This day, aside from wedding related stuff - dry seal which we had it done in recto, mom and i just relaxed but still did some shopping in sm manila. It's really humid in manila so the best place to hang out is at the mall.
We went to Punchline @ Quezon Ave with the newly wed couple - Ronel and Mel, Kendz' new suitor, bunso, me and mommy. It wasn't that obvious how mom really did enjoy being there. She was really laughing so hard and loud with about any jokes those fantastic performer is saying. Very recommendable talaga to go there. JUST remember to seat at the back area hehehe. Baka mapagtripan ka.
6 days had passed and im already feeling the tiredness from running around but i enjoyed every minute of it especially that my mom is by my side :)
*I was suppose to go home today but managed to changed my flight to saturday instead. Monday pa sana but i think we need to pay extra na. Sunday naman was already full. At least I still have 1 more day to be with my famiy hehehe.
Thursday, May 31, 2007
Wednesday, May 30, 2007
5th Day in Manila
Mommy and I went to Strabucks at Bluewave in Macapagal Ave to meet our Bridal Car Supplier, Don Robert. I didn't know he's still young hehehe. The plan of getting jaguar for my bridal car was changed to Mercedez Benz hehehe. I don't think it will matter what kind of car I'll be using hehehe. It's just one of the want-to-haves on my list. Though like many others, im also the kind of bride who wants all the good things happening on her wedding. But im also the kind who can live giving up a few things. Anyway, since my coordinator had an emergency with his father, we have to ask Robert to go with us to change my money since I didn't bring any peso. The downpayment is with Grace kasi. After handing the payment to Robert and signing the contract, since we're already in the Mall of Asia, we had lunch at Max's, both my and Mom's favorite. Sarap talaga to the bones hehehe. Naempacho ata kami hehehe. After the delicious lunch, we tour around Mall of Asia. I was able to buy my Dad's tie, our bible, unity candle, bear that our flower girls will be using, and a gift for our male principal sponsors. Ikot ikot lang, naubos na oras. We got home almost 7pm and called Edward Teng's office right away if I could still drop by to do my first fitting, which they said I can, yeyyy. I tried on the gown, and it was absolutely beautiful even without beads yet. Mom kept on teasing me that it wasn't pretty and it was too simple hehehe. Well, I like it the way it is though she's right that it's really too simple :) Im still thinking if i'll be posting the picture hehehe baka wala ng surprise. :)
Tuesday, May 29, 2007
4th Day in Manila
At 7 in the morning, I'm up again ready to take a bath. Daddy, Mommy and me went to a tailor shop near our place to have my Dad's measurements for the suit. For those who doesn't know yet, he wasn't "back" to our home yet. But he's always welcome to visit us. And yes, he will be there on my wedding day. So, after the measurements, we went straight to Ninong Luis shop in Cubao. We wanted to get him to be our principal sponsor for the wedding. After an hour, we went straight to Megamall, had lunch at Kenny Rogers and bought my Dad's shoes for the wedding. From Megamall, we went to Ate Minnie's place in pasig. It was weird being there without Nanay and Tatay (they were in London at the moment with ate che. susyal!). We had a second batch of lunch because ate minnie cooked something for us. Answeet :) We went to the market of pasig to check on the giveaways that she was telling us. It wasn't on our must-be-really-nice list so, anythign was fine. We got a "divisoria" aura of the giveaways which i really can't describe hehehe. It wasn't that bad but it wasn't that nice either. At least it was cheap hehehe. We said our goodbyes afterwards to ate minnie and her beautiful kids, reine and raissa. Went to Richmonde Hotel to check on the bridal suit room they have. It was cheaper than other 4-star hotels so we booked right away. They don't require any deposit naman eh. From there, we went to Glorietta to meet my 3 sisters to watch a movie. We bought 3 tickets of Shrek and 3 of Spiderman. Kukulit hehehe. We had dinner at chowking before the movie. This is one moment in our life that I really appreciate and thank God. Life has been hard for my famiy but we managed to survive little by little. It's bittersweet to have Daddy around. I see the happiness on my family's face maybe knowing that in a way just for today, our family's complete. It has a way of bringing back the past but today is what's important in our lives. And each time I go home, as much as possible, even if I know that my 2 sisters were already tired from work, I always plead with them that we get together even once having dinner and enjoying. Because, for me, one time sure makes a lot of impact :) A happy memory that forever I'll cherish.
Monday, May 28, 2007
3rd Day in Manila
Vacations are meant for resting. But in my case, whenever I'm in Manila, I always see to it that I make use of all my time. If only malls were open at 6 in the morning, I would be the first one in line, having my breakfast at jabee or max's with my family. I never went to Manila and spend a day with my friends, and not because I don't like to. I never had more than 2 weeks of vacation in Manila. And since it's usually 3 days or a week at the most, I spend it all with my family.
So, for today, I woke up at 7 in the morning, which never happens in singapore, and was amazed to see my mom up and all set. We went to baste first to enroll bunso for her final year in accounting as she's taking her OJT. OMG, i didn't know that it feels different to see those digits in person than just sending the money to my mom. It's highway robbery! Hehe overreacting sorry. Anyway, it may be that expensive but at the end of each year seeing or hearing how my bunso was among the top of her class, it's all worth it. Thank God, final year na hehehe. It was really humid, and it's the first time that I've finished a bottle of mineral water in a few minutes.
From baste, we walk along Recto and checked on one store for invitation then we had our lunch at Goldilocks in Isetan. It was really heaven to see those food choices and always have the urge to order almost everything on the menu but settled for the chicken barbeque, porkchop steak and dinuguan. Mom had laing. We both had pineapple juice. Sarap! Yummmm! Grabe! Empatso ata kami. After lunch, Mom insist on me that we should check out the invitation supplier in recto who did bunso's invitation on her debut. Plan was to go to Unifair in Binondo for the famous supplier. But as we haggle, we managed to get a really affordable price per invite. And I was happy that they agreed to almost anything I specifically say. It was documented and a receipt was given to us though no contract was presented. Im just crossing my fingers and really praying that the invites would turn out ok. Im not expecting to get the best result. As long as it looks like an invitation, it's fine with me. Invitations and Giveaways were not really that important in our wedding. I mean, of course it should look ok, but as long as it is an invitation and it's something that has our name on it, it's fine. We are choosy on some things and we could let go of few. And something that will be thrown away after the wedding isn't something that we really want to spend much on. No offense to others. To each his own, right? :) Reality is, we've spend much on the big things hehehe kaya wala ng budget for the little things hihihi. Soooo, invitation - check!
From recto, we hailed a cab to divisoria on the lookout for possible giveaways. From tutuban mall, we walked towards Tabora. We were able to buy sinamay wine bags and butterfly for decorating the bag. I know that Divisoria is famous for almost everyone in manila. I wasn't aware that it will be a huge nightmare! Aside from constantly checking on your phone if it's still inside the front pocket of your pants, it was really crowded. When I say crowded, it's like rubbing your elbows to another person. Imagine being in the packed MRT in the morning only the sun's ironically smiling at you. Fun, huh! I forgot that the start of school is in June that's why every mom was outside bargaining for the ready made uniforms, variety of school supplies and school bags and vendors constantly making noise out of the big roll of plastic cover. But I did have fun because I was with my Mom. It was like the old days when she used to have me around whenever she goes to wet market. Alala ko pa those times that I am always excited going with Mommy buying new things for school. It doesn't matter if it's the cheapest notebook or if I'll be wearing something from Divisoria, as long as it's new, Im as happy as a bee. And spending the last few days of my school vacation removing the springs from my notebook and "sewing" it back, covering it with a plastic cover. Sharpening all my pencils and putting it in a pencil case. Putting every new school supplies inside my new but really cheap bag. From going down to the memory lane, we ride a jeep on our way home.
We went to the cake supplier at 6 pm, talk about the design and signed the contract.
So, for today, I woke up at 7 in the morning, which never happens in singapore, and was amazed to see my mom up and all set. We went to baste first to enroll bunso for her final year in accounting as she's taking her OJT. OMG, i didn't know that it feels different to see those digits in person than just sending the money to my mom. It's highway robbery! Hehe overreacting sorry. Anyway, it may be that expensive but at the end of each year seeing or hearing how my bunso was among the top of her class, it's all worth it. Thank God, final year na hehehe. It was really humid, and it's the first time that I've finished a bottle of mineral water in a few minutes.
From baste, we walk along Recto and checked on one store for invitation then we had our lunch at Goldilocks in Isetan. It was really heaven to see those food choices and always have the urge to order almost everything on the menu but settled for the chicken barbeque, porkchop steak and dinuguan. Mom had laing. We both had pineapple juice. Sarap! Yummmm! Grabe! Empatso ata kami. After lunch, Mom insist on me that we should check out the invitation supplier in recto who did bunso's invitation on her debut. Plan was to go to Unifair in Binondo for the famous supplier. But as we haggle, we managed to get a really affordable price per invite. And I was happy that they agreed to almost anything I specifically say. It was documented and a receipt was given to us though no contract was presented. Im just crossing my fingers and really praying that the invites would turn out ok. Im not expecting to get the best result. As long as it looks like an invitation, it's fine with me. Invitations and Giveaways were not really that important in our wedding. I mean, of course it should look ok, but as long as it is an invitation and it's something that has our name on it, it's fine. We are choosy on some things and we could let go of few. And something that will be thrown away after the wedding isn't something that we really want to spend much on. No offense to others. To each his own, right? :) Reality is, we've spend much on the big things hehehe kaya wala ng budget for the little things hihihi. Soooo, invitation - check!
From recto, we hailed a cab to divisoria on the lookout for possible giveaways. From tutuban mall, we walked towards Tabora. We were able to buy sinamay wine bags and butterfly for decorating the bag. I know that Divisoria is famous for almost everyone in manila. I wasn't aware that it will be a huge nightmare! Aside from constantly checking on your phone if it's still inside the front pocket of your pants, it was really crowded. When I say crowded, it's like rubbing your elbows to another person. Imagine being in the packed MRT in the morning only the sun's ironically smiling at you. Fun, huh! I forgot that the start of school is in June that's why every mom was outside bargaining for the ready made uniforms, variety of school supplies and school bags and vendors constantly making noise out of the big roll of plastic cover. But I did have fun because I was with my Mom. It was like the old days when she used to have me around whenever she goes to wet market. Alala ko pa those times that I am always excited going with Mommy buying new things for school. It doesn't matter if it's the cheapest notebook or if I'll be wearing something from Divisoria, as long as it's new, Im as happy as a bee. And spending the last few days of my school vacation removing the springs from my notebook and "sewing" it back, covering it with a plastic cover. Sharpening all my pencils and putting it in a pencil case. Putting every new school supplies inside my new but really cheap bag. From going down to the memory lane, we ride a jeep on our way home.
We went to the cake supplier at 6 pm, talk about the design and signed the contract.
Sunday, May 27, 2007
2nd Day in Manila
RONEL and MEL's WEDDING
St. Pancratius, Paco park
City Garden Hotel
Mommy and I woke up early preparing for Nel's wedding. The wedding is at 3.30 pm but we have to go to the salon for hair and makeup and manicure and pedicure. Grabe the price of both mine and mom's Hair and Make-up, manicure, pedicure is only the price of my manicure and pedicure in singapore. We had beef shawarma for lunch hehe. Sarap! We were done past 2 na! We took a tricycle, good thing the salon is just near to our house. Bihis na then dali daling umalis and took a cab on our way to Paco Park. Forgot to wear my CL pa. When we arrived, we thought it was already starting. Ngek, groom wasn't even there yet. Then it hit me, this was my second and would be my last to be a bridesmaid. The first one was in 97 pa ata on my cousin's wedding. Buti na lang talaga umuwi ako hehehe. Mom was one of the Ninangs. The wedding was not that organized because it was only prepared by the couple, but when I see the happiness on my friend's face, nothing makes sense and seem important on that day. Their love for each other shows on their faces. Saya saya. The wedding ended past 8pm. We had fun taking wacky pictures hehehe. Congrats, Nel and Mel. May God bless both of you.
St. Pancratius, Paco park
City Garden Hotel
Mommy and I woke up early preparing for Nel's wedding. The wedding is at 3.30 pm but we have to go to the salon for hair and makeup and manicure and pedicure. Grabe the price of both mine and mom's Hair and Make-up, manicure, pedicure is only the price of my manicure and pedicure in singapore. We had beef shawarma for lunch hehe. Sarap! We were done past 2 na! We took a tricycle, good thing the salon is just near to our house. Bihis na then dali daling umalis and took a cab on our way to Paco Park. Forgot to wear my CL pa. When we arrived, we thought it was already starting. Ngek, groom wasn't even there yet. Then it hit me, this was my second and would be my last to be a bridesmaid. The first one was in 97 pa ata on my cousin's wedding. Buti na lang talaga umuwi ako hehehe. Mom was one of the Ninangs. The wedding was not that organized because it was only prepared by the couple, but when I see the happiness on my friend's face, nothing makes sense and seem important on that day. Their love for each other shows on their faces. Saya saya. The wedding ended past 8pm. We had fun taking wacky pictures hehehe. Congrats, Nel and Mel. May God bless both of you.
Saturday, May 26, 2007
First Day in Manila
I was able to wake up early for the flight. Di naman excited hehehe. Check in early, had BK breakfast and went inside after. It's really different taking SQ than any other airlines. No long queues, you can check-in online if you don't have much luggage, you can choose your food and your seat online, systematic, and fast. Not to mention the FA's of SQ. They were all accomodating and provides really good service. This doesn't mean you can't do this on budget airlines right? FA's could be more "respectful" of the passengers. I had witnessed few experiences with budget airlines's FA's katarayans to some passengers. Although, I haven't experience it personally. Umbagin ko sila pag ako tinarayan nila hehehe.
I settled on my seat where the middle one is still unoccupied and the other with a pinay. The one who occupied the middle seat was an Indian. I said to myself, shoot, I hope wala syang amoy. I almost told the pinay na malas naman natin napagitnaan tayo and good thing I held my tongue. Turns out he speaks tagalog very fluently and been in and out of philippines for almost 16 years. Yes, I spoke to him because I'm not rude hehe. He said I'm really nice *righhhhttt* and that he can see the goodness in me *ngek*. When the plane landed, he asked for my no bec he said he wanted to treat me for a coffee just bec Ive been nice to him *yeah, right*. I told him, whenever I go to manila, Im always busy so I just asked him to give me his number. Hehe. That way, I did not just give away my number and save myself from headache, I have not been rude by acting violently. He may have pure intentions no. *ubo ubo* Eniwey, we arrived manila on time at past 1 but got out of the immigration at past 2. Super daming tao and naku ewan ko ba why it's taking so long for the immigration officers to stamped on the passports. I queued wrongly pa on the foreigners lane hehehe. Buti di ako pinagalitan. Saw my mom and bunso waiting for me :) We hailed a cab, went home and rested for a while then went to jabee for late late lunch. When you haven't tried jollibee for a long time and you're in front of the counter, lahat talaga halos gusto mo orderin eh. Kung pwede lang hehehe. Went to Divisoria afterwards. Bought few dresses for my sisters went home around 9pm. Grabe kakaikot lang ng divisoria yun ah. I had trouble sleeping because it was really humid. Had to take a bath with a COLD water which I've done like really really seldom??? Hehehe. I was preparing to go to bed when 'Nel arrives. He had dinner and we were teasing him that he's having wedding jitters hehehe. He went home past 1 in the morning and I dozed off to sleep after we consume half of the bottle of wine which Mommy got as a gift.
I settled on my seat where the middle one is still unoccupied and the other with a pinay. The one who occupied the middle seat was an Indian. I said to myself, shoot, I hope wala syang amoy. I almost told the pinay na malas naman natin napagitnaan tayo and good thing I held my tongue. Turns out he speaks tagalog very fluently and been in and out of philippines for almost 16 years. Yes, I spoke to him because I'm not rude hehe. He said I'm really nice *righhhhttt* and that he can see the goodness in me *ngek*. When the plane landed, he asked for my no bec he said he wanted to treat me for a coffee just bec Ive been nice to him *yeah, right*. I told him, whenever I go to manila, Im always busy so I just asked him to give me his number. Hehe. That way, I did not just give away my number and save myself from headache, I have not been rude by acting violently. He may have pure intentions no. *ubo ubo* Eniwey, we arrived manila on time at past 1 but got out of the immigration at past 2. Super daming tao and naku ewan ko ba why it's taking so long for the immigration officers to stamped on the passports. I queued wrongly pa on the foreigners lane hehehe. Buti di ako pinagalitan. Saw my mom and bunso waiting for me :) We hailed a cab, went home and rested for a while then went to jabee for late late lunch. When you haven't tried jollibee for a long time and you're in front of the counter, lahat talaga halos gusto mo orderin eh. Kung pwede lang hehehe. Went to Divisoria afterwards. Bought few dresses for my sisters went home around 9pm. Grabe kakaikot lang ng divisoria yun ah. I had trouble sleeping because it was really humid. Had to take a bath with a COLD water which I've done like really really seldom??? Hehehe. I was preparing to go to bed when 'Nel arrives. He had dinner and we were teasing him that he's having wedding jitters hehehe. He went home past 1 in the morning and I dozed off to sleep after we consume half of the bottle of wine which Mommy got as a gift.
Manila, here i come!
My good friend Ronel is getting married on Sunday and for the past weeks, in as much pleadings and numbers of calls and sms i got from him, i decided not to go because cebupacific and jetstar's fare both gone up to SGD 500+++. Even if i love my friend that much, there's no way im spending that much just to go to manila for a few days vacation. Sorry 'nel hehehe. But last night when I got another sms from ronel again, i showed it to ffg, to which ffg said why not i use his miles. Woah! Singapore Airlines! It's been three years since the last time I take SQ to Manila. Of course I decline at first, medyo hinayang din ako kasi I'll be staying in manila for a few days lang. Ffg insist. Sayang daw dahil it will be expiring this month na. Wopeeeeeeee. Kahit biglaan, I give in hehehe. So, tomorrow, my flight will be at 9AM. Will be in manila and i'll be on leave from blogging until thursday. Yipeeeee! I'll be able to do some wedding stuffs din like invitation and kung ano ano pa. Tenchu ffg! You're the best! Muah! Btw, SQ's fare was SGD 599 including taxes. I paid only SGD 99 since his miles isn't enough for the whole trip. Alright!
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Went to Bugis to buy some chocolates to bring home to manila. Got dizzy. Bugis was really crowded. So went to McDo and rest while I was waiting for cuz. Thanks for the notebook from thailand cuz! Muahness. Good to see you again :) I miss our friday gimmick. :)
From Bugis, went to Starbucks city hall, and decided to drop by and meet the girls. Good thing i dropped by kahit sandali lang. It's good to see them again. Super saya pa rin and walang sawang kwentuhan at tawanan. Though ffg and I have to leave early, still, it's all worth it. Oh, and of course, tenkyu tenkyu tenkyu soooooooo muchhhhhhh Tin for the Hoodie! Will be posting the picture of the hoodie next time. Love love love it. Muah! Kat and Chard, super congrats! And to Jen and Fred, forgot to congratulate both of you! God bless!
From city hall, we went to sommerset to find some late late dinner. Then went to my happy place - Que Pasa. Had a glass of white, red for ffg, and the yummy yummy beef stew. Then went home and prepare my things to bring for tomorrow. Shucks, it's already 2 in the morning!
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Went to Bugis to buy some chocolates to bring home to manila. Got dizzy. Bugis was really crowded. So went to McDo and rest while I was waiting for cuz. Thanks for the notebook from thailand cuz! Muahness. Good to see you again :) I miss our friday gimmick. :)
From Bugis, went to Starbucks city hall, and decided to drop by and meet the girls. Good thing i dropped by kahit sandali lang. It's good to see them again. Super saya pa rin and walang sawang kwentuhan at tawanan. Though ffg and I have to leave early, still, it's all worth it. Oh, and of course, tenkyu tenkyu tenkyu soooooooo muchhhhhhh Tin for the Hoodie! Will be posting the picture of the hoodie next time. Love love love it. Muah! Kat and Chard, super congrats! And to Jen and Fred, forgot to congratulate both of you! God bless!
From city hall, we went to sommerset to find some late late dinner. Then went to my happy place - Que Pasa. Had a glass of white, red for ffg, and the yummy yummy beef stew. Then went home and prepare my things to bring for tomorrow. Shucks, it's already 2 in the morning!
Tuesday, May 22, 2007
Stammtisch, Bukit Timah
From the cruise, we went home and rest a bit and went to Bukit Timah by 6pm to meet ffg's friends. Stammtisch is a swiss/german restaurant owned by a germany chef and is personally serving most of his customers. They brought us here so we could try the cheese fondue which is my first time to hear and try. When I asked Barbara, she said that the interior of the restaurant looks like a typical swiss restaurant. The place is really cozy and not like those fine dining restaurants.
Stephan ordered a bottle of white wine for us and it was really delicious. I drink mostly red and the white in insomnia is really bad compared to what we've had here. It was gloriously good. Recommended for first timers hehehe. I heard from Stephan and ffg that the bottle was a bit expensive. Stephan paid for it, though. I think it was $70+. For the food, we ordered 2 sets of Cheese Fondue@SGD24+++ each set. For a group, the price is already worth it as it's heavy and you'll feel full after 5 to 6 dips of bread on the cheese. Im not much fan of cheese but this one I really loved it. Nicole suggested that the swiss way to eat fondue is to dip the bread into the Kirsch (Swiss drink which tasted like tequila - nicole ordered separately and asked me to try it) then dip into the cheese. Kirsch drink is only @ SGD 9+++. She and Stephan was also suggesting that next time we should try the Rivella, also a swiss drink which is like a soda. I heard they were selling it at SGD 5.50+++. I saw from most of the diners' table were pork knuckles. Hmmm, next time i'll order that. I hope I could bring my some of my friends here :) Of course we tried the sausages. Ffg and I had the grilled bratwurst sausage. A nicely browned foot long sausage with rosti potatoes and onion gravy with a bowl of salad for only $19 :) This is faarrrr better than the ones in Marche or the Vilage now. They get the meat and sausages from a Swiss Butchery, a gourmet butcher in Greenwood Avenue.
This is one experience I'll definitely blog about and let friends tried it. Although a bit expensive, one time experience is not bad. Sometimes it's good to try different kind from the usual that were having everyday.
To go there, we alight at the Newton MRT and took a cab to 6th avenue. The fare costs us only SGD 5+++. Although, you can take a bus 66, 170 which is 14 stops away from the Newton MRT. The address is 6th Avenue Centre #01-04 805 Bukit Timah Road. Dinner is from 6.30 to 10.30 and they are close on Mondays.
Stephan ordered a bottle of white wine for us and it was really delicious. I drink mostly red and the white in insomnia is really bad compared to what we've had here. It was gloriously good. Recommended for first timers hehehe. I heard from Stephan and ffg that the bottle was a bit expensive. Stephan paid for it, though. I think it was $70+. For the food, we ordered 2 sets of Cheese Fondue@SGD24+++ each set. For a group, the price is already worth it as it's heavy and you'll feel full after 5 to 6 dips of bread on the cheese. Im not much fan of cheese but this one I really loved it. Nicole suggested that the swiss way to eat fondue is to dip the bread into the Kirsch (Swiss drink which tasted like tequila - nicole ordered separately and asked me to try it) then dip into the cheese. Kirsch drink is only @ SGD 9+++. She and Stephan was also suggesting that next time we should try the Rivella, also a swiss drink which is like a soda. I heard they were selling it at SGD 5.50+++. I saw from most of the diners' table were pork knuckles. Hmmm, next time i'll order that. I hope I could bring my some of my friends here :) Of course we tried the sausages. Ffg and I had the grilled bratwurst sausage. A nicely browned foot long sausage with rosti potatoes and onion gravy with a bowl of salad for only $19 :) This is faarrrr better than the ones in Marche or the Vilage now. They get the meat and sausages from a Swiss Butchery, a gourmet butcher in Greenwood Avenue.
This is one experience I'll definitely blog about and let friends tried it. Although a bit expensive, one time experience is not bad. Sometimes it's good to try different kind from the usual that were having everyday.
To go there, we alight at the Newton MRT and took a cab to 6th avenue. The fare costs us only SGD 5+++. Although, you can take a bus 66, 170 which is 14 stops away from the Newton MRT. The address is 6th Avenue Centre #01-04 805 Bukit Timah Road. Dinner is from 6.30 to 10.30 and they are close on Mondays.
Monday, May 21, 2007
Four Blind Mice
Four Blind Mice is one of James Pattersons great books. It's full of suspense, will keep you guessing though some of the murder scenes are a bit graphic. I've finished the 400 page book in just one day because it's really that interesting and im so glad I took this book with me on our cruise.
The main plot revolves around a team of ex-Vietnam Ranger villains who are hired assassins with a twist. The wheels of justice move more quickly in the military than the rest of the civilized world, evidently.
Other good and must-read books from James Patterson's collections that I've read were:
- 3rd degree
- when the wind blows
- maximum ride
- the lake house
- sam's letter to jennifer
Alex Cross returns in the most harrowing case of his career—one that risks the life of his closest friend and partner, John Sampson.
Detective Alex Cross is on his way to resign from the Washington, D.C., Police Force when his partner shows up at his door with a case he can't refuse. One of John Sampson's oldest friends, from their days together in Vietnam, has been arrested for murder. Worse yet, he is subject to the iron hand of the United States Army. The evidence against him is strong enough to send him to the gas chamber.
Sampson is certain his friend has been framed, and Alex's investigation turns up evidence overlooked-or concealed-by the military authorities. Drawing on their years of street training and an almost telepathic mutual trust, Cross and Sampson go deep behind military lines to confront the most terrifying-and deadly-killers they have ever encountered. Behind these three highly skilled killing machines there appears to be an even more threatening controller. Discovering the identity of this lethal genius will prove to be Cross's most terrifying challenge ever.
On his visits home, Alex must confront another, more harrowing mystery: what's the matter with Nana Mama? As he explores the possibility of a new relationship with a woman who offers him new hope, Alex must also confront the fact that his beloved grandmother is only human.
The return of Alex Cross in Four Blind Mice also marks James Patterson's arrival at dazzling new heights of mind-bending suspense, explosive action, and lightning-fast plot twists. It is sure to be acclaimed as the best novel yet from the author the Associated Press says "writes thrillers as if he were building roller coasters."
The main plot revolves around a team of ex-Vietnam Ranger villains who are hired assassins with a twist. The wheels of justice move more quickly in the military than the rest of the civilized world, evidently.
Other good and must-read books from James Patterson's collections that I've read were:
- 3rd degree
- when the wind blows
- maximum ride
- the lake house
- sam's letter to jennifer
Alex Cross returns in the most harrowing case of his career—one that risks the life of his closest friend and partner, John Sampson.
Detective Alex Cross is on his way to resign from the Washington, D.C., Police Force when his partner shows up at his door with a case he can't refuse. One of John Sampson's oldest friends, from their days together in Vietnam, has been arrested for murder. Worse yet, he is subject to the iron hand of the United States Army. The evidence against him is strong enough to send him to the gas chamber.
Sampson is certain his friend has been framed, and Alex's investigation turns up evidence overlooked-or concealed-by the military authorities. Drawing on their years of street training and an almost telepathic mutual trust, Cross and Sampson go deep behind military lines to confront the most terrifying-and deadly-killers they have ever encountered. Behind these three highly skilled killing machines there appears to be an even more threatening controller. Discovering the identity of this lethal genius will prove to be Cross's most terrifying challenge ever.
On his visits home, Alex must confront another, more harrowing mystery: what's the matter with Nana Mama? As he explores the possibility of a new relationship with a woman who offers him new hope, Alex must also confront the fact that his beloved grandmother is only human.
The return of Alex Cross in Four Blind Mice also marks James Patterson's arrival at dazzling new heights of mind-bending suspense, explosive action, and lightning-fast plot twists. It is sure to be acclaimed as the best novel yet from the author the Associated Press says "writes thrillers as if he were building roller coasters."
Wednesday, May 16, 2007
A Moment in my life
There are moments in our life that shatters us and somehow made us change most of our perspective in life. We cry 'till there were no tears left hoping that it will lessen the pain or make that moment go away for a while. But God always gives us choices to make. To see things either in a way that could make us more miserable or still look forward with what could be in for us in the future. We may look back only if we're strong enough not to let this affect how we see things now. It's always difficult to be positive when you're hurting. I always say that. It's always intricate to put into action now what you've advised to others. It's not easy and it's never been.
I couldn't blog about what im facing now but im definitely looking at it optimistically. At least, that's what Im trying to do now. It's hard but I know this will pass. Im holding on to God's promise that He never intended us to get hurt. He might took away few things that matters to us, but you'll know that this may be for your own good. I hope I'll remain strong. I hope I won't let my weakness get into me.
I couldn't blog about what im facing now but im definitely looking at it optimistically. At least, that's what Im trying to do now. It's hard but I know this will pass. Im holding on to God's promise that He never intended us to get hurt. He might took away few things that matters to us, but you'll know that this may be for your own good. I hope I'll remain strong. I hope I won't let my weakness get into me.
Monday, May 07, 2007
The Phantom of the Opera
The plan of watching a play or opera in Esplanade has been long overdue. It remains a plan until Cuz Eram was nice enough to take care of the booking for us. So on the 3rd of May, all 9 of us, went to Esplanade. Went home, change on a nice dress (i love to dress up and this is one occassion that i don't want to miss hihihi), went to City Hall and meet ffg. Quarter to 8, we were already at the esplanade and calling cuz because they were still having dinner somewhere. It was a first time for me to watch an opera and honestly, I was never a fan. It was a fabulous experience, though. And it always give me great pleasure and excitement doing things the first time. *hope no one will interpret this in a 'green' way hehehe*. For a first timer, it was indeed great to start off with Broadway’s longest-running musical - The Phantom of the Opera.
The Esplanade Theatre's interior was really beautiful and very elegant. It has four levels and our seat was located on the fourth at the circle 3 with a clear view of what's going on on stage. They don't allow photos to be taken even on mobile phones but I managed to steal a few shots hehe. 10 minutes to 8, they were already closing the door, and the opera started at exactly 8pm. Neat! Never been to any show that started exactly the time they print it. Although cuz and the rest didn't managed to get on time, they were still able to watch the next scene. It was really different to watch it on stage than watchin it on a big screen. The musical started off slow, like a gentle giant waking up. It was really breathtaking. All the stage props were amazing. Candles rose out of the stage when the Phantom was rowing his boat with Christine in it. And it all looks so real. The dungeon was magnificently constructed, the shadows giving it an eerie and menacing look. The ballet dancers were splendid. The costumes are all colorful. The grand staircase at the Masquerade scene is really something. I didn't know or notice that they used mannequins until Novyta told me :) I was actually thinking where did they get those extras. I love the songs. It'll make you fall in love over and over again. The actors are great. Although there were scenes that I got a little bored, but hey it's my first time. It was one hell of an experience. It was really fab.
Andrew Lloyd Webber's THE PHANTOM OF THE OPERA is the heart-wrenching story of the mysterious "Angel of Music" who lives beneath the Paris Opera House. The hideously disfigured Phantom falls in love with the young singer Christine, devoting himself to creating a new opera star while exercising a reign of terror over the Opera House's occupants.
The casts, as I've done my research on the internet and not wanting to shed that $25 bucks for the booklet, did a fantastic job. Brad Little being The Phantom, Rebecca Pitcher as Christine, John Bowles as Raoul, Ana Marina as Alternate Christine, John O'May as Firmin, Anders Sohlman as Andre, Pauline Du Presis as Carlotta, Jackie Rees as Madame Giry, David Rogers-Smith as Ubaldo Phangi, Nadia Komazec as Meg Giry, Andre Strijdom as Reyer, James Skinner as Passarino, David English as Auctioneer/Lefevre, Rouel Beukes as Joseph Buquet, Sebastian Zokoza as Don Attilio, Sean Andrews as Marksman, Ben Kaslauskas as Slavemaster (In 'Hannibal'), Matthew Overmeyer as Soldier, Chris Wright as Porter/Tin Soldier, Mons Botha as Princess/Mirror Bride, Sophie Viskich as Wild Woman (in 'Hannibal'), Jennifer West as Wardrobe Mistress, Hamlee Louw as Madame Firmin, Nomasande Webu as Innkeepers Wife (In Don Juan Trumphant), Simon Pryce as Lionman, Donna-Maree Dunlop as Gauloise, Deborah Annable, Sarah Bakker, Marianna Baltadano, Mietta Gornall, Catherine Leppingwell, Maggie Purr as the Ballet chorus of the Opera populaire, Sharyn Winney as Ballet swing, Kurt Hapt, David Sommerville, Deborah Caddy, Amy Holder as the Swings, and Sharyn Winney as Dance Captain.
The ending part was great. Audience shows their appreciation by giving the casts a round of applause from the time each cast was introduced, although no standing ovation :( But if i were to ask, I would give them much appreciation than just applauding. It was really beautiful and you can't say that it is an easy work. Oh, I just learned that Sarah Brightman used to play Christine. Wala lang. We took picture from my camera phone afterwards.
The first act lasted for 1 1/2 hour with an intermission of 20 minutes. It ended around 11 pm. After the show, we had dinner at the Gluttons Bay where we saw Brad Little having his dinner too. If it were only me and ffg, I'll come up to him and ask for his autograph. Sayang, dxo band was there with us nashy ako hehehe.
The show will still be aired until the 20th of May so you still have time to catch up.
The Esplanade Theatre's interior was really beautiful and very elegant. It has four levels and our seat was located on the fourth at the circle 3 with a clear view of what's going on on stage. They don't allow photos to be taken even on mobile phones but I managed to steal a few shots hehe. 10 minutes to 8, they were already closing the door, and the opera started at exactly 8pm. Neat! Never been to any show that started exactly the time they print it. Although cuz and the rest didn't managed to get on time, they were still able to watch the next scene. It was really different to watch it on stage than watchin it on a big screen. The musical started off slow, like a gentle giant waking up. It was really breathtaking. All the stage props were amazing. Candles rose out of the stage when the Phantom was rowing his boat with Christine in it. And it all looks so real. The dungeon was magnificently constructed, the shadows giving it an eerie and menacing look. The ballet dancers were splendid. The costumes are all colorful. The grand staircase at the Masquerade scene is really something. I didn't know or notice that they used mannequins until Novyta told me :) I was actually thinking where did they get those extras. I love the songs. It'll make you fall in love over and over again. The actors are great. Although there were scenes that I got a little bored, but hey it's my first time. It was one hell of an experience. It was really fab.
Andrew Lloyd Webber's THE PHANTOM OF THE OPERA is the heart-wrenching story of the mysterious "Angel of Music" who lives beneath the Paris Opera House. The hideously disfigured Phantom falls in love with the young singer Christine, devoting himself to creating a new opera star while exercising a reign of terror over the Opera House's occupants.
The casts, as I've done my research on the internet and not wanting to shed that $25 bucks for the booklet, did a fantastic job. Brad Little being The Phantom, Rebecca Pitcher as Christine, John Bowles as Raoul, Ana Marina as Alternate Christine, John O'May as Firmin, Anders Sohlman as Andre, Pauline Du Presis as Carlotta, Jackie Rees as Madame Giry, David Rogers-Smith as Ubaldo Phangi, Nadia Komazec as Meg Giry, Andre Strijdom as Reyer, James Skinner as Passarino, David English as Auctioneer/Lefevre, Rouel Beukes as Joseph Buquet, Sebastian Zokoza as Don Attilio, Sean Andrews as Marksman, Ben Kaslauskas as Slavemaster (In 'Hannibal'), Matthew Overmeyer as Soldier, Chris Wright as Porter/Tin Soldier, Mons Botha as Princess/Mirror Bride, Sophie Viskich as Wild Woman (in 'Hannibal'), Jennifer West as Wardrobe Mistress, Hamlee Louw as Madame Firmin, Nomasande Webu as Innkeepers Wife (In Don Juan Trumphant), Simon Pryce as Lionman, Donna-Maree Dunlop as Gauloise, Deborah Annable, Sarah Bakker, Marianna Baltadano, Mietta Gornall, Catherine Leppingwell, Maggie Purr as the Ballet chorus of the Opera populaire, Sharyn Winney as Ballet swing, Kurt Hapt, David Sommerville, Deborah Caddy, Amy Holder as the Swings, and Sharyn Winney as Dance Captain.
The ending part was great. Audience shows their appreciation by giving the casts a round of applause from the time each cast was introduced, although no standing ovation :( But if i were to ask, I would give them much appreciation than just applauding. It was really beautiful and you can't say that it is an easy work. Oh, I just learned that Sarah Brightman used to play Christine. Wala lang. We took picture from my camera phone afterwards.
The first act lasted for 1 1/2 hour with an intermission of 20 minutes. It ended around 11 pm. After the show, we had dinner at the Gluttons Bay where we saw Brad Little having his dinner too. If it were only me and ffg, I'll come up to him and ask for his autograph. Sayang, dxo band was there with us nashy ako hehehe.
The show will still be aired until the 20th of May so you still have time to catch up.
Friday, May 04, 2007
A Sad Goodbye
today is the day that you'll say goodbye. im so sorry that i can't be there to even see your beauty for the last time. now, there'll be no more "next time, i'll visit her" or any planning of some sort for me. is it our fault that we never make a way to see or visit you? but i know you'll understand. not that we don't want to see you, we regret that. we just thought that it's best to keep the shield around us so we won't be reminded of the pain of the past. i know you'll be happy now where you'll be going. bye 'la. totoo pala. those who've caused you pain were the ones that's so hard to let go of. maybe this sadness that i feel isn't just because you're gone. maybe this is because i was hoping somehow that before you go, someone will take the responsibility of saying sorry. maybe this is because i know that he's all alone now and no one will accept whatever things he do but you. maybe this is because i'll miss whatever memories you installed *atleast in me*.
i like to be nostalgic at times. reminisce the memories - the good ones - that is. reminds me of the things that makes me look forward to something even at a young mind. like the weekly visit to your house that daddy and i did back then. growing up in a very small lair, and almost everyday of nothing grand to eat, with a one peso in my pocket as my biggest treasure, going to your place is really one of the best ones that i always look forward too. you have the grandest house in mayon, with a garden and numbers of beautiful dogs. your air conditioned room with lolo's picture hanging on the wall. with beautiful headboard and martha-stewart-like pillows and bedsheet. of course, your kitchen that never runs out of anything to eat. and not just anything but those you only find in the rich people's kitchen. fruits at the dinner table. box of goldilocks cake that i only had a slice whenever there's a really special occassion. chocolates. juice. lechon. and whenever we visit you there, you always go out of your room and head to the kitchen to prepare these grand foods for us. i remember the time i kept a few chocolates in my pocket just to give it to my mom. you have this chair that's only meant for u, placed at the corner of the dinner table near the window where you can see your garden. and when it's time for us to go home, you always give me money even if it's only enough for me to buy candy for all my kalaro, aside from the food and supot ng makopa that daddy picked for me from your tree. i always keep a big one peso coin and give it to you in exchange of five pesos. whenever you have to go to albularyo's and daddy and i go with you, we don't eat at just any place. we always eat at aristocrat or maxs. and whenever you walk out of the house, you're always at your best. always wearing the shade of brown dress. the way you plant your kiss on my cheeks is something that reminds me of you. all my memries of you that i kept in my heart were those that made me smile and somehow make myself believe that i am really your apo. and whatever happens in the past years, i threw some of them. it's like now that you're gone, i felt like reminiscing what just happen months ago not decades ago. and i prefer it this way. i cried so much when i heard from mom that you're gone maybe because i've nurtured that memory inside me for a long time. you see, it's not just a memory with you in there, but memory filled of times that im bonding with daddy. it's one of the best times of my life :)
paalam 'la. i know you're happy where you are now.
i like to be nostalgic at times. reminisce the memories - the good ones - that is. reminds me of the things that makes me look forward to something even at a young mind. like the weekly visit to your house that daddy and i did back then. growing up in a very small lair, and almost everyday of nothing grand to eat, with a one peso in my pocket as my biggest treasure, going to your place is really one of the best ones that i always look forward too. you have the grandest house in mayon, with a garden and numbers of beautiful dogs. your air conditioned room with lolo's picture hanging on the wall. with beautiful headboard and martha-stewart-like pillows and bedsheet. of course, your kitchen that never runs out of anything to eat. and not just anything but those you only find in the rich people's kitchen. fruits at the dinner table. box of goldilocks cake that i only had a slice whenever there's a really special occassion. chocolates. juice. lechon. and whenever we visit you there, you always go out of your room and head to the kitchen to prepare these grand foods for us. i remember the time i kept a few chocolates in my pocket just to give it to my mom. you have this chair that's only meant for u, placed at the corner of the dinner table near the window where you can see your garden. and when it's time for us to go home, you always give me money even if it's only enough for me to buy candy for all my kalaro, aside from the food and supot ng makopa that daddy picked for me from your tree. i always keep a big one peso coin and give it to you in exchange of five pesos. whenever you have to go to albularyo's and daddy and i go with you, we don't eat at just any place. we always eat at aristocrat or maxs. and whenever you walk out of the house, you're always at your best. always wearing the shade of brown dress. the way you plant your kiss on my cheeks is something that reminds me of you. all my memries of you that i kept in my heart were those that made me smile and somehow make myself believe that i am really your apo. and whatever happens in the past years, i threw some of them. it's like now that you're gone, i felt like reminiscing what just happen months ago not decades ago. and i prefer it this way. i cried so much when i heard from mom that you're gone maybe because i've nurtured that memory inside me for a long time. you see, it's not just a memory with you in there, but memory filled of times that im bonding with daddy. it's one of the best times of my life :)
paalam 'la. i know you're happy where you are now.
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