasing one yet, with Ally's consistent prodding, I finally gave in . I now hope qualify to most of the opportunities available through payperpost and payingpost.

To everyone who drops by my humble site especially those who regularly visit me and give their precious comments, please continue to do so and know that you are truly appreciated.

A Lemonade Award

I have received another recognition, this time from MsRay of Woman On a Journey. Thanks a bunch MsRay!

I now passed on this award to these exceptional bloggers whose posts have somehow touched a cord in me and have invested time dropping by my site. Cheers everyone! =)

Ally
UmmeAaiman
Robynn
Lady Prism
Andrew&Carmel
LinGZ

Color my world with a rainbow

To counter negative thoughts that so easily assail me, I decided today to write about one of my favorite things - a Rainbow.
How I love seeing a rainbow after a shower from heaven! It gives me a sense of awe and gratefulness. Through this wonderful creation, we are reminded of God's covenant to His people that never again will there be a flood to destroy the earth.

Genesis 9:11
I establish my covenant with you: Never again will all life be cut off by the waters of a flood; never again will there be a flood to destroy the earth."

Philosophyzing

I found this scribbled in my college notebook:


"The general objective of the handout states: "...The students are expected to learn the basic knowledge of Philosophy as an introduction to one's viewpoint of understanding the purposes of existence effectively." This particularly caught my attention. How can the study of a subject be a way to find out what our life is about? Philosophy is merely founded by men. I don't discount their contribution to the understanding of humanity, but if we are to find out what really we are living for, then we have to ask God because He is our creator. In the same way that only an inventor knows what his invention is for, we can only know the purpose of our existence by asking God. ("All things were created through Him and for Him." - Colossians 1:16)
However, I believe that among the subject's greater significance is for us to be able to acknowledge another person's viewpoints and arguments with a sense of deeper analysis through critical thinking and reasoning.
I therefore look forward to an enjoyable and interesting discussion in the class."

My very own design

I had enough time during my two-day work respite so I've decided to experiment with the look of my blogsite. I've added snippets too. So now you're looking at the post edited work! I was advised that I should have my website designed by a professional webpage designer, but I guess I enjoy playing with it on my own. Besides, I don't want to spend on something I think I can do myself. It's a learning experience for me.
I want to say "thanks a bunch" to http://tips-for-new-bloggers.blogspot.com/ for the helpful links and articles regarding HTML editing.
I hope you like the new look!

Badges I got

Wow! I got not only one, but two awards! Thanks to Ally ! =)
Should I prepare an acceptance speech? lols. I just started exploring the blogosphere world so my site isn't really much yet, but I sure do appreciate the recognition. This is one more reason for me to keep blogging, although I must admit, I have become quite addicted to it.

I would love to share these two awards to these wonderful people. Do me a favor by visiting their blogsites. You'll discover why they are my favorite blog and why they have an "uber amazing" blog.

Niniejane of ღ SomeDay She Will ღ
Michelle of My Crazy Life With A Toddler
Wendy of From the Eyes of my Heart

I miss him...

It's been 17 long years already but I still miss my father. I call him "papa". I can clearly recall when he was still around. Whenever he gets home from work especially during weekends, I would always snuggle up beside him. I would then pluck his grey hair or beard while he was telling me stories. He'd always ask about what's going on in school and I can positively tell by his remarks how proud he was of me. He would beam with pride and that just makes me feel great about myself. Those are among my most precious childhood days.
I wonder though, why at times the aching to sit next to my father is so palpable that I couldn't help but shed tear. I remember an instance when I couldn't stand looking at the photos being shown at our church that manifest a father-daughter relationship. I just had to get out because I couldn't suppress my emotion. I know it is impossible for me to see him again in this side of the planet, but he just left so much void in my heart and I know I will never forget him. I thank God for letting me experience what it's like to have a wonderful father even for a brief period. I am still grateful for I learned that even if I'm without an earthly father, I have a perfect Father in heaven who will never leave me.

One rough day at work

Some people can really get to you. I've mentioned in some of my earlier posts that I work in a call center. I can't help myself writing about this particular customer who, I think, was so conceited. I mean, he called in to seek assistance and when I try to help him figure out what the problem was, he would go ahead of me and do what he wants to do with his computer without paying attention to my instructions. I've managed somehow to maintain my composure and been very patient explaining things to him that I even ended up assisting him even though the problem is beyond my support boundaries. In the end, we were able to fix the problem which apparently had to with the Operating System not with Internet connection. Although the customer did say the much rehearsed "Thank you" before the call was ended, I was left so frustrated because he ate up almost an hour of my time and that was because he wouldn't listen to what I was trying to tell him. Grrrr...Some people are just so self-absorbed and don't know how to appreciate others. Even if it's my job to guide him through fixing the problem, he should have at least expressed sincere appreciation.
I will try harder not to be that kind of person. I always attempt not to ignore security officers or fast food crews who say "Good Morning" when its my turn to be the customer. I believe that these small things do make a difference. They go unnoticed but definitely not without significance.

Tag Mania

So this is how it's like to be tagged. Here are eight random things about me:

1. I have recently rediscovered my passion for writing. Thanks to Ally! (She's also the one got me tagged, by the way) Initially, I was only interested in making a few cents over the internet by blogging. But as I progress, I realized I love what I'm doing. =)

2. I've been working in a call center industry for four years now. Sad to say, I am still an agent.

3. I try to live out the golden rule as much as I can, i.e., "Do unto others as you would have them do unto you."

4. I don't like watching news because of features on blood and gore. I am not blind to the existence of violence, I just don't think that tackling it on TV does any good. I'd rather pore over the newspaper and choose what to read.

5. I'd say Gary V. is my top favorite local artist. He never ceases to amaze me whenever he performs. It's a work of art for him. He exudes so much passion in what he does.

6. I love playing badminton, although I'm not good at it. It's one of the things I'd never tire of doing.

7. I like Italian foods.

8. I sneeze real loud. I could never be discreet with it. It's such a shame.


~The rules~

1. Each blogger starts with eight random fact/habits about themselves.
2. People who are tagged need to write their own blog about their eight things and post these rules.
3. A the end of your blogpost, you need to choose eight people to get tagged and list their name.
4. Don’t forget to leave them a comment telling them they’re tagged and to read your blog.


I want to know you better too. YOU are tagged!


1. Storyteller
2. Marg
3. K and S
4. Michelle
5. UmmeAaiman
6. Momgen
7. Julehya
8. Jenn

Unconscious Mutterings

Got this from one of the blogsites I browsed earlier . Thanks to YOU! I couldn't recall which one it was, but I tried! Sorry. I also want to give credit more importantly to http://subliminal.lunanina.com/ for the opportunity to speak out my mind on the images conjured up by the collection of phrases & words below. It's a truly liberating experience!

Contemplate :: to think about something deep and hard; to focus on one thing. I've contemplated on the implication of the decisions I made in the past.
In the house :: family; both tangible and intangible things
Classical :: music, movie, etc.; undying; always in trend; it never gets old
Quest :: A long and difficult search for something with tremendous significance
Best friend :: An "Abishai"; God's precious gift; Connie, Princess, Ruby. They are the closest to a bestfriend I've ever had. I lost communication with them. I didn't know how to value this gift.
1991 :: The year my father passed away. It was on the first day of September. I was ten. I didn't have a concept of death. I didn't know that someone could be taken away from you permanently. No one is ever prepared for such a loss.
Never will :: Never will you reach heaven on earth
Fool :: Someone who does not give thought to what he says.
Unhappy :: Sad, sulky, not content
Best man :: I have yet to find one. (will one ever come to my life?)

At home with (Google) Chrome

Has anyone tried out the newest browser offered by the Google search engine? I downloaded it about a month ago and have been using it since then. First of all, I love the interface. It's pretty neat. Simple yet really functional. There aren't a lot of menus and toolbars added, only the necessary icons. I used to have Firefox but when I tested the latest version, I experienced frequent crashes. Although I like Safari as well, I don't like it's background color and moreover, it takes up a lot of memory space. I'm not into Explorer and Opera because of the load time. Try it out and share what you think!

Pseudonym uncovered

I was surprised to learn that my officemate, Ally (www.allena83.com), who introduced blogging to me, found out what my blogsite is! I don't know how she uncovered it but I feel a bit uncomfortable because some of my writings in this "online journal" are very personal. As you probably can tell by now, I am a very private person and I don't intend to reveal my thoughts publicly. I want to remain anonymous in this side of the web. But well, it's probably time for me to get out of my shell. From now on, this girl will see a little bit more of me that I choose not to disclose to others. (Ally, let's keep this a secret, ok? *wink*)

"Jon & Kate plus eight"

Last night, I watched an episode of Oprah regarding a family of ten. It was aptly entitled 'Jon & Kate plus eight'. It's a feature about a couple, Jon and Kate, who had twins for the first pregnancy and a sextuplet on the second. Although it is not surprising to learn about big families, in the US, it's not at all typical to have this number of children.

When the couple was telling the story about the time when they first found out that they're gonna have six kids in addition to two daughters, it sounded amusing and almost unbelievable, but Kate said it was not funny at all. I cannot imagine how she could raise of her eight kids much less discipline them. I can attest to how difficult it is to take care of even one child as my mother did to my nephew. I admire this couple's strength, especially of the woman of the house. Truly, God gives enough grace to whom He has given monumental task.

Team building foregone

I decided not to join out team building activity because I agreed to meet with a guy I've been texting with for several months now. I was quite disappointed when I saw him. I wished he was taller and more masculine. There was a momentary awkwardness which was normal since I only saw him once (during my nephew's 2nd birthday), and we didn't get to talk at that time. We decided to eat in a restaurant but we had to explore the mall before we found the right place. We had some talk while eating. I asked him about his former girlfriend, his interests and his family background. I wouldn't say it was great but it was not so boring either. We went to play some games at TimeZone and sang our hearts out at the videoke machine. It was fun. He even took me home. He's really sweet and thoughtful, I could almost fall for him, but I don't think we'd go beyond friendship. It was a nice date though. The first I've had in a very long time. :)

HOPE shines through

I couldn't resist posting this creative work of mine. =) I don't know if it's gonna make sense to you but I consider it my masterpiece. I completed it during one of the lowliest days of my life and oh, did I ever mention that I have battled with constant depression when I was younger? It was only through Divine Providence that I was able to get through that difficult stage.

Read on!

None a place is too dark that cannot be illuminated by a grain of light
None a soul is too weary to know not how to crack a smile
None a person is too poor to not impart something to others
None a season is too gloomy that cannot be driven away by sunlight
And none a soul is too quiet that you cannot even hear its own breathing.

In ugliness you shall find beauty
As you shall find refuge in sorrow
Everything would pass in this world,
And soon you & I will be in heaven.

Job-hunting again?!

The other day, I went through a screening process at John Clements, a company that directly hires would-be call center agents. I was asked to choose among four possible companies and I opted for the one that offers the highest salary. They did not reveal the company name until I decided. I thought it was Dell that they partnered with, but turned out it was Siemens. I got a referral and a schedule for exam and interview. It was supposed to be earlier this morning but I didn't make. I let the person in charge know that I wasn't gonna make it. I reasoned that I wasn't feeling well, which is not quite true. I am just terrified to go through the application process. I'm so afraid of being turned down, but I have decided to prepare for it. I will have to brush up my technical knowledge and do some reading before the "big day" arrives. I hope everything turns out well.

I lasted 32 seconds...How 'bout you?

Found this quiz from one of the blogsites I visited (http://readingadventures.blogspot.com) and found it intriguing because I didn't know what a velociraptor is (Thanks to the illustration, I need not search it's definition in Merriam-Webster, hehe). Anyway, this simple test revealed that I don't fully know myself because I'm not sure how I would react to certain situations. Take the test and find out how you'd fare. =)

I could survive for 32 seconds chained to a bunk bed with a velociraptor

Created by Bunk Beds.net

One proud mama

It's Lodie's (a close friend of mine) birthday today! This is her first birthday as a mom and I plan to surprise her. Yesterday she sent me a message asking when I would visit her and her one-month old baby. She sounded a bit sulky and I understand, because I haven't found the time to visit her since she gave birth. I didn't reply because I already contemplated on giving her a surprise visit on her special day. I hope to make up to her with this surprise.

After my shift, I dropped by Goldilocks to buy her a cake and went straight to their home. I got to see my godson-to-be for the first time! His name is James Nathanael, but we call him Janael. Lodie told me in detail what she went through when she delivered her baby. From what she described, it was truly an excruciating experience. I could almost feel her pain when she underwent the 14-hour labor. If the baby got out a few minutes later, my friend would have been cut through the caesarean section. I'm glad she delivered normally. Thank God!

I could see how content she is with her life. She's so radiant. Really a one proud mom. She's found her God-given husband and now she's a mother to Janael. I feel a bit jealous of her (*wink*).

First impressions don't last

For the second day in a row, I took in MOD calls. These calls are not the usual calls from customer but from agents who need approval for issues that require escalation to level 3 department. I also need to assist these agents in resolving difficult concerns and play the "expert" when it comes to technical matters. I honestly don't want to take in these calls as much as possible but I didn't have a lot of options since it's already the senior team leader who asked me to carry out this responsibility. I don't want to go about doing this because I realized I'm not prepared for the job but I can't turn away from it because it's part of my duties as an interim MOD.

I initially enjoyed being an interim MOD. I applied for the position and was elated when I got accepted. I really wasn't expecting it because I felt that I messed in the qualifying exam. It was probably with a stroke of luck that I got accepted. Anyhow, as I mentioned, I really loved carrying out the tasks at first but everything eventually turned sour. I discovered that I don't have the required skills to stay competitive in such a position. One other factor is that I got rejected when I went through the interview process so I can be an official MOD. I remember, I was so ashamed of myself after the interview. I was so devastated. It shattered my confidence and I had to regain myself after that demoralizing experience.

Anyway, earlier I got a call from one of the agents in Ayala (there are other sites, i.e., Bacolod and Cebu). This particular agent has a very strong personality and I always get nervous whenever she asked me questions because I feel like she's measuring me and she doesn't like me (I didn't like her either). Of all subjects she could ask me, it was one where I'm not very familiar with. I tried to assist her the best that I could but it took her awhile to resolve the customer's problem and it was later endorsed for escalation. Afterwards, when we meet in the hallway, I asked her what happened to her call. She recounted it to me and then we talked as if we're very comfortable with each other. I was glad how things turned out because although I never really liked this girl, she doesn't deserve my preconceived notions of her. I now see her in a different light. It made me happy. Indeed, first impressions don't last for me. =)

A refreshing break

My three-day vacation ended today (two restdays and one-day leave). I've had enough rest but was not able to accomplish much. I pretty much just helped out my mom baby sat my nephew on Friday, accompanied my brother to the mall on Saturday and practically slack the whole day on Sunday. My family doesn't usually get to gather around during weekends due to schedule constraints, so I'm glad we were to bond again, especially with my mom. She recounted stories about her father and her siblings that I haven't met yet because they live in the province. I also learned a few things about our clan, but felt sad for some misfortune that has befallen some close relatives. It was enlightening to discover new things about your roots. You also get to understand yourself better. Most importantly, I learned lessons from the life of my kins that I will carefully keep in my heart.
Although not much was carried out during that three-day respite, it was nice to just spend some time away from my very exacting job. I was refreshed and ready to take on new challenges again.

A lonely day at the church

I’ve never been that late for a worship service at our church in Day by Day. I seated at the back so I will not disturb other people anymore as I look for an empty seat. The praise and worship segment is almost halfway through. Pastor Ed’s message that day made me want to cry. It was about our personal walk with God. As the pastor mentioned, it’s possible that one is always present at every church activity but totally neglecting personal fellowship with the Lord. As clothes cover our nudity, so is the so-called “corporate worship”. It tends to hide our true identity before God (paraphrased). I was reminded that indeed, we are all naked before God. He looks upon the condition of our hearts more than our ways. I was so broken hearted upon hearing this message; I’m guilty of it. I had to suppress the tears forming in my eyelids.

I had originally planned to join YAMAN members after the service for lunch but I wanted to be alone so I can think and hear God’s voice more clearly. I wanted to be alone so I headed straight to Harrison Plaza to have my lunch. (Ate Judith and other church members saw me eating alone at Greenwich.) I intended to go home after eating but ate Celi texted me and asked where I was. She even called me after awhile and I knew I had to join them at McDo. I wasn’t really in the mood to talk with anybody at first so I kept silent but soon, as the conversation progressed, I can’t help but have fellowship with them and we even tackled about graven images. We showed Janice some biblical passages supporting the teaching that God hates idol worship. It felt good to share what you know and to be listened to. I must admit, I still had a good time and I momentarily forgot my burden.

"Thank you for calling..." no more?

I am getting so frustrated with the kind of job I have. I long to have a normal life. I want to sleep at night and complete my tasks during the day. I've been in the call center business for more than four years now and haven't accomplish much. I am still an agent. I haven't gone past that position. Am I just slow in achieving my goals or am I just not cut for this career? I'm starting to rethink my life goals. Although it was never my intention to climb high and fast the so-called 'corporate ladder', I sure neither planned to be stagnant and remain as an agent forever.

Maybe I just need to pause and reprioritize or maybe I need a different environment. I'm really getting sick of taking in calls, but what can I do? It's what I'm good at (at least that's what I think). I don't want to settle for a low-paying, 9-5 job. I've got a lot of bills to pay every month. But I really want to experience having a regular schedule.
I may be whining right now but I don't think I'm ready to give up my "all calls", high-paying job just yet. In due time, I will...

Malling generation

Yesterday, I accompanied my brother to shop for some stuff and take advantage of the three-day sale in Megamall. The trip is usually just 30-minutes long but it took us more than an hour to get there due to heavy traffic. Of course, not only a handful wants discounted items at the mall. Needless to say, getting to the mall was already very stressful, aggravated by the sultry weather that day.
When we got there, it was worse than Divisoria. The clothes were all piled up and you need to
literally dig to find a good buy. After finding about four nice t-shirts, my brother had to fall in a
30 meter-long line to fit the clothes. We then marched to another part of the department store to find more stuff. There was an instance when I thought we lost the basket that contains the items we're about to pay for. I almost panicked. I really did. I was ready to walk out right there and then. I mean, it was not a walk in the part finding those shirts and stuff and then we'd lose it? All efforts would be in vain. Thank God we found it. After falling in another 30 meter-line to the cashier, we headed to the optical shop to look for shades that my brother can use whenever he's biking on the road. We stayed there for an hour just trying to decide which one suits his discriminating taste. It took so long for him to decide and I was already getting impatient. We finally found the perfect pair of eye shades which was not too expensive and the good thing is, it came with another pair of sunglasses for free! Not bad eh?
We went straight to Puregold supermarket to accomplish the much procrastinated task of doing the groceries. We arrived a little more than an hour before the store closes. It's a good thing my mom prepared a list of things to buy and it really saved time. We got home at around 10PM, ate some because we were starved. We didn't eat the whole time at the mall to save money. I was so tired that I slept like a baby for the night. It was truly a stressful experience in this day of malling generation.

Dreaming away

I woke up feeling nauseous. I've had enough sleep but my mind was restless the whole night. I tossed and turned the entire time and struggled to stay asleep. I had several dreams during the night and they seem so vivid but as soon as I rise, I could hardly recall the details.

I usually have dreamless sleeps so when I have dreams I sense that something's going on with me, like a major change is gonna take place or maybe I'm going through some sort of personal difficulties. Whatever the case, I don't just shrug off these "visits" because I know they tell us something somehow. I remember the story of Joseph in the bible. He was given divine wisdom to interpret the pharaoh's dream and so he was given an important position in the palace. I sometimes wish I have that gift. That way, I will have a glimpse of the future and have a better understanding of how the present circumstances in my life affect my tomorrow. But then, I just have to decide on what's best when presented with choices. I still wonder what these dreams mean but perhaps my mind just wouldn't want to stop working.

Web Logging

I honestly don't know what to write in this blog. I just feel somehow compelled to write something. Writing is something very close to my heart. It was a way for me to express my true emotions and pour out my disappointments when I was still younger. I remember back then, I would always resort to composing my thoughts on paper because I knew I couldn't share it to anyone. I could never find anyone who would be willing to listen to my sentiments. I was always the great listener but never the "talker".

Back then, I was able to pen my thoughts with such clarity and passion but things aren't the same now. I am at a lost for words and quite unsure what to say here. I must have gradually lost the gift of writing, but I want to revive it before it's completely gone. I don't want to be a "wicked servant" who didn't know how to use the "talent" given him. I sure want to make the best of life with what I've been dispensed with.

Words may not come easily to me now but I'm sure that as the days progressed, my writing prowess will be honed and I will be more confident of what I put here. I am excited how the next days of my life will unfold. Blogging is something new for me although it's just an old concept clothed in a new form. This is just what I need.

Can't get over it

I found out today that my brother-in-law just resigned from his job as a security officer. I totally disagree with his decision, to say the least. I mean, he has two sons to support, a nanny to pay, plus all the other expenses of a growing family. Will he just pass on the financial burdens to my sister? How could he even think of resigning from his work when he can't even provide a decent life to his family? He justifies his decision by saying he's not getting anywhere with his job and plans on going abroad. I hate to think that my sister is gonna shoulder all the financial responsibilities, but what can I do? She chose it. From the very start, I've been against their relationship but she defied all rationale and married that guy. Until now, I still can't get over it. I kept blaming my sister for being selfish. She hasn't been much help to the family. She studied for six years and started her own family barely a year after graduation. I thought I could rest for awhile when she finished school. I thought I'd have someone to share my responsibilities with. I just wish that she ended up with a better husband. Oh well, I really can't do anything anyway. It's their life. I jsut hope everything turns out alright. I don't want to say in the end, "See, I told you..."