Farewell, 2010! Hello, 2011!

The clock is ticking and in a few hours, we are welcoming yet another year.

Funny, I didn't realize how fast 2010 passed by. It seemed only yesterday that I am celebrating the New Year with my dear family. Next thing I know, here I am again, waiting for the clock to strike 12 to say hello to 2011.

I am absolutely thankful for the year that was! No doubt about it. 2010 has given me so many experiences to remember. A lot of laughs, a lot of tears, a lot of stress, and a lot of surprises. Everything about the past 12 months, I am very grateful to the Lord. I cannot thank Him enough for letting me go through it all so I can become a better person.

For the year that passed, I am thankful for...
1. Lakbay Norte. Eight destinations in seven days... Need I say more?
2. Monthly Francisco gatherings at Lola's house. Every month is just absolutely fantastic! Thank you, Lola, for cooking the best foods ever!
3. My 24th birthday. While my celebration wasn't a three-part party like last year, I still had a wonderful time celebrating with my loved ones.
4. My second year anniversary at work. When June came, it wasn't just me celebrating another year in the magazine, it was definitely a joyous time because it was also the time I was promoted.
5. Going places. Literally! Whether for work or for leisure, I was happy that I get to travel.
6. Family bonding sessions. No matter how busy we are in our own work, I am so thankful that my family and I always have time for each other.
7. Starbucks GB3. Seriously, I don't think the year would have been the same if the partners aren't there. Thank you for the many treats!
8. Weddings. I've attended weddings of the people I am close to... And it was such an honor to witness the love they've shared with their better halves. Thank you for making me part of your wedding.
9. Christmas with the Francisco clan. Christmas with the Franciscos will forever be great! I always look forward to celebrating the holidays with the whole Francisco clan. This is what it really means to celebrate.
10. New people. This year, I have gained new friends. A lot of new friends. And simply for that, I am absolutely grateful. I thank God for letting me meet these amazing people who have made my life more colorful.

So what's in store for me in 2011? I have absolutely no idea. But here are a couple of things I am looking forward to...
- Kuya Rom and Ate Liza's wedding
- Trip to Batanes
- Lola' 92nd birthday
- My 25th birthday
- My third year anniversary in InFlight magazine
- Mama and Papa's 35th wedding anniversary
- Trip to Australia

2011, I claim you will be a year of my prayers answered! I leave it all to God.

Thank you, 2010! You've been great. To 2011, here's to a beautiful year ahead.

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The truth about 'hanging out'

I woke up about 30 minutes ago for who knows why and unfortunately, I can't go back to sleep. I'm still hoping that after I've done this blog post, I'll be able to go back to sleep.

Hmm... So what can I blog about? My brain is still in a very sleepy condition so bear with me if I'm not making sense in this post. I truly am sorry if at this rate, I am wasting your time with nonsense.

Oh! Ok, now I have a topic. It's not really something I would really want to blog about but hey, it's better than nothing, I guess.

So yesterday, I had an interesting conversation with a good friend of mine. Interesting because it's a conversation that had me trying to convince her that I know what I'm saying and I know what I'm actually doing.

She asked me: "What's the difference between hanging out and going on a date?"

I admit, it was a little hard to answer the question only because I didn't really know how to explain it properly. But whenever I get asked if I'm dating somebody, I always say no. It's true, I'm not dating anybody. I haven't been dating for the past two years. BUT -- yes, there is a but -- I do hang out.

People these days, they think that just because a guy and a girl go out, it automatically means they're dating. Well, folks, sorry to burst your bubble. But there is a big difference between "hanging out" and "dating."

When my friends ask me if I'm dating this guy, I immediately say no. Because we're really not dating. We're simply hanging out. We hang out because our meet ups are usually spontaneous, unstructured, even. We invite each other to doing things that don't necessarily involve romantic feelings whatsoever. That, in my opinion, is hanging out.

A date, on the other, well -- call me old fashioned, but for me, a date begins with a formal invitation, like "Would you like to go out on a date with me?" It's planned, it's structured.

When dating, it usually means that two people have this ongoing, exclusive relationship. Hanging out is more ambiguous; it doesn't connote exclusivity.

I say I hang out with a guy because we share time together. I'm not saying that when I'm hanging out with someone, it won't lead to dating. I'm just saying that at this point, this is what we do... We hang out. I mean, who knows, maybe in the future, after spending much time together, an attraction builds up between two people and ultimately, that will lead to dating.

What can I say, I'm really a very old fashioned person. Is there anything else I should be explaining?

That, my friends, is the truth about "hanging out."

Ok, time to hit the sack again.

Early bird random blogging.

I have been awake since 4 o'clock in the morning and even though I should just go back to sleep and wake up at 6am, I opted to turn on my computer and log in my blog.

November. Yeah, it's November already. I'm still in a bit of shock at how fast time goes by. In just 53 days, Christmas is already here and yes, I am already thinking of my Christmas wish list. And I will be posting them some time soon. Hehe.

The past month has been interesting, to say the least. It's been a good month, actually. Despite being the very busy person that I am, it's amazing that I have made time to go out and just hang around some places. No, unfortunately, I wasn't able to go to out-of-town trips since I've a lot of things to do in Manila but I still had my moments of going out and just relax.

I'm very excited about this month. Really, I am. I'm excited that I'm seeing my friends again and go to dinner with them to catch up on stuff. I'm excited that I'm going bowling with my other friends soon. I'm excited to attend to my friends' wedding in less than three weeks. And most of all, I'm so excited to go to that out-of-town trip that I have been hoping for since my birthday!

I was looking back at my blog on my to do list when I turn 24 and it's just hilarious! I look back and say to myself, "What the hell was I thinking when I did this?" Hahaha! Here's an update...

1. Go on a trip on my own --> doing it on November 27-28

2. Organize my closet --> I've been cleaning my closet every week

3. Buy one gadget I really love --> Not yet, but SOON!

4. Watch a play --> Cats is love... Hehehehe

5. Go to a spa --> Aaack! No, I haven't done this...

6. Start writing a book --> Maybe not yet the right time. I don't even have a clue how to begin

7. Reconnect with a childhood friend --> I have! But that needs a repeat...

8. Go on a weekend retreat --> By end of the month...

9. Swap books with a friend --> Yep yep yep

10. Start a travel blog --> I couldn't find the time to start this one... Tsk tsk... Or maybe I shouldn't start a travel blog... Maybe just another blog... Hmmm....

11. Buy a friend coffee --> Done this too... Hehehe

12. Buy a new pair of shoes --> This year, I bought 3 pairs of shoes since January

13. Try out a new cuisine --> Done. But where to, next?

14. Record an album --> Hahahaha! I can't believe I actually did this... check out my acoustic sessions 1 and 2

15. Ice skate at the SM Mall of Asia ice skating rink --> I live like 5 minutes away from MOA and yeet I haven't done this. That is bad.

16. Go bowling --> Doing this in two weeks

17. Go out of town with friends --> Haven't done this... Who wants to go out of town? Hehe

18. Wear my knee-high boots --> Haha! Not in season...

19. Go somewhere abroad --> Was supposed to but had to postpone till next year... Oh well...

20. Take random pictures everyday --> Ok, I wasn't able to do this everyday, but I do take random pictures

21. Have a flatter tummy --> Tsk tsk, I think I got bigger. Must have flatter tummy by January!

22. Hug a friend --> Who else wants a hug from me? Hahaha!

23. Go on a photo shoot and be the model --> Hehe, as much as I'd like to do this, I haven't...

24. Go on a date --> Seriously, what was I thinking? A date? I haven't done so in 2 years...

Well, I should be getting ready. Till my next blog entry... Soon, I promise.

Finally back to blogging.

I realized it's been over two months since my last blog entry. And while I would really like to post an entry, I am either very busy with work that I don't have time to log in to my blog account or I am so tired from working that I am absolutely blank whenever I would open my blog. Yet here I am, at six minutes after four o'clock in the morning, ready to blog after a few months hiatus.

I have missed blogging. I've missed it a lot! I miss having to write without any templates or word count or anything. Everything just free flowing. I should really do this more often.

Earlier last month, I had recorded another set of acoustic session with my friend, singing a couple of my favorite songs like "Baby I Love Your Way", "More Than Words", "If" and "Forevermore". To listen to all the songs I've recorded on my second acoustic session, visit my Multiply site. I hope you like listening to it as much as I have enjoyed recording the songs.

You know what's funny? Recently, I've heard from my officemates that I look different. In a good way, from what they tell me. They said I've looked prettier than before, that there's this positive aura around me. I don't know how they could possibly think that, since I feel that I've been stressed out the most this month. The past few weeks have been so hectic, I can barely remember what day it is. And in reply, I would always tell them (jokingly, of course), "Anong kailangan nyo ha?" *Sigh* I don't think I'll ever get used to getting compliments like that.

Hmmm... Right now, I'm watching Criminal Minds. Oh how I love watching these kinds of TV series. It's all so intriguing!

So today's a Saturday and I don't really have an idea on what I'm going to do. I know that at some time today, I need to go out to buy groceries. I just need to decide where -- Mall of Asia or Landmark. After the grocery shopping, I intend to have some R&R! I don't know how yet but I just want to get some well deserved rest!

Time to log out now, but rest assured, I will be back.

Ciao!

Even in dreams, I sing...

Just this week, I've been waking up at 5am. Not that I set my alarm on that time, I just do. And I've noticed that I'm more inclined to blog at this time. I guess it's because I haven't started anything yet, so I could think more.

But here's the real score. I had a rather weird dream. I always say weird when the dream involves me and a guy. Hahahaha! I don't know why, it's just a little strange for me to have those kinds of dreams. Oh the dreams when I've eaten something delicious for dinner. Hehehe...

I was in a restaurant with a group of friends. We were having dinner, having lots of laugh, enjoying the band on the stage performing. Out of nowhere, the band called my name to come up on stage and sing with them. After much prodding from my friends, I got up and felt this sort of adrenaline rush inside. I ended up choosing the song "I'd Still Say Yes" by The Braxtons (This is probably because I've been listening to this song for the past couple of days now). I could hear my friends cheering for me (This scene is oh-so-familiar).

After I sang, I went back to my friends and laughed at the whole thing. And then I hear one of the guys from the band calling my other friend to sing with them. To all our surprise. He got up, went to the band and said, "Mags, for you." The song: "Single" by Anoop Desai (This is one of the most current songs I've been listening to in my iPhone for the past two weeks). And I just loved the way he sang the song. It truly melted my heart.

And after he sang...

I woke up. Damn, I don't know what happened next. Hehehe...

Well, maybe next time. But right now, I need to get ready for breakfast.

Ciao,

Random Thoughts of a Single Girl.

Lately, I've been talking to my cousin Ate Kriselle about weddings. Not only because my brother is getting married in January but also because she and her long time boyfriend will be tying the knot by late next year as well. And though I love discussing with her about receptions and themes and souvenirs and all the wedding stuff, I guess it could not be helped that my status as a single girl would come into place.

She asked me the funniest question last Sunday: "May boyfriend ka na kaya pag dating ng kasal ko?" I would have loved to have said yes to that question but the fact remains that I don't know and frankly speaking, I don't really care.

I don't care in the sense that I don't want to think about it every now and then. If and when I get a boyfriend, then that would be great. If not yet at this time, then it's fine.

So I've never had a boyfriend. Big deal. I'm not the only one who's like that. As a matter of fact, there are a lot of other people who are even older than I am who are still single. So there isn't any insecurity there, knowing that I am not the last single girl in this world.

Of course, people would then point out that I am partly at fault since I don't go out on dates. Hey, if I could, don't you think I would? Truth is, I'm not like the some people I know who would go out on a Friday night, have a drink with friends and then get asked out by a guy they barely know. More than that, I'm not the type of girl who would ask a guy out. That is just one big NO to me. Even if people say that's the "in" thing nowadays, to me, that is just not going to happen.

When it comes to finding a relationship, I believe in time taking its course. I'm not in a rush. I'm enjoying being single. The feeling that I only have to answer to my parents whenever I have to go elsewhere for work. The feeling of serenity that I don't have a "lover's spat" going on. I guess you could say, I still have much to enjoy as a single girl.

But yes, at times, I would think about "the boyfriend." I would like to take care of someone, I would love to cook for him, go shopping with him, go on dates with him, all that stuff. How could I not think about him if I'm being surrounded by people who talk about their better halves? I would love to be in a relationship, yes. In due time. In God's time.

I acknowledge that there are definitely ups and downs of being a single girl. But I wouldn't let the down side of it make me depressed or let the up side of it get to my head. Right now, I'm enjoying what I'm doing -- work. And somewhere along the way, I know that there's one person who would sweep me off my feet. But for now...

I'd like to enjoy my life... not sharing it with someone. I'd like to enjoy my being single.

Do you know that saying?

"Being single isn't bad. What is bad is giving up hope on finding that someone special."

Till then, dear readers.

Morning Blogging.

It's a couple of minutes before 5am and even though I've got a lot of things in mind, I'm just so glad that I'm able to blog. Many times, I've wanted to blog about certain things only to stop logging in because I've got tons of work to do.

I've always appreciated waking up very early. It allows me to think clearly. I get that sense of peace I'm supposed to have. Not that I'm bothered or anything. But it's good to have that time of day where you can just breathe a little easier.

So what do I have to blog about? Oh! I think it was only yesterday I actually realized I may have a future in wedding planning. Hahaha!

You see, my oldest brother is getting married and I've basically been assigned to take care of the details. Not that we don't have a wedding coordinator, we do. But since my brother and his fiancé are both in the States, I'm doing a lot of the nitty gritty stuff -- which I don't mind. I love doing it. We've already got the date, the motif, and the church down. Soon enough, we'll get the wedding reception finalized.

As odd as it may seem, it's kind of a natural thing for me to do, the whole wedding planning. I know what to do, where to call, what looks good, what's more practical. It wasn't until yesterday when my cousin told me, "pwede mo maging sideline 'yan." And it actually made sense. Given my connections, I could make it a sideline. So maybe I should build up my portfolio on this. Hehehehe. Hmm... Now that's something to think about.

I should probably prepare. What to wear today, my stuff for work. Now it's coming to mind the things to do. Haha!

Ciao!

Going Acoustic.

Yesterday morning, I got an invitation from a friend from theater class (way back when) if I'd be interested to come by her place for some acoustic session. Having had a rather stressful week, I accepted the offer and went all the way to Las Piñas.

I got to her house around 10:30 and since I got there, we went ahead with singing whatever songs we could actually think of.

After six hours of non-stop singing (from me) and guitar and piano playing (from her), we were able to record 20 songs. Wow! Hahaha! I'm proud of what we did. Didn't really plan on doing this ever, but I'm really happy of what we came up with.

Basically, the songs we came up with are some of our all-time favorites, rendering our own versions, at least, trying to be as original as we can be with the songs we've grown up to hear.

I hope you have fun listening to these songs, as we've had so much fun recording them.

Maggie Goes Acoustic.

Stressed.

I have been awake for almost an hour. As much as I'd like to go back to sleep, I couldn't. The heat is too much and my mind is already thinking of what I have to do for the day. It's just not right.

Truth is, I've been stressed a lot lately. With work, with online classes, with other stuff that I dare not say in this blog. What I can say is that stress and frustration is not combination you just don't want to have at once. I told myself that I wouldn't blog about being so stressed but I needed an outlet. The stress has subsided a bit but I'm still feeling a bit wired up.

It's not all that bad. Just that it's one of those days that I'm not feeling up and about. But things will be looking up pretty soon -- at least, I hope so.

In Dreams, I Love. In Reality, I Wait.

For the past few days, you have been visiting me in my dreams. And it's not that I wish you'd stop. I hope you wouldn't because I always seem to be very happy when I'm with you in my sleep.

I feel like I've known you for a while. Because by the way we act around each other in my dreams, I could only summize that we have been friends for the longest time. I wouldn't be comfortable with you holding my hand if we haven't been close friends.

A simple smile from you can make me blush. Your infectious smile gives me the comfort of knowing how much I mean to you. As if that smile was just for me. When you hold my hand, you make me feel like you will never let me go in your life. How is it possible that you can make me float on air by a smile and a touch?

Whenever I need a hug, you would give me the most comforting hug I could ask for. And I love hugging you. I wrap my arms around you and call you my teddy bear. How I love calling you my teddy bear. When no one's looking you'd bury your face in my hair and you'd whisper sweet nothings to my ear. Do you know that you can make my heart skip a beat every time you do that?

You have this balance of confidence and humility that people admire. How could anyone possibly miss it? The ladies can't get enough of you and the guys wish they'd be like you. Yes, you're that kind of guy. But how humble you are... That's what makes me love you even more.

You're both serious and funny. You crack me up with your sense of humor. No matter how corny your jokes could be, you still make me laugh. But when the need arises, you're serious and you focus on things that matter, on things that need to be done.

You're such a handsome guy, you know that? Your vanity is amusing. You're the type of guy who looks good in everything he wears. As if you've put a lot of effort into thinking what you'd wear the night before. One of your traits that I find very much endearing.

You look after your health. Being healthy is important to you because you want to be that somebody who your kids can enjoy spending time with until you grow old.

Do you know what's even more amusing? It's that... We can talk about anything and everything without holding back. Whatever we'd feel, we say it. Your honesty is admirable. We can talk for hours non-stop and still, we'd never get tired of listening to the other speak.

But you are definitely more than all those things I've mentioned. You are a God-fearing man, you're selfless, and you are loving. Your faith in God is inspiring, encouraging. You treat people with respect, no pretensions. Most of all, you love... Unconditionally.

It seems like in my dreams, I'm different. A good kind of different. Because with you, I could sing like I've never sung before, I have the courage to face the fears I couldn't face, I think of my future with you. In my dreams, you and I share the same passion in life. We help each other out, both of us striving more so we could have the future we've always wanted. You and I love each other. Not for any other reason... We love each other just because we do.

God is in the center of our lives.

Our families are the most important people in our lives.

Finding ourselves in each other is a gift from above.

I may not know who you are. Not yet, anyway. But rest assured, you'll find me and I'll realize you're the one. Because God meant it to be that way.

For now, let me love you in my dreams. And I will wait for you until the day we finally meet in reality.

Oh, the dream...

Here's a funny thing. At times, you are absolutely clueless on what to expect when it comes to life. More so, you'd never know what to expect when it comes to love. Truth of the matter is... life and love will always throw you curve balls. And it's up to you to either strike out or hit a home run.

Lately, I've been having this recurring dream of being in love with this wonderful guy. In my dreams, we would walk around places holding hands, and him kissing my hand whenever he gets the chance. And when no one is looking, I'd hug him so tight and call him my "teddy bear". In my dreams, he would put his arm around me to give me that sense of comfort I've been longing for. The sound of his voice soothes me, there was that assurance that he'll be with me all the way. I could go on and on about how the dream replays in my sleep for the past few days. But the bottom line is that...it was in my dreams that I felt that "romance" I have been longing for.

Longing. Probably because I've never been in a "romantic" relationship all my life and I yearn to feel that "hopeless romantic" phase in my life. Yes, the dreams may say that I am longing for that one relationship that could maybe "complete" me.

I don't know who the guy is. All I know from that dream is that he was perfect... perfect for me, that is. And God knows that I pray that in due time, I'd meet him soon.

It's crazy. The truth is, one day, I'd like to wake up one morning and realize that I have fallen in love. I'd like to go through every day looking at the man who has made me feel this way, thinking how happy he has made me feel. Having that knowledge that I can spend the rest of my life with him. Knowing that I never have to worry about losing him because I am secured. One day, I'd like to know... just by looking through his eyes.

Blogging Again.

It sure has been a long time since I last logged in my blog to post an entry. Too many things have happened over the past two months -- both good one and bad -- and I'm sorry I wasn't able to share those happenings with those of you who read my blog.

But I'm back and I'm sure going to update you on what's been happening.

It's past 4 in the morning and though I'm not writing any articles for work at the moment, I had to wake up early to arrange the stuff I need to bring to take to today's photo shoot. Yes, there's another shoot happening and before I go to the studio, I have to go to Western Bicutan in Taguig to pick up something. But hey, no complaining here. At least I don't get to spend hours and hours stuck in the office. Hehehe.

But you see, that's not exactly the real reason why I woke up so early. I'm supposed to have about 20 more minutes before I got up from bed. But I had this dream that has been recurring for the past week. And maybe it's my wishful thinking, that's why I've been having the dream I've been having.

I have to admit that it is a wonderful feeling that this dream brings to me. But whenever I wake up, it always makes me wonder... who it is that I am with in my dreams. It's frustrating -- not to see the face of the one I am with in those vivid dreams.

Suddenly, I am reminded of the "Dream of Me." Perfect song. At least for this moment. I will share with you the dream I had...

For now, let me leave you with this song...

On Going 24...

In just a couple of hours, I will be turning another year older. I'll be 24 soon as the clock strikes midnight. Well, okay, if we are to consider the exact time of my birth, then I'd have to say that I'll be 24 years old by 5:20 in the morning, hehehe. And so, another year will pass and a new year will arrive.

I've been going through my blog entries for the past year, along with my journal I have here in my room, and I have to say that the past 12 months of being a 23-year-old are the most memorable! When I turned 23 last year, I have to admit -- I didn't expect much. At the back of my mind, it's like I didn't really have anything to look forward to, except for family gatherings. But then, things fell into place that I never imagined. I went to Davao twice, I sang in front of an audience a couple of times, I went to 8 destinations in one week... and so much more!

Of course, it wasn't all about fun. When I turned 23 last year, I knew that I had a bigger responsibility, not only to myself but also to my family. Oh the responsibility. A lot of times, I am anxious about getting so much responsibility at work and at home. But at the end of the day, I realize that these responsibilities aren't just handed to me for no reason at all. People trust me. People have confidence in me that I can do it. And for that, I am grateful.

If I give you reasons why I am so grateful for the past year, I can only summarize them in three words: family, friends, work. I don't think I can be this grown-up without them.

You know, oddly enough, it's the first time in my 24 years of existence that I actually feel like I've really turned a year older. Before, birthdays didn't have this much impact on me, just because I felt that there's really no change when celebrating birthdays, except that it's a new number you write on paper when you're asked for your age. But then, this feeling of going on 24, I actually feel different. Good different. In the sense that, age is not just a number now. It's about taking in all those experiences you've had the year before and looking forward to the future.

Yes, in a couple of hours, I will officially be 24 years old. Celebrate with me. Smile, have fun, eat a slice of cake for me.

Happy birthday to me!

Birthday Surprise to Bez: Part 2!

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HAPPY BIRTHDAY, BEZ!

24 Things to Do When I Turn 24.

Here I am again, making yet another list. I'm turning another year older soon and I've been thinking of the things I want to do when I turn 24.

1. Go on a trip on my own (Batanes? Palawan? Marinduque? Hehehehe...)
2. Organize my closet (Need to get rid of some old stuff to make room for new ones)
   
3. Buy one gadget I really love (Come on, laptop!)
4. Watch a play (Cats! Lea Salonga! Here I come! Hahahaha)
5. Go to a spa (Because I seriously need one)
6. Start writing a book (Because I think this would be the best time to write something that I hope will get published one day)
7. Reconnect with a childhood friend (Ate Iris, we seriously need to see each other soon!)
8. Go on a weekend retreat (It's something I do every year)
9. Swap books with a friend (Since I don't really have the time to go out and buy them, hehe)
10. Start a travel blog (It's something I've been thinking about since last year)
11. Buy a friend coffee (Just one good deed to do for someone)
12. Buy a new pair of shoes (Something to wear for special occasions, hahaha!)
13. Try out a new cuisine (Hmmm...Where to?)
14. Record an album (Just for fun, hehe)
15. Ice skate at the SM Mall of Asia ice skating rink (It's been far too long since I did this)
16. Go bowling (Because I miss it already)
17. Go out of town with friends (Because we need a break from work)
18. Wear my knee-high boots (Probably when the rainy season comes)
19. Go somewhere abroad (Since I'm having my passport renewed this month)
20. Take random pictures everyday (It's a hard feat to accomplish but I'm going to do it)
21. Have a flatter tummy (Because I really need to)
22. Hug a friend (Just because)
23. Go on a photo shoot and be the model (Calling Wacky? Hahaha)
24. Go on a date (Hopefully with someone I really like)

I can do this, yeah!

Ciao,

38 Days. A Wishlist.

In just 38 days, I will be celebrating my 24th birthday. Oh yes -- I am turning a year older in a little over a month and I can't wait till that day comes. I don't know what's come over me that I'm looking forward to my birthday with so much excitement. I guess I'm just very much grateful for all the blessings I've received for the past year that I have no doubt that this year is just going to be as great, if not greater, than before.

So, for today, I am posting my birthday wishlist.

clothing apparel

Most of you know that I love clothes! And yes, it doesn't really hurt if I want some more of nice clothes. And right now, I'm really loving the styles shown above. Hehehe.

colored stockings

Suddenly, I've been getting to urge to buy colored stockings. I was thinking of leggings but when I once wore leggings, I didn't like the feeling. Hahaha! Weird, I know. But I really like the colored stockings when I saw them.

Maybelline cosmetics

I absolutely love Maybelline cosmetic products! And if the giver would think what Maybelline product I'd like, I hope to get the Maybelline Clear Smooth Minerals B.B. Cream, or Maybelline Perfect Concealer or the Maybelline Pure Foundation Mineral.

The Body Shop

Obviously, I like mineral cosmetics since it's smoother, more natural and long-lasting than regular make up. From The Body Shop is Nature's Mineral Cheek Colour and I have to say, it's absolutely divine!

Starbucks tumbler

When did the Starbucks tumbler ever leave my list? Hahaha! I just love collecting them. No, I don't have lots of it. I have two. But I wouldn't really mind adding another one to my "collection."

The Bridges of Madison County

It's absolutely one of my most favorite romance stories of all time! Ever since I watched it when movies were still on VHS tapes, I just fell in love with it. Now, The Bridges of Madison County DVD is a must-have for me. I've been looking for it everywhere and can't find a copy. Always out of stock. Can somebody please buy this one for me?

Fly Shades

I recently lost my one and only pair of shades of 5 years during a trip with friends so now I'm hoping to get a new one. The Kelly or Mackay shades from Fly Shades are really nice.

Shoes

Shoes will forever be a part of my favorite things! I'm running out of footwear with heels so I'm hoping to get a pair or two. Hahaha! Nice flat sandals would also do. They need not be from Fifliarina or M. Nicole. They just have to be comfortable shoes to wear. Shoes that don't break easily. Hehehe. Remember, I'm a size 9.

Perfumes

Lovely by Sarah Jessica Parker and Elizabeth Arden Green Tea are two of my favorite perfumes! Though I'm currently using Lancome's Oui, I do hope that I'd get either of them. Hehe.

Necklace

I've had my "Margie" necklace for two years now and I love every bit of it. This may be a little over the top...but can I have a necklace that says "Maggie"? Hehehe... I really want to have that.

Well, there you go. My birthday wishlist...

Hehehe...

I can't wait till I turn 24!

Ciao,

4:55 AM.

I woke up at 3:00 in the morning when I heard three clicking sounds coming from my iPhone. Yeah, I'm a light sleeper these days. Those three clicks actually meant that someone was sending me a message via my Yahoo! Messenger. Somebody was "kind" enough to wake me up so early in the morning. Hahahaha! You're such a good friend. Hehe. Going back to sleep was hard. And so, after 30 minutes of unsuccessful tries, I have decided to turn on my laptop and do some research for work. And now, I am blogging.

Yesterday has been pretty eventful. Tons of work, as usual, but I could still manage. I was prepping up for an interview I had to do for the magazine. Truth be told, I was fidgety for fear that I might be a loss for words -- considering my interviewee for the day was Borgy Manotoc. I had that anxiety that I might run out of English words while talking to him. Hahaha! Fortunately, the interview went really well.

It was actually fun interviewing Borgy. There were interviews I did before that just felt like it was an interview. My encounter with Borgy was like a casual conversation. It helps when the topic you're talking about is something you're also pretty much familiar with. It would have been hard to interview him if all I had about the topic of our interview was research-based.

Hmm... I should really get some rest. I've been experiencing headaches since two days ago, which won't seem to go away despite drinking mefenamic acid. Maybe it's because I've been waking up so early in the morning. Oh well...

Ciao!

Random Blogging.

It's 3:30 in the afternoon on a Friday and surprisingly, I'm not that swamped with work like the past few days. Today, I am totally aware of the time -- which meant that I actually ate on time. When I got back to the office, not so much happening. I've a lot of things to write, yes, but nothing to stress about. It's actually rare that I get to be so...un-busy. Hehehehe.

So ok, here I am blogging. Looking over my shoulder from time to time, cautious that someone might see me logged in my Blogger account. Haha! I look at my to-do list for the day and five out of five things I list down I'll do have been highlighted, which means I have finally done the task. Wow! Seriously, I don't get to experience this often since I started working. Oh well, might as well enjoy the "free" time.

All right. We're about to end the second month of the year, and believe it or not, things are already going so much better than what I had planned it to be. I guess the realization just hit me when I got back from my trips to wherever. Haha! Two months in, and already I've made a lot of new friends, been to nine destinations already and have gone out with friends for four times. I'm loving it!

Work, as always, has been super hectic, of course. Lots of schedules, lots of interviews, lots of things to do. They say, it's all about time management. Well, as a dear friend once said, "It's not time management. It's the art of eliminating tasks." Thanks to him, I think I've gotten the hang of eliminating tasks. Hehehehe...

Now what? Well, ok...this may seem a little over-the-top, but in 53 days, I am celebrating my 24th birthday! Crazy, right? I admit it. But hey...I'm just really excited about turning a year older. There's something about turning 24 that makes me really ecstatic to celebrate. Like last year, I will be preparing a mini buffet for my officemates. Hehe. I already have a menu in mind but let me keep it to myself. I don't want to spoil the fun for my officemates.

When I turned 23 last year, I told everyone that it's the best -- and I do mean the best -- celebration so far! And I have this feeling that this year's going to be even better than the last. This early on, my mom has been telling me of her birthday wish for me. For some, you might know what that wish is already. For those who don't, just wait till it's my birthday. Then I'll tell you all about it. Hahahaha!

Let me take this time to express my gratitude to the blessings that have happened to me for the past two months. Some of the wonderful blessings I have received are:

1. Getting the DVD special collector's edition of one of my all time favorite movies, Forrest Gump ("Life was like a box of chocolates. You never know what you're gonna get.") -- I swear, this has got to be the most expensive gift I've gotten from anyone outside the family
2. Celebrating Mam Delza's and Ms. Mons' birthdays at Cafe La Carmela with the LEP and InFlight family (Yeah, it was definitely a blast!)
3. Pepper Lunch date with Jan and Det (The monthly bonding moments commence...when's our next date?) -- Who's next? Jan? Where to? Hehehe...
4. Bonding sessions with Alla and Euki (Let's get together as much as possible, all right? Hehehehe... you know I miss you terribly!) -- When's our next date, girls? Haha!
5. Lakbay Norte (This is one of the biggest highlights of my first two months in 2010! The best experience, so far!) -- I've gained new friends and I can't wait to see them soon. When's our next night out?
6. Getting free Starbucks drinks for two separate weeks (Oh I just love the iced soy caramel macchiatto!) -- Just before I went to participate in the Lakbay Norte media tour and just as I am about to go to another business trip, I am getting my favorite customized drink! Oh how wonderful it is to be a regular in Starbucks!

Yes, yes, yes! I am definitely one happy person. Hahahaha! Despite not celebrating Valentine's day (because I opted to celebrate Chinese New Year with the family), everything's great!

All right, it's time to go back to work.

Ciao!

Before Working.

It's past 7 o'clock in the morning and I am on standby for my editor's email. Just last night, I have been told to do an interview with Victor Consunji for our InPerson department. It's one of the departments I don't handle. Interviews are usually done by my editor. But due to some conflict in schedule, she has passed on the responsibility to me.

I was surprised, honestly. Surprised because I didn't feel like I could really do so well interviewing for the InPerson. But my editor's vote of confidence really gave me the boost I need: "Peanuts lang yan sayo."

So right now, I'm prepping myself for the stuff I'll be doing for the day. Interview, transcribe, write, write, write. Hehehe. In general, that's what I'll be doing.

Ok. I need to go and do some ironing now.

Ciao!

A Letter of Realization (Part 2)

Disclaimer:
After work, I have decided to go to the park by myself so I could reflect on some things. Maybe it's really the Valentine season that's getting to me. I am feeling quite emotional. Pardon my being dramatic at this point. I just feel like letting it out.
To the ones who have found their heart's desire, may this letter help you realize the love you have for that someone.
To those who are confused, let this be your strength to work up the courage to say how you really feel.
To those who are still looking or waiting for love, let this letter guide you into finding the one whom you will give your love to.

o O o

Dearest,

Words cannot describe what goes through my mind when I think of you. It makes me wonder how someone can think of one person almost every single second, minute and hour of every day.

You are truly amazing in every way -- the good and the bad. There was a time when I just didn't think it was possible for me to feel like this again. How do you say "thank you" to the person who has just given you the chance to fall in love again? It is something I thought would never touch my heart, my soul and my mind so deeply.

It seems difficult to express my gratitude to you, with whom I have shared cherished moments. "Thank you" seems so small in comparison to the world you have shown me. Even though these were just a few stolen hours, my world is forever changed.

But... I sit here and ask myself how it is possible for two people who care so much about one another find it so hard to just move forward.

I have experienced both love and what I thought was love, and found pain and hurt. The real definition of love... is you. You have given me everything and more. All those times we shared with one another is breathtaking.

My problems, which you have not caused, are but small deteriorating objects that escape my mind when you comfort me. You respect me, you understand me, you help me become a better person.

You brought out the real me... the person who has been shut away from her feelings, worrying too much about others rather than herself, neglecting what means the most. The friendship we share is like no other. You look our for me. Helping me each day with the patience I need with others. If I fall, you are right beside me to lift me up.

Right now, I need you to help me understand where I stand in your life. Sometimes, you leave me confused with your actions. It makes me crazy, when it really should be giving me unconditional happiness. I just need you to tell me what is and what isn't.

I want you to know... regardless of what you feel or don't feel... to me, you will always be the one who took time out of your life to show me how much I have missed. You are the remedy to my pain. You made my heart whole again, mended it with your thoughtfulness, your kindness, your well-being.

We were once strangers... but now, we are part of each other's lives. Thank you for stepping into my life.

Thank you for being the guy who took my breath away so easily.

A Letter to the One I Fell in Love With...

Disclaimer: I guess Valentine's Day is starting to take its toll on me. I have been listening and singing to love songs the whole day. I was wandering around the park by myself and this is what I came up with afterward.


To the one I love,

At this very moment, I am thinking of you. How you are right now, where you are right now, what you are doing right now. Most of all, I think about who is on your mind right now.

Looking back, there are some things in my life that are definitely bound to happen. And whatever I do, I am utterly incapable to control them. Every day of my life, the sun will always rise and set, the tide will come in and go out at all times, the seasons will forever change. Somehow, I feel so contented by this...because there are many other things in life that are so short-lived -- so momentary.

From that very moment we met, I knew that our friendship will develop into something lasting and precious. I believe that God has blessed us. We are two people, fated for everlasting happiness. In truth, you have become the brightest star of my life, bringing me light in this dark world.

Just as a poet needs inspiration to write a masterpiece...
Just as an artist needs a subject for his work of art...
Just as a composer needs a theme to create a timeless melody...
I need you.

Without you, my life would be empty of all inspiration. There will be no work of art for me to gaze at, no person of greatness before me, no timeless melody to listen to. My life will only exist in shades of gray instead of vibrant colors...and I will be less than whole.

In the past, the proper words would have escaped me, and my innermost feelings would have been kept locked away in the depths of my heart. No more...

It is important for me to express to you how much you really mean to me. I wish I could do this in person as I wrap my arms around you and gaze into your eyes. But since miles of emptiness physically separate us, this expression must come in the form of letter.

I must admit, it is difficult for me to be separated from you for so long. Life seems to be full of trials of this type, which tests my inner strength, and more importantly, my devotion and love for you. After all, it is said that true love is boundless and immeasurable and overcomes all forms of adversity. In truth, if it is genuine, it will grow stronger with each assault upon its existence.

My love for you has been assaulted many times, and I am convinced that it is true because the longer I am away from you, the greater is my yearning to be with you again. You are my devoted prince, and I, your princess. I cherish any thought of you, prize any memory of you that rises from the depths of my mind, and live for the day when our physical separation will no longer be.

I have lived for a long time responsible for no one, answering to no one and committed to no one except myself. During this period of my life, I considered the world mine for the taking and truly believed that I was living life to the fullest. Then you came to the picture, and suddenly, I realized that I was deceiving myself.

I am incomplete in need of wholeness. I find that my life is not all that I thought it was. In fact, it is terribly lacking in many things, the foremost being love. Now, through some great fortune, I have found that love and along with it, the one person who can make my life truly complete.

You are that person, and I have somehow fallen hopelessly and undeniably in love with you. To be honest, I never thought I would ever utter those words, but now, they come forth effortlessly and with great sincerity. I'll be forever grateful to you for showing me just how shallow my life was. At last, I have a chance to give it depth and purpose.

I wanted to tell you this in person, but I knew the proper words would escape me. I write this letter instead.

Until then, I remain totally yours in thought and spirit.

What a way to start my Wednesday.

It's almost 4 o'clock in the morning. I've been awake since 2am. Not that I had anything to do really. Weird dreams have taken over my subconscious recently. It's like I'm awake the whole time. My mind's so exhausted. Now that I'm awake, I might as well, blog a little. I haven't been able to update my blog since the new year begun. Sad. It wasn't as if I didn't want to. More like, I didn't really have the time. Ever since I got back to work, everyday has been so busy. I'm practically swamped. You know that feeling where you thought you've already finished and then here comes the new things to do? Yeah, that's basically what I'm going through. But hey, don't get me wrong. I'm not complaining. Been having a blast most days.

Now, about the dreams. I don't know why but I've been having these dreams with people from the office in those dreams. And every time I wake up, I always think, What the hell? It wasn't a nightmare. But yeah, it's just weird. To be with my officemates half of the day is great...but when the same people are in your dreams, kind of makes you wonder why. I don't know if I should go into detail. I'm still in the phase of processing everything. My gosh! It's like I have my own television series. Officemates, stop visiting me in my dreams! Hahaha! Maybe I'll post the dream after. Hehe.

So now what do I do? It's impossible for me to go back to sleep. My mind's so awake.

*Sigh*

The Year that Was and the Year Ahead.

Happy New Year to one and all!

As I bid 2009 farewell and say hello to the new year, let me look back at some of the memorable experiences that happened to me for the past 12 months.

1. New Year celebration with the family -- cooked Arroz Valenciana
2. Loricer mini reunion -- a night filled with lots of laughter and reminiscing with my high school batchmates
3. Celebrating Chinese New Year with friends -- I will never forget Jan eating the taro puff!
4. Tito Bert's homecoming -- had weekly get-together with the family; celebrating his birthday and Lola Bait's birthday at Legends Restaurant
5. My 23rd birthday -- what I could only describe as the MOST AWESOME BIRTHDAY I could ever ask for! 3 separate celebrations in one week: with officemates, with family and with my barkada
6. Singing in front of a crowd -- it was one of the most unexpected things I've done ever since! Haha!
7. Kuya Rom and Mama celebrate their birthdays -- even though Kuya is in the US, we still managed to celebrate his birthday by eating at Mei Lin Chinese Restaurant. Meanwhile, Mama turned 60!
8. Mother's Day celebration at Super Bowl of China -- another memorable family gathering with the Franciscos
9. Mama and Papa's 33rd wedding anniversary -- all expenses paid date for Mama and Papa: overnight accommodations in Hotel Celeste, dinner date at David's Tea House, lunch at Amici with me and Kuya Miguel, coffee at Starbucks
10. Tita Connie, Tito Monching and Tina visit the Philippines -- bonding time with my balikbayan relatives, as well as celebrating Father's Day and my brother's birthday
11. Kuya Miguel turns 28 -- we went out to celebrate my brother's birthday and it was a real blast!
12. Bonding times with my "anak" and my "bru" -- yes! spending time with them is one that I always look forward to. Next get-together?
13. Going to Laguna, Davao and Ilocos in one month -- August was probably the most exhilarating month of the year because I got to go to lots of places. I love it, I love it, I love it!
14. Celebrating Papa's birthday -- Papa turned the big 6-0 and Mama couldn't be happier! Hehehehehe
15. Monthly get togethers with my after-work buddies -- one of the most memorable dinners we had was during Ate Det's birthday celebration! Totally hilarious!
16. Monthly family get-togethers -- the Francisco matriarch never let a moment passed by when she didn't ask me, "May boyfriend ka na ba?" Hahahahaha! I really thought she was kidding about the Christmas 2009 deadline
17. Kuya Rom's surprise homecoming -- none of us expected that my brother would be home the month of December...I swear, it's one of the best things that ever happened this year!
18. Christmas with the Franciscos -- as always, Christmas with the Francisco family is a day filled with lots of laughter, lots of food and lots of picture taking...and yes, my Lola looked for my "plus one"
19. Year-end trip to Davao -- it was a totally unexpected trip...but well worth it! Thanks to my officemate-slash-friend who invited me to go!

These are just some of the highlights of the year that passed. All the memories from these events will always be with me. And so, as the year 2010 begins, let me just share some of the things I'm looking forward to:

January: Trips to Boracay and Laguna

March or August: Trip to Davao again

April: My 24th birthday

June: My 2-year anniversary in SEAIR

December: Christmas

Once again, I greet you all...

HAPPY NEW YEAR!