tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-68490854418470132882024-03-13T21:16:50.956+08:00Corporate ClosetMusings of an LGBTQ Catholic with a long history of wrestling with his demonsUnknownnoreply@blogger.comBlogger1517125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6849085441847013288.post-65636988599162164212024-01-22T19:54:00.000+08:002024-01-22T19:54:47.999+08:00<p> </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhb_sHHod3oOtU1VzP7xUnfW-P8XS-PKppfNT169BTaZti_8Jr8PoDEt_z-SIU1IfLIgSW65L8fjG5uKVo-MjFYDcPNxSZYXIZsE6FMuaLFFl_cdLIsL9jnhV6zBBtFK3li4RVPEexq7ElaNs5ePO9zHRESqlavdrNOh3A6Ji-CGbcM92DngMksxz9FfSE/s2442/IMG_6332.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1832" data-original-width="2442" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhb_sHHod3oOtU1VzP7xUnfW-P8XS-PKppfNT169BTaZti_8Jr8PoDEt_z-SIU1IfLIgSW65L8fjG5uKVo-MjFYDcPNxSZYXIZsE6FMuaLFFl_cdLIsL9jnhV6zBBtFK3li4RVPEexq7ElaNs5ePO9zHRESqlavdrNOh3A6Ji-CGbcM92DngMksxz9FfSE/s320/IMG_6332.jpeg" width="320" /></a></div><br /><div><p class="p1" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size-adjust: none; font-size: 18.6px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span class="s1" style="font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; font-size: 18.55px;">We turned 11 today. <span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>Not exactly a milestone year, right? But last year’s celebration was not exactly as we wanted it. We still spent it here in Boracay. But we both fell ill during the trip! First it was me and a very upset stomach. Then it was him feeling weak and feverish. </span></p><p class="p2" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size-adjust: none; font-size: 18.6px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 24px;"><span class="s1" style="font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; font-size: 18.55px;"></span><br /></p><p class="p1" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size-adjust: none; font-size: 18.6px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span class="s1" style="font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; font-size: 18.55px;">I blame it on the first-day indulgence of what we miss in Boracay: Bar Lo’s 4-cheese pizza, oyster sisig, then coffee and dessert at Sunny Side. That wreaked havoc on my already-weak digestive tract! I was just in bed for 2 days. Then as I was recovering, c3 started feeling bad. And we weren’t happy with the amenities and the service of the hotel we stayed at. </span></p><p class="p2" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size-adjust: none; font-size: 18.6px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 24px;"><span class="s1" style="font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; font-size: 18.55px;"></span><br /></p><p class="p1" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size-adjust: none; font-size: 18.6px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span class="s1" style="font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; font-size: 18.55px;">But this stay is shorter but sweeter. It was cut short since he had to fly back for work. Yet we maximized the time and had our great sunsets. We got to eat good food (Dos Mestizos, Hain at The Henry, Sunny Side, of course). And we sampled the night life of Om Bar and Rewind Bar (even if I don’t drink alcohol anymore).</span></p><p class="p2" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size-adjust: none; font-size: 18.6px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 24px;"><span class="s1" style="font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; font-size: 18.55px;"></span><br /></p><p class="p1" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size-adjust: none; font-size: 18.6px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span class="s1" style="font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; font-size: 18.55px;">11 years. Quite a feat. The relationship has evolved much, adjusting to our own life (and body) changes. I’m a lot older, nearing retirement, and now feeling so many aches and pains associated with aging. He has undergone (and continues to undergo) vision challenges. And I am happy to be here for him. </span></p><p class="p2" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size-adjust: none; font-size: 18.6px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 24px;"><span class="s1" style="font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; font-size: 18.55px;"></span><br /></p><p class="p1" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size-adjust: none; font-size: 18.6px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span class="s1" style="font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; font-size: 18.55px;">We need to surpass 11 years, just to break the KathNiel record. LOL</span></p><p class="p2" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size-adjust: none; font-size: 18.6px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 24px;"><span class="s1" style="font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; font-size: 18.55px;"></span><br /></p><p class="p1" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size-adjust: none; font-size: 18.6px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span class="s1" style="font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; font-size: 18.55px;">Here’s to the next 11. </span></p></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6849085441847013288.post-76190555763815817032024-01-21T18:25:00.001+08:002024-01-21T18:25:39.220+08:00A Holiday Season like no other. Iba ka talaga 2023.<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgu6SlrsLqRyQG7BwIrKxCQ-bpw-NMG59GZMGwVcHfifPEfovEegStMey5dBvDNoxH0eFfwBb7umJ3Y5kwn1bUCv646xKkygBlxQJz3_vwdSvRkoG0qMeo9EyL9eH-SqzAYPaPnnXYkVWjmioMMCs0s_x_8iQk9U62oz8Z3r06IhSAE_x1-NDmVVWq13CQ/s4032/IMG_6107.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgu6SlrsLqRyQG7BwIrKxCQ-bpw-NMG59GZMGwVcHfifPEfovEegStMey5dBvDNoxH0eFfwBb7umJ3Y5kwn1bUCv646xKkygBlxQJz3_vwdSvRkoG0qMeo9EyL9eH-SqzAYPaPnnXYkVWjmioMMCs0s_x_8iQk9U62oz8Z3r06IhSAE_x1-NDmVVWq13CQ/s320/IMG_6107.jpeg" width="240" /></a></div><br />Salamat at natapos rin ang 2023. And what a way to go.<p></p><p>Christmas Day, I woke up with stomach pain. I was feeling weak and feverish. I self-medicated. I prayed that I would get through the 8am service. And I did, thankfully. But the pain would come and go. I was just in bed practically the whole day. I ended up bringing myself to the hospital Emergency Room, my first time to do it alone, on Christmas Day. </p><p>Thankfully the nice people at the ER were able to administer needed meds including that painful enema, to relieve of the stomach discomfort. I was able to go home by 930pm, still feeling weak. </p><p>I regained my strength quickly after. I proceeded to take care of the furniture transfers to the new condo. </p><p>Dec. 30 afternoon, my driver mentioned that it was his last day. He was resigning to "help his brother with his new business venture." No 30-day notice. I was too stunned to argue. And he left. </p><p>I was hurt, felt betrayed. He was my driver for 12 years. And I had extended myself so many times to help him and his family. I treated him like family. But according to his wife, it boiled down to compensation (which he never complained about). He still owed me money. But I don't see how he would ever pay, or if he has even the intention. </p><p>So there. I start 2024 back to where I was, 20 years ago, driving myself to work everyday. I am still on the lookout for a driver. But I know that the chances of finding one to my specifications are slim. And this will be on top of a very busy year at work. Good luck to me.</p><p><br /></p>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6849085441847013288.post-71698679102565286412023-12-22T09:14:00.001+08:002023-12-22T09:16:29.336+08:00Sunset Found! In His Time<p><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; font-size: 18.55px;">I gave up on finding it. But it found me. Naks. LOL</span></p><p class="p1" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size-adjust: none; font-size: 18.6px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span class="s1" style="font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; font-size: 18.55px;">It’s finally mine, the condo unit I had wanted. And it checked all the boxes (well, almost all). It’s 850m away from the office, an easy 15min walk. It is tiny at 29sqm but it does have a balcony. And as it faces southwest, it still has a stunning view of the sunset. It faces BGC directly, and at its right, the signature lighted buildings of Rockwell. Best of all, it is beside a body of water, the picturesque (?!?) Pasig River. </span></p><p class="p2" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size-adjust: none; font-size: 18.6px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 24px;"><span class="s1" style="font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; font-size: 18.55px;"></span><br /></p><p class="p1" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size-adjust: none; font-size: 18.6px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span class="s1" style="font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; font-size: 18.55px;">The condo building was not in my consideration set. I actually forgot about it. But one December afternoon, I was coming from BGC and passing the new Kalayaan bridge. I looked at the buildings ahead bathed in the afternoon sun. Some of the buildings, particular Brixton, I was already familiar with. But I found this beyond my price range. Then I saw another building to the left of it, also majestically facing the afternoon sun. I took pictures and googled the building and found it. </span></p><p class="p2" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size-adjust: none; font-size: 18.6px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 24px;"><span class="s1" style="font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; font-size: 18.55px;"></span><br /></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdJZ7Q5KqBQIfxt_EHw9C237sARDt0yfH6RZmumPVOEKH_4OwmPpmXipmORhmOZoBlfF8w1ljsJmn38vB6wIEpvuswUuy8RsSkT-jgv3TBvamOzwFPPESo74375Zs6TqQuDaY3xf8TfxugcsHmEsxXuW6JWmA41TyQBxMx-oFJL34857WWZZiGkNNpv3o/s1144/IMG_1869.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1144" data-original-width="778" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdJZ7Q5KqBQIfxt_EHw9C237sARDt0yfH6RZmumPVOEKH_4OwmPpmXipmORhmOZoBlfF8w1ljsJmn38vB6wIEpvuswUuy8RsSkT-jgv3TBvamOzwFPPESo74375Zs6TqQuDaY3xf8TfxugcsHmEsxXuW6JWmA41TyQBxMx-oFJL34857WWZZiGkNNpv3o/s320/IMG_1869.jpeg" width="218" /></a></div><br /><p class="p2" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size-adjust: none; font-size: 18.6px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 24px;"><br /></p><p class="p2" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size-adjust: none; font-size: 18.6px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 24px;"><br /></p><p class="p1" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size-adjust: none; font-size: 18.6px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span class="s1" style="font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; font-size: 18.55px;">I quickly looked at FB Marketplace to check for units available. And there were! And the prices quoted were within budget. <span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>I sent DMs to the ads. Two responded quickly. I set up an ocular for the following day. <span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>I liked what I saw and made an offer.</span></p><p class="p2" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size-adjust: none; font-size: 18.6px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 24px;"><span class="s1" style="font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; font-size: 18.55px;"></span><br /></p><p class="p1" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size-adjust: none; font-size: 18.6px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span class="s1" style="font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; font-size: 18.55px;">We closed the deal in 10 days! </span></p><p class="p2" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size-adjust: none; font-size: 18.6px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 24px;"><span class="s1" style="font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; font-size: 18.55px;"></span><br /></p><p class="p1" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size-adjust: none; font-size: 18.6px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span class="s1" style="font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; font-size: 18.55px;">The owners were very generous and easy to deal with. And they made sure that the unit could be used on Day 1 (really clean bathroom! And appliances!). But the interiors are not to my taste so I’ll have to spend for a unit makeover. I’ll do that mid next year. </span></p><p class="p2" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size-adjust: none; font-size: 18.6px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 24px;"><span class="s1" style="font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; font-size: 18.55px;"></span><br /></p><p class="p1" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size-adjust: none; font-size: 18.6px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span class="s1" style="font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; font-size: 18.55px;">For now, I plan to put some basic stuff that will allow me to use the unit as my sunset halfway house, for those times I need to de-stress from the office. </span></p><p class="p1" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size-adjust: none; font-size: 18.6px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span class="s1" style="font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; font-size: 18.55px;"><br /></span></p><p class="p1" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size-adjust: none; font-size: 18.6px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span class="s1" style="font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; font-size: 18.55px;">I had given up on looking for this unit (as I posted earlier). But I feel that it had to be in His time, not mine. As Mary put it “the Almighty has done great things for me.” Truly His gift for Christmas. </span></p><p class="p1" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size-adjust: none; font-size: 18.6px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span class="s1" style="font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; font-size: 18.55px;"><br /></span></p><p class="p1" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size-adjust: none; font-size: 18.6px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUGNFbi6MZhhrceXzKEBU71cCzcMpitN7cRELLMlsesL63ukSgwJ39OUJUlWneFE6nQYiaj0GF0XfVG4WMya9QXwVHtOMA4Y9prTRP5u925lSVk-O0amPyGxs-5cDzmM_KDeGQ4v0uxWmxCAFZgpdsKeGTqLt6-3PcyTvKtaL5GklEUSV-tDy0ceb6h8I/s4032/IMG_5968.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUGNFbi6MZhhrceXzKEBU71cCzcMpitN7cRELLMlsesL63ukSgwJ39OUJUlWneFE6nQYiaj0GF0XfVG4WMya9QXwVHtOMA4Y9prTRP5u925lSVk-O0amPyGxs-5cDzmM_KDeGQ4v0uxWmxCAFZgpdsKeGTqLt6-3PcyTvKtaL5GklEUSV-tDy0ceb6h8I/s320/IMG_5968.jpeg" width="240" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCpI5_wC563HFDss2RxlV_wZshqQi3N-SmSRgQudK_aJuB_QiEiJ4GZo8VAR-ejgHKtFCGpLjwhYoV9qw4NDO2yW5wee97pJWXcUtG0PSAfEEAgZQPSMJNG5WhSWYSs2Gu2t2pN01vgP0VLCat4suCFch7KHPmwZ38yVIVxW1YidAm_g3hhAcbXAnbKc8/s4032/IMG_5975.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCpI5_wC563HFDss2RxlV_wZshqQi3N-SmSRgQudK_aJuB_QiEiJ4GZo8VAR-ejgHKtFCGpLjwhYoV9qw4NDO2yW5wee97pJWXcUtG0PSAfEEAgZQPSMJNG5WhSWYSs2Gu2t2pN01vgP0VLCat4suCFch7KHPmwZ38yVIVxW1YidAm_g3hhAcbXAnbKc8/s320/IMG_5975.jpeg" width="240" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Had the worker strip the unit bare.</div><br /><span class="s1" style="font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; font-size: 18.55px;"><br /></span><p></p><p class="p1" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size-adjust: none; font-size: 18.6px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span class="s1" style="font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; font-size: 18.55px;"><br /></span></p><p class="p1" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size-adjust: none; font-size: 18.6px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span class="s1" style="font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; font-size: 18.55px;"><br /></span></p><p class="p1" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size-adjust: none; font-size: 18.6px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span class="s1" style="font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; font-size: 18.55px;"><br /></span></p>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6849085441847013288.post-5060492713008381672023-11-27T09:43:00.001+08:002023-11-27T09:43:06.403+08:00Still Chasing Sunsets<p>This obsession with sunsets! Not enough that I have Fierro sunset in Zambales. Lately, I have been looking for an affordable condo with a sunset view near the office. </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHzKx1Gg9u4TD0cXa1yH34_tQ_23CmRtRNKXFJZSDZie5ktl5iXbu1CV2AoBuzrU26d6JMJxrhgUyJ9XecyelIpKBhHpBFnNnGzR6Gkljim3iFfB-s3giAcZhUHOep3E5E-3dWFBpaJH8suzRp8MUlhKO9fmr0TYM6hrtg7L1WhXCVui4atdWV0k5zHtM/s4032/IMG_5689.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHzKx1Gg9u4TD0cXa1yH34_tQ_23CmRtRNKXFJZSDZie5ktl5iXbu1CV2AoBuzrU26d6JMJxrhgUyJ9XecyelIpKBhHpBFnNnGzR6Gkljim3iFfB-s3giAcZhUHOep3E5E-3dWFBpaJH8suzRp8MUlhKO9fmr0TYM6hrtg7L1WhXCVui4atdWV0k5zHtM/s320/IMG_5689.jpeg" width="240" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhsKrY4zgGQeBmM_CNjBL5f3xK42zRvOSsGy1imLPEy76mPY-PYFx9CxKYas2uOCPTEuY_HKFnEFvTuHlEkWerWSCPCDHGq2Z1Heu8gPNkOHCxs083aJXOOGgHKUTFkQqnkaJnJj2iQ48k5lf2WCBShN7Rp1fSBINKwLSgSfqNz39KS2d5FnAEnlvWBhuE/s4032/IMG_5683.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhsKrY4zgGQeBmM_CNjBL5f3xK42zRvOSsGy1imLPEy76mPY-PYFx9CxKYas2uOCPTEuY_HKFnEFvTuHlEkWerWSCPCDHGq2Z1Heu8gPNkOHCxs083aJXOOGgHKUTFkQqnkaJnJj2iQ48k5lf2WCBShN7Rp1fSBINKwLSgSfqNz39KS2d5FnAEnlvWBhuE/s320/IMG_5683.jpeg" width="240" /></a></div><br /><p></p><p>It started a few months ago. I’ve been spending more time after work at the office. And I wondered how great it would be if I could crash in studio unit during those late work nights. But it would need to have a sunset view, for those times I could leave early and watch the sun set.</p><p>I started looking at some units and that got me really excited. I started a Pinterest board as my peg is hotel, industrial, open-shelving style. Of course, the furniture would revolve around that view, making sure I would have a perfect spot to gawk at the sunset.</p><p>I found the unit with the perfect view but it had its downsides: quite far from the office, not the best-looking building, ceiling not too high. But look at that sunset!</p><p>Unfortunately, it is ultimately beyond my budget. As much as I tried to pencil-push, I was going to be pushed into borrowing. And that is something I do not want in my last two years of being regularly employed.</p><p>Why am I so obsessed with this lately? It really is a response to the kind of stress I have been at work. And I need a project to distract and de-stress. My last project was the condo in Manila. That had a seasonal sunset at the bay view. It’s currently being rented so I can’t use the place for sunset chilling. </p><p>But beyond the sunset chasing, I like working on interiors actually. From designing, to fit-out, to shopping for fixtures and furniture, I enjoy the whole range of activities involved. And finally seeing that image in your head come to life feels so amazing. </p><p>So there. No condo unit that fits the bill AND the budget but I remain hopeful. </p>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6849085441847013288.post-54358401333221022052023-11-26T15:01:00.004+08:002023-11-26T15:01:54.687+08:00Hawaii this time around<p><span style="font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; font-size: medium;"><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;">Late post. Post-visit to Honolulu. My 2nd time, a duty trip this time.</span></span></p><p class="p1" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size-adjust: none; font-size: 18.6px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span class="s1" style="font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; font-size: 18.55px;">Back in 2009, the visit was purely personal. I stayed at Bill and Gordon’s place. That was my first vacation after breaking up with ex. And I was deep into the single life. At that time, I was flirting heavily with this guy online - Marlon. But that turned out to be a dud. LOL. </span><span style="font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; font-size: 18.55px;">This visit, Bill reminded me of Blaine, a local I met in my last visit. I remember we went as far as making out. But that was it.</span></p><p class="p1" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size-adjust: none; font-size: 18.6px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span class="s1" style="font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; font-size: 18.55px;"><br /></span></p><p class="p1" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size-adjust: none; font-size: 18.6px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; font-size: 18.55px;">This time, as part of work, I went through some touristy stuff, mainly arranged for the clients. Duke’s for lunch. Lobster and Steak Dinner on a sunset cruise. Macadamia Farm. Giovanni’s Shrimp Truck. Polynesian Cultural Center’s Theme Park, Buffet dinner and theater. Waikele Premium Outlet shopping. Hys Steak House.</span><span style="font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; font-size: 18.55px;"> I extended a few days to hang out with Bill and Gordon. And just my luck that Gordon was celebrating his birthday during that time. I was glad to have joined him for that.</span></p><p class="p2" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size-adjust: none; font-size: 18.6px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 24px;"><span class="s1" style="font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; font-size: 18.55px;"></span><br /></p><p class="p1" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size-adjust: none; font-size: 18.6px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span class="s1" style="font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; font-size: 18.55px;">Aside from the shopping lOL, the best part was hanging out at Waikeke Beach waiting for the sunset. And I had the best sunset view on my last day. Aside from hot, hot guys everywhere. What a treat. </span></p><p class="p1" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size-adjust: none; font-size: 18.6px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span class="s1" style="font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; font-size: 18.55px;"><br /></span></p><p class="p1" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size-adjust: none; font-size: 18.6px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhx83uCMWG_8cKmShVe-jC87XKqe1KKZRr698Vy1-6IA8h0FKBGSufbz-ViyWQCUx_3difVXHfzk1pnjvZivFJwEWLQR8mmBXM7eR1kpIJlLhfMKfYCzsZuOMD2lJ0M2JXnA9bcpSgf-0FEqn9p3Xm_Q3PMbb333W-6ptZDpyVFgqB7k0iLhFlECiRZn48/s4000/20231013_175751.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3000" data-original-width="4000" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhx83uCMWG_8cKmShVe-jC87XKqe1KKZRr698Vy1-6IA8h0FKBGSufbz-ViyWQCUx_3difVXHfzk1pnjvZivFJwEWLQR8mmBXM7eR1kpIJlLhfMKfYCzsZuOMD2lJ0M2JXnA9bcpSgf-0FEqn9p3Xm_Q3PMbb333W-6ptZDpyVFgqB7k0iLhFlECiRZn48/s320/20231013_175751.jpeg" width="320" /></a></div><br /><span class="s1" style="font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; font-size: 18.55px;"><br /></span><p></p><p class="p1" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size-adjust: none; font-size: 18.6px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span class="s1" style="font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; font-size: 18.55px;"><br /></span></p><p class="p1" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; font-size: medium;">I wonder if I’ll get to come back for a 3rd time.</span></p><p class="p1" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size-adjust: none; font-size: 18.6px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span class="s1" style="font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; font-size: 18.55px;"><br /></span></p><p class="p1" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size-adjust: none; font-size: 18.6px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span class="s1" style="font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; font-size: 18.55px;"><br /></span></p><p class="p1" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size-adjust: none; font-size: 18.6px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span class="s1" style="font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; font-size: 18.55px;"><br /></span></p>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6849085441847013288.post-46176346525009893322023-04-04T11:45:00.000+08:002023-04-04T11:45:15.777+08:00Zemana Zanta za Zambales<p> <span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; font-size: 18.55px;">It’s my first time to experience Holy Week in the beach house. I arrived yesterday and will be here till Black Saturday.</span><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; font-size: 18.55px;"> </span></p><p class="p2" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-size: 18.6px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 24px;"><span class="s1" style="font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; font-size: 18.55px;"></span><br /></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh319YRw8oSbjJtep8AT4hwSp0jRAfJwbnUElxNU0BIoeot8JoLNmJ2J8Ywm8VONvBBzavM6sIdrwfGqJKiRxzM_8zYBvK5W2boIN4nL5jqhOcmG1J-UUaxbZiSI03NIn2Z313gzEoEPNMLxBrT9vL5v1GEK0LZsJIvHnqM2BI27mWiQYeoPpeeOOLj/s4032/C14D8D7B-1DC7-48F1-B2D9-451F09B56930.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="4032" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh319YRw8oSbjJtep8AT4hwSp0jRAfJwbnUElxNU0BIoeot8JoLNmJ2J8Ywm8VONvBBzavM6sIdrwfGqJKiRxzM_8zYBvK5W2boIN4nL5jqhOcmG1J-UUaxbZiSI03NIn2Z313gzEoEPNMLxBrT9vL5v1GEK0LZsJIvHnqM2BI27mWiQYeoPpeeOOLj/s320/C14D8D7B-1DC7-48F1-B2D9-451F09B56930.jpeg" width="320" /></a></div><br /><p class="p1" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-size: 18.6px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span class="s1" style="font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; font-size: 18.55px;">I truly deserve this break, exactly a month after I took on the new role officially. it’s been a toxic one month, something I failed to anticipate when I ‘accepted’ this new challenge in Nov last year. (Not that I really had a choice. Lol)</span></p><p class="p2" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-size: 18.6px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 24px;"><span class="s1" style="font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; font-size: 18.55px;"></span><br /></p><p class="p1" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-size: 18.6px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span class="s1" style="font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; font-size: 18.55px;">I struggled with making sense of the work schedule. For someone who got used to a 9pm to 5am sleep schedule, the late-night meetings and activities just threw me off. I oscillated between accepting my fate and wanting to challenge the status quo. <span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>Thankfully, I was able to get some respite from the schedule partly after having an expectations-alignment with my bosses. But best of all, they listened to me, even as they gave me clear rationale for the kind of work I was expected to do. </span></p><p class="p2" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-size: 18.6px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 24px;"><span class="s1" style="font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; font-size: 18.55px;"></span><br /></p><p class="p1" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-size: 18.6px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span class="s1" style="font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; font-size: 18.55px;">I really believe that was Divine Intervention at work. As I was struggling on a day-to-day basis, I kept on praying for guidance, for strength and for wisdom. The Lord truly intervened for me, His way of telling me that this is part of His plan. </span></p><p class="p2" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-size: 18.6px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 24px;"><span class="s1" style="font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; font-size: 18.55px;"></span><br /></p><p class="p1" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-size: 18.6px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span class="s1" style="font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; font-size: 18.55px;">Going into Holy Week, I am blessed with a clearer purpose and a lighter load, only because I ‘came to Him whose load is easy and whose burden is light.’</span></p><p class="p2" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-size: 18.6px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 24px;"><span class="s1" style="font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; font-size: 18.55px;"></span><br /></p><p class="p1" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-size: 18.6px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span class="s1" style="font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; font-size: 18.55px;">I’m taking the time to finish up on Maria Ressa’s book, maybe stream a movie or two, write some posts and just relax and chill in the summer weather of Zambales.</span></p><p class="p2" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-size: 18.6px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 24px;"><span class="s1" style="font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; font-size: 18.55px;"></span><br /></p><p class="p1" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-size: 18.6px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span class="s1" style="font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; font-size: 18.55px;">A meaningful Holy Week to you all!</span></p>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6849085441847013288.post-25918461357616182652023-01-02T15:14:00.000+08:002023-01-02T15:14:01.795+08:00Another New Year’s Day<p> <span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; font-size: 18.55px;">Truth is that today is just like any other day.</span><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; font-size: 18.55px;"> </span></p><p class="p1" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-size: 18.6px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span class="s1" style="font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; font-size: 18.55px;">Truth is…</span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKItLKF5pHjKytmv2iIZhUKm58aLOFECG4hXiqpWO8D1o1IjHir3pHIUDW3axa_oV4uFfFApvk7I4n0KpGkh62atcarP0rIFnJuJnOlWhUTw8TQyxsfc6i-0RIngbsX3QKQmIEyg4jq4Z1rhkuRn_OvrF4iDrrFrznQ1qFHOKZn-CnBYD7_Jqb80e2/s4032/207A221C-95F5-43AA-9B77-82AF113BEF0F.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="4032" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKItLKF5pHjKytmv2iIZhUKm58aLOFECG4hXiqpWO8D1o1IjHir3pHIUDW3axa_oV4uFfFApvk7I4n0KpGkh62atcarP0rIFnJuJnOlWhUTw8TQyxsfc6i-0RIngbsX3QKQmIEyg4jq4Z1rhkuRn_OvrF4iDrrFrznQ1qFHOKZn-CnBYD7_Jqb80e2/s320/207A221C-95F5-43AA-9B77-82AF113BEF0F.jpeg" width="320" /></a></div><br /><p></p><p class="p1" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-size: 18.6px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span class="s1" style="font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; font-size: 18.55px;">… that there will be many surprises to come, a lot you didn’t anticipate or plan for</span></p><p class="p1" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-size: 18.6px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span class="s1" style="font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; font-size: 18.55px;">… that there will still be failures</span></p><p class="p1" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-size: 18.6px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span class="s1" style="font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; font-size: 18.55px;">… that there will still be broken hearts, or angry, unforgiving hearts</span></p><p class="p1" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-size: 18.6px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span class="s1" style="font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; font-size: 18.55px;">Just like any other day</span></p><p class="p1" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-size: 18.6px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span class="s1" style="font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; font-size: 18.55px;">The only thing that can change is you, how you view all that will come your way, despite your best plans and intentions</span></p><p class="p1" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-size: 18.6px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span class="s1" style="font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; font-size: 18.55px;">If for every New Year’s Day, you become just a bit less of your old self in however you react. And more of a new one - a bit calmer, a bit steadier, a bit more open, a bit more accepting, a bit more loving. </span></p><p class="p1" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-size: 18.6px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span class="s1" style="font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; font-size: 18.55px;">Then every New Year’s Day becomes a special day like no other.</span></p>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6849085441847013288.post-57600231608076851962022-12-31T19:58:00.001+08:002022-12-31T19:58:56.562+08:002022: Another Shemitah Year<p> <span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; font-size: 18.55px;">I lost Nanay and became an ulilang lubos. My prex/vp candidates lost in the elections, a first for me to be all out in support and campaigning.</span><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; font-size: 18.55px;"> </span></p><p class="p2" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-size: 18.6px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 24px;"><span class="s1" style="font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; font-size: 18.55px;"></span><br /></p><p class="p1" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-size: 18.6px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span class="s1" style="font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; font-size: 18.55px;">I will be leaving this role for a new one next year. After only 3 years with my crew, I will bid them adieu and take on a new challenge in the company.</span></p><p class="p2" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-size: 18.6px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 24px;"><span class="s1" style="font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; font-size: 18.55px;"></span><br /></p><p class="p1" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-size: 18.6px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span class="s1" style="font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; font-size: 18.55px;">I was diagnosed with this esophageal condition at risk of becoming a neoplasm. I have to severely change my eating habits, including minimizing caffeine and alcohol. This is on top of hypertension, and a heart condition that may lead to a stroke. Of course, the plethora of maintenance medicines I have started to take to manage all my conditions. Sakit-sakitan portion as my friend would put it. I am having difficulty limiting alcohol (a bit more successful with limiting caffeine). So I dread the outcome of 2023’s executive check-up.</span></p><p class="p2" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-size: 18.6px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 24px;"><span class="s1" style="font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; font-size: 18.55px;"></span><br /></p><p class="p1" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-size: 18.6px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span class="s1" style="font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; font-size: 18.55px;">And that led to my struggle to lose weight. I can’t do intermittent fasting anymore. <span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>But toward Q4, I was able to muster the discipline to stick to a diet and exercise regimen. I shed off unwanted weight and fat going into the holiday season. <span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>I have finally signed up personal trainer for home gym. Of course I am putting some back due to Holiday Eating. But I feel more confident that I know how to lose this again.</span></p><p class="p2" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-size: 18.6px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 24px;"><span class="s1" style="font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; font-size: 18.55px;"></span><br /></p><p class="p1" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-size: 18.6px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span class="s1" style="font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; font-size: 18.55px;">I have begun serving at Mass again, extending my support to elderly women and the community that cares for them. I heard confession again after more than a decade. But I quickly slipped back. Old habits die hard. I give myself a pat on the back for being to hear confession again.</span></p><p class="p2" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-size: 18.6px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 24px;"><span class="s1" style="font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; font-size: 18.55px;"></span><br /></p><p class="p1" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-size: 18.6px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span class="s1" style="font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; font-size: 18.55px;">Aside from that, no major personal project accomplished. Just some improvements like installing solar panels at the beach property. I am still thinking what would <span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>projects for 2023. Daddy Love Season 2? Maybe. <span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>Or maybe finally work on the residence here in the metro, repairs and improvements.</span></p><p class="p2" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-size: 18.6px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 24px;"><span class="s1" style="font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; font-size: 18.55px;"></span><br /></p><p class="p1" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-size: 18.6px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span class="s1" style="font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; font-size: 18.55px;">I’m ending the year with a good starting point for savings. The condo is being rented out now. The beach property is also open and has been receiving guests. These are still far from target revenue levels post-employment. But I am pleased.</span></p><p class="p2" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-size: 18.6px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 24px;"><span class="s1" style="font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; font-size: 18.55px;"></span><br /></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDn3xwP0TxUynC9NpZq9JsW5PDzbMY9LGgkwDwEOPlWWCbsD4UTMy2j787kS8lSsQg3Qr5xODhPtIC9EUhc1HGv6KlHagel6-nTc-wND7u70c2Az31xPoOl8iMT97d86ngYzFKTCOFge6MiTkbhTeuINSQjs0nxfWmEZB1KdMm9MJnL-NRAg5X8VXt/s4032/C3982B63-4762-43BD-B613-F5101D1974D4.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="4032" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDn3xwP0TxUynC9NpZq9JsW5PDzbMY9LGgkwDwEOPlWWCbsD4UTMy2j787kS8lSsQg3Qr5xODhPtIC9EUhc1HGv6KlHagel6-nTc-wND7u70c2Az31xPoOl8iMT97d86ngYzFKTCOFge6MiTkbhTeuINSQjs0nxfWmEZB1KdMm9MJnL-NRAg5X8VXt/s320/C3982B63-4762-43BD-B613-F5101D1974D4.jpeg" width="320" /></a></div><br /><p class="p1" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-size: 18.6px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span class="s1" style="font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; font-size: 18.55px;">This really was a reset kind of year for me. I am excited and anxious for what lies ahead. <span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>A blessed 2023 to all.</span></p>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6849085441847013288.post-33806144741706272502022-11-19T14:28:00.000+08:002022-11-19T14:28:03.516+08:00More random thoughts over a long weekend<p><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; font-size: 18.55px;">Taking a breather from a toxic work schedule. Glad to have filed leaves for a long 4-day weekend. Back in the tiny beach house. Also to supervise some ongoing improvements.</span><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; font-size: 18.55px;"> </span></p><p class="p1" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-size: 18.6px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span class="s1" style="font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; font-size: 18.55px;">Weight Reduction achieved</span></p><p class="p2" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-size: 18.6px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 24px;"><span class="s1" style="font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; font-size: 18.55px;"></span><br /></p><p class="p1" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-size: 18.6px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span class="s1" style="font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; font-size: 18.55px;">Just a few posts back I was getting despondent. I couldn’t seem to find the will to get back on track. And I was 13lbs over my ideal weight. But with God’s help, I managed to achieve that again. It was a challenge as my health has changed much, with that esophagus problem. But I had to go back to basics - calorie counting for starters, and trying to balance out the little calories to include breakfast (no more IF for me). And working out, walk-jogging. Happy that in 2 months and a half, I did it. But it’s not for everybody. The sacrifice will not be worth it for many. The goal now is to build some mass, just to tone the body better. So I have hired a personal trainer to help me work out at home.</span></p><p class="p2" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-size: 18.6px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 24px;"><span class="s1" style="font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; font-size: 18.55px;"></span><br /></p><p class="p1" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-size: 18.6px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span class="s1" style="font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; font-size: 18.55px;">New work challenge coming</span></p><p class="p2" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-size: 18.6px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 24px;"><span class="s1" style="font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; font-size: 18.55px;"></span><br /></p><p class="p1" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-size: 18.6px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span class="s1" style="font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; font-size: 18.55px;">Last week, my boss brought me the news. I am being transferred to another group within the organization. Another move barely 3 yrs into this current role. I wanted to retire in this current role, with just 3 yrs to go. I told my boss to ‘resist’ any attempts to move me. LOL. And he did. He did argue to keep me where I am. But the prex had other plans for me. </span></p><p class="p2" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-size: 18.6px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 24px;"><span class="s1" style="font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; font-size: 18.55px;"></span><br /></p><p class="p1" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-size: 18.6px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span class="s1" style="font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; font-size: 18.55px;">It’s not a promotion. It’s a lateral move that provides better opportunities for upward mobility. But with just 3yrs left, I am not holding my breath. It is back to my first love, marketing. So I am looking forward to the new challenges. Not as eager to do adjustments again as that group has a totally different culture from where I was. </span></p><p class="p2" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-size: 18.6px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 24px;"><span class="s1" style="font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; font-size: 18.55px;"></span><br /></p><p class="p1" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-size: 18.6px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span class="s1" style="font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; font-size: 18.55px;">But one thing I did that made me proud. I came out to my future bosses. I had to make sure that they know whom they’re taking in. No surprises. Their response: no issue at all.</span></p><p class="p2" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-size: 18.6px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 24px;"><span class="s1" style="font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; font-size: 18.55px;"></span><br /></p><p class="p1" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-size: 18.6px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span class="s1" style="font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; font-size: 18.55px;">Resort is Open</span></p><p class="p2" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-size: 18.6px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 24px;"><span class="s1" style="font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; font-size: 18.55px;"></span><br /></p><p class="p1" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-size: 18.6px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span class="s1" style="font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; font-size: 18.55px;">Last October, this resort was officially opened for rentals. I was able to find a booking/reservations firm to manage just that, and list the property in their own site as well as AirBnB, Agoda, etc. <span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>The deal covers the two kubo cottages that can accommodate 3 to 4 people each. Container tiny house is not included. But guests have exclusive use of the entire place (including the pool). </span></p><p class="p2" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-size: 18.6px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 24px;"><span class="s1" style="font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; font-size: 18.55px;"></span><br /></p><p class="p1" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-size: 18.6px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span class="s1" style="font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; font-size: 18.55px;">It has been doing well. I have guests most weekends. And I have to block off those dates I want to use it for myself (like this weekend). </span></p><p class="p2" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-size: 18.6px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 24px;"><span class="s1" style="font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; font-size: 18.55px;"></span><br /></p><p class="p1" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-size: 18.6px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span class="s1" style="font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; font-size: 18.55px;">I have to admit that I had some sepanx at the start. Haha. It was like letting go of a prized possession. Feeling that suddenly, it is no longer mine. But the feeling passed, especially when the revenues started coming in. LOL</span></p><p class="p2" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-size: 18.6px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 24px;"><span class="s1" style="font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; font-size: 18.55px;"></span><br /></p><p class="p1" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-size: 18.6px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span class="s1" style="font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; font-size: 18.55px;">Friendships</span></p><p class="p2" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-size: 18.6px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 24px;"><span class="s1" style="font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; font-size: 18.55px;"></span><br /></p><p class="p1" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-size: 18.6px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span class="s1" style="font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; font-size: 18.55px;">At this age you realize you don’t like certain people. Some of them are even ‘friends’. You hang out with them as part of a barkada. You have made connections through school, office, common interests or what-have-you. Moments together could be hilarious, fun. </span></p><p class="p2" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-size: 18.6px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 24px;"><span class="s1" style="font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; font-size: 18.55px;"></span><br /></p><p class="p1" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-size: 18.6px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span class="s1" style="font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; font-size: 18.55px;">At first, it would seem that this should be your attitude towards the entire barkada. After all, you do have a lot in common. So you automatically like them all and include them as your friends. </span></p><p class="p2" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-size: 18.6px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 24px;"><span class="s1" style="font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; font-size: 18.55px;"></span><br /></p><p class="p1" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-size: 18.6px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span class="s1" style="font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; font-size: 18.55px;">But as years pass, you realize that you don’t feel the same way for each of them. Some of them you still genuinely like. For you, they are really nice people. They mean well. They are fun to be with. There is mutual respect. You like spending time with them.</span></p><p class="p2" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-size: 18.6px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 24px;"><span class="s1" style="font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; font-size: 18.55px;"></span><br /></p><p class="p1" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-size: 18.6px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span class="s1" style="font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; font-size: 18.55px;">Some others you are just ambivalent. Your paths don’t really cross that often. And there is nothing in their demeanor that would make you want to be closer to them. Though nothing in them annoys you. So that relationship is status quo.</span></p><p class="p2" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-size: 18.6px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 24px;"><span class="s1" style="font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; font-size: 18.55px;"></span><br /></p><p class="p1" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-size: 18.6px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span class="s1" style="font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; font-size: 18.55px;">But some you end up admitting that you don’t really like them. You find them annoying. They bring negative vibes to you. But they continue to be part of the group. And it becomes a take-it-all or leave entirely. Leaving is not entirely attractive either. Exit barriers. LOL. The nice ones are worth keeping as friends. </span></p><p class="p2" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-size: 18.6px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 24px;"><span class="s1" style="font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; font-size: 18.55px;"></span><br /></p><p class="p2" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-size: 18.6px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 24px;"><span style="font-family: arial;">It’s a lazy, cloudy Saturday afternoon at the beach. </span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhvdmLrRPSWJYEJQX5G0Y4n0YTWAkPW__A7TOk7kW5X4EVNN5SEr_Xs5BDLpU-o9VoaRc4HquNf9sXLVVyeBfNzmNaAM2yefoBu-Cc2neSQWUXCOaWwAQjDKr8jZhSC1bu6lDPMlw6Aj4XOx87luoA9bDbQdLvSx9ZEg5_29h6Osv6gr3K8PbNfl1sa/s4032/image.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="4032" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhvdmLrRPSWJYEJQX5G0Y4n0YTWAkPW__A7TOk7kW5X4EVNN5SEr_Xs5BDLpU-o9VoaRc4HquNf9sXLVVyeBfNzmNaAM2yefoBu-Cc2neSQWUXCOaWwAQjDKr8jZhSC1bu6lDPMlw6Aj4XOx87luoA9bDbQdLvSx9ZEg5_29h6Osv6gr3K8PbNfl1sa/s320/image.jpg" width="320" /></a></span></div><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span><p></p>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6849085441847013288.post-41014815337157345682022-09-29T16:20:00.003+08:002022-09-29T16:20:38.104+08:00Here We Go Again<p> </p><p class="p2" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-size: 18.9px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span class="s1" style="font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; font-size: 18.9px;">Ugh. Na-covid ulit. Swerte nga naman. That’s not me on the pic. That’s household help in full PPE as she cleans my bed and bath area. </span></p><p class="p1" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-size: 18.9px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 24.5px;"><span class="s1" style="font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; font-size: 18.9px;"></span><br /></p><p class="p2" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-size: 18.9px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span class="s1" style="font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; font-size: 18.9px;">It is Day 4, since symptoms appeared. Mild sore throat. Some nasal congestion. Maybe that ‘lalagnatin’ feeling but no actual fever, based on temp reading. But because another household member came down with it 2 days earlier, I sort of felt that I was in for Round 2 of Covid. But this time, with symptoms.</span></p><p class="p1" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-size: 18.9px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 24.5px;"><span class="s1" style="font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; font-size: 18.9px;"></span><br /></p><p class="p2" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-size: 18.9px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span class="s1" style="font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; font-size: 18.9px;">Day 2 when symptoms blossomed! Sore, itchy throat. Runny nose. Coughing in an attempt to get that sticky phlegm out. Body aches. Still no fever but that feverish feeling, on and off. I used the rapid antigen test. And it came out positive. Don’t want to play the blame game anymore, like the first time. If I’m gonna get, I’m gonna get it. Just deal with it. </span></p><p class="p1" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-size: 18.9px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 24.5px;"><span class="s1" style="font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; font-size: 18.9px;"></span><br /></p><p class="p2" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-size: 18.9px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span class="s1" style="font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; font-size: 18.9px;">Consulted the doctor. Got the meds prescribed. But still did work from home. Couldn’t cancel the meetings. Until Day 3, I was still ‘reporting for work’ with more meetings. Sigh. That’s what this pandemic uncovered. That you can actually do work from home even if you’re just a bit sick. Day 3 was slightly better though nose was still clogged. No more sore throat but the occasional cough became dry and painful. Still no fever.</span></p><p class="p1" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-size: 18.9px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 24.5px;"><span class="s1" style="font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; font-size: 18.9px;"></span><br /></p><p class="p2" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-size: 18.9px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span class="s1" style="font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; font-size: 18.9px;">I finally filed for Sick Leave today. I knew I had to fully rest this to heal faster. And besides, the only meeting today was a face-to-face one, which I couldn’t attend anyway. I took it really easy today. Even got some early morning sunning to help fight the virus. I’m feeling much, much better. Nasal congestion a lot less. Less coughing fits. No feverish feeling.</span></p><p class="p1" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-size: 18.9px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 24.5px;"><span class="s1" style="font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; font-size: 18.9px;"></span><br /></p><p class="p2" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-size: 18.9px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span class="s1" style="font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; font-size: 18.9px;">It feels like trankaso. I didn’t even have fever. Is this what they mean when they were downgrading this to ‘endemic’ levels? Lol</span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMDoqLJcHk8Hg5D2fJBXAZFQ6QWGmyQBPVmIADLd-V5d59vY27L8M7dAhZAP8xIeYexqDJnIjuVTgAYD8-kKWj_UZC_da4gsamNeUJ1YKbf7olrQBmfcpngfou1XabgHhkG1M2WjE9iVtVrXHR7ZZL0wtV9Qc7p57DkpS0VyfGXALOavJXb-W6hLnq/s4032/2E7A08BD-EF8E-4A2E-A30E-D884E397A8BC.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMDoqLJcHk8Hg5D2fJBXAZFQ6QWGmyQBPVmIADLd-V5d59vY27L8M7dAhZAP8xIeYexqDJnIjuVTgAYD8-kKWj_UZC_da4gsamNeUJ1YKbf7olrQBmfcpngfou1XabgHhkG1M2WjE9iVtVrXHR7ZZL0wtV9Qc7p57DkpS0VyfGXALOavJXb-W6hLnq/s320/2E7A08BD-EF8E-4A2E-A30E-D884E397A8BC.jpeg" width="240" /></a></div><br /><p></p><p class="p1" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-size: 18.9px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 24.5px;"><br /><span class="s1" style="font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; font-size: 18.9px;"></span></p><p class="p2" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-size: 18.9px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span class="s1" style="font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; font-size: 18.9px;">In many ways, I should be thankful. I got my 2nd booster early part of this month. I don’t have much activities this week till next. So this is a good time to actually slow down a bit. I still have a few days of isolation to go. Let’s hope it doesn’t get worse and only improves from here on. </span></p><p class="p1" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-size: 18.9px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 24.5px;"><span class="s1" style="font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; font-size: 18.9px;"></span><br /></p>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6849085441847013288.post-19522077132484422812022-09-03T07:16:00.001+08:002022-09-03T07:47:10.408+08:00Random lang. These could have been tweets. <p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPYeFKjSLNTqg21VZ1N0Sfa2bshCpyz776eGwdqBaRtFC8zfSs9wwsTaC1-UZ2PtWsX0d36K36IXvtbov_sEIcvmHUECF5B4jgNkzXP-hZ_h8IM0xcPnjaxoKCCzITJF2NxOoNUOD9wnoqen4wid80BDklEo9F-U3LMIVD4qu8NOSMC4_BZoZy7dLo/s4032/9CAD2AA1-8A60-48E2-975C-AE6E14AEC9D3.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPYeFKjSLNTqg21VZ1N0Sfa2bshCpyz776eGwdqBaRtFC8zfSs9wwsTaC1-UZ2PtWsX0d36K36IXvtbov_sEIcvmHUECF5B4jgNkzXP-hZ_h8IM0xcPnjaxoKCCzITJF2NxOoNUOD9wnoqen4wid80BDklEo9F-U3LMIVD4qu8NOSMC4_BZoZy7dLo/s320/9CAD2AA1-8A60-48E2-975C-AE6E14AEC9D3.jpeg" width="240" /></a></div><br /> I haven’t posted in a while. In this gloomy 1st Saturday of September, suddenly the urge to write random stuff. <p></p><p>Been feeling shitty lately. I’m overweight, probably gained 2 inches of fat around the waistline. I look horrible. Can’t seem to get back on track. My self discipline disappeared for months. I rationalize that all the events of the past months: my mom’s death, the findings related to my esophagus, even my heart, have conspired to keep me from sticking to a diet and exercise plan. I used to be able to muster the will to begin a diet that works. I am finding it so hard now. There is always an excuse to eat sweets, more red meat (which, for me, are the main items to avoid). </p><p>Typhoon Henry spared us but it brought the gloom. I am still happy it didn’t happen last weekend. Though there were still rainy afternoons over the long weekend, there was enough sun in the morning to enjoy the beach at the rest house with my siblings and our partners. I felt really great being able to host that and bond with them. And I managed to do some writing last weekend.</p><p>I was doing revisions on the season 2 of Daddy Love. Yes, I do have a season 2 planned. But still on the fence of getting it produced. It will cost much more than season 1, with all the elements I included. Hahaha Couldn’t help myself! I wanted to layer in some more themes. So it is still up in the air how that project will come to life.</p><p>Projects. I realized I like having personal projects despite the load at work. I become energized just planning and implementing, albeit slowly. And I continue to be very grateful for having enough resources to accomplish them. </p><p>Libido is at an ebb lately. That is a good thing. A few weeks back, my hormones were crazy. And sluttiness overdrive as well. I relate that to my low self-esteem and the need for affirmation. Glad that is over. G app put to sleep for now.</p><p>That’s all, as Miranda Priestly would put it. Yun lang. (doesn’t translate well? LOL)</p><p><br /></p>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6849085441847013288.post-32756524605471862982022-06-19T16:31:00.001+08:002022-06-19T16:31:39.456+08:00Proud Month<p><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; font-size: 18.55px;">A true vanity project I had planned as I was turning 50: have pics of myself, my body, professionally taken, to document my 50ish bod at its fittest. Planned that as i approach 55, then the pandemic happened.</span><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; font-size: 18.55px;"> </span></p><p class="p1" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-size: 18.6px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span class="s1" style="font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; font-size: 18.55px;">Finally got it done year ago, at 56yo, with the help of photographer @ScenusImagen. June 20 was a rainy Sunday. But that didn’t stop me. I worked on the bod for 3 months just using my home gym and trying vegetarianism. </span></p><p class="p2" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-size: 18.6px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 24px;"><span class="s1" style="font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; font-size: 18.55px;"></span><br /></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWR21jgELnLz4Dzd_pJtQ88kD_eQgYy63x_42yNTiLW_LI-tMIYUuZutPyHyZSmczKRzaN3xKbIkz4e-78DxFRiJybPuaTYSfNF3J4hCsWkerrb5Nxchf0DAFu7yYq8W_Oxo7xjAx1G2iQs2F0i3r3MJfEj2jgpI_Hi0m5x-H_2bLMbygH7QjU4oTC/s986/FA338469-4F1C-4B97-BDCD-B8565A88733B.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="969" data-original-width="986" height="314" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWR21jgELnLz4Dzd_pJtQ88kD_eQgYy63x_42yNTiLW_LI-tMIYUuZutPyHyZSmczKRzaN3xKbIkz4e-78DxFRiJybPuaTYSfNF3J4hCsWkerrb5Nxchf0DAFu7yYq8W_Oxo7xjAx1G2iQs2F0i3r3MJfEj2jgpI_Hi0m5x-H_2bLMbygH7QjU4oTC/s320/FA338469-4F1C-4B97-BDCD-B8565A88733B.jpeg" width="320" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMzHFsMkYFVUwbCedkl02zWR2UIpAOxRAOY3kH-sIo7ggejrvBR06Fs9z68FRf_ajjNGXTsoY1dFZCehSxv5y7Ph7yavbeUqm1H30oQ0i50fNRUc32VNMGjwHbLr7xdQJopSgAXw063dcH3hj4kwisUAmg2UKBbWhHoRS4YGHm5izqixYpJr4ucMZf/s1600/58C6D6BD-5DA8-4746-9E9A-655272B0D5C4.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1066" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMzHFsMkYFVUwbCedkl02zWR2UIpAOxRAOY3kH-sIo7ggejrvBR06Fs9z68FRf_ajjNGXTsoY1dFZCehSxv5y7Ph7yavbeUqm1H30oQ0i50fNRUc32VNMGjwHbLr7xdQJopSgAXw063dcH3hj4kwisUAmg2UKBbWhHoRS4YGHm5izqixYpJr4ucMZf/s320/58C6D6BD-5DA8-4746-9E9A-655272B0D5C4.jpeg" width="213" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTMupxhIiqASydHoUxUrmrivo9JJbHd390ARuXdputI2y2N1DeQqMIt60yAclm8elDHwO2R_cY2KbjqR0b3JDSyhzO-4-iQp12JDGU3xkgWL0ot_sh-MbhdTIct7-i1TD-Zw2-mJWRmHjJJPAfsG6WXI6_dsey6-91un-xoQEBTkjtO9blythFtm1e/s1600/5C64C2F6-691C-432B-A00D-52A5914CB01F.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1066" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTMupxhIiqASydHoUxUrmrivo9JJbHd390ARuXdputI2y2N1DeQqMIt60yAclm8elDHwO2R_cY2KbjqR0b3JDSyhzO-4-iQp12JDGU3xkgWL0ot_sh-MbhdTIct7-i1TD-Zw2-mJWRmHjJJPAfsG6WXI6_dsey6-91un-xoQEBTkjtO9blythFtm1e/s320/5C64C2F6-691C-432B-A00D-52A5914CB01F.jpeg" width="213" /></a></div><br /><p class="p1" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-size: 18.6px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span class="s1" style="font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; font-size: 18.55px;">So this is me. Yeah, Proud of this, despite lacking the genes for a gorgeous bone and muscular structure. I look at my body and see very weak shoulders, thick at the waist, small calf muscles. The pics capture me at the best I could manage (stomach in every time), at 56yo. This also captures my pandemic look: long wavy hair, facial hair. In my heart then, I knew it would be downhill from there.</span></p><p class="p1" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-size: 18.6px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span class="s1" style="font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; font-size: 18.55px;"><br /></span></p><p class="p1" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-size: 18.6px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span class="s1" style="font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; font-size: 18.55px;">True enough, a year later, I have gained 8 lbs. All that as flab around the gut area. And on top of all that, I am diagnosed with Barrett’s Esophagus, high cholesterol and possibly a heart problem, on top of hypertension. From one maintenance med to 4. And drastic changes in diet and lifestyle: avoid alcohol, caffeine, spicy food, sour food, chocolates, red meat, blah blah blah. </span></p><p class="p2" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-size: 18.6px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 24px;"><span class="s1" style="font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; font-size: 18.55px;"></span><br /></p><p class="p1" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-size: 18.6px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span class="s1" style="font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; font-size: 18.55px;">Avoiding alcohol, that got me really down. I super enjoy my mid-week drink (Wednesday) and my weekend bouts (Friday to Sunday). My Fierro visits were filled with just being in the pool, under the hot sun with wine or brandy or scotch in hand. I loved the buzz, that certain numbness coupled with the heat of the sun, the cold water of the pool, my fave music in the background. I am down to ‘social drinking’, a glass at the most, only on special occasions. </span></p><p class="p2" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-size: 18.6px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 24px;"><span class="s1" style="font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; font-size: 18.55px;"></span><br /></p><p class="p1" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-size: 18.6px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span class="s1" style="font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; font-size: 18.55px;">My morning ritual with coffee also had to go: waking up to the smell of brewed coffee, having that sip as I read or browse or just look at the sunrise. The change: just a cup (not a mug) to be taken during breakfast, only after I have taken my med. Still a major change for me as I am usually a zombie without coffee. Sigh.</span></p><p class="p2" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-size: 18.6px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 24px;"><br /><span class="s1" style="font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; font-size: 18.55px;"></span></p><p class="p1" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-size: 18.6px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span class="s1" style="font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; font-size: 18.55px;">So I finally post some of the pics here. A memento of a previous life enjoyed to the full. A bod that was a work in progress, but never really got there. <i>Resibo na umabot ako dito. </i></span></p>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6849085441847013288.post-73645857813523930072022-05-21T08:58:00.001+08:002022-05-21T08:58:20.870+08:00Post-May 9: Now what?<p><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; font-size: 18.9px;">When I chose Leni over Junior, I felt strongly that his presidency will be bad for the country. Despite his calm and “I will speak no evil against my fellow candidates and just talk about unity” consistent stance, he is part of an entire machinery that has stolen from my tax money, that has bribed their way to wealth, that has lied and has perpetuated misinformation, that has allowed the killing of thousands of people during Martial Law as part of the anti-insurgency campaign, during the war on drugs.</span><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; font-size: 18.9px;"> </span> <span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; font-size: 18.9px;">I cannot begin to think how Junior will NOT be any of these if he becomes president ESPECIALLY because he himself has lied, has evaded paying taxes, has denied (and even enabled) the atrocities, the injustice and the plunder of his family.</span><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; font-size: 18.9px;"> </span></p><p class="p1" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-size: 18.9px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span class="s1" style="font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; font-size: 18.9px;">I was presented with an option to change that. And I stood up and was counted in the rallies. I wore my color and contributed in my little way to the campaign. And I voted for LeniKiko.</span></p><p class="p2" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-size: 18.9px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 24.5px;"><span class="s1" style="font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; font-size: 18.9px;"></span><br /></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFbjuX4HaRLSxL9oFLmk7-4bBq3hE2bXiwprlhTQJcyzPr-op5KmTNy2bGTVWCv4oRY8JQ2UQzYsnrU-KxVmbBL_isRx1V6rNduJmoSAAbdNjT5t7GYv4gTA_VFBqvTNJxMoAKB6NZQ130GBTQs_PI718oQhcn-6dQI7UMUMdZ3A3csw592hUqPSpr/s4032/B3B6C4EC-D9A6-4CB2-867B-703AF0C1705B.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="4032" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFbjuX4HaRLSxL9oFLmk7-4bBq3hE2bXiwprlhTQJcyzPr-op5KmTNy2bGTVWCv4oRY8JQ2UQzYsnrU-KxVmbBL_isRx1V6rNduJmoSAAbdNjT5t7GYv4gTA_VFBqvTNJxMoAKB6NZQ130GBTQs_PI718oQhcn-6dQI7UMUMdZ3A3csw592hUqPSpr/s320/B3B6C4EC-D9A6-4CB2-867B-703AF0C1705B.jpeg" width="320" /></a></div><br /><p class="p1" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-size: 18.9px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span class="s1" style="font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; font-size: 18.9px;">Now that he is the presumptive president-elect, and his slate and colleagues are back, I am resigned to the Fates. <span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>However, I am wishing and praying for a few things:</span></p><p class="p1" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-size: 18.9px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span class="s1" style="font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; font-size: 18.9px;">- His administration to champion some transparency in the entire election process and answer some nagging details on the counting, transmission, etc. That, to my mind, can start the Unity he has been advocating. </span></p><p class="p1" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-size: 18.9px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span class="s1" style="font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; font-size: 18.9px;">- That I am dead wrong on my aforementioned assumptions. That he would form a cabinet that will stop bribery and corruption, that will prioritize health and education, attract investment and create jobs, stop extra-judicial killings and provide justice, respond smartly, pro-actively to threats of natural disasters, epidemics and prevent death and disease, defend our lands and our seas. Never mind that he did not articulate this during his campaign. Just do it. I will be watching.</span></p><p class="p1" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-size: 18.9px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span class="s1" style="font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; font-size: 18.9px;">- That he would model some modesty in lifestyle, some prudence in living despite being ‘so New York’ as a beacon to his cabinet, to all government officials and employees.</span></p><p class="p2" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-size: 18.9px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 24.5px;"><span class="s1" style="font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; font-size: 18.9px;"></span><br /></p><p class="p1" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-size: 18.9px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span class="s1" style="font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; font-size: 18.9px;">But even as I pray hard for what may be a pipe dream, I remain a tax-paying, law-abiding citizen of the Philippines. I want to engage friends who are his supporters as I want to truly understand why they chose him. What was the thought process? What was the basis of the decision? What were the information sources? I will try to withhold judgment and just try to understand. But if in the process, I realize that they continue to spread lies and malign Leni and my candidates, I will not stand for that. Yes, I can, and will, end friendships on that basis.</span></p><p class="p2" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-size: 18.9px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 24.5px;"><span class="s1" style="font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; font-size: 18.9px;"></span><br /></p><p class="p1" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-size: 18.9px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span class="s1" style="font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; font-size: 18.9px;">I will call out misinformation, fake news, historical revisionism. I, too, am at fault, for not having spoken out before, for having been lax and complacent to protect the freedoms we won in 1986. I will share what is true and right. </span></p><p class="p2" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-size: 18.9px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 24.5px;"><span class="s1" style="font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; font-size: 18.9px;"></span><br /></p><p class="p1" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-size: 18.9px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span class="s1" style="font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; font-size: 18.9px;">I will support Leni’s advocacies in whatever way I can. She has lit up a fire within, based on hope of what could be. Even without a formal seat in government, she is wielding this power for the better. I am eager to get it started and contribute, yet remain vigilant.</span></p><p class="p2" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-size: 18.9px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 24.5px;"><span class="s1" style="font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; font-size: 18.9px;"></span><br /></p><p class="p1" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-size: 18.9px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span class="s1" style="font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; font-size: 18.9px;">I suffered two losses in a matter of days: my mother’s passing and the loss of my candidates. And as I grieve, I also know that in time, I will just have to get on with life. But I must hold on to the good and the true. And stand up for it. For my Nanay. For this country. </span></p>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6849085441847013288.post-59869414351752194192022-05-14T12:02:00.002+08:002022-05-14T12:02:13.961+08:00She is Home.<p><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; font-size: 18.55px;">I left for the beach house the day after the funeral. I have not had my ugly cry. Just like when Tatay passed, I did not have the breakdown moment from his passing at the hospital to the final laying at the cemetery. But this time, with Nanay, I felt my heart wanting to give in numerous times. The exquisite emotional pain translating to actual physical pain: my chest suddenly feeling heavy, somewhere within my palms a dull throbbing. I would breathe in deeply and the moment would pass, a willful decision to remain steadfast.</span></p><p class="p1" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-size: 18.6px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span class="s1" style="font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; font-size: 18.55px;">But with her laying at the cemetery yesterday, I was fully prepared to mourn and grieve. I even saw that suddenly, there was high chance of rain in the mid afternoon. Perfect setting for my dramatic breakdown.</span></p><p class="p2" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-size: 18.6px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 24px;"><span class="s1" style="font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; font-size: 18.55px;"></span><br /></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5CJ939vE8SmCOm8SkYBxW1p6FAX_WwpVLUfLyXO28w-gg54q8CWkYlpNbtWCrm1LqvKytAtz4wUIzCgpYwnJpRo1v-QrdU3eN4aZIcubEwmVM7w--Qj9tuBNTOLhXj9YRVN1-VpBmXEMDFAIxv-jRPy8Xe4sqP0NfezeLZ1S9CqGSt0s4eJX7nvwV/s4032/BD82B52D-9A89-4490-83A5-F110B68B6B15.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="4032" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5CJ939vE8SmCOm8SkYBxW1p6FAX_WwpVLUfLyXO28w-gg54q8CWkYlpNbtWCrm1LqvKytAtz4wUIzCgpYwnJpRo1v-QrdU3eN4aZIcubEwmVM7w--Qj9tuBNTOLhXj9YRVN1-VpBmXEMDFAIxv-jRPy8Xe4sqP0NfezeLZ1S9CqGSt0s4eJX7nvwV/s320/BD82B52D-9A89-4490-83A5-F110B68B6B15.jpeg" width="320" /></a></div><br /><p class="p1" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-size: 18.6px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span class="s1" style="font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; font-size: 18.55px;">I arrived to a warm, breezy, bright sunny beach. It was just beautiful, not a cloud in sight. Hmmm no dark and gloom to accompany me in my grief. Yet, I was able to finally trigger my outpouring by stitching my photos of last moments with her. Making the video was ultimately cathartic for me.</span></p><p class="p2" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-size: 18.6px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 24px;"><span class="s1" style="font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; font-size: 18.55px;"></span><br /></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen="" class="BLOG_video_class" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/5ALupAot62g" width="320" youtube-src-id="5ALupAot62g"></iframe></div><p class="p2" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-size: 18.6px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 24px;"><br /></p><p class="p1" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-size: 18.6px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span class="s1" style="font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; font-size: 18.55px;">But my ugly cry was not prolonged. For my stay there, I was blessed with the best weather and perfect sunsets. It is as if she is saying that she is in a good place. She is with Tatay. And I should live my life and enjoy it … for all is good. </span></p><p class="p1" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-size: 18.6px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span class="s1" style="font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; font-size: 18.55px;"><br /></span></p><p class="p1" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-size: 18.6px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span class="s1" style="font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; font-size: 18.55px;">She is home.</span></p>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6849085441847013288.post-34995325200205869882022-03-13T10:04:00.002+08:002022-03-13T10:04:54.128+08:00Good days and bad days<p><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; font-size: 18.9px;">She has her good days. She obviously has enough energy to transfer from her bed to the wheelchair and join us for meals. There are no complaints of pain whatsoever. And she eats, well, not a lot. But she eats most of what is laid out for her.</span><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; font-size: 18.9px;"> </span></p><p class="p1" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-size: 18.9px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span class="s1" style="font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; font-size: 18.9px;">Then there are her bad days. She complains of pain in her lower extremities, worse during the night. She is lethargic, always sleeping. She is too weak to even leave her bed. </span></p><p class="p2" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-size: 18.9px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 24.5px;"><span class="s1" style="font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; font-size: 18.9px;"></span><br /></p><p class="p1" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-size: 18.9px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span class="s1" style="font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; font-size: 18.9px;">We monitor her BP and O2 levels regularly. When it started dropping, we were alarmed and had to convince her to go to the hospital after much, much convincing. Turns out she has pneumonia though she didn’t have any of the typical symptoms: fever, colds, cough, sore throat, difficulty of breathing. But that last admission in the hospital really traumatized her, with all the injections, tests. She didn’t want any of that anymore. Period.</span></p><p class="p2" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-size: 18.9px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 24.5px;"><span class="s1" style="font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; font-size: 18.9px;"></span><br /></p><p class="p1" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-size: 18.9px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span class="s1" style="font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; font-size: 18.9px;">We thought she would go back to her good days coming from the hospital. She didn’t. <span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>Well not at that level. So we continue to monitor her and as her BP, O2 levels fluctuate. And we decided on home care instead. </span></p><p class="p2" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-size: 18.9px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 24.5px;"><span class="s1" style="font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; font-size: 18.9px;"></span><br /></p><p class="p1" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-size: 18.9px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span class="s1" style="font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; font-size: 18.9px;">We are preparing for the inevitable, as advised by her doctors. Flashback to almost 3 yrs ago when it was Tatay. We think we know the drill. But one can never really prepare. And is this a case of giving up on her? Shouldn’t I be fighting to bring her back to health? But at what cost? It’s me against myself. </span></p><p class="p2" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-size: 18.9px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 24.5px;"><span class="s1" style="font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; font-size: 18.9px;"></span><br /></p><p class="p1" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-size: 18.9px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span class="s1" style="font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; font-size: 18.9px;">One day at a time, I tell myself. I convince myself. <span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>All in God’s time, Nanay. For now, every day with her is a good day. </span></p><p class="p1" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-size: 18.9px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span class="s1" style="font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; font-size: 18.9px;"><br /></span></p><p class="p1" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-size: 18.9px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhYF5j3Z83N7fnJ9Zp1OAX0F8rtpw_KFmLivdMArMuVvgK9T_ktKJ_IB59-SHL2GiXiY3DeKUvW0OsS8kR2skMGvSHO-Hateee8GsKzMDZhHKrINUc-DkfKBLBpY49vYEF3C_A-WLZagHPH8zi8OMkSYI3R5CoRL457J9MQC6PGIRDJKgfOD1ETArqW=s2887" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2217" data-original-width="2887" height="246" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhYF5j3Z83N7fnJ9Zp1OAX0F8rtpw_KFmLivdMArMuVvgK9T_ktKJ_IB59-SHL2GiXiY3DeKUvW0OsS8kR2skMGvSHO-Hateee8GsKzMDZhHKrINUc-DkfKBLBpY49vYEF3C_A-WLZagHPH8zi8OMkSYI3R5CoRL457J9MQC6PGIRDJKgfOD1ETArqW=s320" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Luneta Park with Nanay</div><br /><span class="s1" style="font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; font-size: 18.9px;"><br /></span><p></p>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6849085441847013288.post-28163512770206036832022-02-11T06:45:00.000+08:002022-02-11T06:45:25.983+08:00A Loving Heart<p><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; font-size: 18.9px;">Last Jan. 30 Sunday, one of the readings was that famous “Love is patient, Love is kind” text from St. Paul to the Corinthians. Many a wedding have I attended where this was a chosen reading. And sometimes, I would catch one bride or groom look at the other so lovingly as they listen to the reading.</span></p><p class="p1" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-size: 18.9px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span class="s1" style="font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; font-size: 18.9px;">A guidebook for romantic love. </span></p><p class="p2" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-size: 18.9px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 24.5px;"><span class="s1" style="font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; font-size: 18.9px;"></span><br /></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEj1A62Jf4klsDGUdZk3aL8GMJ_oEYH3ekhY_3LRFSqc-n8T0e9p2S4fibsXCvXTogBsCIf0tKnDpEBVkTttS6T8mPDKCXPXR3bUDoANlml2NeuQ_84TS2o5YhNVRxfCOk7cEnfAOVH9n6OJE-4b17Ls-FhaqPWAOoJZ7kf_Gl3fxZqfAksO9qNm6OkE=s2229" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1020" data-original-width="2229" height="146" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEj1A62Jf4klsDGUdZk3aL8GMJ_oEYH3ekhY_3LRFSqc-n8T0e9p2S4fibsXCvXTogBsCIf0tKnDpEBVkTttS6T8mPDKCXPXR3bUDoANlml2NeuQ_84TS2o5YhNVRxfCOk7cEnfAOVH9n6OJE-4b17Ls-FhaqPWAOoJZ7kf_Gl3fxZqfAksO9qNm6OkE=s320" width="320" /></a></div><br /><p class="p1" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-size: 18.9px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span class="s1" style="font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; font-size: 18.9px;">But as I was reflecting on the passages, I reckon that St. Paul was talking more about “love” as an attitude (if that makes sense), rather than as the emotion or even behavior typical of romance and relationships.</span></p><p class="p2" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-size: 18.9px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 24.5px;"><span class="s1" style="font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; font-size: 18.9px;"></span><br /></p><p class="p1" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-size: 18.9px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span class="s1" style="font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; font-size: 18.9px;">We are being called to have a “loving heart”, beyond being “loving” or being always “in love”. <span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>He describes a person with a loving heart: patient, kind, never boastful or proud, etc., not necessarily directed towards an object of one’s ‘love’. <span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>He calls us to be people who are loving in general - mapagmahal - regardless of who one is with.</span></p><p class="p2" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-size: 18.9px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 24.5px;"><span class="s1" style="font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; font-size: 18.9px;"></span><br /></p><p class="p1" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-size: 18.9px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span class="s1" style="font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; font-size: 18.9px;">I know of very few people whom I can say, have a ‘loving heart’: ever patient, kind, <span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>humble, truthful, trustful, hopeful. </span></p><p class="p2" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-size: 18.9px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 24.5px;"><span class="s1" style="font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; font-size: 18.9px;"></span><br /></p><p class="p1" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-size: 18.9px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span class="s1" style="font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; font-size: 18.9px;">Actually, St. Paul’s list is some kind of checklist of “how to know if you have a loving heart”.</span></p><p class="p2" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-size: 18.9px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 24.5px;"><span class="s1" style="font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; font-size: 18.9px;"></span><br /></p><p class="p1" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-size: 18.9px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span class="s1" style="font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; font-size: 18.9px;">Then I realize how far I am from being that person. I know I can be loving to my partner, to my family, to my friends. But I am not loving in general. I am generally impatient, proud, selfish, among so many nega things. </span></p><p class="p2" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-size: 18.9px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 24.5px;"><span class="s1" style="font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; font-size: 18.9px;"></span><br /></p><p class="p1" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-size: 18.9px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span class="s1" style="font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; font-size: 18.9px;">But there is hope! In an earlier passage, St. Paul tells us to ‘Strive for this greatest of spiritual gifts’. So with this realization, I now have a consciousness to ‘try’ to be less of those nega things. I am working on this heart of mine to be a bit more loving in general. </span></p>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6849085441847013288.post-21127302355954603622022-01-29T06:46:00.000+08:002022-01-29T06:46:07.100+08:00Buhay Pandemia: Post Exposure, Post Isolation<p> <span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; font-size: 18.55px;">It has been 19 days since the day of test. I got out of isolation on Day 8 following latest guidelines for mild or asymptomatic cases. I was still wearing a mask till Day 10, just to be very sure I don’t transmit to anyone in the household.</span><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; font-size: 18.55px;"> </span></p><p class="p1" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-size: 18.6px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span class="s1" style="font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; font-size: 18.55px;">I self-tested on Day 13 <span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>using the Clungene brand. Ugh I hate nasal swabs. But I was happy I mustered the courage to do it myself. And on Day 17, two days ago, I went for Saliva RT PCR test in preparation for the trip to the beach house. <span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>Yes, all came negative. I’m clear.</span></p><p class="p2" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-size: 18.6px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 24px;"><span class="s1" style="font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; font-size: 18.55px;"></span><br /></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjeUNSRI6eOVo3xDxIMDrYYWVMGIhWB7K5I4tnbQCOt0bBxRfo3qkUByu9sanT35WuqwXzKWWnQzIioA8-d-pA7xz58H00VGlxZ7J0FByeQMSuYBC2rdeEG39IPRbPUoQnVg8Ub6fsFqBlKEU4DYWT9y_xN8s6oDtWs7Wv89DvQj_tmaD8l1OexmzuS=s2100" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2100" data-original-width="1574" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjeUNSRI6eOVo3xDxIMDrYYWVMGIhWB7K5I4tnbQCOt0bBxRfo3qkUByu9sanT35WuqwXzKWWnQzIioA8-d-pA7xz58H00VGlxZ7J0FByeQMSuYBC2rdeEG39IPRbPUoQnVg8Ub6fsFqBlKEU4DYWT9y_xN8s6oDtWs7Wv89DvQj_tmaD8l1OexmzuS=s320" width="240" /></a></div><br /><p class="p1" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-size: 18.6px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span class="s1" style="font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; font-size: 18.55px;">Based on DOH statistics, I was part of 3.5% of cases that are asymptomatic. No sore throat. No colds or cough or sneezing. No fever. No diarrhea. Technically, I wouldn’t have known had I not been tested. </span></p><p class="p2" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-size: 18.6px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 24px;"><span class="s1" style="font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; font-size: 18.55px;"></span><br /></p><p class="p1" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-size: 18.6px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span class="s1" style="font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; font-size: 18.55px;">I could have assessed myself to be Covid free after two to three days post-exposure of not developing any symptoms. I could have been roaming around, transmitting this had I not subjected myself to quarantine and testing.</span></p><p class="p2" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-size: 18.6px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 24px;"><span class="s1" style="font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; font-size: 18.55px;"></span><br /></p><p class="p1" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-size: 18.6px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span class="s1" style="font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; font-size: 18.55px;">So no, I do not agree with latest DOH protocols limiting testing to ‘manage the symptoms’. Pure BS. I agree with Sen Escudero saying that this is tantamount to the gov’t ‘giving up’. It is. After borrowing trillions on stupid strategies that ended up as luxury cars in garages of certain people, they are giving up on containing this, on protecting taxpayers from this. </span></p><p class="p1" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-size: 18.6px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span class="s1" style="font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; font-size: 18.55px;"><br /></span></p><p class="p1" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-size: 18.6px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span class="s1" style="font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; font-size: 18.55px;">Nakakagalit. Inubos nila ang pera at iniwan na lang tayong ganito.</span></p><p class="p2" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-size: 18.6px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 24px;"><span class="s1" style="font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; font-size: 18.55px;"></span><br /></p><p class="p1" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-size: 18.6px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span class="s1" style="font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; font-size: 18.55px;">At kung yan pa rin ang gusto niyong pamamalakad, sige, ituloy niyo ang pagboto dun sa sinungaling. </span></p><p class="p2" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-size: 18.6px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 24px;"><span class="s1" style="font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; font-size: 18.55px;"></span><br /></p><p class="p1" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-size: 18.6px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span class="s1" style="font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; font-size: 18.55px;">I will not end this on angry note. For I am still very thankful. I was probably asymptomatic on a combination of prayer and some modicum of health and fitness, and some dosing up on vitamins. I didn’t stop exercising even during isolation. And I stopped dieting just to make sure my body won’t be weak as it battles the virus then.</span></p><p class="p2" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-size: 18.6px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 24px;"><span class="s1" style="font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; font-size: 18.55px;"></span><br /></p><p class="p1" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-size: 18.6px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span class="s1" style="font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; font-size: 18.55px;">But sadly, I am not out of the woods. I can suddenly develop long Covid symptoms. I am now monitoring my BP daily as I am hypertensive. Covid has also ravaged organs other than the respiratory organ system. And with my history of childhood asthma, I also monitor my oxygen daily. </span></p><p class="p2" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-size: 18.6px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 24px;"><span class="s1" style="font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; font-size: 18.55px;"></span><br /></p><p class="p1" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-size: 18.6px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span class="s1" style="font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; font-size: 18.55px;">I am now breathing in early morning West Philippine Sea air. And it feels wonderful.</span></p>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6849085441847013288.post-20005646697941304102022-01-14T06:36:00.000+08:002022-01-14T06:36:15.239+08:00Buhay Pandemia: Isolation<p> <span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; font-size: 18.55px;">Tinamaan rin ng lintek.</span></p><p class="p2" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-size: 18.6px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 24px;"><span class="s1" style="font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; font-size: 18.55px;"></span><br /></p><p class="p1" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-size: 18.6px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span class="s1" style="font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; font-size: 18.55px;">Nasa acceptance phase na ako. Di tulad nung Day 0, nung nakuha ko yun results ng RT PCR. Disbelief. Anger.</span></p><p class="p2" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-size: 18.6px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 24px;"><span class="s1" style="font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; font-size: 18.55px;"></span><br /></p><p class="p1" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-size: 18.6px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span class="s1" style="font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; font-size: 18.55px;">Ang daming tumatakbo sa isip ko, kasabay na rin ng mga dapat ko pang gawin ngayon na confirmed na ang pagka-positibo ko sa Covid.</span></p><p class="p2" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-size: 18.6px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 24px;"><span class="s1" style="font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; font-size: 18.55px;"></span><br /></p><p class="p1" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-size: 18.6px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span class="s1" style="font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; font-size: 18.55px;">Galit ako at nakapasok sa aming household ang Covid. </span></p><p class="p2" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-size: 18.6px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 24px;"><span class="s1" style="font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; font-size: 18.55px;"></span><br /></p><p class="p1" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-size: 18.6px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span class="s1" style="font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; font-size: 18.55px;">Day -6 nung nabasa ko ang text ni bagong kasambahay 1. 4pm ko na nabasa, 1pm niya pinadala. Busy kasi ako sa WFH meeting ko. Nanlamig ako. May sintomas na raw siya nung umaga pa (sore throat). Binale-wala na niya muna. Kaso nag-chills at nilagnat na nung mga 11am. Kaya nakapahinga na siya.</span></p><p class="p2" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-size: 18.6px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 24px;"><span class="s1" style="font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; font-size: 18.55px;"></span><br /></p><p class="p1" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-size: 18.6px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span class="s1" style="font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; font-size: 18.55px;">Dali-dali kong sinabihan si kasambahay 2 na ayusin namin ang kanyang isolation room. Swerte ako na may hiwalay na unit, na may sariling CR at kwarto. Dun muna siya. Si kasambahay 2 muna ang magdadala ng mga pagkain niya. </span></p><p class="p2" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-size: 18.6px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 24px;"><span class="s1" style="font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; font-size: 18.55px;"></span><br /></p><p class="p1" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-size: 18.6px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span class="s1" style="font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; font-size: 18.55px;">Nun pa lang gusto ko ng magalit kay Kasambahay 1. Bakit hindi kasi nag-iingat? Bago kasi! </span></p><p class="p2" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-size: 18.6px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 24px;"><span class="s1" style="font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; font-size: 18.55px;"></span><br /></p><p class="p1" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-size: 18.6px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span class="s1" style="font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; font-size: 18.55px;">At binantayan namin lahat kung may naramdaman na kami.</span></p><p class="p2" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-size: 18.6px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 24px;"><span class="s1" style="font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; font-size: 18.55px;"></span><br /></p><p class="p1" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-size: 18.6px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span class="s1" style="font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; font-size: 18.55px;">Day -4 nung nalaman na namin na confirmed na positive siya for COVID. Tinawagan ko ang Barangay. Kaso sa susunod pa na araw siya pwedeng dalhin sa Quarantine Facility. Kailangan nakatutok na lang si Kasambahay 2 kay Nanay (na matanda na at Cancer and Stroke survivor). Ako na lang ang maghahatid ng pagkain ni Kasambahay 1 habang nasa isolation siya.</span></p><p class="p2" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-size: 18.6px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 24px;"><span class="s1" style="font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; font-size: 18.55px;"></span><br /></p><p class="p1" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-size: 18.6px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span class="s1" style="font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; font-size: 18.55px;">Ang buong akala ko, kaya kong protektahan ang sarili ko kahit ako ang humaharap sa kanya. Naka PPE pa ako, face mask pag pupunta sa kanya dala ang pagkain. Hinuhugasan ko agad ang kanyang mga pinagkainan. Puspusan ang pag-alcohol ko. Mula Day-3 hanggang Day -2, ako ang nag-aalaga kay Kasambahay 1.</span></p><p class="p2" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-size: 18.6px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 24px;"><span class="s1" style="font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; font-size: 18.55px;"></span><br /></p><p class="p1" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-size: 18.6px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span class="s1" style="font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; font-size: 18.55px;">Si Driver, lumabas na rin ng sintomas. Umuwi na siya sa kanila upang mag-isolate. Nahawa siguro dahil siya ang naghatid kay Kasamabahay 1 nung drive-thru RT PCR.</span></p><p class="p2" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-size: 18.6px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 24px;"><span class="s1" style="font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; font-size: 18.55px;"></span><br /></p><p class="p1" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-size: 18.6px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span class="s1" style="font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; font-size: 18.55px;">Day -1 nakapagtest na kami, home service. Lahat kami, walang nararamdaman. Baka naman hindi kami natamaan. Baka naman maayos ang aming mga safety protocols.</span></p><p class="p2" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-size: 18.6px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 24px;"><span class="s1" style="font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; font-size: 18.55px;"></span><br /></p><p class="p1" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-size: 18.6px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span class="s1" style="font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; font-size: 18.55px;">Day 0 Lumabas ang mga test. Ako lang ang nagpositive. Si Nanay, Kasambahay 2, Ate ko at bayaw ko. Ako lang. </span></p><p class="p2" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-size: 18.6px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 24px;"><span class="s1" style="font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; font-size: 18.55px;"></span><br /></p><p class="p1" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-size: 18.6px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span class="s1" style="font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; font-size: 18.55px;">Saan ako nagkamali? Bakit ako nalusutan ng lintek na Covid? Buti pa si Kasambahay 2, hindi nadapuan. Mas mahusay siya sa pag-iingat? </span></p><p class="p2" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-size: 18.6px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 24px;"><span class="s1" style="font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; font-size: 18.55px;"></span><br /></p><p class="p1" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-size: 18.6px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span class="s1" style="font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; font-size: 18.55px;">Ang sama ng loob ko. Naka-diet pa naman ako, simula pa lang nung Day -1. Gumamit ng Food Service Delivery. At ayan pa ang kalakip ng mensahe araw-araw. Nagkatotoo tuloy. Bwiset.</span></p><p class="p2" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-size: 18.6px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 24px;"><span class="s1" style="font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; font-size: 18.55px;"></span><br /></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhfwnjcvRF7kNA8ZleaybJ6ftTNKOhPmmzP3lJRgeJ7TVLHSZZKBUkp6wsYh62j1yuNrANngqxfhbEyZMMCctuwd-jmrkosr1lwYWClRi6Jabem97Cq2W_PeMpWs4Q7J5QpfW0pM_nWxqDh4M0L8d02nDyaOmHNHM8UPNP2yaLvepbt3r4ZmuPpbtRq=s2304" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2304" data-original-width="1726" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhfwnjcvRF7kNA8ZleaybJ6ftTNKOhPmmzP3lJRgeJ7TVLHSZZKBUkp6wsYh62j1yuNrANngqxfhbEyZMMCctuwd-jmrkosr1lwYWClRi6Jabem97Cq2W_PeMpWs4Q7J5QpfW0pM_nWxqDh4M0L8d02nDyaOmHNHM8UPNP2yaLvepbt3r4ZmuPpbtRq=s320" width="240" /></a></div><br /><p class="p1" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-size: 18.6px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span class="s1" style="font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; font-size: 18.55px;">Naglipas rin ang sama ng loob. May bakas ng panghinayang pag-naalala kung ano ang mga ginawa at hindi ginawa. Ngunit hindi ko dapat sisihin ang sarili. Walang maitutulong. Ang malaking tulong ang na nailabas ko lahat kay c3, na nakinig lamang sa mga hinaing ko.</span></p><p class="p2" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-size: 18.6px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 24px;"><span class="s1" style="font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; font-size: 18.55px;"></span><br /></p><p class="p1" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-size: 18.6px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span class="s1" style="font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; font-size: 18.55px;">Ngayon, tuloy pa rin ang trabaho. Pero inabisuhan na magpahinga. Wag pwersahin ang sarili kahit walang sintomas. </span></p><p class="p1" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-size: 18.6px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span class="s1" style="font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; font-size: 18.55px;"><br /></span></p><p class="p1" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-size: 18.6px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span class="s1" style="font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; font-size: 18.55px;">At nag-come out ako as CovPos (term ba yun? hehehe). Minabuti kong aminin at ipakita na wala naman dapat ikahiya ang pagkaroon ng Covid, may sintomas man o wala.</span></p><p class="p2" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-size: 18.6px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 24px;"><span class="s1" style="font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; font-size: 18.55px;"></span><br /></p><p class="p1" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-size: 18.6px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span class="s1" style="font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; font-size: 18.55px;">Akala ko madaraanan ko etong pandemic na hindi nakakaranas ng Covid. Hindi pala. </span></p>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6849085441847013288.post-74186887516738099032022-01-01T18:49:00.002+08:002022-01-01T20:53:16.375+08:00Buhay Pandemia: A Comma, Not A Period.<p><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; font-size: 18.55px;">“The end of the year is usually a period, another sentence starts. But for this year, I feel the holidys were just a comma in the paragraph of my life. The quicker I</span><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; font-size: 18.55px;"> </span> <span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; font-size: 18.55px;">continue where I left off, the better I feel.” My tweet earlier.</span></p><p class="p2" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-size: 18.6px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 24px;"><span class="s1" style="font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; font-size: 18.55px;"></span><br /></p><p class="p1" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-size: 18.6px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span class="s1" style="font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; font-size: 18.55px;">But I will still indulge in some 2021 navel-gazing. <span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>Work was good, despite the pandemic. I felt I was on top of my game. I guess the Boss agreed to, as he gave me a promotion. </span></p><p class="p2" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-size: 18.6px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 24px;"><span class="s1" style="font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; font-size: 18.55px;"></span><br /></p><p class="p1" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-size: 18.6px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span class="s1" style="font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; font-size: 18.55px;">Personal projects accomplished. The series Daddy Love shoot was Jan 4 and 5 last year. First ep launched in heyPogi around end of Feb (my birthday). Then the edited YouTube cuts followed. I was happy just to break even, as this was just a story I wanted told. I am ecstatic that the series did better than expected. Even ending with Rex Lantano getting a Best Actor nomination. Wow.</span></p><p class="p2" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-size: 18.6px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 24px;"><span class="s1" style="font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; font-size: 18.55px;"></span><br /></p><p class="p1" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-size: 18.6px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span class="s1" style="font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; font-size: 18.55px;">I finally have our ancestral land in Cavinti, Laguna transferred in my name. This was a promise I made to my father before he passed. I was blessed to have met good people who helped me in the process. </span></p><p class="p2" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-size: 18.6px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 24px;"><span class="s1" style="font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; font-size: 18.55px;"></span><br /></p><p class="p1" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-size: 18.6px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span class="s1" style="font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; font-size: 18.55px;">We finally had our first harvest of rice from Fierro Farm in Cabangan in November. And it was good tasty rice! </span></p><p class="p2" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-size: 18.6px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 24px;"><br /></p><p class="p2" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-size: 18.6px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 24px;"><span class="s1" style="font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; font-size: 18.55px;"></span><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEizDjQcTFXTtiVVEw01SfelzS1ijvl4wLGBQYP8cVgRJ8H76hOsB-gsfg-IkJRr23mQRfr8RJei33L_Z1lWlmsGeGz3ijQ39rqtdef4g78fewM-y9Sgi8Xnv8HOystMGUaccbKMBN6bBis_I1per64PzldPi7So1ycCAXF5Uu4VVuMng0UtfZYrsEMu=s960" style="font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; font-size: 18.549999237060547px; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="720" data-original-width="960" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEizDjQcTFXTtiVVEw01SfelzS1ijvl4wLGBQYP8cVgRJ8H76hOsB-gsfg-IkJRr23mQRfr8RJei33L_Z1lWlmsGeGz3ijQ39rqtdef4g78fewM-y9Sgi8Xnv8HOystMGUaccbKMBN6bBis_I1per64PzldPi7So1ycCAXF5Uu4VVuMng0UtfZYrsEMu=s320" width="320" /></a></p><p class="p2" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-size: 18.6px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 24px;"><br /></p><p class="p1" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-size: 18.6px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span class="s1" style="font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; font-size: 18.55px;">The new condo along Roxas Blvd. was turned over in February 2021. I finally finished renovation and furnishings last week. So satisfied with how it turned out. </span></p><p class="p2" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-size: 18.6px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 24px;"><span class="s1" style="font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; font-size: 18.55px;"></span><br /></p><p class="p1" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-size: 18.6px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span class="s1" style="font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; font-size: 18.55px;">Physically, I peaked around June last year. It was a home-gym body that I was proud of, proud enough to have it captured on photos professionally. LOL. Then downhill since then. I had to stop lifting weights mid-November as my rotator cuff injury worsened. I tried being plant-based for 7 months. But my blood chem results did not show any difference. So I am back to enjoying meat. Just in time for the holidays. </span></p><p class="p2" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-size: 18.6px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 24px;"><span class="s1" style="font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; font-size: 18.55px;"></span><br /></p><p class="p1" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-size: 18.6px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span class="s1" style="font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; font-size: 18.55px;">I also stopped my daily weigh-ins. I know I will be in for a shock (and disappointment) once I resume by Monday. Ugh. </span></p><p class="p2" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-size: 18.6px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 24px;"><span class="s1" style="font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; font-size: 18.55px;"></span><br /></p><p class="p1" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-size: 18.6px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span class="s1" style="font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; font-size: 18.55px;">Two new cars for the year. One is a company-issue. The other is my personal car. I got to replace Simply Red (my Mx5) with an equally fun, quirky vehicle, Mini C (Mini Cooper S). And I am enjoying driving again. </span></p><p class="p2" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-size: 18.6px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 24px;"><span class="s1" style="font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; font-size: 18.55px;"></span><br /></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgnXQT7j-qmVTkQc6IqIl54AQPhda-cLBMHee6IACAv8ptY_pBfGgMaKHEq9yi0LJuQH0gE-1BnvDuyM9HYzyJWHRj3nuzCH3ECq44Fcy3gV8WgoiIai6jM3QVFcfR_PfS4xmM_FEIaWk3PVdSN_Il5bKrpzbhcoMNnBxGITmlluYixBc9ib745n4NS=s4032" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="4032" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgnXQT7j-qmVTkQc6IqIl54AQPhda-cLBMHee6IACAv8ptY_pBfGgMaKHEq9yi0LJuQH0gE-1BnvDuyM9HYzyJWHRj3nuzCH3ECq44Fcy3gV8WgoiIai6jM3QVFcfR_PfS4xmM_FEIaWk3PVdSN_Il5bKrpzbhcoMNnBxGITmlluYixBc9ib745n4NS=s320" width="320" /></a></div><br /><p class="p1" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-size: 18.6px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span class="s1" style="font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; font-size: 18.55px;">But going back to my original thought… a lot of projects are ongoing, year in and year out. Hence, there are no periods, just other punctuation marks. </span></p><p class="p2" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-size: 18.6px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 24px;"><span class="s1" style="font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; font-size: 18.55px;"></span><br /></p><p class="p1" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-size: 18.6px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span class="s1" style="font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; font-size: 18.55px;">The Cabangan resort is opening up to guests. With a few more enhancements, I should be ready for full AirBnB listing. </span></p><p class="p2" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-size: 18.6px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 24px;"><span class="s1" style="font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; font-size: 18.55px;"></span><br /></p><p class="p1" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-size: 18.6px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span class="s1" style="font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; font-size: 18.55px;">And speaking of opening up, I opened up to some team mates about being gay. It happened when they visited the resort. They so appreciated my candor and trust. And I felt so good being able to tell them about my truth.</span></p><p class="p2" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-size: 18.6px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 24px;"><span class="s1" style="font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; font-size: 18.55px;"></span><br /></p><p class="p1" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-size: 18.6px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span class="s1" style="font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; font-size: 18.55px;">I am eager to get back to where I left off: work, my personal projects, even working out and keeping fit. <span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>And all the challenges that 2022 has in store for me, bring these on!</span></p>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6849085441847013288.post-7378060591078277392021-11-21T08:28:00.000+08:002021-11-21T08:28:17.766+08:00Buhay Pandemya: “The Chosen” Seasons 1 and 2<p><i></i></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-jFV1Sqczt8c/YZmR0jtqEZI/AAAAAAAADIM/D9QRS6XKMyQMvoAvIVMkPTNKM9ocod1dwCLcBGAsYHQ/s1280/73124699-5B84-4858-AEDB-D3AF7D7CF5B4.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="720" data-original-width="1280" height="180" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-jFV1Sqczt8c/YZmR0jtqEZI/AAAAAAAADIM/D9QRS6XKMyQMvoAvIVMkPTNKM9ocod1dwCLcBGAsYHQ/s320/73124699-5B84-4858-AEDB-D3AF7D7CF5B4.jpeg" width="320" /></a></i></div><i><br />Photo lifted from Brian Jennings Blog. </i><p></p><p>I finished watching Season 2 of this crowd-funded series. And yup, I did my part by ‘paying forward’ as well. LOL</p><p>I have to say that I am impressed with this “creative” take of the life of Jesus. Emphasis on “creative” - the director/producer uses much creative licenses to dramatize and humanize. And it is focused more on the humans around Jesus, the humans he chose to be his apostles, followers, etc. <i>Parang Humans around Jesus LOL </i></p><p>I believe the series started production in 2019 thereabouts. They have produced 2 seasons with a goal of producing 7 seasons and reaching a billion people around the world. (They are at +300M views.) I found about it from my Ate as she excitedly shared this to the family. </p><p>I love the series! As a Catholic watching this series produced by an Evangelical Christian (Dallas Jenkins), I can only say - congratulations for pulling this off! I actually believe that only a non-Catholic could actually pull this off (and I say this with much affection for the Roman Catholic church). His creative licenses would have needed approvals all the way up to the Vatican (Nihil Obstat). And judging by the way he wove the stories, I think the Church might find some ‘objectionable’! But he wanted this to be inclusive, and authentic. He consulted with many sources, including Catholic priests, Greek orthodox, Jewish rabbi, etc. In the end, he has succeeded in creating a story that is both inspiring and enjoyable.</p><p>At many parts, I was actually moved to shedding some tears. Some stories resonated deeply: Peter’s conversion, the disabled ‘thief’ living in the fringes. I enjoyed the ‘extremist’ plot line of Simon the Zealot. (That was something I didn’t know!) I also found myself amused that Dallas incorporated some storylines that have always intrigued me. (Jesus and John the Baptist calling each other cousins). And hurrah for racial inclusivity, people of color being cast! (I could swear there were Asians there, too.) There is also something so contemporary about the dialogues (which might raise some eyebrows). But on deeper analysis, concerns of two thousand years ago may not have been very different from today.</p><p>I like the choice of Jonathan Roumie as Jesus. His eyes convey compassion and authority. His demeanor is relatable (very ‘human) yet stately. Again, a refreshing take on the Jesus as story character.</p><p>It’s not perfect. Some episodes do drag out as the stories of the ‘humans’ have to be fleshed out (pun intended). That Roman Praetor Quintus seemed a tad like a caricature of an evil, scheming villain. Some familiar New Testament events that were linked together seemed ‘incredulous’. </p><p>But these are minor bleeps. The series deserves support (yes, monetary as well) and promotion. I hope to see this series completed and its loft ambitions reached!</p><p></p><br />Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6849085441847013288.post-6125731178300737252021-10-24T16:54:00.001+08:002021-10-24T16:54:23.379+08:00Buhay Pandemya: DL continues<p>I just finished writing the first draft of Book 2 of Daddy Love. It just feels so satisfying to commit to a task and see it through. The reception to the Web Series just overwhelms me. I still can’t believe that the crazy idea would resonate (and pay for itself). I had to make sure the story continues.</p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-jxFq_d-5FNc/YXUfICr3OyI/AAAAAAAADHk/3MSPuKXNErEt58MhlUBi_HpKcLrax00CgCLcBGAsYHQ/s2048/2FD0D0F5-5231-4CC8-A52D-4E8093F9EDF0.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" height="240" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-jxFq_d-5FNc/YXUfICr3OyI/AAAAAAAADHk/3MSPuKXNErEt58MhlUBi_HpKcLrax00CgCLcBGAsYHQ/s320/2FD0D0F5-5231-4CC8-A52D-4E8093F9EDF0.jpeg" width="320" /></a></div><br />I took it another route. I decided to write it myself, as a short novel (ok, even I am cringing at that label. Di ko dasarv. Let’s call it a long story.) There were other themes I wanted to wove into it. So I challenged myself to just write and write. <p></p><p>It was, at times, so cathartic for me. I found myself angry, ashamed, burdened as I banged away on the keyboard. That in itself is already a reward. Putting into words some of those experiences. Giving voice to some thoughts I have locked away. </p><p>And I chose to write in Filipino, despite having poor command of the language. Somehow, I felt that the story unravels better in Filipino. </p><p>I printed it. Call me old-fashioned. I even used scratch A4 paper. Finally found use for all that paper lying around. Hahaha. And I will reread it and write my notes. </p><p>Will it be produced? I honestly have not made up my mind. I still need to muster the resources and the will power to that all of that again. And I have so many mistakes from that first series that I would have to learn from. </p><p>For now I relish the feeling of completing something. Cheers!</p>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6849085441847013288.post-87312365693117156212021-09-26T13:31:00.001+08:002021-09-26T13:31:45.139+08:00Buhay Pandemya: Going Mental<p>After a year and a half of this pandemic, and intermittent lockdowns, I have come to realize the impact on my mental health. During lockdowns, I become extremely horny, as in crazy horny. As I am forced to stay put for weeks on end, my libido goes on overdrive. I consume porn (though just like a drug, tolerance increases. It takes much more to turn me on.) And I end up buying sex toys online. </p><p>I’ve always been curious about them. But with the lockdown and the convenience of online shopping (Nasa Lazada yarn!) I am suddenly adding to cart. I won’t go into the details. The reality is that some of those toys still fail to satisfy. </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-R2N_5klDePU/YVADSH2bsiI/AAAAAAAADGs/w-Vm8Oj8I6048Ub3XLA3SYlpsxxWfXXZgCLcBGAsYHQ/s2048/86F2C04B-4D5F-4124-A20D-31457DB4D675.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1536" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-R2N_5klDePU/YVADSH2bsiI/AAAAAAAADGs/w-Vm8Oj8I6048Ub3XLA3SYlpsxxWfXXZgCLcBGAsYHQ/s320/86F2C04B-4D5F-4124-A20D-31457DB4D675.jpeg" width="240" /></a></div><br />But I did find something that finally agrees with me. LOL. Hands free cup. With varying frequencies. LOL. So I am trying to control myself from getting addicted. LOL (Just like Charlotte and her “Rabbit” in an ep of SATC). Kinda pricey though. But I’d have to say it’s worth it. Sorry. No unboxing video. HAHAHA. <p></p>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6849085441847013288.post-91769541712530544952021-08-29T18:45:00.003+08:002021-08-29T18:46:25.555+08:00Buhay Pandemya: Unfinished Business.<p>MECQ extended till Sep 7. That’s a Tuesday. It is quite odd that they would choose to end middle of the week. They usually end, or start, these lockdowns on weekends. Methinks it has something to do with Ghost Month, as it ends when new moon appears… yup, Sep 7. LOL </p><p>The OC in me is using this long weekend to finally finish Bionic Woman Season 1. I bought the boxed set DVD abroad about 5 or 6 years ago. Bionic Woman, as was Charlie’s Angels, was special to me. The beks in school idolized her. She was strong. She was invincible. She was flat-chested. Lol. That was, I believe, part of the reason I idolized her. She was not in the Miss America mold (as her contemporary Lynda Carter was). I bought the Season 1 DVD to bring back memories. And realized what a chore it was to watch. The story line, the production, the writing. Ugh. But I had to finish it being the OC that I am. I actually feel … guilty for not finishing what I started!</p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-mUX-XNssKl4/YStldtE48YI/AAAAAAAADF4/_sdRSxnw5kg77VYMjxEeGdgAdWZBkS8LgCLcBGAsYHQ/s2048/A4FC0B88-CF58-4004-9382-6EF65FDE55FC.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1536" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-mUX-XNssKl4/YStldtE48YI/AAAAAAAADF4/_sdRSxnw5kg77VYMjxEeGdgAdWZBkS8LgCLcBGAsYHQ/s320/A4FC0B88-CF58-4004-9382-6EF65FDE55FC.jpeg" width="240" /></a></div><br />But the satisfaction of finishing … such joy! LOL<p></p><p>I have started very few series that I didn’t finish, guilt-free. One was “The Walking Dead.” I just stopped after the horrifying, particularly gory episode of Steven Yuen’s character’s head being clubbed. I couldn’t take that kind of gore. The other is that BL series last year, My Day. They had to resort to that disgusting scene where the resto servers were ‘compromising’ the food. I’m being gentle here. That just grossed me out.</p><p>I have started to watch two old sitcoms: The Mary Tyler Moore Show and Absolutely Fabulous. But I am not able to sustain interest. Yet, I am actually feeling guilty for thinking of not finishing it! LOL. That is why I am very, VERY choosy about which series to watch. I get all these recomms, including koreanovelas. I check out the number of seasons, and episode length. Damn those K-novelas 1hr 20minutes long! 18 to 20 episodes! Ugh.</p><p> I hope that I would be able to feel less guilty about not finishing what I start. Yeah. Rrrright.</p>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6849085441847013288.post-48047881818891040642021-08-10T05:51:00.000+08:002021-08-10T05:51:39.574+08:00Buhay Pandemya: Prayer Life<p>Since last year, my workouts started with warmups on a stationary recumbent bike. That bike was my dad’s, given by my sister a decade ago. And it is still working and operational. I pray the rosary as I bike. And consistent with my “even wear and tear” mantra, I cycle all my rosaries featured below.</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-a8xco_ioSyU/YRGfnx91KNI/AAAAAAAADEg/CwYCK0wsTkclWWXyfYwQEjiM6ibK6B57ACLcBGAsYHQ/s2048/ACFFB2FC-3E93-4587-93F4-6F90EB58BEA4.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" height="240" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-a8xco_ioSyU/YRGfnx91KNI/AAAAAAAADEg/CwYCK0wsTkclWWXyfYwQEjiM6ibK6B57ACLcBGAsYHQ/s320/ACFFB2FC-3E93-4587-93F4-6F90EB58BEA4.jpeg" width="320" /></a></div><br /><p>I have also been praying the rosary in Filipino more often as this takes longer. I work up a good sweat. I burn about 100 to 140 calories, depending on speed, effort, etc. But since I don’t workout on Sundays, I join the family (mom, Ate and Bro-in-law) for rosary after Sunday lunch.</p><p>Also since lockdown, I have started to pray the Angelus every 6am and 6pm. I don’t remember how I got started. But I do remember sometimes waiting for the church bells (yup, I can hear them from my place) especially in the evening. So it turns out that the Angelus really started out as evening recitation of three Hail Mary’s as the Angel Gabriel’s greeting to Mary. Interesting.</p><p>So possibly, I am one of those who have become more ‘prayerful’ during the pandemic. Perhaps it gives me consolation and hope. And I need that during these times.</p>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6849085441847013288.post-80120692694717260842021-07-31T07:47:00.001+08:002021-07-31T07:47:35.366+08:00Buhay Pandemya: Nakauwi ng probinsiya bago lockdown ulit<p>So, we look forward to another lockdown in a week. The gov’t has given us an allowance of one week to prepare. And that means panic-buying, crowding at the supermarkets and drugstores perhaps. They have learned from their <i>agad-agad</i> lockdown announcements? Maybe. With this administration, you never know how they are thinking.</p><p>I am lucky I got to travel to the beach house before lockdown happens. Though it’s typical <i>habagat</i>, storm clouds, rain from time to time, angry waves. I am glad that I was able to go home to the province.</p><p><i>Naka-uwi ng probinsiya</i> … that is something I never got to say before, growing up. We, technically, did not have a province to go home to. The ‘ancestral homes’ for both my folks were long gone. Both sets of grandparents settled in Metro Manila and raised their families there. So I envied classmates who were able to ‘go home to the province’ during vacation. Even c3 had that when he was growing up.</p><p>But <i>Naka-uwi ng probinsiya</i> eventually also meant being <i>promdi</i>, with all its elitist, Imperial Manila connotations. I felt that in college, entering university. In the freshman block I was part of, there were distinct segments: from province, from Metro Manila. But even that had subsegments: from exclusive schools, from Chinese schools and from gov’t schools, etc.</p><p>I didn’t know where I belonged. The peeps from Arneo, Asamson, etc., seemed to know each other so they were a clique. I certainly could not relate to that, with their cars, and their parties and proms. The peeps from the non-elite exclusives were mostly guys. My background would have fit but ewwww … they were all basketball and chasing after girls. I had an easier time assimilating with the people from the provinces. They were welcoming. But they also fall back to their regional languages from time to time. So it wasn’t exactly a perfect fit either.</p><p>But on hindsight, the biggest stumbling block for me then was my denial of my homosexual identity. It wasn’t really the language, or the shared experiences, though those things exacerbated my sense of non-belonging. I had this ‘big secret’, being gay, that I couldn’t yet admit. So no matter whom I was engaging with, we would have ‘limits’ to discussion, especially when it comes to ‘crushes and relationships.’</p><p>Coming out to my family at the latter part of my freshman year changed all that. I owned up to being gay. And it didn’t matter to me who knew about it in school. Besides, we didn’t have that block anymore. That was when I started to meet peeps from all backgrounds. Eventually, some of those became regular buddies for lunch and for hanging out. My college barkadas were formed. </p><p>Being relaxed about being gay allowed me to experience other people and form bonds with them. Sure there were bullies and homophobes. But it was easy to avoid them. In my own skin, I found it easy to be accepted and even ‘loved’.</p><p>I say this with ‘humble bragging’ - <i>Nakauwi ako ng probinsiya bago</i> lockdown. I now have a province to call my own. I am forming provincial roots. The bonus is that this place just happens to have an oceanview. But it is an angry ocean I am looking at right now. </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-4xlSYHtVmN8/YQSOb4um55I/AAAAAAAADD4/d9Zmav8Wi_AcFCny6Iooia7_u27L5DQAQCLcBGAsYHQ/s2048/8CA0098E-9511-47BA-96BE-678058D896D2.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1536" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-4xlSYHtVmN8/YQSOb4um55I/AAAAAAAADD4/d9Zmav8Wi_AcFCny6Iooia7_u27L5DQAQCLcBGAsYHQ/s320/8CA0098E-9511-47BA-96BE-678058D896D2.jpeg" width="240" /></a></div><br /><p></p>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0