Random Rants

Butch Shoes

Air Jordan 11 Retro Grey

Believe it or not, there was a time when I wore basketball shoes regularly like the way I wear Chucks or espadrilles nowadays. That was way back in grade school up to high school when some of my pants could fit one person in each leg.

It's my brother's and father's fault. They were both so into the Nike Air Jordans and the Adidas Kobe pairs. I remember having Grant Hill's shoes by Fila, Kobe's by Adidas, Dennis Rodman's by Converse and Jason Kidd's by Nike.

Thankfully, me and my father have since moved on to other shoes. My brother, however, has become obsessed with these things. He has been collecting Air Jordans since he went abroad. Last week, we were chatting online and he expressed how he was feeling "fucking bad" because he missed the one pictured above. Apparently, there are a lot of lunatics out there who waited in line and the limited edition shoes sold like hot cakes.

So I felt bad for him because I know what it feels like to lose a shopping opportunity like that. He told me it is my "mission" to find those shoes once I get back in Manila. Little did he know that I was already making phone calls.

The six outlets that carried the pairs in Manila sold out, Nike Iloilo seemed clueless about it, but luckily, the one in Ayala, Cebu, still had 2 pairs in his size. So the race begins.

It's a good thing my friend Rica, who is based in Mactan, was kind enough to go all the way to Ayala, pick up the damn shoes and send them our way. Now, my brother is in cloud nine and I feel like a fucking hero because that's what family is for, right?

TVs in Restaurants

What is up with restaurants having TVs? Seriously! Italliani's? Burgoo? Really? What the fuck. I swear it turns the hell off of me. I see a nice looking restaurant with a seemingly sumptuous menu, then I see a fucking TV and I'm like "No." It's a total deal breaker! Even when I eat out alone, I still don't want it. I ruins the ambience, the experience, it's very, uhm, carinderic. Please, just off with the TVs! Thanks.

D-listed

If people go on movie marathons and Korean drama series marathons, well I have been on a Kathy Griffin Youtube marathon. It's insane because these are videos that I've seen multiple times before; Bravo specials, her series, guestings, you name it. I just can't stop. It's too hard. It's like crack.

With a fizzle?

What are you doing on new year's eve? Me? Oh, I don't know, maybe curl up on my bend and cry myself to sleep?

The initial plan to party it up in some hotel in Makati isn't likely to happen. I can go to my aunt's place in Cavite or just celebrate with my friend Jules and her sister's family but I don't know.We'll see. Either way, have a great, happy, healthy, wonderful new year!

literarybulimia@gmail.com

Back for New Year's

Good morning girls and boys and girly boys!

So I'm back in Manila. I arrived yesterday. Is it sad that I went straight to work just a couple of hours after touchdown? When I got to the office, a pile of work shit on my side table welcomed me back. Now, I just woke up and I miss not having to worry about what to eat.

Tomorrow, H, myself and another friend were supposed to welcome 2011 partying in a hotel in Makati. The other friend bailed out and H will not be able to stay the entire night. What the hell am I going to do? I don't know yet. But I do know I desperately need to get my hair cut stat!

literarybulimia@gmail.com

Fail

Last Monday, my friend Jen and I went up all the way to Anti-fucking-polo for a job interview. I already had doubts when I found out the interview is going to be in this bumfuck place. It was a surprise since this is with a major TV network.

I headed out despite feeling sick. Good thing my friend was kind enough to accompany me. Man was it a long way. And to think I considered going there in a cab.

Imagine my shock upon finally reaching their office.

Yeah, we had to ride a trike because this place is a couple of blocks off the highway. Check out the surroundings.

I was confident because I believed the written works I submitted were pretty good. When I realized I have to work here (given I get hired), I got discouraged and just wanted to get the interview over with.

The idea of me working in such a rural setting, in a very far away place that would take me two hours to get to, where the cafeteria is a nipa hut tucked beside some resident's house and some foliage, is so ridiculous, Jen and I had a good laugh about it.

Before the interview, I had to accomplish a 4-part writing test. My work was so uninspired. I had to write it in their lobby where male employees were chit chatting about sports and other uninteresting topics. I was told I only had 30 minutes but my work wasn't collected until over an hour later.

During the interview, I wasn't nervous at all because the setting was quite informal. Did I mention I just wanted to get it over with and scram? That's until I found out mid-way that they are actually relocating to Shaw, which is about 15 minutes from my place, in March 2011.

I thought I was cool during the interview but apparently 'cool' isn't going to cut it because they still haven't invited me to meet the channel head. They told me I'd receive a text within the following 5 days if I'm qualified for the next level. It's been a week.

Yeah, I'm a little bitter. But whatever.

literarybulimia@gmail.com

Holidays with HS Friends

Oh, how time has passed.

Luke, Pet, Melissa, Hanna and moi.

Last night, me and some very good friends from high school got together to have our own little Christmas party. I can't believe it's been almost 10 years!

There's about 2 or 3 people missing but we had a good time. After having dinner by the beach and boozing up a little at Mel's place, we went to some bars then had a bite at this cheap ass place that serves very "hearty" shiz like deep fried chicken skin.

You know what I like about us? We still say and do the same bullshit, or even worse, which means better.

Enjoy the holidays with your family and friends. Merry Merry Christmas!

literarybulimia@gmail.com

Some Concerns

My dad just went inside the room and saw the boots that I got some weeks ago. He just smiled and even laughed if I'm not mistaken. That's a good thing I assume. Plus, he hasn't asked me yet about getting a girlfriend. Let's not go there please.

This morning, my mom and I went to the doctor to get my throat checked. We're seriously considering a tonsillectomy but the doctor suggested that we observe it (again). If it still doesn't go back to normal after a week with the stronger medication, we're going to have to do a swab culture to identify which type of micro-organisms are fucking up my throat. For a moment, I worried that they may find, uhm, sperm in the sample but I realized, no, that's highly unlikely. So I'm relieved.

Oh, and I just extended my stay. Kudos to Cebu Pacific for now allowing customers to change or cancel flights online!

literarybulimia@gmail.com

Home For Christmas

What up bitches? I'm finally home.

Can you spot me? (No, not the glittery flower silly.)

I have just woken up from a 5-hour slumber here in our humble abode after having been awake for over 24 hours. I didn't sleep last night/earlier while waiting for my flight. Instead, I met up with MFG for a very late dinner just before I headed to the airport. What's funny is I actually feel better now despite the physical exhaustion. I think my fever is gone.

I'm thinking of extending my stay. But I don't know. We'll see. Here's to finally enjoying the holidays!

literarybulimia@gmail.com

Good News Bad News

Let me just tell you how ashamed I am of myself for not blogging regularly lately. It's not good! But as usual, I'm short on time. It's been crazy. I'm supposed to leave for home in just a few hours. I'm not even sure if I'll be able to get some sleep. My flight is at 5:30am. I haven't even packed yet! Plus, I'm also very sick so yeah, happy holidaze alright.

Despite all this, I'm feeling good right now. I just saw my grades online! You see, I flunked a midterm exam and I've been paranoid since then. It's a relief that I don't have to go home bearing bad news. Not only did I pass, I actually did more than good! It's awesome!

Now let's hope I don't miss my flight and I get well soonest, yes? Later.

literarybulimia@gmail.com

Still Alive

What is it like to blog again? My gawd, it's been ages!

Between work and the unending academic responsibilities I've had to deal with lately, plus my fucking throat, which I'm seriously considering getting surgically removed--the tonsils that is, it has been very hard for me to feel the Christmas spirit.

Remember that guy I was talking about in my last post? Yeah, well he's history. We had a petty argument last week and since then we didn't bother to patch things up. I think we both knew it wasn't working out. He was great as a date. But I just couldn't see myself being with him for the rest of my life and this perception is most likely mutual. Anyway, we all saw this coming didn't we? The most heartbroken  person in this situation however is my housemate who really liked the guy (for me) a lot.

It's probably a good idea to stay single for a now. I don't know if I can juggle a serious relationship together with school and work. It astounds me though how I was able to squeeze in a very late lunch with MFG today considering I had a major presentation afterwards for school.

How about you? If you haven't done any Christmas shopping yet, you're not alone. I guess I'll see you at the check-out lines!

literarybulimia@gmail.com

Dates, Updates, Due Dates

The past two weeks have been packed. Hence, the lack of updates. It's not ending soon as I have finals to worry about---and then there's work and the occasional dates that I try to squeeze in.

Speaking of dates, last week, I met a guy. We've been seeing each other almost everyday since that first date. He's very thoughtful, low maintenance and not bad looking. But I'm not sure if I'm ready to take this to a more serious level. I'm beginning to think it's me that there's something wrong with. Oh well. Let's see how this one turns out.

How's your December coming along? Oh, happy Hanukkah by the way! I've already booked my tickets to go home this Christmas. As much as I want to give in to the excitement and giddiness by planning the meals I'll whip up for my family and maybe by doing a little shopping, I have to focus on school first. I am one report (due in 2 days), one final exam and one marketing plan away from either going home with a merry holiday spirit or with bad, embarrassing news. Do me a favor and pray I don't fail graduate school, yes? Thanks!

literarybulimia@gmail.com

Who rocked it better?

It's the prince versus the pauper. Whose look is more homeless than chic?

Styling Supernova Nicola Formichetti

Minimum Waging Fashion Nobody Yours Truly

It's obvious. Nicola who? Hahahah...

Check out his blog for more styling genius.

Photo: BoF

literarybulimia@gmail.com

Pictionary: My Bloody Wall

This is a long delayed post. I finished painting my wall weeks ago but I didn't get the chance to shoot it until yesterday. I wanted to capture it with natural light.

It's not noticeable in the pictures but the color of that column at the right is different from the rest of the wall. I painted that part a few weeks before I finished the entire wall. I originally planned to cover the rest of the wall with this gorgeous black and off white, victorian wallpaper that I saw at True Value but I thought one roll wouldn't be enough and two would just be too damn expensive. So now I have a solid red wall which reminds me of Mr. Big's. He didn't quite like his "communist China" wall though while I really like mine.

This sitting area of the room needs a few more furnishings; a floor lamp is at the top of the list followed by a bean bag or a small ottoman and a rug.

Circles

Homeless Chic at Home

Off topic: This is an old shirt that I wear at home especially to bed. It's perfectly, naturally distressed. I can't get over how comfortable and Rodarte-ish it is.

This antique, wooden sofa (?) is from my housemate H.

By the way, have you noticed the interesting shift of interest from fashion design to interior design? I definitely have. I think it's a sensible transition during these days of fashion this, fashion that. I personally have been more inclined to visit furniture shops lately than clothing stores. I'm not turning my back against fashion, no. But I like how I've recently developed a special liking for interior design and architecture. I like to think it broadens my creative sensibilities.

literarybulimia@gmail.com

The (Gay) Social Network

You know what I hate? Having to go back to square one---but hopefully with a lesson or two in mind.

After weeks of neglecting my my homo-tastic online account, it has recently been revived and now back in business. It's one of the things I hate love hate love hate love hate after a break-up falling out.

Most of the time, it's an eye-roll fiesta what with the bullshit 99% of these guys say. And don't even get me started with those pictures where they're "smizing" like drop-outs from the Tyra Banks School of Modelling. Isn't it funny how everyone wants to be a model and/or photographer these days? Yeah, it's fun and laughter at times but there are moments when you just want to shoot the computer and hope the bullet comes shooting out of his screen.

You had me at 'hello', you lost me at 'sex po tau'.

There are a number of hot guys out there, sure. But a lot of them should really just shut up or leave their profiles with the basic information. Otherwise, they end up proving to you that God, after all, is fair. If he is too fond of replacing the 's' with a 'z' I'd rather get some Zs than talk to him. Like, zeriously.

Also, cut the crap with the "I'm just a simple guy" statement. It's not cute. It's pretentious in most cases. That sensitive guy front ain't gon' fly wit' me! Oh, and you know how they send you a message with unnecessary formality introducing themselves courteously and tell you poignant thoughts about love and hope? Aww... No.

OkIfeelbetteraboutmyselfnowbye.

literarybulimia@gmail.com

Heart Under Repair

Because I'm such an expert at love, err, heartbreaks, let me break down the four stages of a break-up/falling out as I understand it. Notice how many times I used the word 'break'?

1. Hurt- This is where the impact is the most methinks. It starts with denial. This also entails a careful assessment of how the situations were handled. Self-pity is also pretty common. Everything is a hot damn mess bound to be filled with tears and maybe even alcohol. Emotional extravaganza, anyone?
2. Bitterness-"I'm ok. I mean, I'm happier without him. What the hell was I thinking?! I deserve someone much better." Riiight. Try not to shoot those lovers canoodling in public.
3. Acceptance- You're slowly starting to open up (Read: Slutty McJizz. JK). Gradually, you realize that you'll actually be alright, if not truly better, without him. These are the last days in heartbreak rehab. All of a sudden, there's an abundance of very eligible guys. A little sting may still be felt everytime you remember him but it's not the kind that lingers.
4. Apathy or Friendship- You know longer care about the "Who Dies Miserably" game. In fact, there may even be a genuine care for this ex or former love interest. Wishes of his demise are replaced by sincere apologies or friendly greetings. This stage though is the hardest to come to. Some people get stuck in either of the last three ones which is really horrible and one of the reasons why love is so fucked up.

The worst effect of getting your heart broken is it exhausts you of your ability to trust. It makes you lose faith and could possibly leave you with a cat, anguish ridden Facebook shout-outs, and a table for one in your favorite cafe. Yet, here we are thinking it's worth another shot.

literarybulimia@gmail.com

Hardest Hit

It's heartbreaking that for the first time when you're willingly, even gladly, giving up the freedom that you've been so used to enjoying just to be with this person for the rest of your life, you realize it's still simply not enough.

It's funny how he questioned my faith and commitment when now... this.

He's right. I've been an emotional wreck lately only holding on to a promise that a part of me wishes he never made. I've been a mess and will probably be so in the next couple of days. But I appreciate his honesty no matter how much it hurts. I just wish we talked about it personally.

I know he'll probably read this just like the way he reads the rest of my entries that practically declare I'll slash my wrist for him. The thought of him constantly getting a peek into my mind and heart has sometimes discouraged me to talk about it here. It's unfair that he gets these updates whereas I would barely get a text from him for days and at times I'm left in the dark. "Faith," I said to myself. But this is my blog. My turf. He, or anyone for that matter, is free to make assumptions. I, on the other hand, am just being honest and I do not intend to censor myself to make a desirable impression on people.

This means I get to keep Christmas. Uhm, happy holidays?

Love really does fuck you up, doesn't it? But I can't say I'm surprised. Logic has been nagging me for some time now but I dismissed it and chose to be hopeful, faithful. And you know what? I don't regret it.

literarybulimia@gmail.com

Two Hearts

It's been crazy. You know when you're in the middle of a laugh and suddenly it hits you, and you feel your cheeks slightly deflate, your smile awkwardly disappearing?

The past two weeks have seen the emotional whirlwind that I've been in. But I'm not alone apparently.

I got out of church to find 6 missed calls and 1 message on my phone. I have to be honest. I wasn't surprised. But I was upset naturally.

She sat on the couch recalling what had occured while I was listening intently. Seeing a tear on her sleeve and bruises on both her arms crushed me. I thought about revenge. But fortunately, we're better than that. I know how trampled she was but she barely cried. And when she did, I sat closer and only caressed her head. Embracing her seemed more meaningful but I thought we'd both just break down.

I know she'll get pass this. Maybe not soon, but it should only get better from here. She deserves much, much better.

As for me, well, no amount of shopping, going out and other debauchery kept me from thinking about one person. I see a nose with a "Jewish bump" and I remember him. I know. I know.

Oh, I don't know.

Anyway, here's one of the songs that I have on repeat lately.



Faith. Hope. Love. That's all. Good night!

literarybulimia@gmail.com

True (Rainbow) Colors

Touching.



Right now, there's only one person whose acceptance and understanding I'm really hoping for.

literarybulimia@gmail.com

D Day

Attending fashion week was my way of renewing my commitment to fashion. Today, I re-affirmed my commitment to health and fitness. While everyone else spent their day remembering loved ones who passed away, I stayed home whipping up meals.

It has been two months since I last set foot in the gym. So I decided to detoxify today. No rice. No meat.

For breakfast, I had what I eat pretty much everyday; oatmeal with a little sugar, a banana, and Milo with coffee and cream. The chocolate drink and oatmeal combo helps speed up my metabolism.

For lunch, I prepared a salad with lettuce, arugula, singkamas/jicama and tomatoes dressed with vinaigrette and a sprinkling of just a little bit of cheese on top. I had it with orange slices and pineapple juice. It would have been a really refereshing meal had I not put too much dressing. My homemade vinaigrette was literally dripping from my chin. I got a little queazy afterwards.

Dinner was much more enjoyable. I had mashed potatoes, corn on a cob and egg salad with pineapple juice. I cooked/made everything except for the gravy.

I also tried to jog this evening but it won't stop raining so I decided to just go home and sweat it out indoors. Crazy dancing anyone?

I should do this more often. Nothing beats that lightness after getting rid of useless crap from your body.

literarybulimia@gmail.com

PFW SS 2011

Honestly, at first, I was thinking "What the hell am I doing here?" Then half-naked models strut down the runway.

SMX

My Philippine Fashion Week "debut" was so full of hunger and lining up that at the end of the shows, which was around 11PM, I was ready to devour a whole pack of gum just to have something to digest besides my own intestines. I felt like a real model then.

Rommel, Erin, moi

We arrived around 4:30PM just in time for the Junjun Cambe show followed by Lito Perez's. The former's collection was quite good but it's sad how the PR people didn't even bother to fill some of the empty front and second row seats. Kelly Cutrone does not approve!

Tokyo Cafe

I went with Rommel and of course Erin who naturally knew a lot of people at the shows. He introduced us to the fun (and flirty? lol) Gabbie Sarenas who is also a fashion designer.

This was around 6PM. My next meal was around 1AM at Makati Avenue.

Me and Gabbie

 
Attending these fashion shows is really not an easy feat, especially for plebs like us (excluding Gabbie) who have to register and stand in line to get in.

Non-Front Row

It's surprising. I never really expected that much people to flock SMX. I got a little scared for my life at the Penshoppe show because it felt like the bleachers were about to collapse. Penshoppe, by the way, is going for a Parisian summer next year. A lot of the items really reminded me of Mango. Are they targeting a new market segment? It's an interesting shift.

What we mainly came for was the Visions and Trends Show which our friend Xernan Orticio is a part of. My favorites are Bo Parcon (Goth  and grey!), Kermit Tesoro (McQueen inspired?), Don Protasio (The shoes are fantastic!), Xernan Orticio (Amazing construction!) and this other one (whose name I completely forgot) who showed Pucci-colored catsuits. The rest? Meh or utterly gauche methinks.

As for the models, it was great seeing Charlene Almarvez in the flesh but the best catwalk-er would have to be Ria Bolivar, followed closely by Grendel Alvarado. Best abs goes to Carlo Adorador.

Those are the combat boots in the big, black bag I'm talking about in my last post.

After the shows, friends and some acquaintances were egging us to come with them to Cubao X but I was simply too friggin' tired and hungry for that. So Erin and I just went to Makati Avenue ang pigged out. We're not models after all. But let me tell you this, my being famished the entire time allowed me to breathe better in those pants.

literarybulimia@gmail.com

Big Black Bag

Starvation starts in 3, 2...

How red is my wall?

Fuck Maslow's hierarchy of needs. I have to lose weight anyway.

literarybulimia@gmail.com

This Week

Thank God. Now that midterms is done and over with, I can finally focus on more important matters like Philippine Fashion Week.

To be honest, I'm a little discouraged to go because I don't have any idea what to wear. I have a look in mind but those bad ass chunky, slouchy, leather boots that Erin and I found at Greenbelt are way over what I am logically allowed to spend. I have two days left to find something like these or these. I need to find good footwear otherwise, I'll go barefoot on Saturday night and call it homeless shit chic.

Anyway, here are a few pics from last Monday when I met up with Erin and his wonderful friend Patricia.

Patricia, Erin and moi goofing around Power Mac

Smile! Pose! Click!

After Ayala, the fairy and I went to The Fort to finally check out Muji which was followed by dinner at Larry's.

Erin and I shared this healthy, hefty dinner plus fruit drinks and some tea.

MFG popped by to say hi which was a great way to cap off the day eventhough the first thing he said was, "You're wearing a poncho!" Clearly, I was not. It's a scarf.

Muji Plastic Drawer: Home For My Clutter

That's how my week is going so far. I hope everything gets better in the coming days---for you and for me and the entire human race.

literarybulimia@gmail.com

Fabulous Faith

For the first time in my life, I'm feeling a painful blow against my sexuality. I really didn't pay attention to such concepts before as I know what is right or wrong---and that doesn't mean I've been living a virtuous life. But when someone else who I truly value, someone whose thoughts, beliefs and inclinations may slightly differ from mine, is involved, it becomes an all-important dilemma commanding each tear to fall.

It's unfair that the decision, willingness, determination to commit to this one person seem not enough. I'm worried that these feelings are seemingly inadequate. Well yes, love is powerful. But love for what, or for whom, conquers all?

All this because I'm gay?

The entire time I've been keeping the faith, hoping. I honestly feel like I've evolved into a different person capable of that much patience, restraint and understanding. Sometimes I think I've completely lost my mind. Maybe I have. But I certainly have not lost my determination. At the end of the day, I'm comforted by the fact that I'm doing my part in the best way I know, with all that I have.

literarybulimia@gmail.com

Eat Pray Whine

What do you do if your restroom is getting retiled and you can't use it for the next four hours or so? You curse your overactive bladder of course and make it a good excuse to go see a movie and call it a social life.

If my weekends are not spent buried in school work, I do it by attending to home improvements and chores. As I've mentioned, my wall is finally finished. This time around, the part of the apartment that kept me concerned is the restroom which is finally getting retiled after weeks and weeks of reminding the owner. The contractor has been on it since yesterday. I thought everything will be done by this afternoon but no, they need one more day. And since tomorrow (or today) is a holiday, the retiling won't get finished until Tuesday. It's so frustrating.

Anyway, after hearing mass, H (good friend and now housemate) and I went to Greenbelt for dinner with another friend. The two of us then watched 'Eat Pray Love' which is a very long yet entertaining movie. I like it because it has food, travel and romance. It touches a few, important philosophical matters that most grown men and women can relate to. Also, James Franco is in it.

It was almost 2am when we got home. Now, taking a bath means standing on a puddle of this cement-like tile adhesive which, as we were told, should be dry by this evening. But it's not. What a mess. Whatever. Tomorrow's another day; one with no work so that's awesome. Good night!

literarybulimia@gmail.com

Watch This Space

 Spot the previously gargantuan pimple.

Since yesterday afternoon, I've been slaving over my wall. I would have finished it last night had I not run out of 'Happy Red' which is about 95% of the mixture. So after work today, I went straight to Ace Hardware not minding the storm.

Happy Red, not Jollibee red.

It looks good. I'm not taking/posting more pictures until I'm done cleaning up though. I'm beyond exhausted, my limbs are about to fall off.  Good night.

literarybulimia@gmail.com

KLM Bag Tags

Look what arrived in the mail today!

This is a sketch I made months ago. I want it on a t-shirt.

It's from a limited online promotion of KLM where they let you design your own bag tags by putting any picture on one side. The tags are then delivered to your doorstep, all for free.

Thanks to H who sent me the link, I got to grab a slot, et voila! An envelope containing two similar bag tags came this morning! It was a good way to start the day. Come to think of it I should have shared the link here. Tsk! Tsk!

MFG do you remember this? We were talking when I made this online. I even shared the link to you. Anyway, I miss you.

literarybulimia@gmail.com

Muji Manila

Forget the Forever 21 sale this weekend.---err, at least I will. Their men's selection is reminiscent of Surplus Shop.

The opening of the first Muji store in Manila is a more delectable swiping spree methinks.



I haven't buried myself in credit card debt in a while and this may be the perfect chance. Now if I can only have the time.

Check out Chuvaness for a sneak peek of the store located in The Fort, right above the Gap store.

literarybulimia@gmail.com

In Sickness and In Style

Thank God I'm feeling so much better now. Last Sunday night I was feeling so sick I thought it was time to say buhbye to the world. I had to miss work yesterday to rest (and by that I mean I did school work and cooked herbed chicken or something like it) and to consult a doctor. Surprise, surprise, it's my fucking throat again. Seriously, I'm making the makers of Bactidol and those of Augmentin---which is so fucking expensive by the way especially if taken three times a day for a week---very rich.

Anyway, I just want to whine about how I've been so stressed out lately. That same night that I got so sick was the first time in a long time that I slept early, at 11pm. Juggling work and school isn't as easy as I thought. The last time I went to the gym was a month and a half ago. These days, sprinting my way to class is the closest I get to exercising. Good thing school is usually quite fun, especially tonight's Marketing class, so that makes things bearable, at least for now.

In other news, Philippine Fashion Week is just around the corner. I already got one invite courtesy of Xernan Orticio. Hopefully, I'll be able to make it this time. I've already missed way too many shows in the past. It's about time I report to the the tents local fashion scene. What I'll wear is beyond me. I was thinking of those black 'mandals' from 5cm but they've sold out. It's probably a good thing though because that would have been two month's worth of groceries. Ohmigod, I'm favoring logic over fashion? What's my name again? But seriously, right now, I just need to get better and stay alive.

literarybulimia@gmail.com

A Little Cheese

It's not easy. But, I'm, you know... It's just that. You... And all this. It's... Oh, you know what I mean.

literarybulimia@gmail.com

25 Hours

First, news flash: Mayon Volcano has officially relocated to my face. PHIVOLCS take note! It shouldn't be a wonder. With the amount of stress I've been subjected to, it's bound to physically manifest.

Time is the ultimate, ultimate luxury indeed. If I had more of that, I want to do a little shopping, have a long, sumptous lunch and/or dinner, finish painting the rest of my statement wall, paint the antique-ish, wooden sofa H gave me, watch 'Eat, Pray, Love', sleep for at least 8 hours, and if I really had that much time, not to mention moolah, I'd like to go to the beach or even just Tagaytay and simply relax and clear my mind. But who am I kidding, right?

It's 11pm. I have to eat something.

literarybulimia@gmail.com

Epic Shittiness

I am beyond pissed off and so fucking disappointed. But I'm also busy and I have a paper to work on so fuck it.

I'm just going to stuff my face with Becky's Kitchen brownies and some left over vodka while I make the most of what's left of my brain cells. Have a good night.

literarybulimia@gmail.com

Friends Until Further Notice

Are you the answer?

Is mine a sad story pre-written by fate?

The reason why you should never lose hope is because you would not recognize opportunity even when it's not standing right in front of you. But what if it just becomes too difficult to hold on?

I'm not good at heartbreaks. Considering how many times I've experienced it, I should be good at this by now. But you never really get used to it. I'd be laughing at myself if it didn't hurt this much. I guess I have to stop thinking about what I'd be like as a Jew.

Simply put, as I understand it, he needs to work on himself first before he can be in a relationship and work on ''us''.--- Work. There's a word.

In fairness to him, he's been honest and he apologized for his shortcomings. He did exert efforts to make it work. Last night, he made a promise. But for the meantime, he wants me to keep my options open.

I never even got to tell him about the Garlic Potato Soup that I made. He's the one who suggested it.

P.S.
Some stranger just messaged me online asking if that was me he saw at Rockwell 2 weeks ago and provided a detailed description. That certainly was me. That's the night MFG and I had dinner.

literarybulimia@gmail.com

Mushroom

Look what sprouted among a pile of damp rugs at my laundry area yesterday morning.

It's so freaky! It came out of nowhere. I couldn't get over it so I just had to take a picture. Another one appeared last night but both died today.

literarybulimia@gmail.com

The Haggard, The Helping and The Heart

Somebody give me an award!

When I woke up this morning, I knew it was going to be a full day, but I didn't know it was going to be this crazy. The 5 carat diamond that formed in my bladder today while stuck in traffic and while waiting at the DFA is not even half of the story.

I dropped by at the office this morning, sent money on behalf of an uncle, then went straight to the DFA for an urgent concern regarding my sister's documents. The liaison sounded like an unhelpful prick over the phone so I decided to just miss work and do it myself.

After four hours of starvation and what seemed like a lifetime of waiting, after calling home to greet my dear pops a happy birthday and after two phone calls from abroad regarding more favors/errands, I went back to Mandaluyong to meet friends who are staying over my apartment in the next few days.

It had started raining really hard when we left the my place. They went to Tiendesitas for debauchery while I headed to school, but not before paying for the credit card bill which was due today. It was supposed to be easy if the Bayad Center nearby wasn't already closed. I had no choice but to take a detour and paid at SM just before finally making it to the classroom---panting, with wet shoes.

After the good round of discussion in class, I checked my phone to find 6 missed calls---from the office. It was the secretary who was still at work at 8:30 pm. Bitch couldn't find some files so I had to call her. It pissed me off because my phone was getting low on charge. I had to drop by 7Eleven to charge my phone before hopping on a cab to finally do something for myself.

With my Marketing book on the left hand, a bag of Starbucks goodies on the other, and hope in my heart, I marched to his office not knowing how he'll take my surprise visit.

He was in a meeting when I called. He came up to me with this smile I haven't seen him wear before. It was good seeing him looking happy like that.

"Mission accomplished," I said to myself.

I watched him walk away taking with him the coffee and muffin that I brought, that smile of his, and a good part of me.

literarybulimia@gmail.com

Mad Man

You know how strong your feelings are for someone just thinking about it makes you cry?

I was talking to a good friend over the phone the other day. After a good round of cheerful conversation and laughter, I realized she was right when she pointed out I've never talked about a guy like this before. She somehow found it mesmerizing how serious I am with this one. It's not just her. I was with H yesterday and she noticed it too.

I'm honestly uncertain about where or how this will all turn out as nothing is black and white. But just like he said, anything worth keeping is worth waiting for.

literarybulimia@gmail.com

Fridate

I kicked his ass shooting hoops! Err, he's sick but whatev.

MFG. Me. Dinner. Timezone. :)

literarybulimia@gmail.com

Random Rants

Second First Day of Class

When I left the house and it started to rain really heavy, I was wishing I had a car to drive to school. It's a bitch going around the city via public transport when it's pouring.

This class was more fun I think. The introductions were much simpler, and we actually had a lengthy discussion about the course. At some point though, it got too cold, I couldn't even concentrate. I had bullets for nipples.

About 15 minutes before we were dismissed, this guy nonchalantly walks in and explained he was late because he just got into a car accident and had to file a police report. Suddenly, the MRT wasn't so bad.

At the end of the class, my groupmates and I exchanged numbers.

Just Say It

My favorite geek is right. I do have trouble saying no. It's mostly because I don't like confrontations and awkward conversations. Sometimes, believe it or not, if it's not such a burden on me, I tend to compromise my own convenience. My idea of "being nice" is fucked up, I know.

This has to change. This. Will. Change.

MFG

I miss you.

P.S.
I already said no to the guy who wanted to share the Internet connection---nicely of course. No fist fight necessary. lol

literarybulimia@gmail.com

Intro

Just when I found the classroom, I realized it never occured to me to bring a notebook. So sweating like a pig, I made my way to National Bookstore. When I got back, there were already about 3 people inside the room. Nobody talked to anyone. Not even nods were exchanged as far as I'm concerned and I was perfectly fine with that. I sat the closest to the front (second row) while everybody seemed to avoid the seats at the center, except for this not bad-looking guy who sat about two chairs to my right.

People trickled in as I patiently sat there trying to appear cool and calm while these two girls to my right chattered about. A few minutes after the scheduled start of the class, this svelte woman barged in wearing a smile and some pretty fabulous heels.

As expected, we had to introduce ourselves one by one. Not only that, at the end of the resume information, we needed to provide an answer to the question "If you were a product, what would you be?"

With as much bravado I could muster, I stood up and said my piece.

"Hi. Call me James. If I were a product, I would be a bag because... I'm a hobag at heart?"

Fine, I didn't really say the last part. I was even too shy to say it would be nice to be a black, croc Birkin.

The introduction to the lesson went smoothly although I realize there's so much I need to learn. It's strange for me to say this but I wish we had even just a little discussion about the course itself and not just an outline of what to expect from it. But no, she let us go about 2 hours early. Oh, but only after our Vietnamese classmate had our group picture taken!

On the way out, I was surprised to be approached by this guy who works as an area manager(?) for FedEx. He must have thought I'm into the puss puss because he called me "pare". I wonder if I changed his perception after actually talking to him.

Climbing the stairs of the LRT station, I came up to a classmate in front of me who was going to the same directoin. He seemed to have worse socializing issues than I do. I could only say so much niceties so I decided to hop on the first train that stopped while he was lining up to get a ticket. I'm a little sorry I didn't say goodbye.

That's about it. Not so interesting eh? I have another class tomorrow though, so we'll see.

literarybulimia@gmail.com

Back to Schoolness

How does the first day of school make you feel?

When I was in high school, this day got me worrying so much about which class I fell under. For three years, I (my mom) had to pull some strings just to let me stay with my friends in section 3. During the last year though, I gave up and just stayed in section 1 which turned out very well.

Tomorrow,  I'll be starting school again. It's not high school, thank God. But I still can't help but feel anxious. I'm supposed to be inspired, not pressured.

I honestly don't know what to expect. But I hope this learning experience is a good mix of maturity and fun just like this interesting combo of hot tea with mint leaves and Nutella sandwich that I'm having right now.

literarybulimia@gmail.com

Staying In is the New Going Out

It's amazing how I've evolved into a younger, watered down, third world version of domestic daddy lately. Just last night, I was in the shower scrubbing the fuck out of that floor like it's a Vogue Hommes editorial. The only thing missing was Meisel and maybe a flat stomach.

I was dripping with sweat two nights ago doing home improvements while yesterday, I spent the afternoon slaving over my tuna-prawn pasta. I'm proud of it!

I also recently tried iced tea with mint leaves. I think I have to put more leaves next time.

Also last night, I found myself chopping carrots which I mixed with corn and sauteed in butter.

Staying at home the entire day doing chores does get very frustrating, especially the cleaning part. But I think I'll be fine.

I have to cut this short. That pan of potaters won't mash itself.

literarybulimia@gmail.com

Because I Need More Education

As I inhale the free snack provided after the 2-hour orientation, seated alone on a bench across the building where most of the other new students were, I realized how far I was from everybody. I observed how each stranger sat next to another stranger and just seconds later, they start chattering about.

Today was a long day. I am officially a student again.

I've been anxious about the enrollment because it's the same time the ID picture is taken. That's all fine and good except they required us to be shot in a long-sleeved shirt (in a plain, solid color that would look prominent against a beige background) with a tie. First of all, I didn't know how to tie a tie. Then I realized I also didn't have any shirt that fit the description.

So off I went to Greenbelt yesterday. It's the first time I went to a mall in quite a long time. After getting this simple shirt in eggplant from Topman, I decided to walk around. It's funny how I spent so much time in SM supermarket, Dimensione and Ace Hardware! It's so Nate Berkus and Martha Stewart rolled into one! Anyway, when I got home, I learned how to do a half windsor thanks to YouTube.

Fast forward to this afternoon; I was in the men's room struggling to secure the top button of my shirt. I swear I almost choked myself doing it. Did my neck get fat? After about 30 people took what could have been my spot in the line, I was able to get the button through the whole. And boy did I tie that knot very well---blood circulation be damned! Now I wish I could say I worked it in front of the camera. But my picture isn't even GQ cover material. It was just OK. Oh well.

Sitting there didn't feel pathetic surprisingly, although a part of me regretted that I didn't mingle with the rest of the students. Then I figured I have at least a year to get to know these bitches so I called my mom instead and joked about how I wasn't able to enroll because the money wasn't enough.

This ought to be an interesting learning experience. Wait... I'm not the graduate school version of Cady Harren, am I?


literarybulimia@gmail.com

Pinay at FNO 2010

Look who made it to the second year of the Vogue organized event Fashion's Night Out. As you may already know, it's fashion week in NYC. Our girl, Charlene Almarvez, strut it out together with over a hundred models including runway legends Gisele, Naomi, Karolina and Coco in The Show which is spearheaded by the queen bee herself Ms. Wintour.

This is just the studio shot which I assume was taken before the show.

This is not the first time Charlene is walking on a New York runway. And hunny, I'll bet my kidneys this ain't the last. I won't even be surprised if she's already booked for the European shows.

Photo: vogue.com

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