Monday, March 31, 2008

On weddings, rumours and other stuff..

Human nature dictates that we be interested in other people's lives. Whether we pursue gossip, or whether we stumble upon other person's life information does not matter. Whether it be a showbiz goss or a friends' chismis.
The past weekend the Pitt Jolie wedding rumour proved to be something ordinary. This rumour has been going on for ages. But, anyway, George Clooney's denied the rumor. Oh well, if I had the same high profile I would probably just elope and do it. But then again, I am not a celebrity as such (well, just a bit!:)

Having said that, don't you just gleam when finding out that a friend's recently been engaged, or a neighbour's expecting a baby, or so and so friend's gotten married within six months of knowing the guy. Whatever the circumstance, finding out about other people's lives just make us forget briefly how imperfect (or perfect) our life is. Or, how boring or interesting our life is. What ever the reasons behind it, we are just really a sociable specie always watching out for entertainment : through other people's lives.

Each one of us am sure would have fallen into this trap. Either we are the object of gossip. Or engaging in gossip. For as long as we don't believe rumours without confirming, and for as long as we don't judge people when we find out more details of their personal lives, then this should be harmless. And it would be good if the gossip ends with us. (But this is rarely the case I know).

If you were Angelina Jolie how would you feel if your personal life was watched in scrutiny, all your moves and decisions? Pity those celebrities who live a lie by having to deal with criticising press on a daily basis. Surely there should be other ways to earn big $$. (?)

Tuesday, March 25, 2008

World Youth Day Cross at St Mary's Cathedral

On Easter Sunday, we heard mass at St Mary's Cathedral. The WYD Cross was up in front near the altar. It's amazing that this cross has actually travelled across the globe so many times over, all in celebration of the Catholic Faith and that which unites Youth (and the once Youth) groups without discrimination from all over the world.

I remember my first (and only so far) World Youth Day in Manila in 1995. It was such a great experience. Well aside from not having classes for a few days to a week this was memorable since I actually participated in the activities. Back then I was active in my youth group and WYD was one of the events that I've led them. I was busy chasing the teenagers I was mentoring making sure they were all right, and attending the talks and all that. Imagine that was more than 10 years ago. I feel old. Were you at the WYD Tent city in Intramuros too?? Fun 'no?

Now that World Youth Day 08 will be held in Sydney, I don't think I will be able to participate. I was meant to volunteer though, together with my other friends, but we realised it required serious dedication and demanded a lot of our time. We couldn't do it coz we had fulltime jobs.

I will be in Sydney in July 08, and I'm sure I will witness thousands of youth from all over gather in the city. I would love to be part of this again, but for now I will have to appreciate just being in the city that will host this year's WYD. Where will you be this July?

Monday, March 24, 2008

Time, Change and Happy Thoughts

I've got my family here with me now for the next 8 weeks, and I'm happy!

At the same time I will be adjusting to having people with me. It's not bad at all. It just means I have to change my ways and thinking, because I've got other people to think of as well now. (Not that I've not thought of them in the past). (But am sure some of you in the same boat would understand!)

Hosting them for the next two months means I will have to share my apartment space with them which I am not used to anymore. My abode will be home to my family now. And having lived for close to 5 years independently I am in for a lot of adjustments. Temporarily.

Queues to use the bathroom, the PC, and just synchronising my schedule to theirs, being patient while visiting places that is ordinary to me while in their eyes will be foreign. Early today I was doing grocery shopping for us and I totally forgot they were with me! Bad me! But it was busy inside Woolworths and so my head was fuzzed and I was bumping into people left and right! But I didn't leave them or anything. It was just a short lapse in my memory! :D Nevertheless, I am so looking forward to spending more time with them as well!
Hosting visitors means that I get to be a tour guide again (which I truly truly love doing). I get to see the Sydney Opera House, Harbour Bridge, Taronga Zoo, Sydney Aquarium, etc. again. Whenever I take my visitors to these places I get renewed and try to see it from their point of view, as if it was my first time to see these places again! Which is such a beauty, as you might have noticed from most of my entries that I have a love affair with Sydney. Praising most of what the city can offer!

Lent and Easter


This year I was not able to fully reflect much about Lent and Easter. I was too busy that the whole month, and the whole Holy Week just passed me by too quick.

Don't you find it that sometimes there's just not enough time to do everything that you want? Either you're busy with work, busy doing other things, preparing stuff, or simply are too preoccupied with being lazy..

Well, I've been busy for the past three to four weeks preparing for my family's arrival. They're coming in batches which may be easier or more difficult depending on how I look at it. I think it's a little bit of both.

I'm hoping that next year things will be a bit settled so that I can take the time off and be able to reflect on my life in general.

Hope you all had a Happy Easter break! :) And that the Easter bunny's brought you lots of chocolate and goodies!

Friday, March 21, 2008

Love Quote for the day from Unknown

They say:

"You don't marry someone you can live with - you marry the person who you cannot live without. " - - Unknown

One day a few months ago a friend and I had a discussion about this line. We were talking about the meaning of the words per se, and whether it should be interpreted literally or figuratively.

Literally, this won't work. You really should marry someone you can live with. Otherwise, you'd end up in huge fights everyday. And eventually break up. But of course you will never know if you can live with them, well, until you live with them.

But then again, figuratively.. You marry someone you are crazily in love with, someone you choose to spend each and every day with, someone who you need because you love. But how do decide who's that one person you cannot live without?

Wednesday, March 19, 2008

A possible career in Fashion?

I spoke to my sister in law who's based in California the other night and she's been trying to convince me to relocate to the United States. As much as I've been telling her how happy I am in Sydney, she's just saying how much fun she is having in the States inspite of the recession. She's currently looking for a part time career, and I've told her why not get into fashion design. There are a lot of fashion schools in California, or particularly a lot of really good fashion schools in Los Angeles. She says she's leaning towards pursuing a career in law. I told her it might be worth her while to pursue and enrol into a fashion school in California since she's quite a trendy and fashionable person, who's always up to date with information and fashion trends. She said she'll think about it. Oh well! I suppose I can think about it as well.

Monday, March 17, 2008

Rafe Bags hit Manila this March!

Rafe Bags in Manila Rafe Totengco has always been a Bag Icon. He's one of the most popular fashion hits in New York supplying bags to Hollywood dolls such as: Jessica Alba, Sandra Oh, Vanessa Minnillo, Lindsay Lohan, Adriana Lima, Giselle Bundchen, Mischa Barton, Blake Lively, Paris Hilton. He's even done Eva Longoria's wedding clutch!

Finally he's opening his first store in Manila, his hometown! He is opening the first Rafe store at Greenbelt, Makati on March 27, 2008. Since there is no Rafe store in Sydney I will have to wait til I visit Manila, or perhaps NYC?

Together with Monique Lhuillier, he's become one of the most successful and well known businessman/designer from the Philippines. I've been quite a fan of his works and his writing style. You may read more about him, his travels and fun thoughts on his blog.

Sunday, March 16, 2008

My pet is hungryyy!


In my apartment we can't keep pets, so I resorted to just having a Neopet. (hehe - - see snippet!)

It's quite a cool program, when I went for a month long Manila vacation I booked her into a hotel! Lucky pet! Coz I knew I wouldn't have time to visit her every so often.

Recently I have been busy with other things and have not been able to feed her! Times like this I just think that maybe I won't be a responsible pet owner, but then again I'm sure if I have a cute cat or pup roaming around my flat I would definitely give it my time and attention. How I wish I could really keep one. Perhaps when I get my own place! Which I hope to get soon!!

Saturday, March 15, 2008

Second Chances on Finance

In life, it's not often that we are given second chances to prove that we are capable of repayments. Turning around our previous bad habits is possible as there are some companies who offer bad credit loans. Bad credit credit cards are an option as well depending on what is best for our circumstance.If a person is given an opportunity to apply for credit cards for bad credit then this may just give them that second chance to repair that bad credit history.

Thursday, March 13, 2008

One of those things..

Yesterday was quite slow at work. And by that I really mean S - L - O - W. I am not complaining though! Coming from a super stressful department, this slow day is welcomed with open arms. Although of course I would not want this everyday. (Maybe every other day?!) Anyway, I saw this one on the net. Something that made me think.
A lot of times I've been told that I am too harsh on myself, about so many things. But that's the way that I am. Another side of the 'quote' made me think about unfinished businesses.

Is it necessary to reconcile oneself with the past in order to fully let go? Or is it better to just let go. I guess it all depends on the circumstance.

Tuesday, March 11, 2008

Saturday Picnic at Bradfield Park

Just wanted to share this photo I took from last Saturday's. Should you want to read my entire post, please click here.
I went to the beach on Sunday but I was not able to take any photo....... :( Next time!

Monday, March 10, 2008

What is your favorite and most unusual food combination/eating habit?


I eat bananas with lemon and soy sauce.

I eat bacon with maple syrup.

I eat doritos and chocolate alternating one after the other.

I eat coconut jam with hotdog.

I eat Spam cooked in sugar!


I know they sound yuck, but it's just one of those things that makes a person different (or do you call the weird, hehe!). But, really some may be your comfort food. Or, something that you crave every once in a while. Or it may be something that you may have outgrown already.

I've heard some really, really (I'm making this sound less harsh) different food combos. What's yours? I promise I won't cringe at the thought of eating your *perfect* combination. You've read mine above.

Watch fit for a Queen

Have you heard of this watch? Breguet? I only came across it last week and was so enthralled by it that I've researched on it. The Swiss watches, Breguet over the centuries have created timepieces for historical people! They've been around since the year 1775, and have done watches for : Queen Marie Antoinette, Napoleon Bonaparte (!), Queen Victoria and Sir Winston Churchill (!!) to name a few.

Breguet's even mentioned in a number of literatures such classical works from Victor Hugo, Henry Murger, Alexandre Dumas, etc! Breguet even houses their own museum, which includes such a rich timeline.

Imagine the pride one would have when carrying such brand on oneself.

What makes this watch an icon on its own? Aside from the history, literature and all that. Craftsmanship of these watches: it possesses a secret signature in the dial and individual numbers assigned to the item, hands, and dials are exquisitely made, the lugs are made of 18 carat gold, blue steeled hand, each watch comes in an elegant casing made from precious metal (yellow or rose or white gold, platinum).

I'd probably be happy if I could borrow this one even for just a day! It's been said that these watches supply is less than what people in the upper crust are demanding. Wow! (BTW, Breguet watches sell for about $130K!)

PS. Each watch comes with an instruction manual!

Iphones are the new hip thing!

Yesterday I went to the beach with friends. It's been a while since I've seen them. One of them, a Russian guy had the new iphone. He was so much into his new gadget that he was endlessly talking about how much time he's been spending playing and tinkering with this amazing toy. He's even mentioned what iphone mods he's into as well as what iphone wallpapers he's recently downloaded. He was particularly excited about one iphone wallpaper he's uploaded which had an image of his dream car : a sleek, red porsche. I've told him about the site planet-iphones.com and immediately when he got home he's sent me a message about how much he's into the site! He's downloaded a few applications and some more wallpapers. I wouldn't be surprised if I see him again in the next couple of weeks that he would have purchased a few more accessories such as a new clear silicone case and a headphone adapter. There's just so much accessories available to make one's iphone hip and trend.

My Russian friend even tried to convince my other male friends to get one! Let's see the next time I see them whether he's able to influence the other people from our group! The joys of technology!

Sunday, March 09, 2008

This is a first for me, Thanks Rhea!

Thanks to Rhea for this! :) Made me smile!



I haven't really been blogging that long and so this is a first for me.



I'd like to give this back to a few people who's homes ( blog sites ) I've been visiting to quite frequently, and who I think deserve this. Cheers to Valerie and Sheng!

There's something about Katie's Bob

I'm not quite sure I actually like it. Coz I've seen a few photos and some makes her look really sophisticated and all that, but some make her look like her hair's just all over her face. I guess it depends on the angle and the photographer?


But, I like these particular ones...


I guess, really its just a matter of preference. Either you hate it or luv it.. I wonder if it would suit me?! Haha! Not! My forehead's too small...

Saturday, March 08, 2008

Remember Hotel Reservations next time you're planning a holiday

I've always been fond of researching about countries, cities, hotels, resorts, motels and such. Always after the best hotel discounts and rates. I find it a challenge to find great bargains, as I am in endless search for weekend getaways or planning my long holidays. Call it therapy, but I just really call it fun! Finding Hotel Reservations for me is like finding a gem in a field, they've got the best guaranteed low rates or you get a rebate (conditions apply). What's good is that they have flights and cars as well. Imagine having to go to one store and find everything you need for your holiday! Another option I may be looking at would be their vacation rentals and vacation packages! For sure those deals would be as enticing!

Browsing through Hotel Reservations' website is easy. Everything is stated clearly: details of the hotel such as room category, amenities, photos as well as plotting the hotel location onto the map. This is such a great feature for me, as I am a visual person that needs to know where I will be situated because I like being oriented beforehand.

Whether you are still in the research or the finalising stage, Hotel Reservations' website can assist you. I find their destination guide pretty useful. It has an extensive list of cities around the globe, each country guide covers the basic things you need to know in visiting the country.

Another good thing about Hotel Reservations is that they don't impose change or cancellation fees (hotels have their own policies though regarding this), as sometimes it really is inevitable that things change. Having said all these benefits, what I can really say that stands out above it all are their rates. Competitive and guaranteed lower rates. I should actually get going as I am searching for a resort to stay at around Sydney over the Easter holidays.

Black friday goodies

I am not really someone who's very into shopping online, but if it saves me a considerable amount, then I will by all means use that. I have found out when doing Christmas shopping it is best to do it online on black friday as they are the official site for all black friday advertisements for 2008. When is black friday? If you are not familiar to this term at all, it is the day after thanksgiving. It is the day when you can shop at your favorite stores online. Imagine not having to leave the warmth of your home, but being able to do all your shopping in one go. There's Toys'R'us for the kids, Macy's for the teeners, Office Depot for dad or hubby, and just so much more deals. For one not to forget this special black friday event, you can even subscribe to them and they will take care of reminding you about your black friday shopping date. I think I know how else I can make shopping online on black friday even more special and fun! I could probably invite a few friends over. Since I've got wireless internet, we could all gather at my place and do our online Christmas shopping at the same time while chatting away and munching some goodies. I actually think that is a good idea. Now, I would just have to subscribe to their email alert, and wait for D-day.

I was this close to...


...Joining the urban challenge : Sydney City Chase!

It would have been a fun event this month, but then my partner backed out... Oh well! Must not have been meant to be.. We may have to eat live insects (last year's competition they made participants eat worms and crickets)!! The competition is a cross between Amazing Race, Fear Factor and Survivor, all rolled into one game.

It would have been nice though to try this at least once in my life. Maybe next year!! I'd get my teammate to sign a contract with me! Haha!! Anyone willing to volunteer?

Thursday, March 06, 2008

New York and Fashion

New York has always been equivalent to fashion central. And by that, people who are serious about fashion go and study everything about fashion. And where else would they go to do this? Of course, New York. I know of a couple of fashion frenzy friends from Manila who've actually searched for a fashion school in New York on the internet. And soon thereafter were living their dream in the urban NYC lifestyle revolving around fashion, fashion and more fashion. I was updated by them everytime they would come accross a good New York fashion school.

So for one who's got their eyes and mindset to find the best New York fashion schools the internet is a great way to start your research. Information that's so easy to access, with one click all the fashion schools new york would be at your fingertips. Listed and ready for you to choose one. Gone are the days when one would have to send letters to different schools just to find out what courses they offer at how much, and the school would have to send an information pack to you. Now, everything is online. If i was not in the Travel Industry, I would have considered being in the Fashion Industry, and researching my way to finding a good New York fashion school! Maybe one day if I were to do a career change this will be useful to me.

Wednesday, March 05, 2008

Undomestic Goddess - Hope for the hopeless cook

Years ago when I was younger, you would only find me in the kitchen if I was tasting what our helper was cooking, or if I was rummaging through the fridge to find something to eat, if I was frying hotdog or Spam, or if I was in Home Economics class, pretending to cook (well I had classmates to cover for me)!

Over the years, even through University things stayed that way. I guess I never really found the necessity nor the urgency to hold a laddle and a pan. I had people around me cooking for me. I was happy with what they cooked up otherwise I'd resort to my hotdog or Spam. I was so bad at cooking that one time for a Christmas party (where we had to bring something we did ourselves) I opted to do Macaroni salad. From Scratch. I ended up with a big blob of pasta. Why? I didn't know that I had to put the pasta into boiling water. I placed the pasta immediately after I put cold water on the stove. Naturally the pasta bits clumped with each other. It was a disaster I was sort of ashamed of this because even my little sister knew that you put pasta IN when the water started to boil. Oh well. Now I know...

So, after University I moved on to do further studies in Sydney. I lived with a family who cooked. This time I had to make an effort because I was living with people I had no relations with. I helped out in the kitchen. I would volunteer to chop the veggies, clear the table and do the dishes, as well as provide a listening ear to the designated cook of the night, hearing out their stories about heartaches/or love as well as other daily or special life stories. Nevertheless, once in a while I still opted to use the pan but only to cook Spam. (I know, pathetic).

And then, one day... I just felt something change in me. I actually wanted to learn to cook. Not just heat things up, or pour mix over chicken. I took up Culinary for about two months. Lessons I did at night, every single weekday during that period. I would not skip any of my classes (well one night's lesson costed about $80 per day!Burned my pocket!). To think I would have already had a long day at work ending at 530pm, I'd rush to my Culinary Class at 6pm. We would normally end class at 9pm with dinner at hand, whatever we cooked that night. Looking back now, I cannot imagine having done that. At all. What a rigid schedule, but I survived! And somehow, I've learned a few things. Not everything, as practice really just makes one better. And I could only learn some more things in time.

My culinary class sparked that interest to learn about this great thing called COOKING. I may never be the best Cook ever. But at least now I am eager to learn. And eager to try something new. Sure I have my bad days where I would just feel frustrated with how my dish turned out to be. But the next day, I still try again. Try again with the same zest and excitement if not more than the previous day's.

Now, even after coming home from work at about 6PM, I still cook. I enjoy whipping up a pasta dish, with the works (meatballs, basil, mushrooms, mozarella, garlic bread, coke, etc). So far, I can do : Adobo, Sinigang, Chicken Parmigiana, Rosemary Honeyglazed chicken, Spareribs, Longganisa, Paksiw, to name a few..)

Sometimes I have dinner at 9pm. But the wait is oftentimes worth it.

There are times I when I still just crank the Corned Beef can open and fry eggs. But then, of course I had a long day at work.

That day isn't today. I did a 2hour oven baked Aussie Pork Ribs. Yum.. Worth the wait! Now I just have to think about tomorrow night's meal.

Cupcake Mania

If you think cupcake mania's just in Manila, you are mistaken! It is everywhere! Even in Sydney. I have come across Cupcakes on Pitt more than a year ago, while I was training for my current job, one of the trainor/speakers have brought in these yummy goodies! It was a very welcome break to our tired brains during training. The cupcakes were so cute that you would want to stare at it first before munching them in. So cute that from time to time, visitors at work would bring boxes of these to the office. A few times there was even our company logo on the goodies! How cool!


These cupcakes are guaranteed fresh on the day, and have no preservatives at all in their ingredients. These tempting treats are priced at A$2 each, which is not a bad price at all.

I heard on Valentines day this year the line actually extended all the way to Ted's Camera store next door! Cupcakes are the new Roses??


I can't wait to have my Manila friends who are visiting (soon), to try this! I guess Sonja's Cupcakes has competition. But then again, thats miles and miles away.


P.S. At one time I actually bought this game for my palm, which was Cake Mania, if you're into baking and cakes, this is quite an interesting and fun game! It's kept me up every night for a good few months!

Billboard and Signages

Isn't it amazing how creative some advertisers are. Using billboards as an advertising tool is quite an effective way to market a product or service. Imagine being stuck in traffic and have a billboard stare at you for a few minutes. Imagine being stuck in traffic every single day to and from work! That would be painful if billboards were not as interesting to look at. If they were dull and lifeless, waiting in traffic would be a pain.

Having said that, I find it enjoyable to look at catchy billboards. An advertisement which is different and eye appealing can go a long way. And some even, you remember for life! Seriously!

They even provide you with an option for a Billboard Connection - Billboard and Signage Franchise Opportunity . That is advantage, as they represent a broad number of clients. If I had a business, which I hope to start up soon, I would seriously look at this option. It's proven to be effective.



Thirty Nine Somethings

1. Can you name one person who made you laugh last night? My hubub
2. What were you doing at 0800? Dreaming!
3. What were you doing 30 minutes ago? Surfing the net
4. What happened to you in 2007? Travelled, Worked, Blogged, and other normal things.
5. What was the last thing you said out loud? I'm hungry.
6. How many beverages did you have today? Two. Water, Pepsi.
7. What color is your hairbrush? Bluish Gray
8. What was the last thing you paid for? Sandwhich roll.
9. Where were you last night? At home.
10. What color is your front door? White
11. Where do you keep your change? Ideally inside my purse. In a hurry : chuck it in my bag.
12. What the weather like today? Weird. A bit cool. A bit muggy and humid. A bit warm.
13. What the best ice-cream flavor? Caramel or Strawberry
14. What excites you? A travel book. New bag. Watching a travel show on tv/dvd. Planning my travel holiday. Warm days.
15. Do you want to cut your hair? Been meaning to. Just never got around doing it. Hopefully during my long break.
16. Are you over the age of 25? Physically, yes. Mentally, almost not quite.
17. Do you talk a lot? Only to people I am close to.
18. Do you watch the O.C.? Not one episode.
19. Do you know anyone named Steven? Nope.
20. Do you make up your own words? All the time. Ask hubub.
21. Are you a jealous person? Yes.
22. Name a friend whose name starts with the letter ? Allan
23. Name a friend whose name starts with the letter K. Kersti
24. Who the first person on your received call list? Lilibeth
25. What does the last text message you received say? Just woke up.
26. Do you chew on your straw? No.
27. Do you have curly hair? Most of the time, yes.
28. Where the next place youe going to? Queensland.
29. Who the rudest person in your life? My former boss
30. What was the last thing you ate? Sandwich
31. Will you get married in the future? yes.
32. What the best movie youe seen in the past 2 weeks? The Brave One.
33. Is there anyone you like right now? I Like..
34. When was the last time you did the dishes? Yesterday
35. Are you currently depressed? No.
36. Did you cry today? No.
37. What are you looking forward to? My family coming over.
38. What's on your mind now. Too many to even start to type about. Energy Bill issues, My passengers' wedding group to Mexico, wanting a long holiday again, What to wear tomorrow.....
39. One liner that sums up your life now. Waiting.

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Monday, March 03, 2008

I couldn't wait to be part of Bloggerwave

If you maintain a blog most likely you have heard of the paidblogging bandwagon. And, if you're not part of it yet, then I suggest you do as it takes very little effort particularly if you are a passionate writer wannabee. Writing as you normally do about your interest can gain popularity for your blog and you can make money easily.

bloggerwave is aiming to be Europe's biggest blog advertising. I reckon it will not be long before they actually reach that status. Currently their name is known by most if not all bloggers. Wouldn't you want to be part of something big? I know I would. Well, I am already part of the Bloggerwave family anyway!

Grocery Things VS Real life Dilemmas

In the past year, I have actually taken joy in doing my grocery. I don't know why, but it has become a therapy of some sort. I can spend an hour easily just going through the aisles. And sometimes even going a second round through the aisles. (Really, sometimes it is sweeter the second time 'round.) Whether that be at Coles, or at Woolies, or the local IGA or Duffy Bros.

A simple decision becomes a complex one : 6 rolls toilet paper at $ 3.50 VS. 4 rolls at $ 2.50 ? Or, is it worth buying the Sweet Onion relish or the Tomato Caramelised onion (In this case, I bought both!). All these seemingly complex dilemmas are much preferred over the real dilemmas of life. Maybe that's why I enjoy grocery shopping nowadays. I would rather choose Strawberry Swirl Ice Cream VS. Caramel Ice Cream VS. Neapolitana Ice Cream. Wouldn't you prefer this as well?

What are the top 10 things that you usually buy from the supermarket? Mine's as follows:

1. Jasmine Rice - Koala Brand
2. Fruit Juice - Preferably : Apple Cranberry, Orange or Mango flavoured
3. Bread - White Thin Sliced
4. Cheese - Either individually wrapped, or blue cheese, or camembert
5. Chips - Sweet Chilli and Sour Cream Red Rock Deli
6. Diced or Stir Fry - Chicken, Beef or Pork
7. Eggs
8. Spaghetti Sauce
9. Asian Veggie Mix - Carrots, Cauliflower, Mushroom, Brocolli
10. Chocolate - Cadbury Fruit and Nut or B&G Almonds

Sunday, March 02, 2008

Sydney Mardi Gras March 1, 2008

Went to the Mardi Gras Parade yesterday. It was such a colourful event! So many people came to watch this as it was Sydney's 30th Mardi Gras Anniversary!

Parties actually begun early in February! They say, the queer holds great parties. They have a pre-party, a party, an after-party and and after after party! We saw one last week during the meeting of the Royalty Ships. They had their pre-Mardi Gras Harbour party at the Botanic Gardens/Harbour area. They are a cool and fun bunch.

Warning: some photos show (too) much flesh.

For more fun and interesting photos click on my other site : Gorgeous Traveller's Mardi Gras and Lemon Iced Tea.







There's No "Us". Only "You" and "Me".

To Pinoys and Pinays out there. I received this in the mail a few years back. And suddenly I remembered it again. So true. And if you can relate to it, it will strike you deep. Happy reading!

Pseudo Relationships

Others call it MU or mutual understanding.

Pseudo-relationships.

Pseudo-boyfriends. Pseudo-girlfriends.

Flings. Almost like a relationship, but not quite.

It is a phase where the persons involved are more than friends, but not quite lovers.

Puwedeng may verbal agreement,puwedeng wala.

One or both of you may have admitted your feelings, possible ding hindi.

You just let your gestures do the talking for you.

Walang pormal na ligawan na nangyari. Hindi kayo mag-dyowa.

Pero sa kilos niyo, sa mga sinasabi niyo, parang kayo, pero hindi.

This kind of "relationship"can happen at different stagesfor different reasons.

It can happen after a break-up. You still love each other, and you want to be with each other but you broke up for a reason.

And for reasons that you alone know, ayaw niyo na muna magkabalikan.

It can also happen before a relationship, iyong pareho kayong nakikiramdam.

Possible din na ayaw niyo munang mag-seryoso kaya kunwa-kunwarian lang muna.

Testing lang. (tama ba un?!) Puwede ring hindi puwedeng maging kayo kasi isa sa inyo may ka-relasyon na.

Kaya habang hindi pa siyanakikipag-break doon sa boy/girl (sabi niya makikipag-break siya soonpero di naman niya ginagawa), wala muna kayong relasyonpara nga naman hindi siya nangangaliwakasi "hindi naman kayo.

"This pseudo-relationship stage, for a time, can be fun. Lalo na kung naghahanap ka lang naman ng "KALARO."

Pero huwag ka lang mag-e-expect na may patutunguhan kayo kasi wala talagang kasiguraduhan.

So bakit ang daming nagse-settle sa ganitong set up ganoong hindi naman sigurado kung may patutunguhan?

Iba't ibang dahilan. Puwedeng for fun lang. Puwedeng "buti na iyan kesa wala" or puwede na iyang "pantawid-gutom."

Meaning, habang wala pa iyong the real thing, doon muna sa kunwa-kunwarian.

For those who are not in a serious relationship, they would think that pseudo-relationship is better than no relationship at all.

It would be fun, if all you're after is that "kilig" feeling.

But then I learned that although it was only a pseudo-relationship, the emotions were real.

And usually, in this kind of set up, merong malulugi.."yung nainlove sa taong taken na.."

Una, you can't ask him/her to commit. Since it's not really a relationship,you can't demand commitment from your partner.

Ano ba kayo? You will always be uncertain about your role in his/her life.

You can't expect him/her to be always there with you. And if you feel jealous of the other boy/girl, you just have to keep it to yourself.

Ano ka ba niya para magselos? Pangalawa, what if you fall deeply in love with him/her?

You can't be sure if he/she feels the same way. Baka nag-a-assume ka lang na mahal ka rin niya.

Even if you are dying to tell him/her you love him/her, you can't.

Because you're not sure if he/she will like it. Baka mapahiya ka lang.

This stage will always make you wonder where you are in the relationship.

Or if there is a relationship at all. Pangatlo, what if you become attached too much?

What if you have invested all your emotions and this man/woman hasn't?

What if you remain faithful to him/her, not entertaining other guys/gals, only to find out that he/she is seeingother girls/boys?

Isa pang downside ng pseudo-relationships, it is fleeting.

When a disagreement sets in,or when one of you gets cold, then that would be the end of it.

Unlike in a serious relationship, hindi mo alam kung saan ka lulugar sa isang pseudo-relationship.

Wala kang pinanghahawakan. Kasi sa pseudo- relationship,

there is no "us." Meron lang "you and me,"hindi "us."

The big 4-0

Turning 40 soon has had me thinking about a few things lately. One, major one is whether to have another baby. Hmm. I guess this is partly n...