Never Felt Boredom

We had a 4-day weekend. For long holidays, I usually get bored because most of it are commonly spent at home – doing nothing valuable. And so my dgroup planned a trek to Mount Pinatubo. The plan was good: we’ll go up on Monday and we’ll rest on Tuesday so we can be ready for the Wednesday usual office work. We’ll just go there by public transport since no one volunteered to do a long and tiring drive. Then an unexpected typhoon came! So much for the trekking…

I spent my Saturday in the ministry, well the first part of the day was in bed. Hehe. Attended the event in church and then went to dgroup that ended at 11pm! It was raining hard, really. Sunday, I needed to wake up early for my sister requested me to attend the 1st worship service and that means getting up as early as 6am. By the way, during our dgroup, I had a cup of coffee which kept my mind awake until two in the morning! Coffee doesn’t usually have that effect much on me, but I don’t know why on that particular time, my mind couldn’t sleep. Anyway, that Sunday I slept from 12noon to 3pm. I still want to stay in bed but I don’t want to miss a TV series I regularly watch. Haha! And again, there was a typhoon, so the kids cannot play outside and made our living room their play area. They played basket using a balloon and it was really a chaos. There were five of them- shouting, running, jumping and is everywhere. So much for my TV watching. I wanted to go back to my room but decided to be with the kids, speaking of spending time with family. Hehe. And so the rest of the day was playtime mode.

Instead of going to Mount Pinatubo that Monday, the group finally decided to visit Marquee Mall. Though only three of us were able to make it, there were two bodyguards (friends) who also came with us. We ate our now favorite Brother’s burger (missing the mayo and catsup), watched a movie (we only knew then that there was such a film! It has a good story though.), did some shopping (err, more shopping?) and even had kodakan moments (free from the movie tickets). And the highlight of it was having my new toy! (I’m-busy-please-don’t-disturb)

The last day of my long weekend was used in cleaning my room (finally my bedroom was able to breathe) and on a date with my close friend. We always plan for that date but our schedules are often in conflict and so yesterday we enjoyed our chat, eating and even did a little grocery.

Today is the start of going-back-to-reality. I find it funny though ‘coz my bible verse this morning was from Proverbs 31 woman, speaking of getting-up-early-while-it-was-still-dark. I will miss my morning long sleep…

Thank You, Father God, for the peaceful rest and the time spent with the people who matter most to me. Thank You for never letting me feel any boredom.

The Green Team

It was an honor to be a Green Team member, especially working with my groupmates.

Excitement was the first emotion I felt when my superiors volunteered me to be part of the Green team. And as we go on with the group, the excitement is changing to admiration and inspiration.

Each member comes from different departments. It was my first time to work with most of them. And it is fascinating and surprising to know each one personally through our projects and meetings.

Green day celebration is one of the biggest projects of the team. Needless to say, each member is excited and enthusiastic for the event. As Sir Danny started to challenge us to prepare for the celebration, everyone gave time and much thinking on how can the celebration be better and meaningful this time.

We were assigned to different roles and were given different responsibilities. Everyone did his job in sourcing out for the best idea for the upcoming event. Everyone was in his high momentum. Everyone was excited.

The plan was almost complete when the BIG change was laid down to us. The BIG change means finding an alternative to all the preparations that we did. Eventhough it means to look for a different venue, the team did not lose its momentum. Another challenge came up. We needed to revise the budget. Again, the team did not spend much time dwelling on the WHY but more on the HOW.

It is at this time that I was in awe with my teammates. A number of email exchanges, meetings, brainstorming, decision making, revisions – but the team never loses its focus. Negative feedbacks did not hinder the team to courageously work out and do the best for the company and for the co-employees.

I must admit that at one time, I feel like giving up, I feel like “bahala na kayo dyan”, I feel like stopping and just concentrate on my daily work. Thanks to the passion for success that my teammates are exhibiting, I found myself on the same momentum as they are.

Days before the Green day, there is still one major award left unoccupied. Another twist came, the decision to choose the awardee was given to us. It was so tempting to give up but Green team as we are; the group gave whatever is needed.

The celebration was a success! Happy faces and satisfied colleagues are what we see. All the effort and hardwork by the team has been paid off. The scene where each member did his part in the program is worth keeping in my memory.

Full engagement, connectivity, reaching out – these are but only a few of the many values I observed that my teammates are living out. They never give in! They are so passionate – passion, passion, ACTION!

One more year to work together. One more year of connection, collaboration, fellowship. But I know that what we started won’t end after one more year. Instead, it will be for longer years.

It Happens

I woke up today with nothing unusual.

6am, still early to get up so I closed my eyes again. 7am, ok it’s now time to get out of bed. This scenario is normal.

I took a shower, had my breakfast and prepared to leave for office work.

Nothing unusual; all happened in the same way it happens everyday.

I reached the office at the normal time, that is, past 8am. Prepared my table and did my routine.

But somehow I realized there was something wrong.

Uh-oh, where’s my laptop? Have I left in my car?

Ahhhh! I left it at home!!!

I was about to ring my sister and tell her to bring my laptop to my office instead of me going back home. But then I also realized that my bedroom was locked and the key is with me! Great! I don’t have any other choice but to drive back home.

My officemate was already teasing me. So I went out from our building and halfway through I needed to go back to my desk!

I forgot to bring along my car key!

What’s going on with me?

This is not the first time I forgot my laptop at home. I believe today is just the second but this time, other stuff were also forgotten.

Have you had the same experience?

Well, it happens, you know…

When the Basics are Sometimes Forgotten

We were walking our way back to the parking lot after a good day God has planned.

Me: Excited na ako for the next prayer and fasting.
Monette: (smiling)
Me: Dati, I've prayed for four people. Two have already been answered.
Monette: (still smiling)
Me: Dalawa na lang! Sya at si Fe.
Monette: Malapit na sya...nararamdaman ko na...
Me: Talaga? Sana nga...di ko pa kasi maramdaman...
Monette: ...That's FAITH!...

We reached the car with smile on my face.

Playful

I sent this message to a close friend: "love you"
The reply I got: "I love it"
Well, I don't know if it means the person loves my message or loves me. But the pronoun used was 'it".

Then another friend sent me this message: "love you"
I wanted to reply back: "I love you too"
But what I sent was: "goodnight"

Long Weekend

Today we are celebrating All Saints’ Day, and since it is also a Monday this gave way for us to have a three-straight day off. To a person who’s trying to keep herself busy (I think I am referring to myself, hehehe), doing nothing and just letting the time pass is such a boring thing.

I am too lazy to go out and drive. I’m not in the mood to read. I can’t even find a nice TV program to watch. I’m not in my element to talk to people, chat with them or text them. So what am I going to do?

I babysit my niece Joy-Joy, oh man she’s so likot! She likes to walk but she can’t do that unless you hold her two hands. Imagine chasing her with my spinal cord bent while balancing my walk for she directs the motion. I like it when a baby sleeps while I cuddle her. But not with Joy-Joy, she can’t sleep unless she’s in her crib. I sang all the nursery songs I know, but still she won’t sleep while I’m holding her. One time we played without me needing to “exercise”. What I mean is, she’s playing while she sits on my lap. She’s playing peek-a-boo with her cousin, Ryan. She’ s so cute when she does that thing, covering her eyes with her palms and then smiling as she takes off her hands. This morning while we were watching TV (which was also the time that I was forcing her to sleep through my lullaby songs), she saw this commercial with a kid telling story about his dad. I find it so amusing when Joy-joy said “Papa” when she saw the same vehicle as her dad’s. She can understand the commercial! Joy-joy is just one year old. The simplicity of her mind and the naivety of her understanding made me smile.

I can’t babysit for one hour, so I have many idle times. Good thing a friend lent a DVD of The Book of Eli movie. I’ve watched it and since the copy is pirated, I still watched it in black and white! Haha, talking about boredom. The plot was simple yet the lesson was profound. Admittedly, I didn’t even know that there was a movie such as that.

And since the movie is just less than a two-hour show, I was back to nothing. And then I opened my laptop, and guess what? I did some work! Whew! Well, that “some” word was exaggerated, hehe. I just opened my business mails and replied to some. I’m just careful not to do a lot for as to still keep some for tomorrow’s work. Haha!

Finally, to keep the time running, I decided to create a blog. And that’s it. Now I will look for some things to do and hopefully have some productivity out of my long vacation.

A Moment Like This

Just when I’m having a celebration in my mind as we are nearing the end of my business trip, my health finally gave in. I wasn’t able to complete my last objective for today. I am too weak to go on. Or was it just a state of mind? I tried to continue but more often than not, I found myself checking the clock and wishing that it’s over. I feel ashamed of my condition that my colleagues are worrying about me. I really hate this state when my sickness is blowing out slowly. This sore throat makes me feel very uncomfortable… I wish I am home.

Ironically, I eat a lot here. I get an average 7-hour sleep every night. I don’t skip meals, even those little snacks. But still, I got sick.

What a Start for the Week!

I came from a long weekend. It was indeed very long because I got bored on the three-day rest. It’s so humid and hot and sticky lately. Not to mention that I was bed-ridden for most of that “rest”. Never been that sick for a longer time.

And today I am not really excited to go to office as I know a lot of to do’s are waiting for me. And I have no choice but to face them all. Or else, they will just pile up!

Oh it’s market day today in our town! It means TRAFFIC. Alright, the AC of Wyt is cool though so I better relax while I listen to the soft music played on the radio. People and motorbikes are everywhere. They just popped here and there. Relax. It is still a beautiful day.

Nearing that part of my driving where a sort of junction is, I pressed my horn to warn the white SUV from directly going through the traffic as it emerged from a side street. That was not so close. Then from my rearview mirror I can see that this white Montero has other SUV’s behind which look like a convoy for election candidates (there were no banners but the hazard lights are all on). As I noticed that they were in a hurry, I slowed down to give way. My patience turned to irritation. The convoy was actually cutting off the vehicles not just on their path but also with the other direction! Even on the bridge, where overtaking is prohibited, this convoy did not mind it at all. What made me angry though was when the white SUV went through the other lane (still on the bridge!) to almost colliding a big truck driving up the bridge! And the whole convoy followed! There were not just a few vehicles now, there was a number! Grrrr!!! Why do these drivers have to agitate the other motorists? What’s the hurry for?

As I look the convoy in front of me, there were negative thoughts playing on my mind. Do they own the road? Do they even pay their taxes lawfully? If they were indeed election candidates, what more can they do if they are in the position? I hope there were no accidents caused by those stupid motorists! Are the SUVs bought from their own pockets? I was really in such a bad mood that morning. Thankfully I was able to cut off the thought as I safely reached the office.

My day ended well though. Inspite of the load at work, I was still able to have my most needed peace and rest.

THRILLED (a.k.a KILIG)

This may be a late post, and yeah I admit that some things are taking time before they sink in to me. Haha!

For this year, I was not that expectant for my birthday. Maybe because I am not excited to celebrate it since lately I am contemplating on another year that will be added to my age. (Hmmm, can that be considered a reason?? Hahaha). Anyway, I really did not expect for any extra special surprises this year.

My plan that day was to treat some very close friends from church for breakfast at our place. And in the afternoon, I will attend the renewing of vows of a couple who's close to my heart. That's my plan.

But God has other plans. Maybe He's thinking that MY plan was too simple for a princess. (grin)

I've been wanting yellow flowers since February. My friend maybe right, I think I'm already an addict! Addict to yellow flowers. Hehe! I love yellow and green, they are refreshing to the eyes and add happiness to my heart. And so because of that, I have already "imposed" to my dgroup that I want to receive yellow flowers!!! I even instructed them how to give those flowers to me. (Is this part of addiction? Or am I too demanding?) Hahaha!

I received from my dgroup the yellow flowers. Yeah! But what touched my heart was not the flowers after all. It's the time and effort they gave just to get those flowers. The sweat and the heat they endured just to make up for my "demand". Love you girls! They even made an AVP which really surprised me because my closest friends from college were there too. And of course, not to mention the kapamilya and kapuso stars who greeted me. Haha!

On the eve of my birthday, a friend even made a extra effort so he could be the first one to greet me on my exact birthday. It was special. (smile)

On the morning of my day, I am already contented with the yellow flowers I received. Then there were three yellow roses that come later. The yellow daisies were great, but the yellow roses are lovely too! It was also an EFFORT because I know getting those roses is really a challenge (based from feedbacks of the girls and other friends, haha!). Okay, okay... it was indeed a special day for me.

But God's surprises is not yet over. After sending my friends to take their ride home, I received yet another gift! A delivery man brought it to our home. It was in a very nice and tidy box. I was really shivering when I opened it (by the way, I needed a scissor to open it. That's how special and tight the seal was!). I felt that it's taking me forever before I could open it...I was speechless at the site of what's inside the box...a dozen fresh yellow roses arranged beautifully and neatly wrapped in special yellow paper! It come together with a sweet little bear. (I could even feel the tears as I write this part...) The gift was from my bestfriend. She's in Singapore but the distance did not hinder her to send me what I really like. Love you so much bes! God truly knows how to give my heart's desire for that day. God really knows how to make my day an extra special.

My happiness cannot be hidden. As I attended the wedding of my friends, people I met were telling me how beautiful I look that night. Modesty aside, I know it is God's love shining on me.

I was really thrilled. It really pays to be a special daughter of the King of kings, a beloved princess is what I mean...

P.S. My friend texted me a few days after. One of the guests from her wedding asked what my age is, her guest thought I was under 20!!! (wide grin)

The Other Side of Life

What has life to offer me when I grow old? What’s there to look forward to beyond the biting cold?

You’ll guess that this entry is somewhat dramatic. The past weeks were unimaginable for me (and for my best friend as well). I was bombarded by serious problems. Well, not mine personally, but with problems of people who are dear to me. I was in shock while waiting for everything that is going on to sink into my finite understanding. I couldn’t believe that this is happening. One problem after the other. Eventhough I do not experience them myself but knowing your loved ones are undergoing difficulties, it’s as if I also am going through that same path with them.

Nothing is permanent in this fallen, imperfect world. The sweet and smooth sailing life can come to a point of breaking apart. The silent and peaceful every day can become a catastrophe of events. The consequences of past wrong choices will eventually take its course. Broken relationships, facing legalities, health fading away, faith swayed by deceit.

What is the normal reaction? Escape. Out. Isolation. If it is only that easy, but we all know that it’s not. And the hardest part is to accept that we all need to go through the process until this comes to pass.

I also have my own problems lately. Knowing these people who, inspite of what they are going through, have decided to face life and continue living. They inspire and encourage me to be the same. To keep focused and soar high. To be safe and secure in the eye of the storm.

This too shall pass. This too will end. This too is just the other side of life.

Tomorrow is another day. Looking for the brighter days. Hoping for greater things. God is faithful.

Careful

“Sssscrreeecchhhhh!!!” That ‘s the only sound I heard as I stepped hard on my breaks and breathtakingly hoped that I could stop before it’s too late.

The road was clear, it was about 10:15 in the evening yesterday on my way home after our dgroup. I was driving silently and noticed a motorcycle a few meters ahead from my right side. On my left were policemen who stand by at that familiar site as they attend to their usual duty of randomly checking and inspecting the vehicles. The motorcycle in front of me suddenly slowed down, I was on my normal speed until I noticed a signboard in the middle of the road! My initial reflex was to turn right so as not to hit the signage but all of a sudden the motorcycle (now in front of me!!!) was turning left without any signal!!! I stepped as hard as I can on my breaks. ”SScccrreeeeccchhh!!!” My tires stopped before my car hit the motorcycle.

The Sunday incident is still very fresh. On our way home from church, we had an accident. I was the one driving. I was moving on the other side of the road because my mother needs to buy something for tatay. Slowly I pulled over to the left side, with my signal on, when all of a sudden we heard a loud “crraaaassshhh!!!” half-way my turn. I looked at my side mirror and saw a motorcycle at our back. I didn’t know if I will go out from the car (probably I was praying that we can go home immediately and this is not happening). My brother approached the driver of that motorcycle who had bruises on his arms and leg, and a deep violet mark on his face. He has no helmet and the front of his motor was severely damaged. A few minutes later, I stepped out of the car and went to the man. I asked him, “Ano po ba?” (Ano po ba nangyari? Ano po ba gagawin natin? These were actually the questions in my mind). The man said, “Ok na yung sasakyan, tulungan mo na lang akong magpagamot.” I haven’t given him a direct answer, I just said that we’ll call the police so the incident can be investigated.

In both incidents, naramdaman ko ang nginig sa katawan ko. I don’t know what to do, whom to call, how to get out of it. Last night, I cried, I forced myself to let out the tears because deep inside I was very, very scared. Kinakausap ko si God, “Bakit naman ganun? Bakit ang bilis naman ng repeat? Sunday and then Tuesday?" I needed to say that, I have to let it out.

And in both incidents, I experienced how real God is, how faithful He is with His words, how He protects His children. Sunday accident didn’t cause any harm to my family, all was safe. With me were my two 6-year old and 1 year old nephews, my 8th month pregnant sister in law, my 72-year old mom, my teenager niece, my eldest sister and brother. A little bent damaged my father’s car, but I consider it very minimal. Last night’s was God’s hand in action. I drove home as if nothing happened. My prayer for safety is even intensified and I could say I am more careful now with my driving. I told God to help me focus on His character and His grace because there were negative things that are running through my mind. I remember the testimony from that Sunday preaching, I told God that I want the same peace, the peace that transcends all understanding. I had a good night sleep for I know God granted my prayer.

I remember that I prayed to have an encounter with God because I can feel that my spirit is getting weak. If only we can choose the encounters we could have just to make our spirit alive and passionate again. Now I get the point, be careful with what you’re asking for. Hahaha.

I don’t like motorcycles, just by seeing them, I can feel the risks and dangers along the road. But whenever I see a motorcycle, it also reminds of someone. And because of the two incidents… is God trying to humor me? LOL

Little Surprises

This day is another busy day for me. After days of not reporting in the office, I already expected the tons of workload waiting for me. Actually, before and after a business trip, I am really busy. This is my routine.

So today, my second day after the trip, I planned to start four jobs and wishfully hoping to progress, if not to complete, all four. I readied myself for days of overtime at the office this week. I even posted my to-do list in my cubicle, which by the way are all urgent and important!

But turned out that the urgent works were cut into two! (1st surprise) I received an email stating that one of the projects cannot be started due to some technical problems. (Yehey!!!). And the other one, I need to wait for the completion of additional data before I can start with it. (Another hurray!). (2nd surprise)

I joyfully started with the first project. It took me half of the day to complete the 50%. But unfortunately something was not right. I have to re-do everything! That means my precious 4-5hours was wasted. (sigh)

I looked back at the two surprises I got in the morning, that motivated me to start all over again. And just before 7pm, I was able to complete it 100%! Faster and with better results. (3rd surprise).

Tomorrow, I will start the other project. And I'm expectant to receive little surprises again. (grin)

I stopped counting my daily blessings for a moment, its a good to bring it back. I missed it...