So I went to Aekyung today looking for Neutrogena Toner and Moisturizer. I forgot to pack my old one when I came here and this cold weather makes my face so dry that I rushed to buy a new one. Too bad, Aekyung only had limited Neutrogena products... I was only able to buy a facial wash which I don't exactly need so I resorted to just ordering those stuff online. It's kind of urgent so I wanted to buy it in the mall and use it as soon as possible but now I would have to wait a couple more days... with uber dry and itchy skin, almost unbearable.
Since I've got plenty of time to waste, I decided to go window shopping which turns out to be a bad idea. I ended up buying some tights and underwear which (again..) I don't really need. I don't know what's wrong with me but everytime I go to malls some different person possesses me and I always end up buying something impulsively so as much as possible I stay away from malls and department stores.
I saw a lot of 'eye candy' Christmas decors and trees lit with bright lights which entertained me while walking. I totally forgot all about the Christmas season ever since I came here but the nice decors of Aekyung reminded me that it's just around the corner. It hasn't been a week but I kinda miss the carols I hear back home. I miss feeling the 'anticipation' of the coming holidays, the preparation, the food and everything that has to do with Christmas. This will be the third year I'm spending it here.
Then I remembered the last Christmas I spent in the Philippines. It was last 2005, Chris and I had dinner first at Italianni's before I came home for noche buena. It was our first Christmas together so I nodded when he asked me out..
At home, I was assigned to do the barbecue while my brother and sister were helping my mom prepare the dishes. My dad came home carrying a 'mango bravo' cake from Conti's and we just couldn't wait so we ate it as soon as we saw it! I lost count how many servings of buko salad, spaghetti and ham I ate that night (and how many pounds I gained..^^). Then at stroke of midnight, we all went to the rooftop to watch the firework display and in the middle of all that noise, we greeted each other "Merry Christmas".
Chris perfectly understands whenever I get lonely come Christmas time so he tries his best to celebrate it in a special way. But of course no matter what he does, it wont be as special as the Christmas back home.
Showing posts with label random happeinings. Show all posts
Showing posts with label random happeinings. Show all posts
12.04.2008
11.27.2008
A predicament on Drinking.
Whenever I think of Korea, I would always think of the drinking culture. I think it goes hand and hand. Koreans drink so much that they should have a city named after 'soju' (their most prized drink..).
There are a couple of occassions I fell victim to this infamous drinking culture. But before anyone start to judge me, I'll stress the fact that I am not an alcoholic nor a heavy drinker. I always think that drinking comes with occassion, in relation to this, I acknowledge that I drink occassionally.
Studies show that there is nothing wrong with drinking, unless you become a slave to alcohol. I regularly drink a glass or two of my favorite Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, or Sweet Wine. It helps me relax a bit when I'm tired or stressed. From time to time, my friends and I would would go to a bar to unwind and would drink beer (I leave the 'hard-stuff' to the boys). I hate the calories it gives, but it's all part of socialization.
But this changed when I got to Korea. I'm not really good at drinking hard liquor so there were several occassions when I got really drunk. One time with my old friend Mcqueen (an english name he took from Alexander McQueen), a student from the academy where I taught in Q.C. He introduced his friends from Anyang over grilled meat and soju. It tasted like vodka and it went down pretty easy. After a couple of shots, I felt dazed. I had to take a taxi from Ansan to Suwon cause taking the subway felt difficult. Another occassion was with B.J., a university guy who befriended me at the plane.. Together with 3 of his friends, we went to Jongro for a swig. I was surprised how well korean girls drink. Bottles after bottles of soju and the worst they got was slurred speech. Again, I got drunk after 4 - 5 shots. I had to meet Chris in Bupyung with his high-school classmates at that time and I was drunk. So I took a taxi from Seoul to Incheon and fare costs a staggering 40,000 won. Two more occassion came, but good thing it wasn't far from home. But in those two occassions, I woke up not remembering how I was able to go home that night. After that, I sort of made a promise to myself to stay away from soju.
It has been more than 3 months since I last tasted any form of alcohol, but I'm about to break that tomorrow when I go to Embassy for a girls night out. I'm actually not in the mood to party.. But I'll be away for a while and wont be able to see them, so might as well enjoy my time while I'm still here.
There are a couple of occassions I fell victim to this infamous drinking culture. But before anyone start to judge me, I'll stress the fact that I am not an alcoholic nor a heavy drinker. I always think that drinking comes with occassion, in relation to this, I acknowledge that I drink occassionally.
Studies show that there is nothing wrong with drinking, unless you become a slave to alcohol. I regularly drink a glass or two of my favorite Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, or Sweet Wine. It helps me relax a bit when I'm tired or stressed. From time to time, my friends and I would would go to a bar to unwind and would drink beer (I leave the 'hard-stuff' to the boys). I hate the calories it gives, but it's all part of socialization.
But this changed when I got to Korea. I'm not really good at drinking hard liquor so there were several occassions when I got really drunk. One time with my old friend Mcqueen (an english name he took from Alexander McQueen), a student from the academy where I taught in Q.C. He introduced his friends from Anyang over grilled meat and soju. It tasted like vodka and it went down pretty easy. After a couple of shots, I felt dazed. I had to take a taxi from Ansan to Suwon cause taking the subway felt difficult. Another occassion was with B.J., a university guy who befriended me at the plane.. Together with 3 of his friends, we went to Jongro for a swig. I was surprised how well korean girls drink. Bottles after bottles of soju and the worst they got was slurred speech. Again, I got drunk after 4 - 5 shots. I had to meet Chris in Bupyung with his high-school classmates at that time and I was drunk. So I took a taxi from Seoul to Incheon and fare costs a staggering 40,000 won. Two more occassion came, but good thing it wasn't far from home. But in those two occassions, I woke up not remembering how I was able to go home that night. After that, I sort of made a promise to myself to stay away from soju.
It has been more than 3 months since I last tasted any form of alcohol, but I'm about to break that tomorrow when I go to Embassy for a girls night out. I'm actually not in the mood to party.. But I'll be away for a while and wont be able to see them, so might as well enjoy my time while I'm still here.
A girl and her surgeries.
So I finally met an old friend over a cup of coffee. She was my group-mate in prosthetics/orthotics class back in college. She has gotten so much prettier from the last time I saw her years ago! There was definitely something different in her face but I thought it's rather impolite to ask if she went under the knife.
I guess she noticed my puzzled expression, so she disclosed she had surgery ( and I think some skin bleaching too.. ) not too long ago. She had her nose done and some chin implant to balance everything out. The plastic surgeon did a good job cause it looked really natural...
This started rumors in our college reunion early this year. I guess 'crab mentality' is one classic filipino trait that will always be present in our society. I can't understand why some people can't be happy for others. Plastic surgery is more than just being vain or dissatisfied with what God has given us. It's being happy and feeling good about yourself. It's a personal preference, and it's not for others to question, speculate, or see as debatable. I'm sure given the right finances, a lot of people would readily jump to the bandwagon to feel good about themselves and the way they look at the mirror.
In Korea where plastic surgery is as normal as getting a haircut, this wouldn't stir any discussion. In this light, I remember an interview of a famous plastic surgeon in Beverly Hills regarding plastic surgery being insubstantial and superficial (or something like that..) What he said next surprised me... "yes it is superficial", "but nobody walks down the street showing their inner beauty".. and I couldn't agree more.
I guess she noticed my puzzled expression, so she disclosed she had surgery ( and I think some skin bleaching too.. ) not too long ago. She had her nose done and some chin implant to balance everything out. The plastic surgeon did a good job cause it looked really natural...
This started rumors in our college reunion early this year. I guess 'crab mentality' is one classic filipino trait that will always be present in our society. I can't understand why some people can't be happy for others. Plastic surgery is more than just being vain or dissatisfied with what God has given us. It's being happy and feeling good about yourself. It's a personal preference, and it's not for others to question, speculate, or see as debatable. I'm sure given the right finances, a lot of people would readily jump to the bandwagon to feel good about themselves and the way they look at the mirror.
In Korea where plastic surgery is as normal as getting a haircut, this wouldn't stir any discussion. In this light, I remember an interview of a famous plastic surgeon in Beverly Hills regarding plastic surgery being insubstantial and superficial (or something like that..) What he said next surprised me... "yes it is superficial", "but nobody walks down the street showing their inner beauty".. and I couldn't agree more.
11.26.2008
Off to see a Doctor.
So today I'm going to the doctor's office to check my condition ( have cold symptoms for 2 weeks now! ). I'm leaving for Korea very soon so I have to make sure that everything's fine. As much as possible, I don't wanna be sick when I'm there. Foreigners aren't covered by the national insurance so we have to pay a lot for the doctor's fee and medicines.
During the 2 years of going in and out of Korea, I've been sick countless of times, usually during the summer season when it gets really hot and in winter when it's cold. Chris and I love going on a date or traveling almost every week but extreme temperature makes me sick. As a result, I visit the doctor's office quite often and it costs a lot of money.
My most recent visit to a doctor's office happened last October. It was a clinic in Maetan-dong near Samsung. For a check-up that didn't last more than 30 minutes (including the waiting time and a shot in the tushy^^), I was charged 45,000 won and the medicine (mostly antibiotic) was around 12,000. The other clinic I usually visit charges 40,000 won however, they have such unfriendly nurses. But in any case, it's still expensive. For those who have insurance, it'll be much cheaper, although I'm not exactly sure how much. Dental Care Clinics are also expensive. I remember a time when some of my brackets were displaced after eating crabs for dinner. They charged me just as much for gluing it back. The dentist, a beautiful woman (despite an obvious addiction to plastic surgery) in her early 40's asked what happened and after I explained to her, she blurted... "CRABS?" in long and winding tone. Her eyes widened in disbelief then she said.. "you know you're not suppose to eat crabs." Till now, I still remember her face vividly.
With these experiences, I can't help but think of those foreigners working in Korea. It can be tough for them to get sick. So it's really a blessing that some NGO's created 'goodwill clinics' to help migrant workers. I heard consultation and medicines are for free... But what about those who are working illegally? I'm sure there are a lot of 'undocumented' people who need medical attention and treatment but are not getting any. I hope the government can do something about it.
During the 2 years of going in and out of Korea, I've been sick countless of times, usually during the summer season when it gets really hot and in winter when it's cold. Chris and I love going on a date or traveling almost every week but extreme temperature makes me sick. As a result, I visit the doctor's office quite often and it costs a lot of money.
My most recent visit to a doctor's office happened last October. It was a clinic in Maetan-dong near Samsung. For a check-up that didn't last more than 30 minutes (including the waiting time and a shot in the tushy^^), I was charged 45,000 won and the medicine (mostly antibiotic) was around 12,000. The other clinic I usually visit charges 40,000 won however, they have such unfriendly nurses. But in any case, it's still expensive. For those who have insurance, it'll be much cheaper, although I'm not exactly sure how much. Dental Care Clinics are also expensive. I remember a time when some of my brackets were displaced after eating crabs for dinner. They charged me just as much for gluing it back. The dentist, a beautiful woman (despite an obvious addiction to plastic surgery) in her early 40's asked what happened and after I explained to her, she blurted... "CRABS?" in long and winding tone. Her eyes widened in disbelief then she said.. "you know you're not suppose to eat crabs." Till now, I still remember her face vividly.
With these experiences, I can't help but think of those foreigners working in Korea. It can be tough for them to get sick. So it's really a blessing that some NGO's created 'goodwill clinics' to help migrant workers. I heard consultation and medicines are for free... But what about those who are working illegally? I'm sure there are a lot of 'undocumented' people who need medical attention and treatment but are not getting any. I hope the government can do something about it.
11.25.2008
The Underage Dilemma.
Fact is, a lot of people in Korea have mistaken me for being an underage girl. I'm not sure why this thing happened a lot, but sometimes it can be embarassing (especially the part where I have to reveal my real age and people gasp in disbelief).
I'm pushing 30 in a couple of years, still young like others would say. But when I was younger, 30 was my idea of being old. Well, not now..
My first brush with the 'Age Dilemma' was at the plane, during my first time to visit my bf. A korean university guy befriended me. He kept on talking and telling me stories in his broken english, which I thought was very funny. After a while, he asked me how was I able to secure my parents permission to visit my bf in Korea... He also asked about school and everything, and if my parents are ok with me missing school. All the while he thought I was a high-school student (strange but true, blame it on my hello kitty bag!!) and was shocked to find out I'm older than him. I told this funny story to my bf and he explained to me that most Pinay look younger than their real age, and the fact that Koreans aren't well aware of foreign people's age just by looking at their faces.
Another occurence was at my bf's grandmother's house. The first time I met his 'halmmoni', she fondly called me "hakseng". I didn't know what it meant at that time so I just let it pass. Until now, she still calls me "hakseng" even if the people around her kept telling I'm not.
Sometimes, it can be quite inconvenient too, like for example going to Ministop or Family mart to buy cigarettes or beer has always been a hassle. They would always ask me for an ID card so whenever Chris would ask me to buy those things while he's at the office, I always recline. Another funny story was when we went to a nightclub after dinner to celebrate our 3rd year anniversary and we couldn't enter the place. The 'bouncer' asked for my ID card (which I left at home) so Chris told him I'm already at the legal age to drink. He kept on looking at Chris who was wearing a coat and tie at that time and towing a girl who seems to be under-age. The bouncer was suspicious that he might be a 'teen-age predator'. He was asking a lot of questions, and Chris was utterly embarassed that he decided to just go home. On the way home, I was laughing like crazy.
But it has benefits too, like discounts and cheaper entrance fees, whenever we travel. Who wouldn't want that?
Truth is, there isn't anything youthful looking with my appearance. It's just that, I always maintain a cheerful disposition which makes me feel and look younger than I really am (and also the fact that I'm wearing braces at this AGE..!). It beats all other age-defying and anti-wrinkle creams available in the market!
I'm pushing 30 in a couple of years, still young like others would say. But when I was younger, 30 was my idea of being old. Well, not now..
My first brush with the 'Age Dilemma' was at the plane, during my first time to visit my bf. A korean university guy befriended me. He kept on talking and telling me stories in his broken english, which I thought was very funny. After a while, he asked me how was I able to secure my parents permission to visit my bf in Korea... He also asked about school and everything, and if my parents are ok with me missing school. All the while he thought I was a high-school student (strange but true, blame it on my hello kitty bag!!) and was shocked to find out I'm older than him. I told this funny story to my bf and he explained to me that most Pinay look younger than their real age, and the fact that Koreans aren't well aware of foreign people's age just by looking at their faces.
Another occurence was at my bf's grandmother's house. The first time I met his 'halmmoni', she fondly called me "hakseng". I didn't know what it meant at that time so I just let it pass. Until now, she still calls me "hakseng" even if the people around her kept telling I'm not.
Sometimes, it can be quite inconvenient too, like for example going to Ministop or Family mart to buy cigarettes or beer has always been a hassle. They would always ask me for an ID card so whenever Chris would ask me to buy those things while he's at the office, I always recline. Another funny story was when we went to a nightclub after dinner to celebrate our 3rd year anniversary and we couldn't enter the place. The 'bouncer' asked for my ID card (which I left at home) so Chris told him I'm already at the legal age to drink. He kept on looking at Chris who was wearing a coat and tie at that time and towing a girl who seems to be under-age. The bouncer was suspicious that he might be a 'teen-age predator'. He was asking a lot of questions, and Chris was utterly embarassed that he decided to just go home. On the way home, I was laughing like crazy.
But it has benefits too, like discounts and cheaper entrance fees, whenever we travel. Who wouldn't want that?
Truth is, there isn't anything youthful looking with my appearance. It's just that, I always maintain a cheerful disposition which makes me feel and look younger than I really am (and also the fact that I'm wearing braces at this AGE..!). It beats all other age-defying and anti-wrinkle creams available in the market!
Just Venting.
Today has been tough. I had fever (yet again!) from yesterday. I can barely move out of my bed. But then I had to go out and drag myself to Chinabank and make an urgent deposit. It couldn't wait so I called up my mom who is doing her grocery at the supermarket nearby and told her that I'm going to the bank. The place is near, about 5-8 minutes away from home. I should've taken a tricycle but my mom insisted that I should get a taxi to go there.
Hailing from a cab, I arrived at 11:22 am. The branch where I went is fairly small so there are only few people there (about 3 including myself). As a customary, I sat down and waited till my number appears on the screen. Finally it was my turn, I hurried to get to the teller's booth (with ailing ankles and elbows!) and to my surprise the woman (teller) didn't budge and just continued doing whatever she's doing. Politely, I waited till she finishes, thinking I have enough time before 12 pm. 2 minutes have passed, 2 precious minutes wasted on the most uncomfortable silence there is. I finally told her, "I need to make a deposit before 12, it's important", then I handed her the money and the deposit slip. Before she could answer, one middle-aged Chinese woman came and went directly to the teller without securing a number first. She gladly entertained her while I'm standing there, looking annoyed. I was in awe when she asked me to sit down and wait. 10 minutes later, the transaction was done and the Chinese woman went outside. I hurried back to the teller and calmly asked what's the reason why I needed to wait that long. She then answered, "we prioritize our account holders more than anything else". I answered, "Am I not here to make a friggin* deposit?!" while fighting the urge to bad-mouth her even more.
When she handed me the reciept, it read 12:11 pm. With an angry face I asked her, "didn't I tell you it's important?", again, she didn't budge. I got her name then stormed my way out of the bank. I was more than pissed when I narrated the story to my mom. She's clearly the worst teller I have ever known!
To ease whatever I'm feeling, I decided to get a massage. After an hour, my head is clearer and felt better, but I still can't forget the incident with the teller.
Hailing from a cab, I arrived at 11:22 am. The branch where I went is fairly small so there are only few people there (about 3 including myself). As a customary, I sat down and waited till my number appears on the screen. Finally it was my turn, I hurried to get to the teller's booth (with ailing ankles and elbows!) and to my surprise the woman (teller) didn't budge and just continued doing whatever she's doing. Politely, I waited till she finishes, thinking I have enough time before 12 pm. 2 minutes have passed, 2 precious minutes wasted on the most uncomfortable silence there is. I finally told her, "I need to make a deposit before 12, it's important", then I handed her the money and the deposit slip. Before she could answer, one middle-aged Chinese woman came and went directly to the teller without securing a number first. She gladly entertained her while I'm standing there, looking annoyed. I was in awe when she asked me to sit down and wait. 10 minutes later, the transaction was done and the Chinese woman went outside. I hurried back to the teller and calmly asked what's the reason why I needed to wait that long. She then answered, "we prioritize our account holders more than anything else". I answered, "Am I not here to make a friggin* deposit?!" while fighting the urge to bad-mouth her even more.
When she handed me the reciept, it read 12:11 pm. With an angry face I asked her, "didn't I tell you it's important?", again, she didn't budge. I got her name then stormed my way out of the bank. I was more than pissed when I narrated the story to my mom. She's clearly the worst teller I have ever known!
To ease whatever I'm feeling, I decided to get a massage. After an hour, my head is clearer and felt better, but I still can't forget the incident with the teller.
11.24.2008
A picky-eater and a cook.
I don't consider myself a picky-eater, but people close to me think otherwise. My bf would always complain how difficult it is to feed me and how choosing a restaurant becomes a tedious task. I don't cook a lot at home so we don't have choice but to eat outside most of the time. Imagine spending an hour or so, deciding on which restaurant we should go to. This happens most of the time so he can't help but complain. I'm really not like him when it comes to food. He's very adventurous and I haven't seen an occassion, where he refused to eat something. When he was in the Phil, he heard from someone that eating 'balut' would increase his virility and it didn't take much prodding before he took his first bite. In my case, I never had the courage to eat balut, so the taste still remains a mystery.
So we wouldn't argue anymore, we came up with an agreement to let me cook whatever I want to eat. I liked the idea at first, but then who knew finding ingredients in the supermarket can be tough?! I'm not in any way a great cook, I think 'decent-cook' sounds more operative. I wanted to impress him with my so-called kitchen flair, so once I tried cooking adobo but the end result tasted nothing like it. When I heard from a friend that there are several kinds of soysauce and vinegar in Korea, I was dumbfounded! From then on, I started to scrutinize the labels first before putting it in the cart.
I already gave up cooking pinoy dishes to impress him (there was also a case of 'Beef Caldereta gone bad' where I put spaghetti sauce cause I couldn't find any tomato sauce!!!) and to feed my 'food-sickness' issue. Now, I just cook korean dishes for him, it's somehow easier to prepare and I know he'd appreciate it more. As for me, I make a schedule of what I should cook in all 7 days. We have what we call Kimchi Chigae mondays or Sundubu Chigae sundays.. like that. Those 7 dishes (the only dishes I can prepare..) will then be rotated the next week. But I get tired of eating the same 7 meals week by week and I would really love to try something else. Back to square one, we'd eat outside. Now, arguing on where we should eat takes an hour and a half!
So we wouldn't argue anymore, we came up with an agreement to let me cook whatever I want to eat. I liked the idea at first, but then who knew finding ingredients in the supermarket can be tough?! I'm not in any way a great cook, I think 'decent-cook' sounds more operative. I wanted to impress him with my so-called kitchen flair, so once I tried cooking adobo but the end result tasted nothing like it. When I heard from a friend that there are several kinds of soysauce and vinegar in Korea, I was dumbfounded! From then on, I started to scrutinize the labels first before putting it in the cart.
I already gave up cooking pinoy dishes to impress him (there was also a case of 'Beef Caldereta gone bad' where I put spaghetti sauce cause I couldn't find any tomato sauce!!!) and to feed my 'food-sickness' issue. Now, I just cook korean dishes for him, it's somehow easier to prepare and I know he'd appreciate it more. As for me, I make a schedule of what I should cook in all 7 days. We have what we call Kimchi Chigae mondays or Sundubu Chigae sundays.. like that. Those 7 dishes (the only dishes I can prepare..) will then be rotated the next week. But I get tired of eating the same 7 meals week by week and I would really love to try something else. Back to square one, we'd eat outside. Now, arguing on where we should eat takes an hour and a half!
11.23.2008
Done with it
I'm finally done transferring my humble friendster blog here.. Now, I'm happy how things are going..
11.20.2008
Need Haircut ASAP
I need to get a haircut soon! I'm tired of living with my 'style-less' (read: no style) hair. The lenght basically weighs it down, making it look dull and lifeless so I'm thinking of cutting it really short, sexy, and bouncy. The problem is, I don't know what type of haircut I should get. Or should I just have it permed, rebonded or relaxed? In any case, it should be low-maintenance cause I hate fixing my hair in the morning (I'm a wash and brush kinda girl...).
My idea of a nice haircut is something like shoulder lenght, layered, with side swept bangs. I've done it a couple of times and it clearly works for me... but it's kinda boring. I want something edgy, funky and has an attitude but I don't wanna end up looking futuristic, wannabe rockstar or emo babe.
I really can't decide on which haircut I should have. I browsed thru different website but nothing applealed to my taste. I'm so lost now I'm even considering having my hair bleached and dread-locked for a change.
My idea of a nice haircut is something like shoulder lenght, layered, with side swept bangs. I've done it a couple of times and it clearly works for me... but it's kinda boring. I want something edgy, funky and has an attitude but I don't wanna end up looking futuristic, wannabe rockstar or emo babe.
I really can't decide on which haircut I should have. I browsed thru different website but nothing applealed to my taste. I'm so lost now I'm even considering having my hair bleached and dread-locked for a change.
Boob-tube blues.
It's such a pain watchin my favorite 'idiot box' these days. It's just loaded with crap all day long! Nobody can't stop talking about Bolante and Dela Paz who are obviously guilty but the government isn't doing something about it other than their so-called investigation. F*ck due process in cases like this! They are the reason why people commit crime cause of poverty. The Senate is just one big stage where everybody is acting out, pretending they're doing something in front of the media. And then there's this senate coup d' etat they're talking about, which make them look like a bunch of elementary school students fighting over who is smarter. Having the faces of everyone involved, plastered in every channel makes me wanna gag.
I'm plain numb to everything, almost indifferent. But who can blame me? Being bombarded with things like recession everywhere, corruption, crime, war, and a whole lot more on a daily basis is just too much! I need a break, but it seems like TV is no fun anymore. I hope they allot a day for good news alone, cause people are sick and tired of hearing bad things happening all the time.
I'm plain numb to everything, almost indifferent. But who can blame me? Being bombarded with things like recession everywhere, corruption, crime, war, and a whole lot more on a daily basis is just too much! I need a break, but it seems like TV is no fun anymore. I hope they allot a day for good news alone, cause people are sick and tired of hearing bad things happening all the time.
Facts about blogging...
I'm not a total newbie when it comes to blogging and I'm currently maintaining a humble friendster blog. I think, I just need to expand my horizon, having another venue for writing down my thoughts.
I have a lot of things goin on in my head and I wish to put that into words. Someday when I'm old (if this is not yet obsolete by then^^ ), I would love to read all my blogs and remember vividly how I lived my life. It may not be a big thing but the way I look at this, it's some sort of an achievement in my part.
I have a lot of things goin on in my head and I wish to put that into words. Someday when I'm old (if this is not yet obsolete by then^^ ), I would love to read all my blogs and remember vividly how I lived my life. It may not be a big thing but the way I look at this, it's some sort of an achievement in my part.
11.19.2008
Ramyeon fix gone bad?!
Earlier today, I was craving for something hot and spicy. After a strenuous workout on an empty stomach, I craved for something hot to warm me up. It's really hot these days and eating a bowl of piping hot soup seems a bit far-out but I still thought of getting my ramyeon fix, so I went to the grocery and got a pack of Ramyeon.
I felt really hungry as soon as I open the door home, so I immediately boiled water and excitedly waited till it's about time to put the noodles in. It's done in less than 8 minutes, then I brought out some familiar chopsticks and started eating. While I'm in the middle of sipping the hot soup and chewing on the noodles, I examined the wrapper and saw something weird. The expiration date looked different! It's as if someone erased the original date and printed another one. Judging from the ink smear evident in the wrapper, I felt suspicious. The prior date is still embossed while there's a newly printed one on the right side. Then I remembered reading from a friend's blog about expired korean goods here in the Phil.. and this might just be the perfect example. Read on http://www.buhaykorea.com/2008/10/16/expired-korean-products-in-the-philippines/
My bowl was already half-empty before I realized the scary fact. I really regret buying that ramyeon cause I'm now nursing an upset stomach, and who knows what more will I get from eating a probably expired ramyeon.
I felt really hungry as soon as I open the door home, so I immediately boiled water and excitedly waited till it's about time to put the noodles in. It's done in less than 8 minutes, then I brought out some familiar chopsticks and started eating. While I'm in the middle of sipping the hot soup and chewing on the noodles, I examined the wrapper and saw something weird. The expiration date looked different! It's as if someone erased the original date and printed another one. Judging from the ink smear evident in the wrapper, I felt suspicious. The prior date is still embossed while there's a newly printed one on the right side. Then I remembered reading from a friend's blog about expired korean goods here in the Phil.. and this might just be the perfect example. Read on http://www.buhaykorea.com/2008/10/16/expired-korean-products-in-the-philippines/
My bowl was already half-empty before I realized the scary fact. I really regret buying that ramyeon cause I'm now nursing an upset stomach, and who knows what more will I get from eating a probably expired ramyeon.
11.13.2008
Red Hot Room
After a good workout, I just love going to the red-hot room where it reaches 57 degrees! I'm sure by now, you guys know what I'm talking about. The first time I tried it was at Clark Hatch Fitness Center located at the 2nd floor of Dusit Hotel. Sis and I were members there for a year, and we visit the sauna each and every time we were there.
The current gym I'm going to doesn't have a spacious sauna unlike in Clark Hatch... But it's decent enough to accomodate 4 people, maximum of 6. It's nice and quiet so sometimes I can't help but doze off for a few minutes!
Other than breaking a good sweat, what is really going on when we enter the sauna room... here are some facts I read..
* During a 10-20 minute sauna session, your heart rate increases by 50-75%. This provides the same metabolic result as physical exercise. The increased cardiac load is the equivalent of a brisk walk. There is a nominal effect on blood pressure because the heat also causes the blood vessels in skin to expand to accomodate blood flow.
* Blood vessels become more flexible and there is increased circulation to the extremities. During a sauna, blood flow to the skin increases to as high as 50-70% of cardiac output (compared to the standard 5-10%). This brings the nutrients to the subutaneous and surface tissue reulting in glowing healthy skin.
* Steambaths and Sauna induce sweating to provide a comprehensive cleansing of the skin and sweat glands. Skin is the largest organ in the body. 30% of the wastes are passed thru the skin. Profuse sweating enhances the detoxification capacity of the skin y opening pores and flushing impurtities from the body.
* When taking a sauna, skin temperature rises to 40 degrees celsius and internal body temperature rises to about 38 degrees celsius. Exposure to the high heat creates an artificial fever state. Fever is part of the body's natural healing process. Fever simulates the immune sysytem in resulting in increased production of white blood cells, antibodies and interferon (an anti-viral protein) with cancer fighting capability.
* Spas and other such therapeutic facilities utilize saunas and steambaths in conjunction with massage to loosen fatty tissue and sssist in the battle against cellulite.
* Many regular steam and sauna users claim that 'a good sweat' at the onset relieve and ward off the most severe symptoms of cold or flu.
The current gym I'm going to doesn't have a spacious sauna unlike in Clark Hatch... But it's decent enough to accomodate 4 people, maximum of 6. It's nice and quiet so sometimes I can't help but doze off for a few minutes!
Other than breaking a good sweat, what is really going on when we enter the sauna room... here are some facts I read..
* During a 10-20 minute sauna session, your heart rate increases by 50-75%. This provides the same metabolic result as physical exercise. The increased cardiac load is the equivalent of a brisk walk. There is a nominal effect on blood pressure because the heat also causes the blood vessels in skin to expand to accomodate blood flow.
* Blood vessels become more flexible and there is increased circulation to the extremities. During a sauna, blood flow to the skin increases to as high as 50-70% of cardiac output (compared to the standard 5-10%). This brings the nutrients to the subutaneous and surface tissue reulting in glowing healthy skin.
* Steambaths and Sauna induce sweating to provide a comprehensive cleansing of the skin and sweat glands. Skin is the largest organ in the body. 30% of the wastes are passed thru the skin. Profuse sweating enhances the detoxification capacity of the skin y opening pores and flushing impurtities from the body.
* When taking a sauna, skin temperature rises to 40 degrees celsius and internal body temperature rises to about 38 degrees celsius. Exposure to the high heat creates an artificial fever state. Fever is part of the body's natural healing process. Fever simulates the immune sysytem in resulting in increased production of white blood cells, antibodies and interferon (an anti-viral protein) with cancer fighting capability.
* Spas and other such therapeutic facilities utilize saunas and steambaths in conjunction with massage to loosen fatty tissue and sssist in the battle against cellulite.
* Many regular steam and sauna users claim that 'a good sweat' at the onset relieve and ward off the most severe symptoms of cold or flu.
11.12.2008
Some random rants about my workout!
So I'm back to the gym and been working out for 2 days! Whew... it wasn't easy as I expected.
Part of the fitness program mentioned by the Instructor is to stop using the elevator, and use the stairs while going up where the gym is located. At first, I thought he's joking cause the place is situated at the top-most floor. But when I realized that he's dead serious, I gasped. It's 15 friggin floors to climb! Even the most physically fit there would break a serious amount sweat to get to the top...
Like any obedient student, I did what I was told to do. I took a deep breath and started to climb. The first 4 floors was a breeze but lactic acid started to build up and it got difficult from there. I was gasping hard for air on the 7th and 8th floor and had to stop on the 10th cause I feel like I'm about to have a heart attack. I took the elevator from there, then finally showed my tired and sweaty face in the room.
I was already exhausted even before I stepped on the treadmill. What drained me more is the Iranian guy beside me who has some serious odor issue going on that made breathing thru my nose almost impossible! He smelled like duped socks mixed with rotten fruits and fresh chilis on the side. I don't have anything against Iranians for that matter, it's just that this person's case is 'unique'.
After a long and excruciating 15 minutes, I took a shower then moved to the sauna room. I accidentally slept there for a little less than 10 minutes while the temperature is at 57 degrees!
I was so tired when I got out of the building... so tired that I can barely move my legs so it took me 15 minutes to walk home instead of the usual 8.
Part of the fitness program mentioned by the Instructor is to stop using the elevator, and use the stairs while going up where the gym is located. At first, I thought he's joking cause the place is situated at the top-most floor. But when I realized that he's dead serious, I gasped. It's 15 friggin floors to climb! Even the most physically fit there would break a serious amount sweat to get to the top...
Like any obedient student, I did what I was told to do. I took a deep breath and started to climb. The first 4 floors was a breeze but lactic acid started to build up and it got difficult from there. I was gasping hard for air on the 7th and 8th floor and had to stop on the 10th cause I feel like I'm about to have a heart attack. I took the elevator from there, then finally showed my tired and sweaty face in the room.
I was already exhausted even before I stepped on the treadmill. What drained me more is the Iranian guy beside me who has some serious odor issue going on that made breathing thru my nose almost impossible! He smelled like duped socks mixed with rotten fruits and fresh chilis on the side. I don't have anything against Iranians for that matter, it's just that this person's case is 'unique'.
After a long and excruciating 15 minutes, I took a shower then moved to the sauna room. I accidentally slept there for a little less than 10 minutes while the temperature is at 57 degrees!
I was so tired when I got out of the building... so tired that I can barely move my legs so it took me 15 minutes to walk home instead of the usual 8.
"From where you are" by Lifehouse
I feel inspired to write about a particular song "From where you are" sung by one of my favorite band, Lifehouse.
In my previous post dated 11.1.08, I wrote about 'Soundtrack of my life'. This post is all about the songs I would like to play if I ever make a movie about my life. I included the song "From where you are" for the nostalgic scene.
You know how a song reminds you of someone or something, and you feel a special kind of feeling just by listening to it? This song means a lot to me, as it clearly expresses my 'longing-ness' for my father who died last year and I'm feeling all sort of emotion whenever I hear it. Let the lyrics explain how I feel deep inside....
So far away from where you are
These miles have torn us worlds apart
And I miss you
Yeah, I miss you
So far away from where you are
Standing underneath the stars
And I wish you were here
I miss the years that were erased
I miss the way the sunshine would light up your face
I miss all the little things I never thought that they’d mean everything to me
Yeah, I miss you
And I wish you were here
I feel the beating of your heart
I see the shadows of your face
Just know that wherever you are
Yeah, I miss you
And I wish you were here
I miss the years that were erased
I miss the way the sunshine would light up your face
I miss all the little things
I never thought that they’d mean everything to me
Yeah, I miss you
And I wish you were here
So far away from where you are
These miles have torn us worlds apart
And I miss you
Yeah, I miss you
And I wish you were here
This song is currently on repeat mode and I don't know how long till I get tired of listening to it.
In my previous post dated 11.1.08, I wrote about 'Soundtrack of my life'. This post is all about the songs I would like to play if I ever make a movie about my life. I included the song "From where you are" for the nostalgic scene.
You know how a song reminds you of someone or something, and you feel a special kind of feeling just by listening to it? This song means a lot to me, as it clearly expresses my 'longing-ness' for my father who died last year and I'm feeling all sort of emotion whenever I hear it. Let the lyrics explain how I feel deep inside....
So far away from where you are
These miles have torn us worlds apart
And I miss you
Yeah, I miss you
So far away from where you are
Standing underneath the stars
And I wish you were here
I miss the years that were erased
I miss the way the sunshine would light up your face
I miss all the little things I never thought that they’d mean everything to me
Yeah, I miss you
And I wish you were here
I feel the beating of your heart
I see the shadows of your face
Just know that wherever you are
Yeah, I miss you
And I wish you were here
I miss the years that were erased
I miss the way the sunshine would light up your face
I miss all the little things
I never thought that they’d mean everything to me
Yeah, I miss you
And I wish you were here
So far away from where you are
These miles have torn us worlds apart
And I miss you
Yeah, I miss you
And I wish you were here
This song is currently on repeat mode and I don't know how long till I get tired of listening to it.
11.11.2008
Gym woes
It's official, I'm going back to the gym today after a long vacation! I just got off the phone with the front desk officer and renewed my membership for another month. No if's, no but's, no qualms...
My target is to lose 20 lbs. It's what I gained for the last 2 years. Slowly but surely, I'm losing weight but 20 lbs seems like a long and painful journey ahead...
I've already given up fastfood and I don't eat chocolates that often anymore. I switched to low-fat milk and I'm eating my good ol' breakfast like what my mom always say. I just need to make a habit of eating fruits and vegetables.
Now that I'm going back to the gym, I'm worried about experiencing those terrible, terrible muscle aches again. At one point before, I couldn't lift a shampoo bottle from the floor cause my arms hurt so much. I also didn't dare to laugh cause my abdominal muscles are strained as well. The worst part of it all is getting up in the morning feeling sore all-over!
But for my well-being, it's worth it. If it guarantees I'd live longer, then bring it on (I sounded like a 'tough-ie' when I said that!).
I just can't help but feel envious to those people who don't need a workout all their life. A good example is my mom... she can eat anything she wants and not gain a single weight! But that is just not my case
My target is to lose 20 lbs. It's what I gained for the last 2 years. Slowly but surely, I'm losing weight but 20 lbs seems like a long and painful journey ahead...
I've already given up fastfood and I don't eat chocolates that often anymore. I switched to low-fat milk and I'm eating my good ol' breakfast like what my mom always say. I just need to make a habit of eating fruits and vegetables.
Now that I'm going back to the gym, I'm worried about experiencing those terrible, terrible muscle aches again. At one point before, I couldn't lift a shampoo bottle from the floor cause my arms hurt so much. I also didn't dare to laugh cause my abdominal muscles are strained as well. The worst part of it all is getting up in the morning feeling sore all-over!
But for my well-being, it's worth it. If it guarantees I'd live longer, then bring it on (I sounded like a 'tough-ie' when I said that!).
I just can't help but feel envious to those people who don't need a workout all their life. A good example is my mom... she can eat anything she wants and not gain a single weight! But that is just not my case
Analyzing 'Labels'
Everywhere we turn we see, eat, wear and live with labels. We have our favorite "brands" in foods, clothes, and even personal titles.
What is in a label name? Does it mean cost, prestige, quality, personal preference or is it even related to how we feel not only about ourselves but also others around us? If we purchase branded clothes do they make us look better, feel better or just cost more? Do others look at us and say they are wearing really expensive clothes they must have a lot of money? Maybe think that we are too good to associate with or on the other end of the spectrum, not good enough. If we eat off-brand food does that mean we are cheap, poor or just frugal?
In our personal lives and relationships labels abound like family, friends, aquaintances, associates and co-workers. If we tighten the circle in to those very close to us we may have the "oldest", "middle" or "baby" in the family, the "spoiled brat" or the "lost" soul. We may have a "husband/wife", "girlfriend/"boyfriend","significant other"/"partner" or "best friend".
Do these "personal" labels show the level of commitment or importance to our family, friends or "loved ones"? Or are they just useless letters used to form a word that shows no significance whatsoever? Would it make a difference in how you feel? Would it make a difference in how others would feel, treat or look at you? Would it matter at all? Or bigger question yet, should it?
What is in a label name? Does it mean cost, prestige, quality, personal preference or is it even related to how we feel not only about ourselves but also others around us? If we purchase branded clothes do they make us look better, feel better or just cost more? Do others look at us and say they are wearing really expensive clothes they must have a lot of money? Maybe think that we are too good to associate with or on the other end of the spectrum, not good enough. If we eat off-brand food does that mean we are cheap, poor or just frugal?
In our personal lives and relationships labels abound like family, friends, aquaintances, associates and co-workers. If we tighten the circle in to those very close to us we may have the "oldest", "middle" or "baby" in the family, the "spoiled brat" or the "lost" soul. We may have a "husband/wife", "girlfriend/"boyfriend","significant other"/"partner" or "best friend".
Do these "personal" labels show the level of commitment or importance to our family, friends or "loved ones"? Or are they just useless letters used to form a word that shows no significance whatsoever? Would it make a difference in how you feel? Would it make a difference in how others would feel, treat or look at you? Would it matter at all? Or bigger question yet, should it?
11.10.2008
Sad news
I heard a sad news today about a person I know and hated so much before, stricken with cancer. I got into a little fight with him about 6 years ago. The reason was petty, just blown out of proportion by his gossip-lovin gf. Too many things happened with those 6 long years and I finally found a place in my heart to forgive them for all the bad things they brought me.
He's already in stage 4 and currently in palliative care in a big hospital in Manila. A person I knew visited him today. He has gotten so much worse from the last time he visited our house a few months ago, I was told. But he's really optimistic and is so looking forward to having his operation in a few weeks. He thinks, 3 days after the operation, he can be discharged from the hospital.
I only know some things about the big C, my grandfather succumbed to this deadly disease when I was young and stage 4 means his cancer already metastasized and his time is almost up.
But God is Good. He's a great healer, and miracles await to those who have strong faith in him. And if death is really His will, then we should accept it whole-heartedly and be thankful for the life he has given us. One of the things I learned when my father died last year, is that death isn't such a bad thing. God has given my father a complete cure and rest from his illness that debilitated him for a long time. It's sad that I wont be seeing him for the rest of my life however, he was granted eternal peace and is now in a much better place not aching and suffering from any illness.
I salute my old friend for being optimistic and still not losing hope inspite of all the pain. In my heart, I sincerely wish he will get better but if it's not the case, I wish he'd have a little more time to spend with his children because they are going to miss him when he's gone.
Things like this reminds me that we are not immortal and we are liable as to how we will spend our lifetime. "Make each day count" is now an adage I'm trying to live by...
He's already in stage 4 and currently in palliative care in a big hospital in Manila. A person I knew visited him today. He has gotten so much worse from the last time he visited our house a few months ago, I was told. But he's really optimistic and is so looking forward to having his operation in a few weeks. He thinks, 3 days after the operation, he can be discharged from the hospital.
I only know some things about the big C, my grandfather succumbed to this deadly disease when I was young and stage 4 means his cancer already metastasized and his time is almost up.
But God is Good. He's a great healer, and miracles await to those who have strong faith in him. And if death is really His will, then we should accept it whole-heartedly and be thankful for the life he has given us. One of the things I learned when my father died last year, is that death isn't such a bad thing. God has given my father a complete cure and rest from his illness that debilitated him for a long time. It's sad that I wont be seeing him for the rest of my life however, he was granted eternal peace and is now in a much better place not aching and suffering from any illness.
I salute my old friend for being optimistic and still not losing hope inspite of all the pain. In my heart, I sincerely wish he will get better but if it's not the case, I wish he'd have a little more time to spend with his children because they are going to miss him when he's gone.
Things like this reminds me that we are not immortal and we are liable as to how we will spend our lifetime. "Make each day count" is now an adage I'm trying to live by...
Under the weather
The weather is awful today, rain is so strong that it's impossible to get out. I dread the thunders that keeps getting stronger and stronger.
I need to get out, I feel cramped and suffocated. I wanna do something else besides staring infront of the computer and lying in my bed. Who knew taking too much rest can be tiring as well.
I'm fighting this urge to get my jacket and go out. My mom is going to be hysterical if I go out in a weather like this. Besides, the traffic is so bad right now, I might just get stuck in the middle of nowhere. I'm just feeling 'melancholic' that's all and wanna be some place quiet to jog. Yes, I like jogging while I'm in deep thought.
Or should I just head out to a quiet coffee shop nearby? But I know people have issues about being alone. Like if I enter a place without a book or a laptop and just stay there for a while, people stare, they start to gossip. I remember a scene from Sex and the City and SJP is talking about books being an armor whenever she's out and not with her friends. In my case, I hate reading outside the premises of home. I have a very short attention span when it comes to reading books (but I love reading them!) so I need to be confined in my room to be able to do so because people roaming around, chatting about their new conquest, or just plain bad-mouthing someone absent is just too distracting for me. Tinkering with laptops while drinking coffee sounds more acceptable. I can spend the whole day in front of the computer regardless whether there are people roaming around or not. But I'm not a busy person, nor do I have a project which needs to be finished. I don't have any reason to do stuff with computers outside, got plenty of time to waste at home.. It's just plain wrong. But then again, it's my business so who cares if I do so?
Good thing I'm meeting my friends tomorrow. I just hope the skies will be clearer by then.
I need to get out, I feel cramped and suffocated. I wanna do something else besides staring infront of the computer and lying in my bed. Who knew taking too much rest can be tiring as well.
I'm fighting this urge to get my jacket and go out. My mom is going to be hysterical if I go out in a weather like this. Besides, the traffic is so bad right now, I might just get stuck in the middle of nowhere. I'm just feeling 'melancholic' that's all and wanna be some place quiet to jog. Yes, I like jogging while I'm in deep thought.
Or should I just head out to a quiet coffee shop nearby? But I know people have issues about being alone. Like if I enter a place without a book or a laptop and just stay there for a while, people stare, they start to gossip. I remember a scene from Sex and the City and SJP is talking about books being an armor whenever she's out and not with her friends. In my case, I hate reading outside the premises of home. I have a very short attention span when it comes to reading books (but I love reading them!) so I need to be confined in my room to be able to do so because people roaming around, chatting about their new conquest, or just plain bad-mouthing someone absent is just too distracting for me. Tinkering with laptops while drinking coffee sounds more acceptable. I can spend the whole day in front of the computer regardless whether there are people roaming around or not. But I'm not a busy person, nor do I have a project which needs to be finished. I don't have any reason to do stuff with computers outside, got plenty of time to waste at home.. It's just plain wrong. But then again, it's my business so who cares if I do so?
Good thing I'm meeting my friends tomorrow. I just hope the skies will be clearer by then.
11.08.2008
Ouch!
Had fever from yesterday! I just can't stop moping about my joint and muscle aches. Are these 'terrible' signs of aging or just simple symptoms that goes with fever? I felt like I need to exercise to feel better and to shake off the pain so I went on a 3 hour walking-spree this morning (exercising while having a fever to feel better is a myth my family believes in). I arrived home at 1 pm tired, thirsty, and hungry. Then I felt dizzy, so dizzy that I need to lie down. Soon after, my body's temp just got higher and higher. I normally don't take paracetamol but this time I had to. I feel much better now at 38.7 degrees... But the aches and pains are still there and it makes climbing stairs feels like hell...
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
