Intertwined Tales

Through Non-existent Eyes

2012-01-19T21:22:00.000-08:00

For anyone in front of the building, the afternoon would probably prove to be a normal one. With the passing vehicles and the people walking past – yes, there was nothing amiss. Most would say that it’s so usual that it’s almost boring, certainly not worth pondering about.

These people could be right in thinking that way too, except that they failed to notice the way a certain female student or professor for that matter (in this place, you can never be certain because they don’t have uniforms and some professors are young and fashion conscious), smiled like she remembered something good or that the weather was gorgeous – the sun barely seeping through loosely intertwined branches of the acacias lining both side of the street.

No, it’s not their fault. When they are burdened with so many things such as Acads (what seems to be the official term for school work around here), organization works, finances and many others, they think it’s hard or even wrong to stop and stay still. Also, when they’ve been through many disappointments, failures or mistakes, the rose-colored glasses they view the world through shatters and are replaced by a jaded eye.

But I am not like them. I have been at a standstill for many years now. How long has it been again? 20 years? Maybe more? I don’t even remember. Time has no meaning to me. I count my days with the students, professors and occasional outsiders getting on or off the jeepneys, taxis or private cars, or people walking or running past me to get through their destination (maybe to their next class). I count my night with the joggers sweating and huffing from all the jogging or running.

From the first day I was here and until this very moment, I have never left my post and I plan to stay this way for as long as my sinewy arms and legs can support my head as I shield the people from the elements – the harsh glare of the sun or the piercing dash of rain.

Do you know me now? Perhaps you do so there is no reason for me to reveal myself blatantly. After all, I’ve often heard that people are smart.

But even as I am now, my eyes non-existent, I see far greater than the average person. I laugh at the bright orange taxi that seemed so out of place among its white brothers, the hope-filled eyes of a young student (a freshman) inspires me and I feel the love as if it was my own when a couple walked past, holding hands and laughing all the while.

I had also noticed the sadness behind the smile of a person, the dejected way someone walked (my guess is that he flunked an exam or got scolded by a terror professor), and even the impatient tap of the girl’s foot on the floor as she kept looking at her cellphone. It doesn’t take a genius to know that she’s waiting for a reply or a call. Occasionally, there would be those who seemed to be angry at someone – their foreheads would be wrinkled with a frown.

Everyday is a new discovery. There will always be something new. And I would witness it again. Someday, I hope you see things the way I see it. The world is not cut out in black and white. There are many vibrant colors competing for your attention. Why don’t you try noticing them? And if you ever need a reminder, I’ll always be here, looking at you…through non-existent eyes.

*note: The topic for this is "Faculty Center Waiting Shed in UP Diliman"

The Echo Room

2012-01-18T00:35:00.000-08:00

   Along the corridors of the building, the soft patter and squeak of shoes as steps were made onto the hard floor vibrates from one place to another. You could feel it if you were sitting on the floor and you could distinguish what kind of shoes made that particular vibration. Heeled shoes would create more of a pang of vibration while flip-flops would be more 'squeaky'.
   To add to that, there are also the conversations being made by people hurrying to their destination or just loitering around. More often than not, they won't be too quiet. In fact, if you stay still in one corner, you'd actually catch some of the things they are talking about.
   "When was the speech again?"
   "Ang hirap ng exam!"
   "Au revoir!"
   But in this place where I am right now, all these noises cease to be makes sense. They all merges and twists into faint, indistinct hums.
   I could hear nothing but the roar of metals turning and turning fast to generate wind, the occasional sighs and murmurs, the crisp, crunching sound of paper fluttered by soft air, and my quavering voice - all these heightened and reflected, as if I am on top of the mountain or on the bottom of a well.
   Where am I exactly? I am in the Echo Room.
   If you ask other people, some of my friends or even some of my classmates, they won't be able to show you the direction to this room because they won't know what you're talking about or maybe they will but the thing is, no one will be certain about it.
   The echo room is something I came up with for this place. Yes, the Echo Room is not it's real name. And basically, it's not a mysterious fortress nor is it remotely similar to that. The Echo Room is a simple classroom - four walls, chairs, white board, the works.
   What makes it different is that when you are sensitive enough, you would notice that whatever you say in this place echoes. It's as if, there is this invisible person with a low, deep voice that repeats whatever you say in a much quieter fashion.
   Right now, that person is here again, stealing my words right after I utter them. He is listening intently, not missing anything. I'm sure he could hear the thundering of my heartbeat, considering how fast and loud it seems to be, attempting to slam right out of my chest, but he does not copy it. At least, my heartbeat is my own.
   Right now, I am uncomfortable. All eyes are on me already, I don't need the added pressure. But strange... I seem to draw comfort from that echo... hearing my own voice reflected calms me.
   Before long, the echo that is heard in the room is no longer my own. It is no longer the same but still strangely familiar.
   As I leave the room, I glance back and whisper and I hear the same words back at me and I smile because I know that we would meet again...in the Echo Room...

*Note: This is based on my Communication 3 (Practical Speech Fundamentals) class. I thought of this while listening to my other classmates deliver their speech.

When Glam met Glitz

2012-01-15T04:03:00.000-08:00

It started from a childhood tales of princesses in corset gowns and towering but impressive castles… continued with exposure to what society calls as finer things in life – fine dining, meeting high-class people, going to beautiful (but otherwise expensive) places… sparked by curiosity because of the talks about it…

And finally that night – December 23, 2011, 43 days after my real birthday, after months of preparation and weeks of panic-stricken last-minute changes, I finally had the Debut I had long dreamt of.

Nothing could compare to that feeling I had when the doors opened to reveal the Sydney hotel convention hall transformed into an enchanting place – an array of sparkling decors and glass displays that all lent the room an air of elegance and grandeur.

With my pink princess-style ball gown, the dramatic effect of the fog rising, the white and red rose petals scattered on the floor and on the tables, and the sea of familiar people whose eyes were all on me as I made my entrance (my trembling hands supported by my cousin Kuya Mhel’s arm), I couldn’t help but think that surely I must be dreaming because that scene seemed so surreal, like the stuff fairytales were made of.

But the nervous thundering, almost painful beat of my heart told me I was indeed awake and that everything was real. I loved and savored every second of it.

Aided by the competent hosting of my good friends and high school classmates Shyn Ebol and Zaniel (Zanny) Barluado, the program went on smoothly.

My Lola gave the welcoming speech followed by an intermission number by TOP TEEN – a boy group formed by some of my high school batchmates. It was nostalgic to see them dancing KPOP (when we were in High School, they often performed during every event imaginable). I enjoyed watching them dance. They were the same guys I knew in high school but somehow they were different. Maybe because they were older now so they seemed more like ‘gentlemen’ than ‘boys’ or maybe it’s just their suits. XD

After their fantastic and if I may say so, greatly improved (they were much better in dancing now than when we were in high school) performance, it was time to satisfy our growling tummies.

Just as I predicted, the dessert made by my cousin Ate Xy-za was a best-seller. I remember that everyone from my high school batch loved eating the Mango Float I often bring during school events (Christmas party, family day etc.) and based on their reaction when plates of it were placed on each table, they still do.

During dinner, I went around the room, entertaining guests, talking to my close friends, and every now and then, posing for pictures.

A photographer from Montage immortalized the whole event by taking photos.

After dinner, Shyn and Zanny started the Parlor Games to allow me time to change into another outfit – the regal, violet-colored, long gown with cloth that sparkled when light hit it. My hair was swept up and adorned with gem-like hair pins.

This was the gown I wore during my dance with my 18 roses. First dance goes to my Dad of course, followed by my Tito JunJun, my Ninong Dondon and then my high school batchmates Ace, Roman, Kit, James, Daniel, Benedict, Massy, Billy, Darmy, Peter, Joachim, Zanny, Fernnie and Leniel. My last dance was with my only older male cousin Kuya Mhel.

Dancing with my Dad

Dance with Tito Junjun

Dance with Tito Dondon

w/ Ace

w/ Roman

w/ Kit

w/ James

w/ Daniel

w/ Benedict

w/ Massy

w/ Billy

w/ Darmy

w/ Peter

w/ Joachim

w/ Zanny

w/ Fernnie

w/ Leniel

w/ Kuya Mhel

After that, another intermission number was performed by CORNER BOYZ (I told you, my batchmates LOVE dancing. I wasn’t exaggerating when I said that).

Even my Mommy (Tita Cosette) who saw some of their performances back in high school, told me that the group had indeed improved throughout the years. I agreed with her. Their moves now are more fluid, more polished and their boyish charm back in high school was replaced with a more mature but still captivating aura. But of course, Corner Boyz will be Corner Boyz - they were a bit unorganized and a tad too hyper during their dance. XD

After that, everyone sang HAPPY BIRTHDAY accompanied by the band.

After I blew the candles (I was short of breath after blowing 18 of them!), it’s time for the 18 treasures.

My 18 treasures are as follows:

Tita Jiji

Tito Dondon

Tito Paris

Zanny

Shyn

Arej

Darrel

Mabelle

Camella

Precy/"Patz"

Coleen/"Crazy Friend"

Ava

Donna/"Windang"

Maricar/"Partz"

Haizel/"VG"

Kristine/"Lukaret"

Aimee/"Sis"

(My bestfriend cried while saying her message to me)

Char (The Chars weren't able to come but they sent video greetings and I watched it during the program)

Dayan/"Vain"

I gave my thank you speech then. It was an impromptu speech but it came from the bottom of my heart. I acknowledged God’s faithfulness in my life then thanked my parents, my second mothers – my Nanay (Tita Beth), my Mommy (Tita Cosette) and my Tita Christie, and also my Lola and my Tito Junjun for working together for me to be able to have such a grand debut. More than that, I am grateful that during these 18 years, they never failed to make me feel loved and secure. Of course, I also thanked my guests - our relatives and family friends who came despite telling them at such short notice, Tita Jiji and Tito Oliver who stayed during the whole event and who gave such a charming gift (a limited edition Anne Klein watch) *squeals in delight*, my Ninongs (who knew me since I was young and gave me what I wanted most to receive – books) and my parent’s friends, and of course, my high school batchmates and friends, who I’m quite proud to say, fitted quite well with the place with their glamorous attires. I don’t remember all the details of my speech but maybe sometime I’ll post it here in the blog too (my mom documented it by taking a video while I was speaking).

Before the program officially came to an end, I gave the stage to my batchmates and friends – the CENTER GIRLS whose group were again, formed in high school. I remember I used to help these girls with their make-ups and stuff, Now they are all alluring ladies but still had the same heart for KPOP – as they proved to us while they danced to the tune of SNSD’s songs.

Finally, it was time to PARTEEEEEEY!!!

With the band playing lively songs and the disco lights, everyone got up on their feet and danced (yes, including me although I don’t usually dance).

I really had a wonderful time that night – especially during the last part of the party where I get to fool around, laugh my heart out and just be myself with my friends. That night, the years we spent apart from each other, the different school we are in college and the obligations we had yet to finish (projects, holiday homeworks, exams etc.) were left behind and forgotten.

That night we were trapped in a standstill and for me nothing else matters but that one magical moment when Glam met Glitz…

Note from The Birthday Girl

2012-01-10T22:49:00.000-08:00

Eighteen.

That’s the number of years I spent so far. Within those 18 years, I had a number of ups and downs, I shed some tears but more than the tears, I had smiles. The unabashed smile I had on when I was an infant, the smile I made with my two front teeth missing, the tentative smile I had when my crush was around, the wide smile I had when I was having fun with my friends and the confident smile I had when I entered college – all of those spoke of good times.

Eighteen.

I made mistakes and fell down a lot (quite literally sometimes) but there were always people ready to pick me up. The number 18 would never be enough to count the many people who came in and out of my life. The people who stayed and the people who came but left – no matter how long or short the time I had with them, they are all a big part of who I am.

Eighteen.

It also signifies the 18 years of God’s faithfulness in my life. The 18^th years of blessings, the 18^th years of provision for me and my family and the 18 years of love I received from the people around me.

Today, I would like to take time to mention the people who were with me as I turned 18, the people who made my day extra-special.

First off, the Chars - Mita, Jenelyn (Chen), Jenalyn (Char) and Joy.

November 10, 2011. 12am

When the clock struck 12, these girls were with me. Despite having early classes, they stayed awake and even prepared an impromptu mini – debut celebration.

I was in my pajamas but the girls insisted that I dress up so I went out of the room and changed into my red cocktail dress and silver stilettos (which luckily, I brought with me here in the boarding house).

After changing, I was about to enter the room but guess what? They locked it from inside, saying they had a surprise for me. Chen even blindfolded me.

After a while, they let me in and removed my blindfold. It was dim-lighted (they turned off the light and the only illumination was coming from the light-up toy I won on one of my school field trips and a candle) but I could still clearly see that my pajama-clad friends from less than an hour ago transformed into 4 ladies wearing dresses and such – to match the occasion, according to them. XD

There were music playing on the background (coming from Char’s laptop) and a chair was prepared for me. There was also a mini-cake (Fudgee bar) with a candle on top settled on the low study table.

As soon as they took off the blindfold, they let me sit down on the chair and gave me a bouquet (actually, it was the plastic sunflowers from the sala) and they sang the birthday song for me.

After that, they each gave a message and a pseudo-gift (pseudo because those were actually things they found around the room XD). I really appreciated each heartfelt greeting. At that time, I thought they must be four of the kindest, friendliest, sweetest and craziest persons I will ever meet in my college life. I still think that way up until now.

After the messages, Char played some upbeat music and we danced and partied to our heart’s content. We also took a video of us dancing and we also took some goofy photos through web cam.

We got tired and sleepy around 3 am so we changed back into our pajamas and slept. I, for one, slept with a big smile on my face. I also had a good dream thanks to these 4 char girls.

November 10, 2011. 6 pm

I had class until 5:30pm (urgh) but my bestfriend Aimee wanted to meet up and celebrate my birthday with me so we met up at SM North at around 6pm. It was a short get-together actually because my Discipler/mentor and friend Ate Jen invited me to eat dinner together with our other cellmates.

I and Aimee just ate at Kenny Rogers and had a nice chat, sharing stories and basically, just had fun.
Another thing that made me smile was, while waiting for Aimee to arrive, my Mabinian friend, Julienne sent me a text message saying I should open my twitter account. I opened my twitter account without expecting anything and tadaaaa! Ate MARIEL RODRIGUEZ-PADILLA greeted me in twitter! She even tweeted my whole name. The feeling of being greeted my a host/actress is soooo awesome!!! (fan girl mode)

November 10, 2011. 8:30 pm

I arrived at Jollibee Philcoa (Ate Jen texted me to go there). I found Ate Jen, together with Char and Mita at the birthday corner of Jollibee. But they weren’t alone. Together with them were Ate Sarah and other SOD friends. I was surprised to see them there.

But what surprised me more was the next thing that happened.

I was talking to the girls at our table when suddenly, guys, each holding a Pastillas Rose (which happens to be my favorite), came to me one by one and said kind words and birthday greetings (sorry, I really am bad with remembering names so I won’t mention their names anymore).

Also, before I arrived at Jollibee, I asked Joy and Chen (thru text) if they would be able to come and they said ‘no’. But later, they arrived and gave me a ‘dedication frame’ with my picture on the upper left corner. The rest of the space was filled with messages from my college friends.

They also prepared a cake for me (a real cake this time) with candles that I blew out as soon as they finished singing the birthday song.

Everyone present at that time also gave messages for me and also kind words. It was the first time anyone had surprised me with a birthday celebration and I was really, really happy. For me, it was really sweet of Ate Jen to go through all the trouble of preparing the surprise celebration.

This blog entry is insufficient to describe how I felt that day I turned 18. As words are elusive to me right now, I can only say that I’m grateful and truly blessed to have such wonderful people at my side. With friends like these, I’m reminded every day that indeed, life is beautiful and every day, there is a reason to smile.

*Note: I know this blog entry is pretty late but I really wanted to post this no matter how late to give honor to the people who deserves it.

Special Journal - What Christmas Is To Me

2012-01-02T02:09:00.000-08:00

Christmas has always been the highlight of my year – as a child and even until now. My family makes it a point to spend Christmas at my maternal grandmother’s ancestral house. Every year, that house would be occupied by every member of the family – my parents would be there chatting with my grandmother or with my aunts and uncles while me and my cousins would be playing around, singing or dancing or basically just waiting impatiently for the clock to strike twelve. There would be bright, blinking Christmas lights adorning the house and a few lighted parols. The big Christmas tree would be standing at the center of the living room, complete with the ornaments and the gold star perched at the top of it.

But in my young eyes, these things fade in comparison with what was underneath the Christmas tree – the Christmas gifts! I and my cousins would argue about who got the most number of gifts or if a Ninang gave a better gift than another Ninang. Of course, the big, colored (usually red or green) stockings hanging on the door or on the wall would not go unnoticed. Each stocking (assigned to each kid) will be checked every 5 minutes and delighted squeals would be heard when finally ‘Santa’ leaves presents in the stockings. Also, there would be a lot of party food (hotdogs on stick with marshmallow on top, barbeques, spaghetti etc) and sweets (chocolates and candies). In short, when I was a kid, Christmas was all about gifts, good food and playing around.

Today, I still love to receive gifts (who doesn’t?), I still anticipate the food that would be at the table during Christmas eve, and I still look forward to playing with my cousins. But more than these things, now that I’m older, I appreciate the true meaning of Christmas – the birth of our savior, Jesus Christ. I understand that it is His birthday and that we are holding the celebration for Him. Also, more than the material gifts, I value more the people who gave them and even those who didn’t but gave me something more precious – the gift of love. I look forward to Christmas because I enjoy the company of my family and friends and Christmas is when we get-together, talk, share our experiences and what went on with our life. For me, we get closer to each other every Christmas that we spend together.

Many say that is great to be a kid on Christmas. But for me, in this season, it is great to be a kid at heart who understands that family, friendship, love and faith are by far the greatest gift that we should treasure and remember not only on the 25^th of December but on each day of our lives.

Blessed

2011-11-12T07:50:00.000-08:00

"Goodluck sa exam!"
"Bakit goodluck? Dapat God bless."

I suddenly remembered this conversation between me and my roommate. It was a few months ago. She had an exam then. Who would have thought that at that time, the person who was really going through a test was not her but me.

Like most people, I was used to saying "Goodluck!" to those I wanted to cheer on. It just seemed like the normal thing to say and I've heard it from the people around me many times while I was growing up. But when my roommate corrected me like that, I thought, "Hey she's right. Blessings are always better than luck."

Truth be told, at first I was ashamed. It was embarrassing to be corrected like that by someone the same age as you. I felt immature, I felt like I was being scolded - gently but scolded just the same. I was disturbed to the point that I didn't know what to say in reply.

Looking back, I'm glad I had that reaction. It only meant I recognized my mistake. If I didn't pay attention to what she said at all or if what she said didn't make me think hard, I wouldn't have noticed that there was something wrong with what I said and to my thinking regarding that matter, in general.

That time, I had a revelation.

Luck is what it is. Luck. a probability, a chance. uncertain.

But blessings, especially those coming from a God are an entirely different matter. God's promise is certain and His blessings are great. When He blessed Noah, he and his sons lived a fruitful life.

"Then God blessed Noah and his sons, saying to them, "Be fruitful and increase in number and fill the earth. The fear and dread of you will fall upon all the beasts of the earth and all the birds of the air, upon every creature that moves along the ground and upon all the fish of the sea; they are given into your hands. Everything that lives and moves will be food for you Just as I gave you the green plants, I now give you everything." Genesis 9: 1-3

It is more worthy to be blessed than lucky.

That's why when someone I know faces something in his/her life, may it be an exam, a job interview or love problems, I won't ever hesitate to say "God bless!"

I've been put to the test but I have passed. Why? Because I am blessed. :)

I DARE YOU!

2011-08-18T22:11:00.000-07:00

My Frog Prince

Hey the link above is my roommate/friend/course-mate's short story!

I really enjoyed reading this. It's intriguing, daring, out of the norm in the sense that it has a good twist.

If you think this is the usual love story then think again (and while you're doing all that thinking, read the story too)!

I could go on and on about this but I might spoil the fun.

I dare you to read this!

Siyang Nasa Hangin

2011-08-18T21:34:00.000-07:00

This is my edited composition in Malikhaing Pagsusulat (Creative Writing) under the category "Awit at Korido". I'm proud to say that my professor liked this. I would really appreciate it if you would leave your comments. Thanks!!! :))

Sa ilog na payapa may mapapansin,

hayop na kung tawagin ay isdang lawin.

Mga dumadaan, sila’y napapatingin,

Sapagkat ito'y may kakat'wang gawain.

Ang ating bida'y isda kung tutuusin,

ngunit tubig bihira nitong languyin.

Sa halip, himpapawid gustong liparin,

maging ibong tuwina'y kanyang mithiin.

Mangingisda'y nagpupumilit bingwitin.

sa hapagkainan nais siyang ihain.

Ngunit sa pagtakas ay ubod ng tulin,

tao'y nagawa na lang siyang tanawin.

Lumaki't naging ina ang isdang lawin,

buhay ay nagawa niyang kilalanin.

Sa kanyang anak ay laging binibilin,

at tuwina nama'y binibigyang-diin.

"Anak anong tayog man iyong abutin,

sa lawa ay marapat na bumalik rin.

Ilang beses mo mang patangging sambitin,

buhay nati'y nasa tubig di sa hangin."

MOONLEAF-ing

2011-08-17T03:22:00.000-07:00

When it comes to food tripping, University of the Philippines, Diliman has one of the most diverse and wide array of variety – from Mang Larry’s Isaw, The sidewalk store's Siomai, Pancit Canton, and now to the latest trend, TEA. The more famous Tea House within the UP Diliman campus is MOONLEAF, located in Maginhawa street, Diliman Quezon City.

One night, on August 10, 2011, at 9:30 in the evening, we, the CHAR girls (yes you read it right. It includes me) arrived at Moonleaf to have a taste of this sensational tea house.

The place was filled by customers – young and old alike, students and teachers, simple and sosyal people – to the point that even the chairs outside of the main café were all occupied. It was more crowded inside but the atmosphere was that of a homely yet classy aura. You could hear the lively chatter of customers, talking to each other, sharing stories, discussing stuff. Actually, I was a bit surprised that it was jam-packed, considering it was a Wednesday night, the middle of the week. It just goes to show how popular this place has become.

We made our way through the crowd, turning here and there to get to the line, which by the way was long.

Me and my Caramel Milk Tea

You know this process in Starbucks where one of the staff behind the counter asks for your name then they write it on your drink’s container? The same process goes for Moonleaf. We had this crazy idea to change our names while we were there. So the names we gave were not our real names. Just for the night, I was Hazel and the char girls were Rian, Sam, Jen, and Khai. Next time, I think I’d name myself Mariel Rodriguez. Hahahahaha. Just kidding Ate Ma! :))

After we ordered our drinks – Caramel Milk Tea for me, Wintermelon Milk Tea for Khai, Sam and Jen, and Pearl Milk Tea for Rian – we looked for a place to sit down.

Thankfully, the costumers in a table near the counter had already finished drinking their tea and were already leaving. We occupied their table.

Readings are forever, forever~

We studied the notes we brought along and chatted with each other while waiting for our Milk Teas. When our fake names were called, we stood up and got our drinks. We sat down again and tasted our own Milk Tea, and then we tasted each other’s Milk Tea.

Changed Identities

The Caramel Tea wasn’t too sweet, which is a good thing for me since I’m not really a big fan of sweet stuff. The sweetness was just enough to counter the bitter taste of the tea.

Rian’s Pearl Milk Tea wasn’t exactly to my liking. It was too strong for me. But if you’re really into tea but would like something mild, I would suggest you go for Pearl Milk Tea since you could really taste the tea in this drink.

But of all the Milk Teas we ordered that night, I liked Khai, Sam and Jen’s Wintermelon Milk Tea the best because the flavor was just right. The sweetness wasn’t overwhelming but it blended well with the tea.

We're having so much fun!

Like every new experience/adventure with the char girls, we took pictures – of our drinks, our selves, solo shots, our readings and so much more. We reviewed the pictures and laughed over the goofy ones and exclaimed over the good shots. In the middle of this fun, a lady who just entered caught our attention. There was nothing overly fashionable about her but what made us stare at her were two things.

1. She was beautiful and;

2. We knew her

Me and Megan Young

The lady was no other than MEGAN YOUNG, a famous TV personality.

I for one was really amazed that she was there. It wasn’t exactly the usual kind of place that you would see a TV personality in. Of course, I didn’t want to let that picture-taking opportunity pass. Jen and Khai had the same idea so we begged Rian to ask Megan Young if we could take a picture with her. Fortunately for us, Megan gamely agreed. She posed wacky poses with each of us. It was one of the highlight of the night.

After we thanked Megan for being so friendly, we went back to our table. I was so hyped up that I couldn’t write the next chapter in my story (Paper Roses) that I was supposed to write that night. The four char girls were also already tired so we decided to go home. Besides, it was already almost 11pm.

It was a lot of fun and definitely, this won’t be the last time that I would be going to Moonleaf. In fact, the char girls are already planning to make this a weekly habit, our bonding time.

Well what else can I say? Let's all be healthy, let's all drink tea!

Reluctant to go

2011-08-07T23:20:00.000-07:00

It's past 2pm and I'm still here, at the same spot I've been since I woke up 3 hours ago.

It's funny really but I can't seem to make myself stand-up and do anything else. I should be taking a bath, eating lunch, packing my bags and going back to the boarding house but I'm reluctant to do any of those. You know why? Because I know, one step will lead to another and time would speed up again. I will find myself in the middle of a chaotic school-day again, walking, running just to keep up to the fast-paced spin of the University. I feel like someone inside a car that's moving at top speed, looking out the window, seeing people, things being passed by but none of them registering in my mind, none of them forming coherent forms, all of them just mere blurry images. It's discomforting.

But I can't drag this any longer. I have to take the plunge, hope for the best and believe that eventually the car would stop and I can get out to see the beauty of still waters again.

I'm leaving this week-end but I'm not saying goodbye because soon, very soon, we'll meet again...

The Push of Day, the Pull of Night

2011-08-05T08:29:00.000-07:00

(photo courtesy of Samantha Sayo)

It's that time of the day again.

That time when it's no longer daytime but not yet nighttime, when the brightness of the afternoon overlaps with the darkness of the night.

Most of the time, people don't notice this change. Often times, they don't even know it exists between the shift from day to night.

Here in UP Diliman, we see every variation of time in a day and it's many nameless faces. Nature springs abundant - trees lining the paths and scattered in other places, a blanket of vibrant green grass coloring the ground, the occasional shrubs and plants, clean, fresh air...

This place is truly an oasis that quenches the thirst of anyone weary and lost in the dessert of urban living.

Random Thought

2011-08-02T05:44:00.000-07:00

"Mental Floss prevents Moral Decay" - I read this on one of my mom's friend's status on FB. It really just struck me

Hate or Love

2011-07-10T20:01:00.000-07:00

From the moment I opened my eyes,

I regretted it, regretted waking up

Though you were someone I despise

Why won't this fast heartbeat stop?

In reality, you made me cry

But in my dreams, I was smiling

In my mind, why do you have to pass by?

Your presence, it left me shaking

At that time, my heart to you I bared

To me you whispered "I love you"

A hug, a kiss, a touch we shared,

Like it was the most natural thing to do

But everything has come to an end

It was just a dream, just an illusion

You're back to not being my lover nor my friend

I know it's time to stop this confusion

But why do I feel sad now?

Why do I want to fall asleep again?

Is it really hate I feel or somehow-

Is it love and for you I've fallen

The CHAR poem

2011-07-08T21:55:00.000-07:00

Outside, I could hear the rain drop ceaselessly

The umbrellas bright colors a contrast to the sky’s grey

With hurrying steps, people walk towards their destination

Whipped by the icy wind, they shiver and shudder

But from where I stand I feel only warmth

The raindrops noise drowned by the lively chatter

I wonder why the sun seem to shine in here instead

This bright glow I owe to you my friends

For being with me through the storms – in one sense or another

Sitting on our beds, sharing our thoughts and ideas

Every single memory a priceless treasure

My almost-sisters, I’m glad to share my college life with you

Our Majors, our readings, our exams – we’ll pull through this

Smile my dear Chars for it’s nice to marvel

That our joys are multiplied not only by two but by five!

Subic Fun

2011-06-26T07:27:00.000-07:00

There are two things that I absolutely love doing:

1. travelling

2. posing in front of a camera

So, I'm gonna share my pictures when I went to Subic. Hitting two birds with one stone, hmm? :)

Well, first stop - OCEAN ADVENTURE

Guess what was the first thing we did as soon as we got out of the car.

Yep, you got it right. Take pictures!!! Yipee

Oh I forgot to mention that I was with my parents, my aunts, my tito and my cousins.

They are also addicted to posing in front of the camera so...

*pose*

*click*

*pose again*

*click*

You get the idea? hahahaha. So here it goes...


Me and my cousin Ate Xy

Me with my aunts and cousins

Me with my mom and my aunts


Me and one of the workers of Ocean Adventure

The people who works at Ocean Adventure were really nice. That lady with me in the picture above even volunteered to take our picture. The other workers also talked to us politely and helped us a lot with directions and such. They all had friendly auras. Talk about good customer service! :)

Inside Ocean Adventure...

Next Stop - TREE TOP ADVENTURE (di rin sila masyadong mahilig sa word na "adventure" no?)

The people there were also nice.If you're looking for a place to feel thrill and rush, this is the place to go. You can try the canopy walk or the the canopy ride if you're a little scared but if you're more of the dare-devil type, try the Superman ride or the Tree-Drop!

Tree-Drop

canopy walk

So that's it for now folks! Visit Subic too, okay? :))

Identity: Secret, Superhero name: Jenelyn R. Caniedo

2011-06-24T07:10:00.000-07:00

As of special request, I'm going to talk about my former dorm-mate, current roommate, college schoolmate, and the char girl that is forever with the same PE as mine, my good friend, Jenelyn Caniedo aka Chenelyn.

This is her during Wacky Day

Eto na char ang promise kong special mention sayo. At hindi lang 'to basta 'special mention' ha! Whole article na 'to! At dahil d'yan, may bayad na to! ;D

Anyway, back to the story.

I met Chenelyn during my stay in UP Diliman's Kalayaan Residence Hall. It's the famous (weh?) dormitory exclusively for freshmen UPD students. She was in the same floor as me - 2nd floor! The coolest floor evah! All the PANDA GIRLS say "aye"! ^___^

And in fact, their room was next to ours. Room 212. But by then she was just plain "Jen" to everyone, even to us.

Everything changed when we became Char Girls. Now, we rarely call her "Jen". It's Chenelyn or "Chen" for short. Cool, n'est-ce pas? ^___^

Chen made us laugh a lot. Okay fine, sya talaga yung tinatawanan namin madalas. Kasi naman Chen eh, epic ka talaga always! Hahahahaha.

A little trivia! Never, as in N-E-V-E-R did I see her panic even at the most ka-panic-panic situation.

Woke up 30 mins before her first class?

Chen: Breakfast tayo!

15 mins before the deadline of an essay in a subject?

Chen: (calmly rights the essay) hehehe

Exam at the next morning and she doesn't have notes?

Chen: Okay lang yun char!

She's one heck of a girl isn't she? ;D

Uhm, maybe you're wondering about this article's title.

HAHAHAHAHA so sorrry, i can't help it.

We were introducing ourselves to some friends by saying what power we would like to have and the name we want to call ourselves if ever that happens. So then Chen's turn came. She said the power she wanted to have then...

Friend: Pangalan?

Chen: (with full conviction) Jenelyn R. Caniedo!

All: O.O pfft... hahaHAHAHAHAHA

Friend: Uhm, I mean yung super hero name...

Hahahahaaha! I sooo love you Chenelyn!!! :D

For months, I thought we will rarely see each other this second college year because we all need to move out of Kalai (short for Kalayaan Dorm) but then guess what? We're boardmates now! And even better, we're roommates!!! Parteeeey!!! ^___^

I've also mentioned in the introduction that we forever have the same PE.

1st year, 1st sem = Yoga

Sosyal no? pfft! :D This is totally coincidental!

1st year, 2nd sem = Duck Pin Bowling

Ah eto, sinandya na. Sabay pa talaga kaming nag-enlist sa CRS :)

2nd year, 1st sem (current sem) = Stretching

Nakuha ko to sa CRS at nag-teacher's prerog dito si Chen. Bilang mabait si miss instructor, tanggap siya sa class! Yey! Banzai! ^____^

So, there!

*ack**ack* Chen, stop choking me! Cheeeeen!!!!!!!

First REGULAR Bite at the Life Pie called UP Enrollment

2011-06-09T20:41:00.000-07:00

Magpreprerog kayo?

Ilang units pa kailangan nyo?

Ang haba ng pila!

For petition na lang…

Sorry cut-off na. Balik nalang kayo bukas

I swear I don’t ever wanna hear these sentences again! You see, I’m a 2^nd year student in UP Diliman (I’m one proud Iskolar ng Bayan!) and here, they ALWAYS give priority during enrollment and enlistment to Freshmen and Graduating students. Obviously, I was a Freshman last year and being pampered by the University, getting all the units I needed and the enrollment were a breeze. Take note, “were”. Not anymore! This week is our enrollment week but my misery started way back – specifically during pre-enlistment. Unlike in other schools, we enlist our subjects online.

This is how it works:

1. We open CRS online

2. We enter our username (given by the university) and password (of course we choose our own password)

3. Once our page is open, we go to the Pre-enlistment area and search the subjects we would like to take

4. We enlist these classes

5. We close our page and wait for the results

6. The system would then choose students who would get the specified slots in the classes. How do they choose? Well, it’s an online drawlots!

7. After a few days, we check the results

8. We print our 5a (that’s the form from CRS containing the units we got, our infos, etc)

9. Then we bring the 5a during the enrollment

Sounds simple right? Well, theoretically it is. In reality, it’s a fiasco! Take me for example. I enlisted my Major subject (French), my Minor subject (Spanish), PE and GEs (basically the subjects we could take aside from our Major and Minor subjects). I also wanted to get MST (Math, Science and Technology) subjects because I still need 3 MSTs. We have specific number of MST, AH (Arts and Humanities) and SSP (Social Sciences) that we need to take. But when I checked the CRS after a few days, I only got 12 units out of the 66 units that I enlisted! That’s my Major (6 units), Minor (6 units) and PE (the 2 units of this isn’t counted). I guess I’m still lucky because some of the students I know only got 6 or 9 units but still it’s frustrating!

Let’s fast forward to Enrollment Week. I arrived around 8:30 at FC (Faculty Center). The line was long but not overwhelmingly so (lines are undeniable part of UP enrollment). I got my 5a from my friend (thank you sooooo much Irene for printing my form 5a!).

[Yep, that's her and yes, sya na ang dyosa ng mga bulaklak hahahahahaha]

I saw my classmates last sem and talked to them.

“Sumingit ka nalang dito,” one of them said.

Game! ;D

The line wasn’t moving because there were no professors yet to be our adviser and so we waited… and waited… and waited. Around 10, a prof arrived. Finally! Now this is one of the very few highlights of that day! The prof was Monsieur Richard Karl Deang himself! Yey! >.< I was done with pre-advising a few minutes before lunch break.

After lunch break, I and my friend faced the greatest battle of UP enrollment. PRE-ROG!!! The regular number of units in UP is 18 units. 12 units means you’re underload, 15 units is “safe”, 21 units is allowed for most students but beyond that, you’re overload. I only got 12 units and my friend got 15 units but she wanted 18 units so she wanted to get another GE (most GEs are 3 units). We walked around in search for an open subject. We went to CS (College of Science) and went up and down at FC and AS (Palma Hall) but all we saw are signs saying “No more slots” or “For Petition only”. Resigned, we went to CAL (College of Arts and Letters). There we saw the line for Philippine Studies subjects. There were still lots of slots but the line was hellish! Even so, I decided to risk it. My friend came with me (salamat sa pagdamay Mita dear! T^T).

Presenting, Mita Murillo! (sound effect: dyaraaaan!!!)

Again, we waited… and waited… and waited… The line moved every 15 minutes or so but not much. After almost 3 hours, we were oh so near the door and then…

“Sorry cut-off na. Balik nalang kayo bukas”

O_O

>_<

O.O

Excuse me?! Cut-off?! After 3 hours of sitting on the cold, not to mention dirty, floor, standing up and sitting again and with that close distance to our salvation from this nightmare?! No freaking way!!!

But unfortunately, it’s a “Yes freaking way”. The operator of the computers already walked out on us. So what could we do? C’est la vie. We left – tired, hungry, thirsty and low-spirited.

The next day, I arrived at 8:30 again. I went to CAL. The line was longer than yesterday.

*sigh* I should have arrived earlier.

I stood in line. My dormmates last sem were with me since we entered the building at the same time.

After a while, a friend approached me.

“Char!” It was Joy, also my dormmate last sem.

Uh-huh, that's Joy. Opo, girl siya

She told me she just had Pre-rog at 2 other subjects. Imagine my shock. Here I was, queuing for a subject since yesterday and still no luck while Joy already had 2 subjects FOR JUST THIS DAY! She then told me she saw slots for TRI-CAL students at CS for STS and NatSci1 and NatSci 2 classes. Hey, I’m from CAL! That’s my privilege! I immediately told my dormmates to save a spot in the line for me, grabbed Joy’s arm and sped away to CS.

Unfortunately, my luck had run out. By the time we reached CS, there were no more slots for TRI-CAL students.

T___T

So I went back to CAL, sat down and waited again. Joy went to search for another subject. I told her to text me if she finds ANY subjects. Yes, I was that desperate.

After some minutes, another friend, Mita, texted me saying a Kas 2 (Kasaysayan 2) subject would open. Normally, I wouldn’t even THINK about taking that subject. Just thinking about the boring lectures, the endless readings and the brain-cracking memorization makes me shiver but what the heck; beggars can’t be choosers, n’est pas?

Again I told my dormmates to save a spot for me at the line and went to FC to catch up with Mita. I was able to get the Kas 1 subject there. I was so grateful that I didn’t complain about the early morning schedule.

I went back to CAL. Around 3:30, I got a subject there. After that, I took my form 5a to CAL 101 for validation, then to DEL office for the printing of my form 5, then to Botor for post-advising. THEN, I’m done!!!

I would have wanted to pay my tuition then but it was already 5pm and the cut-off time for paying was 4:30pm so I decided to go home.

Good bye UP enrollment! Be nice to me next sem okay?!

^___^v

The reason for all I've been through

My composition in PanPil :)

2011-05-22T03:42:00.000-07:00

I'm really proud of this composition because I'm not used to writing compositions in Filipino but I actually got an uno in this. Comments are very much appreciated! :)

Topic: Paskong Pinoy
Kind of Composition: Free-style essay

                                                            Koronang Bituin

            Nakasisilaw ang liwanag na nagmumula sa tahanang matagal-tagal ko ding hindi nasilayan. Unti-unti na pala akong ginigising mula sa mahabang panahon ng pagtulog ko. Mga pamilyar na mga mukha ng mga bata ang bumungad sa akin. Bakas ang kasiyahan at pananabik sa mga ngiti at ningning ng mga mata nila. Tila ba may espesyal na kaganapan. Ano kaya iyon? Napadako ang aking paningin sa pader kung saan nakasabit ang kalendaryo. Setyembre? Setyembre…Setyembre…Ah! Alam ko na! Ber Months na pala! Maaring sa iba, ay walang itong halaga pero sa pamilyang kinamulatan ko, gaya ng milyong-milyong Pilipino, katumbas na rin ito ng pagsasabing “Pasko na!”.

            Kaya pala kakaiba ang liwanag ay dahil hindi ito nagmumula sa ordinaryong bumbilya kundi sa kumukutitap na Christmas Lights. Kaya pala parang medyo sumikip ang bahay ay dahil sa may kalakihang make-shift Bilen na inilagay sa isang sulok. Makulay din ang paligid dahil sa pula, berde, at dilaw na mga dekorasyon na naka-adorno sa pintuan, sa pader at kung saan-saan pa.

            “Tay, saan ko po isasabit ‘to?” Bumaling ako sa batang babaeng nagsalita. Kilala ko ang batang ito. Ito si Mellyne, bunsong anak ni Mang Pedro, ang may-ari ng bahay at ang padre de pamilya. Hawak-hawak ni Mellyne ang isang pang-dekorasyong bituin. Noon ko lang napansin na napuno na pala ng dekorasyon na katulad ng mga Christmas Balls ang artipisyal na mga dahon ng katawan ko. Nakangiting binuhat ang batang babae ng lalaking tinawag nitong “Tay”. Ito si Mang Pedro. Tumatawang nilagay ng bata ang bituin sa ulo ko na tila ba isa iyong korona. “Ayan, ang ganda na ng Christmas Tree!” Aba, ang ganda ko raw! Haba ng hair ko! Kung sabagay, taon-taon ko namang naririnig ang papuring kagaya nito magmula ng dinala ako sa pamilyang ito sampung taon na ang nakararaan.

            Matuling lumipas ang mga buwan. Hindi nagtagal, bisperas na ng pasko. Tambak na ang mga regalo sa paanan ko at humahalimuyak na ang amoy ng pagkain mula sa kusina. Pansit, Ham, Barbeque, Salad… Nakakatakam! Maaga pa ay hinanda na ang mga ito ni Aling Carmen, ang maybahay ni Mang Pedro. Noong unang taon ko nga sa pamilyang ito, may lechon pang nakahanda kaya lang, ang sabi ni Mang Pedro pahirap na daw ng pahirap ang buhay sa Pilipinas kaya itinigil na iyon. Pero hindi naman mahalaga ang nawala dahil hindi naman iyon naging napakalaking kawalan.

            Mula sa videoke na nirentahan pa ni Mang Pedro, umaalingaw-ngaw ang pagbirit ng kapatid ni Tita Fely na kapatid ni Aling Carmen sa tono ng “Last Christmas” ni Taylor Swift. Maya-maya pa ay inagaw iyon ng isa sa pamangkin ni Mang Pedro at bumirit naman ng “Baby” ni Justin Bieber. Humahalo rin ang ingay ng mga naghahabulan at naglalarong mga bata habang nakamasid sa kanila ang mga lolo at lola na aliw na aliw sa kanila. Sino na nga ba dito ang magkakapatid, magpipinsan o magkinakapatid? Ah, hindi ko na alam.

            Sa sala, may kumpol din ng mga tito at tita na nagkwekwentuhan. Syempre pa, may payabangan ng mga anak. Kung sinong mas matalino, mas talented, mas cute, mas bibo at kung ano-ano pa. Iyong iba ay may mga props pang litrato o videos mula sa mga DigiCam at touch-screen phones nila.

            Nandito rin pala si Anna, kasamahan sa trabaho ni Marie, ang pangalawang anak ni Mang Pedro. Nasa probinsya daw kasi ang mga magulang ni Anna kaya mag-isa ito ngayong pasko. Inaya na ito ni Marie na makisaya sa bahay nila. Maya-maya pa ay kawentuhan na ni Anna ang iba pang myembro ng pamilya. Sa tabi ko naman ay naka-webcam at nakikipag-chat ang kapatid ni Marie na si Mae sa kuya nilang si Mark na ilang taon na ring nurse sa Amerika.

            Iba na talaga ang nadudulot ng pasko sa Pinas. Ang estranghero ay nagiging kapamilya, ang magkalayo ay pinaglalapit.

            Makalipas ang ilang oras, kalahating minuto na lang bago mag-alas-dose ng madaling araw. 10…9…8…7…6…5…4…3…2…1! Merry Christmas! Nagyakapan at nagbatian ang lahat. Binuksan ang mga regalo. Tuwang-tuwa ang mga batang babae na makatanggap ng Barbie samantalang pinaglalaruan na kaagad ng mga batang lalaki ang mga natanggap na action figures katulad ng Superman at Batman. Para naman sa mga dalaga at binatang naroon ay mga branded na damit at sapatos tulad ng Forever21, Lee at Sketchers ang mga regalo. Mga beauty products tulad ng whitening lotion naman ang para sa mga babaeng ka-edad ni Marie.

            Kahit saan ka man lumingon ay tawanan, hagikgikan o ngiti ang makikita mo. Punong-puno ng kasiyahan ang panahong ito. Tila ba walang puwang ang mga salitang “kalungkutan” o “problema”. Siguro pagkatapos ng isang buwan, tsaka na uli iyon maiisip ngunit ngayon, ang lahat ay nasa masayang mundo.

            Isa-isa ng nagpaalam ang mga bisita hanggang sa ang naiwan nalang ay ang pamilya ni Mang Pedro. Maya-maya pa ay nagtungo na sila sa simbahan para sa ‘Misa de Gallo’ at doon taimtim na nanalangin. Pagkauwi nila ay sandali nila akong tinitigan, binabalikan ang bawat sandaling lumipas. Pagkatapos ay pumanhik na sila sa kani-kanilang silid, pagod ngunit masaya. Tahimik na ang paligid. Sa pagsapit ng bagong taon ay magkakaroon ng replay ng mga pangyayari, maaaring sabihing extension ito ng pasko. Tiyak na magtatagal ng higit pa sa araw na ito ang mga ngiti sa labi at positibong disposisyon ng pamilyang ito. At ako? Pagkalipas ng isang buwan ay tatanggalin sa katawan ko ang mga dekorasyon. Muli akong hihimlay sa kahon at ang taong nagbukas nito ay siya ring magsasara ng talukap nito. Matutulog akong muli at mananaginip hanggang sa muli kong paggising sa isa na namang mahabang panahon ng Paskong Pinoy. Pero sa ngayon, pagsasawain ko muna ang sarili ko sa ramdam na ramdam na init ng pagmamahal ng mga Pinoy na pumapawi sa lamig ng simoy ng hanging Desyembre.

            Maraming nagbago sa taong ito at marami pang pagbabagong magaganap. Ngunit kahit ano pa mang kultura ang maging popular, nanatili parin ang saya ng pasko na maging ako, kahit bilang isang Christmas Tree ay nararamdaman parin iyon. Gaano man tayo maimpluwensyahan ng iba’t-ibang bansa, mananatili parin tayong proudly pinoy.

2010-36750
Kiezzsa Gayle Cruz

Ashes

2011-05-22T03:31:00.000-07:00

Flames, red hot flames… the silent sizzle of burning paper… the messily wrote letters disappearing as the sheets turned black beyond recognition… These were once my thoughts, the words I couldn’t tell anybody else, my privacy, my secret haven.

Or so I thought, until someone found out about it.

To be made a laughing stock because of some teenage emotion was the last thing that I wanted myself to be. That’s why the moment they knew about my secret longing for him was the same time I built my resolve to get rid of it. I would have accepted if they were angry or indifferent but they laughed! Laughed! They scoffed at me for being stupid, naïve. I knew that was the reaction I would get from them but to actually hear it made me feel… foolish, as if my logical self just woke up from lalala land to tell the floating part of me that what I wrote there were all trivial matters. I’m older now, I know better than to still feel what I felt before. I believe I’m stronger too.

I continued to watch as the fire consumed my diary. It’s too late to stop it now. In a moment, it would really be gone. I could never read it again. You would have thought I would be crying in regret. But no. My hands were steady as I fed more of its pages to the fire. My eyes were dry.

I considered just simply throwing it away but burning it seemed more significant. Once something has been burned, you can’t turn it back to its original form. It would always just be ashes. I want to take this opportunity to tell myself that the me who wrote all those nonsense should be forgotten, burned and never to return again.

The blaze slowly died out. All that was left were crumbled globs of ashes. It’s too late to turn back now.

I reached out to scoop them to my hands but even my feathery touch made it crumble. The wind blew and disturbed the ashes, causing it to fly but it lingered a second more before disappearing.

As if saying goodbye…