Tired Traveler

Sleepless and with only oatmeal in my tummy, I went to the airport around 11:30 am and found the longest lines, the biggest crowd of travelers I've seen in NAIA Terminal 3. It was crazy. Everyone's going on holiday trips.

It seems like the airlines/airport can't keep up with the volume of travelers though. My 1:30 pm flight to Iloilo was moved to 4:25 pm due to technical reasons. Just what I needed. I was really looking forward to sleeping in the plane and more in the hotel before meeting friends for dinner. But I didn't need to be more stressed about it so I just decided to grab a sandwich and some cookies.

Thank goodness my brother sent me his old Blackberry. It was fun hottie watching (there were lots) but I couldn't do just that for 3 hours.

Four o'clock rolled around and still no boarding announcement. My suspicion was confirmed when I saw the Cebu Pacific ground staff at our gate handing out Jollibee meals. More waiting, 4:45 pm was our new estimated departure time.

As there were too many exhausted travelers waiting, a lot of us had to settle for the floor. I had my Chicken Joy Japanese style. It ain't Bon Chon but hey.

The rest of the time I spent walking around, browsing online and live Tweeting my flight delay debacle.

Surprisingly, I didn't hate the experience so much. I just wanted to make sure that the flight doesn't get cancelled altogether. It was out of my control so I might as well take it lightly. Besides, other people, including elderly and handicap ones, were also subjected to the same inconveniences.

It was already almost 6 pm when we finally left Manila. I was out for the most part of the flight. You can just imagine how glad I was upon landing ILO. I couldn't wait to get to my hotel.

Then, just when I thought things were looking up, it turns out they didn't have the exact room I had my friend reserve.

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A Chill in the Air

Stop stuffing your face with potatoes and what-not! JK.

How I wish you were here. I walked along Makati Avenue alone last night. I looked for a cake to no avail. Got a cab at the same spot.

I hope you're doing good and taking care of yourself. Happy Hanukkah!

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Holiday Rush

Just a few hours before Christmas and I still don't know how and where I'll be by midnight. It's my first Christmas away from home any family member. I've attended four parties but really, all I've been wanting to do is get more sleep and relax. It's been pretty hectic lately.

All I did today was do my laundry and clean the bathroom. I've been so busy I haven't had time for such mundane activities. I wish I had more time to do other things. Don't even get me started about gift shopping.

In the meantime, I desperately need a haircut so I have to go. Enjoy the holidays!  Merry Christmas or Happy Hanukkah everyone!

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Pattern at POEA

Is it just me or is this so Jonathan Adler?

Oh, these government offices.

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The South

Greetings from Cebu! I'm only here for a night for work but I'm glad to have made this trip because I've never been here. I know.
 

The way from the airport.

Dinner treat by our host.

I was supposed to visit in October. I even already had tickets. But something came up so I was a no-show. Anyway, I'm beat. The event was insane. Good night.

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Stress Express

It's a whirlwind of activities. Done with events but there's one more final presentation this Saturday. The former went pretty well. As for the latter, we barely have anything to present. Then there's work. I intended to blog more but alas I'm always out of energy.

It's been some time since I last had a complete 8-hour sleep. Even when I was at home, I didn't sleep long enough. Naturally, my body is reacting to the stress. I've had this heartburn for almost two weeks now and my throat has also given in. I'm a mess.

I'm running on vitamins and a whole lot of stubbornness. I hope I make it to next week when hopefully, everything will be more laid back. Again, hopefully.

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The Neighborhood Tailor

Greetings from my hometown! I'm here for the weekend to attend my cousin's wedding.

After the festivities, my pops and I walked to the neighborhood tailor today. It's the same one who has been making our barongs since I was a lot younger. He also made the military-inspired pants that I designed back  when I was in fifth grade. Yeah, I started early.

It's good to know he's still around. His shop reeks though. I'm glad he's quick so we didn't have to stay there for very long.

I had some old button-down shirts altered. They're pretty decent but are too big. Hopefully the result will be good so I can finally wear them soon after being stored in the closet unused for years. They're too nice to be put to waste. By tomorrow, I'll be able to get one to check the fit. Is he fast or what? I'm not sure how much it's going to cost (thanks to pops) but I don't think it's as much as it is in Manila.

When we got there, he was working on a pair of Levi's jeans which he was supposed to reduce to 31" from 40". According to my father, who is a loyal client, this tailor used to be based in Manila. He also used to have other tailors working for him. But they were too stubborn so he decided to get rid of them and go solo. I wish there were more like him who prioritize craftsmanship and not just money. His work is clean and he really understands tailoring.

Also, there's something wonderful about going to that tailor today with my father. It's just like the old times.

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In Motion

See what has been draining me physically, mentally and financially.

This Tuesday, our event will cap off this class with a party featuring a fashion show of 60 looks from 4 collections. We have been slaving over this so I really hope everything turns out fine.

Let me know if you'd like to come. :)

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Us and the City

Well, if you're tired, you take a nap-a, you don't move to Napa! It still makes me laugh. It's one of my most favorite episodes. Plus 'Moon River' is a beautiful song. Everything is just gripping, so emotional.

All I was missing tonight were pink Louboutins. *sigh*

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Penguins in Manila

It has been around for some time now but I never got the chance or the interest to go to Manila Ocean Park until this weekend. My parents were visiting and they brought my 10 year-old cousin so I suggested paid the place a visit.

I personally thought the rates were quite steep but I guess it takes that much to maintain such demanding facilities. It was a good time to go because they recently launched a new attraction; penguins! They are the cutest! See how adorable they are and the rest of their marine living friends below.

What a fun weekend. I still think of those penguins fondly.

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Fight!

This battle is certainly not easy. The numbers are alarming and no one is spared.

Even when I'm not active in the playground, I still get scared. And it's not just because I'm paranoid like that. Talking about it is one thing, actually doing it is a different story. It's a long, hard battle--and yes I'm aware of the naughty pun. I'm not one to preach because I've done some mistakes in the past and who knows up to when I can play my cards this well? Then again I think it's the same experiences that warrant me to sound the alarm. It's not fun being subjected to such emotional and mental turmoil while waiting for the test result.

So think about it. Yes, long and hard. Think before you fuck, before you suck or whatever it is that may expose you to risks.

On a lighter note, here's some Gaga goodness for some encouraging musical scoring.

Take care.

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Save the Date

See you.

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Sweet Saviors

There's so much going on right now and I can barely keep up. It's one of those times when I seriously, yet again, just want to break away and breathe. But since that's impossible right now, I try to relieve myself with more feasible options.

This one, unfortunately, is not very good for the waistline.

Thanks to relatives in Dubai and a friend who recently visited Austria and another friend who went to Japan.

It doesn't help that I've stopped going to the gym but what the fuck. I need the sugar rush and as much endorphins as I can get.

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The Boy With the Star Tattoo

I'm telling you it is such a small gay world. Seriously. It's not even funny.

After over a year, we see each other again. The moment I caught a glimpse of him I started rummaging through my brain trying to find a name for that face, for that tattoo. Then I remembered. And because I'm curious and perhaps also stupid, I managed to end up in the same jeepney as him... and his male companion.

So it looks like he still lives in the same place. I think about that time we met. We talked and walked around a spot near my place then ate a little. It was intimate but not carnal. He was charming but also quite lonely. He was also younger so I had my inhibitions, doubts. Then, we stopped talking to each other. After some time, I tried to meet up with him only to be cancelled on at the last minute. Something came up. He admitted it was because he was seeing someone else that night.

Then over a year later, here we are. Me, exhausted, just got out of work, with my earphones on, heading home early on a Friday night. Him, with that tattoo, carrying a guitar, and if I'm not mistaken, more muscular although still a little short. I think he recognized me. We exchanged a few glances. Those eyes. We didn't talk to each other though.

As for the other guy, he might be the boyfriend, the guy he saw that night instead of me, I don't know. I was more interested in what's inside the Topman bag he was holding.

After a few minutes, it was time for me to alight. I contemplated on giving him a look before stepping out but I didn't. I just walked away, picked up my laundry and headed home.

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Random Rants

November Friday

Italian film fest. Tofu chips. Japanese dinner. City lights. McDo. Late night walk. MFG. 11.11.11.

Bench and Georgina Wilson on ANTM

Georgina for Bench Body. Shot in Greece. Not my favorite photo of her.

This hasn't been shown on local cable yet but I already saw the entire episode online. Uhm, that's it? I expected girlfriend to get more airtime than 5 seconds. Great publicity for Bench though. Filipino fashion designer Michael Cinco is also on the show. His creations will be featured on the final runway show which is kind of a big deal.

The One That Got Away

I'm still warming up to the song but the video is touching. And OMG Diego Luna!

It's refreshingly "normal".

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Crucifix

Have I told you my mom brought me a crucifix? Yeah. The last time they were here she noticed the absence of such in my room so when they came back last week, she brought me one. Not contented with that, she also left me with this wooden, foldable frame with holy images on both sides. It's like she's trying to perform an exorcism. A simple, minimalist cross would've sufficed really.

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Patchi

Thanks to my sister, I got a taste of Patchi, the revered brand of chocolate from Lebanon that opened an outlet at The Fort several months ago. Popular among celebrities, savoring this confections may just be considered a luxury.

This definitely ain't Goya. It's creamy, smooth, not too sweet, but I'm not sure if that justifies its price.

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Consumer Corner: Bench Fix Agent Bond

When it comes to hair styling, I've always favored the bed head look. I like the wash-and-wear principle so I can save time and worry less about locks being out of place. But when I do feel the need to change things up a bit, I normally brush my hair up (when it's long enough) for a sleeker more polished look. I have a thick head of hair so it's not easy. That's when Bench Fix's Agent Bond Styling Gum comes in.

Gum not gel.

I've been using Bench Fix hair products for years now and I'm very satisfied. First of all, they're inexpensive yet innovative, they come in different sizes, and are now available in department stores.

When we went to the SLIMS show at Fashion Week, I forgot to bring my hair paraphernalia (styling gum and a comb) so I went to SM Department Store and thankfully found Agent Bond in sachets (3 for only P15!).

PFW S/S 2012

Never mind that I did my hair with my bare hands. It looked good I think and as with all the Fix products I've been using, it also smelled great. I also like how they rate the shine and hold levels. It makes for easy decision making. Agent Bond gets a 4 at both components.

If I had more time, I would've been able to achieve a cleaner effect but I'm pretty happy with the way it came out. I find it really awesome that I can achieve the shiny, sleek, look free of worries about stubborn locks  without getting professional help. It just saves me time and moolah.

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Big Bad Wolf

OMG. Have you seen this?

I died. It's genius.

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A Visit to the ER

It's a good thing I no longer get nauseous over needles. As a kid, I'd practically faint.

Waiting for the result at the ER.

I spent an hour or so at the ER today. Not exactly how I would prefer to spend the first day of the month, or All Saints' Day, or any day for that matter but I just had to go because I was starting to freak out.

It started with a rash that appeared on my right arm the other day. I thought it would just disappear but it didn't and even spread to my legs. I called several clinics including those in malls but no derma was around so to the ER I went. It was a difficult decision because I seriously dislike hospitals. I was very uncomfortable there. There's just so much negative energy I think.

Based on my CBC results, nothing seems to be wrong. Platelet, white blood cells, etc. are normal. And except for the paranoia, I feel excellent really. No fever or vomiting so we're pretty sure it's not dengue. The doctor said it's a non-specific viral infection and prescribed me antihistamine. I'm hoping to see a derma before the weekend.

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Hallow's Eve

The most terrifying images are not the ones you see on TV or anywhere else, it's the ones in your head.

Happy Halloween!

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Random Rants

Busy

Snapshot from our AVP.

I've been so busy lately I haven't had the time to update this little online nook of mine. About 5 nights a week, I only get to to sleep for 5 or 6 hours. Between this internship and school (Events!), I don't even get to watch TV at night anymore. So you have no idea how glad I am about this long weekend. Enough whining.

Kermit for Gaga

Lady Gaga wearing Kermit Tesoro x Leeroy New 

It's not surprising that Kermit Tesoro managed to get into Lady Gaga's wardrobe. But to actually be a part of the official artwork for one of her videos is headline material if you ask me. Whether she's wearing the outfit in the actual video or perhaps in one of her performances, I don't know but it's highly likely.

Friday at Fiamma

Oh. My. God. The Friday before last (I'm that backlogged) was fucked up. It has been so long since I went out so I was really looking forward to having a really good time that night. It was a friend's birthday so he treated us out to drinks at Fiamma.

Maybe I was too tired, or, God forbid, I was just too old for that shit, but I was not having it. We got there around 12am and the club was packed. What I like about Fiamma is they're very strict about not allowing smoking inside. What I don't like so much is majority of the crowd are still in their puberty.

Anyway, one of our friends, let's call her A, got too much to drink because she was "conscious" as the guy she recently went on a date with, was there (he's a good friend of the birthday boy). It's too bad because she was looking good with the towering heels and the cute outfit but bitch could barely walk.

I was ready to go when I went out of the restroom. But on the way back to our seat, I saw her holding on to strangers trying to make it to the ladies' room. So I assisted her and waited outside. Little did I know that I was going to stand there for a good hour. People came and went but no A went out. I could see her standing in front of the mirror holding on to the sink. We were all getting concerned as we weren't sure how to get her home.

After a lot (seriously) of pep talk, we finally got to make her stand up. We asked one of the bouncers to help us out but really, most of her weight was on me. We got her to Jen's car but it was a long time after we figured out what to do. Good thing Jeff egged Nikki to come back, she was the only one who knew where A's house is. The four of us tried to call has the one holding her hair while We didn't want to transfer her to Nikki's car because she was barely conscious I went with Jen and Nikki led the way. Jeff stayed at the club with his friends. That was almost 4am when we left.

Except for a missed turn, everything was under control until A tried to open the fucking door while we were on EDSA. Jen freaked out and pulled over while I snatched the plastic bag and practically wrapped A's head with it. At that point, we lost Nikki so we had to get her directions over the phone. We finally made it in front of A's house and called their helper. She was miraculously able to walk (still in heels) and managed to come inside without kissing the ground. It was around 5am when we finally got to go home.

The following day, A wanted to kill herself. We still tease her about it up to now. The night didn't go as planned but it definitely gave us something to laugh about.

Photo: capitalfm.com

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RiRi Found Love

The reason why I usually don't blog about Rihanna's videos is because they usually have the same themes. When she's not a sex kitten in severely provocative styling, she's a dominatrix or a troubled sensual damsel. While her new music video is still very much sexed up, its short film quality differs 'We Found Love' from the passé work she's made in the past. The premise is reminiscent of 'Love the Way You Lie' but this one, in my opinion, manages to tell a more profound tale about lost lovers whose love for each other is more than what they can properly handle.

A collaboration with Calvin Harris, whom I honestly haven't heard of until now, the song is a promising club hit.

Also, I'm a sucker for stories of dangerous, consuming, euphoric relationships so this music video is on my good side.

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Trying

This was the other day at the office. They couldn't get out no matter how much they jumped. It was entertaining.

Mices two pieces.

I've started doing tasks I'm not sure how to do. I do have a mentor but she's always busy. Today, I went home around 7pm and I still didn't finish what I was working on.

It's frustrating. But probably not as bad as getting stuck in the trash so you know. I can't complain.

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Juggling Act

I need at least one more hour in each of my days.

This Monday, I started going to a new office. As mush as I would like to refer to it as a new job, it's really just an 8-week training. I'm crossing my fingers but only God knows what happens come December. I finished the first week today, err, tonight. I went home at a quarter past 8 which was not good because I kept the parentals waiting. Yup, my folks are in town. Tomorrow, Saturday, they'll go to Cavite/Tagaytay to visit my aunt. I won't be able to join them because 1. I have to go to my old office; 2. I have a dentist appointment; and 3. I have to go to school for a shoot for our events class. So much for a relaxing weekend.

I'm tired. I'm really tired, exhausted, call it whatever you want. But I don't hate it. At least not yet. All these activities keep me from entertaining thoughts that don't really do me any good.

That's all for now. I have to cap off this Friday night earlier than usual for obvious reasons. Have a good weekend.

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Backspace

So this is how it is to lose the ability to erase mistakes. This afternoon, the 'Backspace' key of my computer came off. What a great hassle. 'Delete' is not going to cut it. I brought it to several repair stores today but none of them have the necessary spare part. One suggested I should just replace the entire keyboard. FML.

It makes you think how important this key is. To be able to delete mistakes in an instant is so convenient. Imagine if you can do that in real life. I really hope I can have this repaired very soon. In the meantime, I'll be more careful.

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Hard and Soft at Louis Vuitton S/S 2012

It's true when Braynboy tweeted that Louis Vuitton's latest collection looks like Marc's audition for haute couture. I didn't plan on writing about it but when I finally saw the pictures, I was in awe. Two words would describe this collection; luxe pretty.

I personally have reservations about Marc taking over Dior but that's just me. If ever that does happen, Louis Vuitton needs to have Marc pass the baton to Phoebe Philo because her sophistication is perfect for the brand. After the whimsical, youthful, playful vibe that Marc has given to LV, I think it's about time it goes back to a cleaner, sophisticated and ultra luxurious aesthetic.

In the meantime, enjoy blooms, croc skin, giant eyelets and pointy stilettos with Marc's latest offering.

Photos: Fashion Gone Rogue

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Strictly Business

Remember The Chef? Uhuh, from the archives. Well, I just came home from dinner in his new restaurant. I was with friends and we talked to him. It's strictly business though, something for our events class. It was weird because I don't know if he remembers me so I wasn't sure if I should call him 'Chef' or address him by his first name. Also, there was someone else there who may or may not have made an impact on my romantic life. What a small world indeed. It's all good though. No drama.

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Rogue

Finally, balls. Rogue has been pretty consistent with their covers. They know how to do sexy without being vulgar.

This one is my favorite. It's simply stunning. If you have someone as gorgeous as Anne as a subject, it's a challenge to elevate her already striking sultriness but they were to achieve that with this. Her eyes just grab your attention. I'd be the last one to support smoking but in this case, I understand how it contributes to the story of the image.

At first I thought this one is a waste of ass-baring nudity but I get it now. This shoot looks like it was very well directed. I like how the light hits her body. Very sensual.

This one I'm not so sure of. It's not a bad picture but I personally wouldn't put it on the cover.

It's good to see that Filipino magazines are stepping it up, trying out new things---for the local industry at least. Hopefully, more publications will follow suit and experiment more. Enough with the generic movie stars in passé covers.

Photos: Rogue

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Home Care

Greetings from home. Not even a month after my last vacation, I'm back here again. Not exactly for a vacation unfortunately. I'm here for a second, err fourth, opinion.

Except Tuesday when Pedring hit, there wasn't a day in the last week that I didn't visit a dentist. Apparently, that root canal didn't do the job. The problem is unfortunately worse than I thought. Naturally, I got concerned, freaked out, cried and got paranoid. My parents are not totally convinced with the advice of the dentists I consulted in Manila so they suggested that I go home and ask the opinion of my pops' dentist friend. I think my case is getting better but I won't know whether I'll need a surgery or not until several weeks from now. It's exhausting, not just physically.

This doubly sucks because I was supposed to be in Cebu now for a short weekend trip. Good thing that ticket was cheap.

Anyway, I'm glad to be home, even for just a short time. I've been eating heartily. My parents are awesome at keeping me sane. Here's to getting better.

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